Beaches in San Felipe Baja Mexico

San Felipe is located on the east coast of the Baja Peninsula. This means that the small town of San Felipe sits directly on the Gulf of Mexico, also called The Sea of Cortez. The people of San Felipe depend greatly on the resources that the sea provides. Many locals count on the sea as their source of income and livelihood. Fishing is a huge part of San Felipe’s culture, as the fish and other various forms of seafood caught here are served in almost every restaurant in the town, making seafood a dietary staple for most people.

For visitors and tourists, the sea provides an entirely different experience. The sea is a welcomed change from tall buildings, traffic, and crowded cities. The beach represents freedom, space, and relaxation. The beach is a major draw for people coming to San Felipe, because just as it provides countless business opportunities for the locals, it provides just as many fun and recreational activities for those who come from near and far. Visitors love to swim in the clear waters and sunbathe on the coast. Clamming, fishing, and flying high in the sky on an ultra light plane are other popular activities that take place on the beach in San Felipe.

If you’re staying on the El Dorado Ranch Resort, not only do you have the luxury in staying in a fully furnished rental home or condo, but you also have access to the private beach, exclusively for El Dorado Ranch residents. Most residents can walk to the private beach in less than three minutes from the front door of their vacation rental. Having access to the private beach means less crowds to deal with than if you were to go to the public beaches. It also means less travel time. No matter where you are in San Felipe, you’re never too far from the beach, but El Dorado Ranch residents really have VIP access to a close and beautiful beach just steps from their rental accommodations. The private beach has little or no waves, which is perfect for families with small kids who want to play in the sand and in the shallow waters. Parents won’t have to worry about a big wave coming and knocking down the kids.

The most popular public beach is down by the Malecon, or boardwalk. It is a great place to people watch and meet other locals who are staying in the area. The sand is soft and white, and leads right into the cool blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. It is common to see seaweed, small fish and shells roll in and out with each wave.  Many people set their beach chairs in the sand right where the tide comes in and take a nap, read a book or hang out with their friends and family. People who like to swim don’t have to go very far out, as the water level drops quickly from the coast. Since the Malecon is such a popular place for tourists, it is vey common to see vendors strolling up and down the beaches, trying to sell you their arts and crafts, jewelry and ceramics. Most of the time, a simple “no thank you” will keep them moving on, usually they do not try to hassle you. If you do decide to buy what they are selling, they accept dollars and pesos. Remember, this is Mexico, you NEVER pay the price they’re asking. They expect you to negotiate and barter, so don’t be afraid to haggle the price a little bit. Another great thing about having access to El Dorado Ranch’s private beach is you don’t have to worry about vendors trying to sell you things while you relax on the beach. 

Something to keep in the back of your mind when consuming alcohol on the beach is that the land right by the shore is federal land, and the land a half a block from the shore is state land. When drinking from open containers, it’s important to pay attention to where you are, The state police won’t not bother anyone drinking alcohol in an open container on the Malecon, however should you have an open container beverage a block away from the Malecon, the cops will remind you that this is not permitted. Most cops understand that this law can be confusing and usually ask visitors to either finish their drink or throw it out while on land owned by the state. 

If you’re looking for something exiting to do to spice up your day on the beach, consider an ultra light plane flight. Look for Rapheal, the friendly pilot who will be more than happy to take you up up up above the waves.

Tourists rave about the mobile trucks that serve hot and fresh “beach food” like seafood tacos and cool drinks like Pina Coladas. The prices are affordable and the mobile food trucks make snacking while sunbathing easy and convenient.

If you find yourself running short on sunscreen, beach toys or need a few extra towels, there are plenty of stores right along the Malecon that supply many of the beach essentials you’ll need to have a fun day in the sun.

Depending on the time of year you go, the beach can be either very busy or very calm.  The beach gets packed during Spring Break in March, the Baja 250 races at the end of February and the San Felipe Shrimp Festival at the beginning of November. If you plan to be in San Felipe during this time, it is highly recommended to brave the crowds and experience these local events. It is a great way to experience the life and culture of San Felipe first hand. 

You could spend your entire vacation just relaxing on the beaches of San Felipe, and we highly recommend it. Whether you’re looking for relaxation and peace or seeking something a little more exciting, the beaches of San Felipe can be the perfect vacation oasis for everyone who visits here.