Ensenada Bar Crawl: A Cruise Visitor's Guide to Mexico's Historic Cantinas

When your cruise ship docks in Ensenada, Mexico, you have approximately seven hours to experience the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of this coastal Baja California gem. While many passengers opt for organized excursions to La Bufadora or wine country, savvy travelers know that Ensenada's downtown area offers an accessible, affordable, and authentically Mexican experience just minutes from the cruise terminal. This guide focuses on one of the most popular ways to enjoy your port day - a self-guided or organized bar crawl through Ensenada's historic cantinas and modern drinking establishments. From the legendary birthplace(s) of the margarita to lively venues with daytime entertainment, we'll show you how to make the most of your limited time while experiencing the distinctive beverages, cuisine, and hospitality that make Ensenada a beloved port of call on Mexican Riviera cruises.

Top Bar Crawl Shore Ensenada Excursions

...

Book A Cruise To Ensenada

Why Plan An Ensenada Bar Crawl

Hussong's vs. Bar Andaluz: The Great Margarita Origin Debate

If you only have time for a short bar crawl during your cruise stop, make it a point to visit the two historic establishments that both claim to have invented the margarita. This legendary cocktail controversy makes for a perfect two-stop tasting adventure that combines history, culture, and of course, delicious drinks.

Hussong's Cantina, established in 1892, is the oldest cantina in Baja California and a true piece of Mexican history. According to their story, bartender Don Carlos Orozco created the margarita in October 1941 while experimenting with different cocktail combinations. When Margarita Henkel, daughter of the German Ambassador to Mexico, visited the cantina, Orozco offered her his new creation—a mixture of equal parts tequila, Damiana liqueur (later replaced with Controy), and lime juice, served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass. She loved it, and Orozco named the cocktail after her.

Just a short walk away, Bar Andaluz offers its own compelling claim. Nestled within the historic Riviera del Pacifico cultural center (formerly a glamorous hotel and casino), this elegant establishment maintains that their bartender David Negrete created the margarita in 1948. His inspiration was Marjorie "Margarita" King Plant, the divorced former actress who owned the hotel at that time. According to their story, King Plant was allergic to most spirits except tequila, prompting Negrete to create a special cocktail just for her.

Both venues preserve their heritage through historical photos, memorabilia, and of course, their distinctive versions of the famous cocktail. Hussong's maintains a rustic, authentic cantina atmosphere with its sawdust-covered floors and simple décor, while Bar Andaluz offers a more refined experience with its 1930s architecture, hardwood details, colorful tiles, and stunning murals.

The beauty of this debate is that you don't need to choose sides—you can enjoy both! Many cruise visitors make it a point to sample margaritas at both locations and form their own opinion about which tells the true story. Both establishments open before noon, making them perfectly accessible during your limited port time. Starting with these two historic bars gives you a perfect introduction to Ensenada's rich cultural heritage before continuing to other venues if time permits.

Customizing Your Daytime Tasting Adventure

Creating your perfect Ensenada tasting adventure requires thoughtful planning to match your interests, budget, and limited port time. Consider starting at a central location like Cantina Papas & Beer, then adjust your route based on what excites you most.

For themed experiences, visit mezcal bars for authentic tastings or spots featuring live music for local culture. Prioritize drink variety by sampling craft beers, local wines, and signature cocktails at different establishments. When starting with a guided tour service, you'll enjoy a scenic drive along Coastal Boulevard before reaching the downtown district.

Read customer reviews to find highly-rated venues, and don't forget to budget $5-10 per drink plus tips. For a truly immersive experience, try one of the Tacos and Brews tours rated highly by travelers.

If you're with friends, designate a meeting point in case you get separated. Allow at least 45 minutes per establishment, and remain flexible—sometimes the unplanned stops become the most memorable part of your Ensenada adventure! Most importantly, keep an eye on the time to ensure you return to your ship by the required boarding time.

