Last Updated on February 21, 2025
Known for its stunning natural beauty, alluring beaches, a natural blowhole, succulent seafood, festivals and vibrant culture, Ensenada is a Pacific Ocean treasure. The area is also home to a growing art scene with galleries and local crafts dotting the main Civic Plaza and area streets.
Located just 70 miles south of San Diego, Ensenada is a popular destination for tourists looking for a not-too-far weekend getaway. My family and I have taken advantage of escapes to this lovely North Baja California region and always found it delightful.
The city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with almost constant breezes blowing in from the ocean. One of the area’s biggest claims to fame is Valle de Guadalupe, an award-winning wine region just outside the city often called the “Napa Valley of Mexico.”
What’s not to love about a region that offers this much? And to add even more benefits, vacation rentals in this area are incredibly reasonable and many are pet friendly. Here are some of our favorites.
Casa Puesta del Sol
Offering spectacular ocean vistas, this two bedroom, two bath home with each room offering a king bed, can accommodate up to four guests.
The vacation rental is beautifully decorated, offering a lanai for outdoor dining with a grill on deck. It doesn’t get any better than this direct oceanfront setting right over the wave action of the Pacific.
If you’re looking for a bit more space, a three bedroom is also available at this location which can comfortably sleep eight.
Punta Banda On the Beach
This three bedroom, two bath rental is ideal for a family or friend getaway as it can sleep up to eight. The best part is that it’s right on the beach with an almost entire front wall opening to a serene six-mile stretch of sand.
The vacation home also offers a courtyard, bar and fireplace, and outdoors, a palapa with a thatched roof and table and chairs for more direct ocean views and sea breezes.
Cozy and Romantic Love Nest
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in a home with a lovely sea view and authentic Mexican décor, this place is perfect. Located at the entrance of Ensenada Bay and the wine route, the traditional Mediterranean villa features one bedroom, one bath and outdoor dining, with an unmatched price.
Beach House by ULIV
Switching it out a bit, this Ensenada aparthotel offers another choice for visitors with so many amenities, classy decor and an incredible value.
Guests can choose between single rooms or a junior or family suite. You’ll only be a two-minute drive to the beach though the venue also sports a pool, hot tub and 24/7 front desk service.
Paradise Retreat at Blvd Sunset
Guests staying at this two bedroom, one-a-half bath vacation rental can wake up every morning to the soothing sounds of the waves and have direct access to the beach.
The cozy, contemporary home offers a master bedroom with a queen bed and a second room with two doubles that can sleep up to four guests, along with a fireplace and oceanfront patio.
Océano Chalet at La Terraza Vista al Mar
If you’re looking for something different at an incredible price, this two bedroom, two bath open-architectural chalet that sleeps five meets the bill.
The rustic home situated atop a canyon offers views of the Pacific from a distance and the nearby village. It’s almost like having a piece of the countryside in the city. A stunning terrace with vines wraps around the entrance, celebrating the vineyards of the Wine Route.
Rincón Para Dos
Located across the road from the famous surfing beaches of San Miguel and Tres Emes at the entrance of Ensenada Bay, this one bedroom, one bath home is another ideal choice for couples.
The traditional Mediterranean villa offers lovely vistas with outdoor dining, a patio/terrace, botanical grounds and a garden.
Villa Bitterlin Oceanfront
You’ll definitely spend more cash on this vacation rental, but it might be worth it, once you see it. Especially if you’re splitting the cost with our friends or family members. But it’s so unique, eclectic and impressive, we’d be remiss not to include it in our recommendations.
The three bed, two bath home oceanfront home can accommodate up to six guests and is mere steps from famous San Miguel surfing beach and a five-minute drive to the supermarket and oceanfront restaurants. And you’ll love the indoor fireplace and hot tub and firepit on your ocean-facing deck.
Fun local activities nearby include zip lining, tennis courts, surfing, tidepooling and swimming.
