Essential Visitor Information
Mexican Auto Insurance
Your US or Canadian auto insurance is not valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires Mexican auto insurance, and in the event of an accident, you could face serious legal consequences without it. Purchase a policy before crossing the border. Reputable providers include Baja Bound, Lewis & Lewis, and Discover Baja. Policies can be purchased online, by phone, or at offices near the border crossing.
Fishing Licenses
A Mexican fishing license is required for anyone fishing from a boat in Mexican waters. In fact, everyone on board a fishing vessel must have a license, regardless of whether they plan to fish. Shore fishing does not require a license. Licenses can be purchased online through the Mexican government's fishing authority (CONAPESCA) or from local vendors in San Felipe. Daily, weekly, monthly, and annual licenses are available. Enforcement does occur, especially on charter boats.
Currency & Money
The Mexican peso is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in San Felipe (being a border tourist town). However, you'll generally get a better exchange rate using pesos. ATMs are available in town and dispense pesos. Credit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and shops, but many small businesses and taco stands are cash only. Bring a mix of pesos and small US bills.
Language
Spanish is the primary language, but due to the large American visitor and expat population, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and shops. Learning basic Spanish phrases is appreciated by locals and makes your experience richer. Key phrases: "cerveza por favor" (beer please), "la cuenta" (the check), and "gracias" (thank you) will get you far.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
San Felipe has a hot desert climate. Understanding the seasons helps you plan the best trip.
- Winter (November-February): The most popular season. Daytime temperatures are a pleasant 65-75°F (18-24°C), with cool nights that can dip to 40-55°F (4-13°C). Pack a jacket for December and January evenings. This is peak snowbird season.
- Spring (March-May): Warming up nicely with temps in the 75-90°F range. Spring break brings crowds in March. The San Felipe 250 off-road race is typically held in late March or early April.
- Summer (June-September): Extremely hot, with temperatures frequently reaching 100-115°F (38-46°C). The town is quieter as many seasonal residents and businesses close. The sea is warm and calm, with water temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C). Occasional tropical storms in late summer.
- Fall (October-November): Temperatures cool down from the summer extreme. Shrimp season begins. The town starts coming alive again as snowbirds return.
Practical Tips
What to Pack
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) — the Baja sun is intense
- Hat and sunglasses
- Light, breathable clothing
- Comfortable sandals and water shoes
- A light jacket for cool evenings (winter)
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent (summer months)
- Cash in both pesos and small US bills
- Prescription medications (bring more than you need)
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Mexico. Standard tips are 10-20% at sit-down restaurants, a few dollars for gas station attendants who pump your gas and wash your windshield, and small tips for bag carriers and other service providers. Tipping in pesos or dollars is accepted.
Electricity
Mexico uses the same electrical outlets and voltage (120V, 60Hz) as the United States, so no adapters or converters are needed for US devices.
Cell Phone Service
Most major US carriers offer Mexico roaming plans. T-Mobile includes Mexico in many of its plans at no extra cost. AT&T offers International Day Pass. Check with your carrier before traveling. Local SIM cards from Telcel are available if you have an unlocked phone.
Emergency Information
- Emergency Number: 911 (works in Mexico)
- US Consulate (Tijuana): +52 (664) 977-2000
- Cruz Roja (Red Cross): 066 or local number
- Tourist Assistance: 078 (from any phone in Mexico)
Useful Links
- Border Wait Times: CBP.gov has real-time wait time information for all border crossings.
- Mexican Auto Insurance: Can be purchased online through providers like Baja Bound.
- Fishing Licenses: Available through Mexican government online portals.
- Tide Charts: Search for San Felipe tide tables to plan your beach activities.
- Weather: Check weather forecasts specific to San Felipe, BC for trip planning.