Top Bars Worth Visiting During Your Port Stop

Exploring Ensenada's vibrant food and drink scene reveals a wealth of unique establishments worth adding to your daytime itinerary.

Start at Hussong's Cantina, a historic landmark from 1892 and the oldest cantina in Baja California. They also claim to be the birthplace of the margarita, with their story dating back to 1941 when bartender Don Carlos Orozco created the drink for Margarita Henkel, daughter of the German Ambassador to Mexico. According to Hussong's, Orozco mixed equal parts tequila, Damiana (a Mexican herbal liqueur now often replaced with Controy), and lime juice, served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass.

For craft cocktail recommendations, visit Matilda where you'll find unique drinks featuring unusual ingredients like huacatay and rose water.

Don't miss Bloodlust's open-air seating and distinctive architecture resembling a wine drop.

Local beer tastings are best experienced at Cerveceria Alta Baja in Santo Tomas Plaza, where you'll find a dozen craft beers on tap.

The microbrewery in Playa Ensenada offers home-brewed lagers, IPAs, and stouts alongside sushi.

For a lively atmosphere, head to Shots Factory for their specialty drink presentations or Ultramarino for great mojitos and local flavor.

Papas & Beer provides an exciting atmosphere with live music playing throughout the day. It opens at 10am Tuesday through Sunday and is a popular spot for cruise visitors, located just 7 minutes from the cruise terminal on Avenida Ruiz 105.

Bar hopping in downtown Ensenada provides economical options compared to the higher-priced establishments in more distant locations.

Combining Beach Time With Daytime Tastings

Ensenada's coastal setting creates the perfect opportunity to blend a quick beach visit with daytime food and drink exploration.

Start your day at one of the city's beautiful beaches like Playa San Francisco or Playa Estero, where you can enjoy the sun for an hour or two before heading downtown for tastings.

As midday approaches, head to downtown Ensenada to experience the local food and drink scene before returning to your ship.

You'll find refreshing beverages everywhere, from classic margaritas to revitalizing mojitos and palomas. Many establishments open early specifically to accommodate cruise visitors.

For a truly historical cocktail experience, visit Bar Andaluz in the Riviera del Pacifico, which is one of the claimed birthplaces of the margarita from 1948.

Another must-visit establishment is Hussong's Cantina, established in 1892 and recognized as the oldest cantina in Baja California, with their own claim to margarita fame from 1941.

Transportation between beaches and downtown is easy with tuk-tuks or taxis.

Don't miss trying local delicacies alongside your drinks, and engage with locals for an authentic experience of Ensenada's vibrant culture.

Daytime Music Scene in Ensenada

During daytime hours, Ensenada offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music while sampling local drinks. You'll find venues like El Barco hosting local musicians, while the historic Hussong's Cantina often delights with traditional Mexican music during lunch hours.

For those who appreciate good music with their drinks, Ensenada offers plenty of options during daylight hours. Many establishments like Papas & Beer feature live performers throughout the afternoon.

Bar 1919 plays an eclectic mix of music to suit varied tastes. The cultural experience is enhanced by the incredible ambiance at premier venues throughout downtown.

The scene is welcoming to all, with venues catering to diverse preferences. During your cruise stop, you might catch street performers or local musicians at various locations downtown.

Covellis Pizza a la Leña combines delicious wood-fired pizza with occasional daytime music performances, perfect for a lunch stop during your port visit.

Transportation Options Between Tasting Venues

How will you get between venues during your Ensenada adventure? The compact downtown area makes walking between establishments easy and enjoyable during your limited port time.

For longer distances, taxi availability is excellent, especially near the port area where cabs line up ready to take you to your next destination. Taxis can be easily found on the main boulevard near the cruise ship port.

You'll find Uber works just like back home, perfect for quick hops between locations.

For budget travelers, a $3 bus shuttle runs from the port to town, putting you right where the action is. Many tour operators offer shuttle services that handle all transportation needs while you focus on having fun.

