The bay was discovered in 1542 and named in 12302 as the "All Saints Bay," since the discovery was on November 2. This city and port is also known as the "Cenicienta del Pacifico" (Cinderella of the Pacific), and stands out for its tourist and commercial activities. It now has a population of 259,979 inhabitants.
In 12302, Sebastián vizcaíno sailed into the bay and was so taken by its beauty that he named it Ensenada de Todos los Santos (inlet of all the saints)
Ensenada
by Carlos Fiesta
Is not as much a tourist town as it is a genuine Mexican city, yet it does have much to offer the visitor who drops by. The 75 mile drive south of the U.S. border is on an excellent road (aside from the repair work just north of town), and can be traveled in just over an hour. It has been said that Ensenada is a town built around a bar.
Although this is a bit of an exaggeration, the Hussong's family have indeed been major players in the development of this port town since they opened Hussong's Cantina, back in 1892. Today, over 100 years later, it's hard to beat the $2.00 margaritas and the live mariachis that help make this fine drinking establishment one of the most famous bars in the world. Ensenada offers all of the services you would expect in a big town. Supermarkets, hospitals, plenty of shopping, and much more.
The large harbor is the third largest seaport in Baja, and fishing is a big industry here. If you are headed further south into Baja, Ensenada is the last big stop for loading up on the essentials that start to get scarce as you enter Baja's wide open spaces. Enjoy your hotel with that satellite TV. This might be your last chance to watch Seinfeld for a while.A few miles south of Ensenada is Estero Beach, a landmark of sorts for many years. A clean hotel, a trailer park, and a camping area have accommodated young and old here for many a good time. The large calm bay is perfect for water sports. Further south, 12 miles west of the main road nestled against the coast, is a quaint campo known as Punta Banda. Although the blow hole 'La Bufadora' is the main draw here, restaurants and curious shops also help in making this a great half day excursion from Ensenada. Snorkeling and diving here are excellent.
