How to Budget Travel from Southern California to Baja California

Baja begins just south of the U.S. border and encompasses over 27 square miles with beaches, forests and deserts. But most people think of Baja as San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, and the 30 miles of beaches in between. Because of its proximity to the more than 23 million people living in southern California, Baja makes the perfect budget getaway. And while Baja is the playground for the rich and famous with many ultra luxury resorts, there are also several ways for the more budget-minded to tour Baja.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Maps
• Camping equipment
• Beach gear
• Comfortable shoes
• Sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
• Sweatshirt or sweater in winter

1. Decide how you will get to Baja. You could drive a car or a recreational vehicle (RV) and camp at campsites along the beach. Or you could watch the fares and book a flight when you can get a cheap ticket. You can also find your own budget motel or book a package, with lodging and transportation included.

2. Spend a day at the beach. Your hotel may provide beach towels, coolers and umbrellas, or you can rent these and other convenience items from local companies. Some even prepare box lunches. You can also book a horseback ride on a beach.

3. Snorkel, dive, and/or swim at Baja Sur's largest coral reef, Cabo Pulmo. Tropical fish, rays, and other colorful marine life abound on the reef and many shipwrecks. Water depths range from 15 feet to 130 feet.

4. Satisfy your craving for a fish taco and an ice-cold cerveza (beer) at Tito's or Baja Bud’s. Or drop by Nancy’s and have her prepare the fish you just caught.

5. Explore San Jose del Cabo, the smaller and quainter side of “Cabo.” You can walk or stop and visit with the shop owners away from the hustle and bustle of Cabo San Lucas.

6. Cruise on one of the glass-bottom boats that sail to El Arco (the Arch) and Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach) or on one of the whale watching boats.

Tips & Warnings

• Reserve camp sites and/or RV camping areas, Take RV driving lessons ahead-of-time, if you’re inexperienced in driving an RV, Buy Mexican liability insurance for driving in Baja before you leave home.
• Don't drive at night or over 50 mph, carry spare parts, top off the tank when you have the chance, and don''t drink the water.

Resources

• Go RVing website
• Baja and Back website
• RV rentals
• Dive Cabo information

[Beacher]

on 10/10/2008 Pack up the VW Bus and either go through Tijuana, Tecate or Mexicali to hit the beaches. One option is to take a bus you can go an "ADO Bus" or go with "Baja Trek" to some of the less traveled areas. Don't forget the fish tacos and to send post cards to everyone saying"wish you were here". The beaches are mesmerizing.