Tijuana City Guide

Food is a highlight with Baja fish tacos, carne asada, and original Caesar salad. Mexican, American, Asian, and Italian spots are plentiful. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Late-night food is common, especially on weekends.

Nightlife centers on Avenida Revolución and Zona Río with bars, cantinas, clubs, and craft breweries.

The coffee scene is lively with many third-wave cafes and local roasters influenced by nearby California trends.

Tipping is expected for most services. 10-15% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually don’t expect tips. Small tips customary for staff like baggage handlers.

SIM cards are sold at major stores, convenience shops, and the airport. Telcel offers best coverage. ID/passport required for registration. eSIM available with Telcel and AT&T.

Cleanliness varies by neighborhood, cleaner in tourist zones but less so in busy or older areas. Waste pickup exists but recycling is limited.

Many pharmacies, convenience stores like OXXO, and some clinics operate 24/7. Tacos and some restaurants serve late, especially on weekends.

Supermarkets like Calimax, Soriana, Chedraui, and Walmart carry local and international products. Mercado Hidalgo offers fresh local produce. Markets expect bargaining; supermarkets do not.

Credit cards are accepted in big stores and many restaurants. Smaller places and markets often require cash. Carry pesos for small purchases.

ATMs from Banamex, BBVA, Santander, and HSBC are common. Use ATMs inside banks or malls for safety. Expect fees of 30-50 MXN plus potential foreign charges.

Local and international schools teach in Spanish and English. Contact schools for admissions details.

A growing but small community with meetups and co-working spaces. Online groups exist but opportunities are less formal than bigger hubs.

Main parks include Parque Morelos and Parque de la Amistad with shaded walking and running paths. The Tijuana River area has green spaces but is less suited for recreation.

Popular routes include Playas de Tijuana boardwalk and Parque Morelos. Safe in busy areas during the day; caution advised at night.

Gyms are common and often offer daily or weekly passes.

Tennis and padel courts found at private clubs and sports centers; usually need membership or advance bookings.

Padel courts available at some clubs with coaching and equipment rental.

Several yoga studios offer classes in different styles and English-speaking instructors. Spa and wellness culture is growing.

Various dojos offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, and Karate. Many have drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

No ski resorts near Tijuana.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing mostly near Rosarito and Ensenada. Rentals and tours available during warm months.

Small breaks at Playas de Tijuana; better surf in Rosarito 30-60 minutes south. Year-round wetsuits recommended. Fall and winter have bigger swells.

Limited in Tijuana but available on Baja coast. Visibility and marine life vary. Best in warmer months.

Private hospitals like Hospital Angeles Tijuana provide high-quality care with English-speaking staff. Public healthcare has longer waits. Pharmacies are common and many meds are OTC.

Tap water isn't safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water.

Parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés are available. Attractions include the Tijuana Interactive Museum and Playas de Tijuana beach.

Tijuana is relatively progressive with some LGBTQ+ venues and an annual Pride event. Discretion advised outside tourist areas.

Pet-friendly spots and veterinary services are available. Some parks allow dogs but dedicated dog parks are rare.