We are travelling as a group of 5 or 7 from Canada. We'll be arriving in San Diego and area and we can't decide where to spend New Years Eve... San Diego or in Mexico.

We heard a lot of nice stuff about Ensenada.... and decided to check out the Forum to decide where it would be best spent.

Does anyone have any advice, or know of any festivities going on in Ensenada. We would prefer to celebrate New Years on a beach or on the pier. We range in age from 21-35, so we're interested in having a great time... but doing something we can't do at home (it'll be snowing and freezing cold at home).

Any advice based on experiences from previous years or if anyone has any information about festivities this year... it would help a great day.

We're looking forward to spending a day or two in Ensenada.

Note that you will not see a beach in the main tourist area of Ensenada, which has a large port and marina for cruise ships and fishing charters. The Beaches are to the north and south of town. You may consider Rosarito if the beach is a high priority, or spend some time there and also Ensenada since they are only about a 1/2 hour drive apart.

For New Years Eve Parties, Papas and Beer may be a good choice. You can view photos online at www.papasandbeer.com.

I haven't heard of any special events planned for this time of year, but you can check the following links for updates:

http://www.ensenadagazette.com
http://www.bajaevents.com
http://gringogazettenorth.com
http://www.bajatimes.com

I know you will think i am an old lady...but. Have alot of experience with both San Diego and Ensenada. You must be careful when crossing the border and get out of the border town asap if you are driving. Ensenada is not really a beach town. It is on the beach but more cliff like. You need to get further down the baja for the really good beaches or on the other side of the baja like san felepe or through Arizona to Rocky Point which is very safe and fun. Ensenada is great. My kids when they were your age rode in a bike race from Rosarita Beach to Ensenada. Be sure to check it out if you are driving. Get Mexican Insurance for your car. I'm sure they have a web site. And remember what goes in Mexico stays in Mexico...
San Diego can have some rough spots but as long as you go to Mission Beach area and old town you will have a blast. Good luck and be careful.

Your best bet is probably San Diego. Since you seem to want something exotic, your best bet is probably Rosarito Beach. Try the RB Hotel, they will probably have a do with fireworks and stuff.

Tijuana is a WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY bad idea.

Thanx for the suggestions.

We will more than likely take a day or two trip into Mexico to see Ensenada and Rosarito... and perhaps stop for a lil bit in Tijuana.... but it looks like the best place to celebrate New Years is in San Diego area.

Tijuana is worth doing, contrary to many opinions you get here, but unlikely to be an enjoyable New Years stay.

Don't count out the Rosarito hotel
http://www.rosaritobeachhotel.com/index.php
might be what you're looking for???