Tijuana Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide
Spring (March-May): Temperatures typically range from 55-75°F (13-24°C). Precipitation is low, and humidity stays at a comfortable level. This period offers pleasant weather for walking and exploring the city without intense heat.
Summer (June-August): Temperatures usually fall between 65-85°F (18-29°C), with occasional climbs to 90°F (32°C). Summers are very dry with minimal rain. Humidity remains generally low. A common coastal phenomenon called "June Gloom" and "May Gray" means mornings often start overcast before the sun breaks through. This makes for comfortable mornings and sunny afternoons.
Plan your visit according to your interests:
Beach and Outdoor Activities: June to October for warm water and sunshine.
Cultural Exploration and Food Tours: Shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) for comfortable temperatures.
Medical Tourism: Any time, but avoiding peak holiday periods may reduce crowds.
June-August & Major Holidays
Warm, sunny weather for beaches and outdoor activities.
Higher prices, more crowds, longer waits at attractions and border crossings.
March-May, September-November
Pleasant weather, smaller crowds, moderate prices. Ideal for cultural and culinary tours.
Late spring/early summer coastal fog in mornings, dissipates by midday.
December-February (excluding holidays)
Lower accommodation and flight prices, fewer tourists for an authentic experience.
Cooler temperatures, higher chance of rain, some outdoor activities less appealing.
These coastal phenomena are common during late spring and early summer mornings. Mornings can start overcast before the sun breaks through, making for comfortable mornings and sunny afternoons.
Hot and dry winds from the desert can occur, mostly in fall and winter. These winds can increase fire risk in surrounding brushland. Stay informed about local advisories.
Higher precipitation from December through February, relatively dry overall.
Generally low, especially in dry summers.
Ocean proximity moderates temperatures, keeping them mild.
Clear distinctions between wet, cool winters and warm, dry summers.
Very low for Tijuana; common on Mexico's Caribbean or southern Pacific coasts.
Mexico has specific entry requirements based on nationality. Confirm your visa status before travel.
Citizens from certain countries do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 180 days:
Have these documents ready upon arrival:
The FMM tourist card costs approximately 687 Mexican Pesos (MXN) as of late 2023 / early 2024. For air arrivals, this fee is often included in the airfare. For land entry, you obtain and pay for the FMM at the border, usually at a bank or specific payment points. Keep the stamped portion secure for departure.
Upon arrival at the border or airport, present your passport and completed FMM. Immigration officials stamp your FMM and indicate your maximum length of stay. No specific permits are generally needed for standard tourist activities in Tijuana.
Approx. 687 MXN (as of late 2023 / early 2024).
Often included in airfare; pay at border for land entry.
Retain stamped portion until departure.
Necessary for stays over 7 days or travel beyond border zone.
Up to 180 days for tourists.
Manage your finances effectively for a smooth trip.
The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN, symbol $). U.S. Dollars (USD) are widely accepted in Tijuana, especially in tourist areas and for larger purchases. Change often comes in MXN, and conversion rates may not be favorable.
Tipping is customary for service in Mexico. Here's a general guide:
No specific vaccinations are necessary for entry. Consult your doctor for routine, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Rabies (if applicable) updates.
Tap water is generally not suitable for consumption. Stick to Bottled water (agua purificada).
Eat at reputable establishments. Be cautious with street food; observe preparation practices. Avoid unpeeled fruits or raw seafood from unreliable sources.
Traveler's Diarrhea:
This is the most common ailment. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice made from tap water. Eat well-cooked food. Peel fruits and vegetables. Carry Anti-diarrhea medication.
Sunburn/Heat Exhaustion: Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear hats and Sunglasses, stay hydrated.
Mosquito-borne Illnesses: Use Insect repellent, especially at dawn/dusk.
Affiliate Link: LifeStraw for water filtration products.
Tijuana has many private hospitals and clinics catering to medical tourism. They feature modern facilities and English-speaking staff. Public hospitals are also available. Recommended Private Hospitals: Hospital Angeles Tijuana, Hospital del Prado, Hospital Excel.
Widely available, often with over-the-counter access to medications that require prescriptions elsewhere. Exercise caution and verify medication authenticity.
Dial 911 for all emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
Tijuana has a higher crime rate than many tourist destinations, mainly related to organized crime, though these rarely target tourists directly. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Baja California is in an active seismic zone. Minor tremors are common, but severe earthquakes happen less often.
Minor tremors are common. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures.
Risk for Tijuana is very low due to its geography, but distant major quakes could have an impact on coastal areas.
During dry seasons, especially with Santa Ana winds, wildfires can occur in surrounding brushland.