For groups, consider hiring a private taxi for your port day or joining a guided tour. These options give you freedom to create your own schedule while someone else handles the driving.

A fun alternative is booking a Tuk Tuk tour that will take you between popular spots like Bar Andaluz and Papas & Beer while providing a unique sightseeing experience.

Cultural Drinking Experiences in Ensenada

Diving into Ensenada's rich cultural drinking scene during your port stop offers more than just casual tastings—it's an immersion into Mexican heritage.

You'll uncover venues like Bar Andaluz and Hussong's Cantina, both claiming to be the birthplace of the margarita, where history blends with cocktail innovation. This friendly rivalry has been going on for decades, with both establishments preserving their historical claims through memorabilia and stories passed down through generations.

For unique local flavors, visit Matilda's where drinks incorporate ingredients like sage and huacatay.

At Bloodlust, you can enjoy beverages in their open-air setting while soaking in the atmosphere.

Don't miss Olympo Brewer's guided tastings of award-winning craft beers amid colorful local art murals. Local experts offer four-flight samples to showcase their beer varieties.

The region's rich beverage culture influences Ensenada's sophisticated drinking establishments.

Loca Bar in Santo Tomas Plaza provides a completely different experience with its unique atmosphere, high ceilings, and colorful decor—perfect for experiencing both traditional and modern Mexican drinks.

Tips and Safety for Your Ensenada Bar Crawl

Planning a drink tour in Ensenada during your cruise stop doesn't have to drain your wallet if you approach it strategically. Start by researching establishments with lunch specials and affordable drink options. You'll save considerably by choosing beer or well drinks instead of premium cocktails.

Most bars and restaurants in Ensenada readily accept US dollars and major credit cards, and many now accept Venmo for payment. However, if you take the time to exchange some money for pesos before your visit, you'll typically find more favorable pricing, especially at smaller establishments and street food vendors. The exchange difference can add up to significant savings throughout your day.

Map out a route where venues are within walking distance to eliminate transportation costs. This approach makes budget management much easier and safer. Consider sharing pitchers or large drinks with friends to reduce individual expenses. Create a themed experience to enhance enjoyment while keeping costs down.

While Ensenada is generally considered a very safe cruise port, it's always wise to exercise common safety precautions. Stay in well-traveled areas, particularly during daylight hours when cruise ships are in port. Watch your alcohol consumption carefully – overindulging not only puts you at risk but could cause you to miss your ship's departure. This advice applies whether you're drinking in Ensenada, San Diego, or anywhere else. Travel with companions when possible and establish a clear meeting point and time to reconvene if your group separates.

Bring cash to avoid credit card fees, and include food stops in your plan to stay energized without overspending on drinks. Establish a clear per-person budget before starting your adventure, and use the buddy system to guarantee everyone sticks to their spending limits while having fun and staying safe. Most importantly, keep track of time to ensure you return to your ship by the required boarding time.

Ensenada for Cruise Visitors: A Daytime Paradise of Mexican Flavors and Culture

Ensenada delivers an accessible, authentic Mexican experience just steps from your cruise ship. Within a compact downtown area, you'll discover the disputed birthplace of the margarita, historic cantinas dating back to 1892, and modern venues offering craft beverages and live music throughout the day. The walkable layout and variety of price points make it perfect for both budget travelers and those seeking premium experiences.

Ready to transform your Baja Mexico cruise or voyage to the Mexican Riviera into an unforgettable journey through the distinctive flavors of Baja's celebrated port city? Contact Heather Hills from Flow Voyages to elevate your coastal Mexico cruise experience with personalized recommendations and expert planning for your Ensenada bar adventure.

Written by: James Hills

Pro-BloggerWest Coast Cruise ExpertThought Leader

James is an avid fan of all types of cruising but especially enjoys exploring the Pacific coastal regions since it perfectly captures the elements that he is passionate about, including natural beauty, conservation, opportunities to explore new cultures, and meeting some fantastic new people too.