Located about 120 miles south of the United States-Mexico border in the state of Baja, San Felipe is a picturesque little town often called the “Jewel of the Sea of Cortez.” The town boasts long sandy beaches and warm, pristine waters — and is most famous for its outstanding sport fishing. So not surprisingly the seafood on the menus of the concessions, restaurants, and bars of San Felipe’s waterfront boardwalk, come straight off the boats and onto your plate. San Felipe has become something of a destination for foodies, who come from near and far to enjoy the abundance of quality local seafood, especially shrimp, on offer. While the sea is the main draw, the town is also surrounded by the San Felipe Desert, which offers spectacular natural landscapes, including sweeping mountain ranges, the most prominent of which is the Sierra San Pedro Martír — the tallest range in the Baja region.

It is nearly always warm and sunny in San Felipe, but if there is a best time to visit it would probably be from September to November and March and April, when the days are pleasantly warm, and nights comfortably mild, perfect for enjoying the town’s many outdoor activities. San Felipe also hosts several festivals during this period, including one of the town’s most popular events — the Annual Shrimp Festival — held on the first weekend of November. The town is also part of the Annual Baja Culinary Fest in October, when chefs from the region travel from community to community creating delicious dishes using local produce. Whenever you decide to visit, you’re bound to find many San Felipe vacation rental options, including houses and condos for all tastes and budgets.

The Giant Cactus Valley

Take a 20-minute drive south of San Felipe and discover Valle de Los Gigantes (The Giant Cactus Valley). Here you will find more than 1,200 large cactuses, including the Mexican Giant Cardon — the tallest growing cactus in the world. This type of cactus is usually only found in this region and can grow to heights of over 60 feet, while some can weigh up to 25 tons — providing a spectacular sight to behold.

San Felipe Lighthouse

To get the best view of this historic tower, walk up to the foothill of “Cerrito de la Virgen” where you can capture great panoramas of the giant beacon. From this vantage point you will also be treated to stunning views of the sea, surrounding mountains, and San Felipe’s waterfront boardwalk.

Konsag Island

Take a 45-minute boat ride from town to Konsag Island — one of the best kept secrets in San Felipe. As you approach the island, you are confronted by magical rock formations rising from the water, creating an impressive presence in the middle of the sea. Konsag is also a great place to watch sea lions, seals, and colonies of sea birds.