How to Spend Spring Break in Rosarito Beach, Baja California

Much better than Tijuana (also known as TJ), Rosarito offers a mix of happening bars, nice beaches, good food and semiluxurious hotels at reasonable rates without the hectic traffic and proximity to the U.S. border.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bathing Suits
• Sports Sunglasses
• Sun Hats
• Sunscreen
• Fishing Rods
• Surfboards
• Wet Suits

1. Fly into San Diego and drive south for 45 minutes into Rosarito.

2. Book a hotel in the heart of Rosarito, or if you prefer a condo, rent a villa just outside of town.

3. Surf the beach breaks of Rosarito and Baja Malibu, or the reef breaks to the south of K-37 and K-38.

4. Party at Hussong's and Papas & Beer with thousands of other spring breakers eager to dance to the pumping tunes.

5. Drive south to the fishing village of Puerto Nuevo for a massive lobster dinner.

6. Cruise the fish market at Ensenada and select your barbecue choice for the evening.

7. Sip a margarita (virgin, if you must) while chilling in your poolside chaise longue.

8. Buy a plaster Pokemon piggy bank and some Chiclets at the border on your way home.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't speed while driving in Mexico. Ticket prices are at the discretion of the officer.
• Drive the toll road, as opposed to the old highway - it's much faster and better maintained.
• Speak Spanish whenever possible.
• Be respectful of the local people, customs and laws.
• Drink bottled water and avoid drinks with ice.
• Lock your valuables in the trunk of your car or carry them with you. Petty theft is common if you make it easy for people.

on 8/21/2006 Make sure to get Mexican auto insurance if you plan on driving. This can be obtained through AAA, or you can purchase it on the US side of the border. I have been to Mexico using both forms of insurance, and while AAA's insurance covered more instances and gave me a free map, the insurance at the border is much cheaper ($20) and was easier to get.

on 2/1/2006 Many rental car companies will not allow you to take a rental car into Mexico. Assuming that you can carry your bags with you, I would suggest taking a cab from the airport to the international border (about 20 minutes). Once at the border, cross over the border on foot and catch a cab or bus to Rosarito (about 25 minutes).