La Bufadora & Ensenada: Sea Geyser, Market Walk & Margarita Bar

Summary

Sea geyser spectacle, Baja flavors and Ensenada’s old bar

You’ll ride down Baja’s coast with a local guide, watch La Bufadora explode sky-high (and probably get splashed), wander a buzzing street market for crafts or snacks, then taste regional food by the Pacific. Expect laughter, new flavors, and those small moments you remember long after—like your first real Margarita where it was invented.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the road to La Bufadora to smell like salt and roasted corn, but that’s what hit me first when we hopped out of the van. Our guide, Miguel, had already made us laugh twice before we’d even left Ensenada — he pointed out a mural at the Andalusian Bar that looked straight out of an old movie. He told us that this was where the original Margarita was mixed up (I tried to imagine the first sip). I’m not usually a cocktail person but, well, when in Baja…

The drive down Punta Banda Peninsula is all winding turns and flashes of blue water. It’s about 24 miles south from Ensenada but feels further — maybe because you pass these little roadside stands selling churros or just because the air gets sharper near the ocean. When we finally heard La Bufadora before we saw it (it really does sound like thunder), I got why people call it one of Baja California’s must-sees. The sea geyser shoots up so high you feel the spray on your face if you stand close enough — which I did, and my shirt paid for it. There’s a kind of hush right before each burst; everyone waits together, cameras ready or just staring.

Afterward, Miguel led us through this wild market that lines both sides of the walkway — colors everywhere: woven bags, silver jewelry, some snacks I couldn’t name (I tried something spicy that left my lips tingling for ages). People called out in Spanish and English; one woman handed me a piece of candied coconut with a wink. I liked how nobody rushed us. Lunch was wherever we wanted along the water; fish tacos with lime and cold beer hit different when you’re looking out at all that Pacific blue.

I still think about that view from above the cliffs — sunlight bouncing off waves and everyone grinning over their food. If you want to see La Bufadora up close with someone who actually knows all its weird stories (and where to get good snacks), this day trip from Ensenada is worth it. Just bring an extra shirt if you stand too close to the geyser.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit La Bufadora and local highlights

• Hotel pickup at 10:00 a.m.
• Travel south to Punta Banda Peninsula
• See La Bufadora sea geyser
• Enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean
• Visit Andalusian Bar in Ensenada

Top questions

How far is La Bufadora from Ensenada?

It’s about 24 miles south of Ensenada on Punta Banda Peninsula.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel or meeting point pickup and drop-off are included.

What time does the tour start?

The pickup is at 10:00 a.m.

Can children join this La Bufadora day trip?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are snacks or drinks provided?

Bottled water and snacks are included during the tour.

Is there much walking involved?

You’ll walk through markets and along viewpoints; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?

No, it’s not recommended for those with walking difficulties.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water and snacks along the way. You’ll have time to explore La Bufadora with an expert bilingual guide before wandering through a lively sidewalk market for crafts or souvenirs. Lunch is at your own pace by the sea before heading back to your hotel or meeting point in Ensenada.