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As the winter starts to roll in, we get excited to hit the slopes. But, part of us is going to miss the warmth of summer when diving into the ice-cold rivers in Colorado feels amazing. That is why we wanted to show you one of our favorite destinations to escape the cold and get some solid beach camping in. Aside from beach camping, Baja, California is a great escape for overlanders.
We are not experts in the Baja area, but from what we’ve read and our experience these are the spots and the things to know!
Entering Baja
There are many ways to enter Baja, from Yuma, Tijuana, Mexicali and more. We have been told Mexicali is the best way to enter considering drive time, safety, etc.. Once you get there it is a pretty quick entrance but there are a few things you need to make sure you have once you arrive. One thing that is important is getting your FMM permit. You can get your permit right after entry at a building called “Instituto Nacional de migacion”. This has been reported to cost anywhere from $20-$30 per person.
Make sure you have your title, registration, license, and it is important to clarify if your insurance is valid in Mexico. Most insurance is not valid across the border but you can easily obtain insurance through a company called Baja Bound. This will give you some towing coverage, and depending on where you go this could really come in handy!
Where to camp in Baja
There are countless places to explore in Baja, but we wanted to focus on two of our favorite spots to camp. For us, there is nothing like pulling on to a deserted beach, popping up your Roofnest, and cracking an ice-cold beer before hopping into the water.
Puertecitos
Puertecitos is 50 miles south down a paved road called Mexico 5. The only camping here is a small RV park with limited cell service, but the true gem about Puertecitos is the hot springs. What is so amazing about these hot springs is the way they work with the Sea of Cortez. When low tide comes in the water is scolding hot and is not bearable to get into. When high tide rolls in it cools down the spring to the same frigid temp of the ocean. You have to know the perfect timing between tides to find a good temperature to enjoy this hot spring. Even though its a bit of a pain, this is why we think it is so cool, nature giving you a free hot tub if you’re willing to wait.
Of course, there are beautiful beaches to enjoy here as well. Other than that, there is not much to this small town besides a “post office” that looks more like a shack on the side of the road. The perfect place to enjoy the outdoors with no distractions.
Agua Verde
This is where the Overlanding part of Baja comes into play. Although Agua Verde is one of the most beautiful places in our opinion, it is also one of the scariest to get to. You will need a high clearance, 4 wheel drive rig and a fresh pair of underwear for when you’re done… Once you change into your new underwear you are in for a treat. Follow the road all the way to the end and you are in one of the most beautiful secluded beaches around. With nothing but a small convenience store, you are in true paradise. Time to kick back, pop open the Roofnest, crack a beer, and take it all in, you’ve made it.
We know there are so many different places to explore in Baja and we wish we could cover them but once you get there you’ll be able to stop at your will. We hope you get to escape the cold this winter and head down to paradise to spend a few days (or weeks…) on the beach. Safe travels and happy adventuring flock! As always, let us follow along on your adventure by tagging us at @roofnest and #roofnest.
Cheers!
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