Ensenada

Articles, Ensenada

Tourists and Locals Celebrate La Misión’s New Bridge

Crossing Without Playing Frogger

Playa La Misión has always been a curious mix. Families set up tents, kids kick soccer balls, and drivers on the scenic highway race past like they’re late for a wedding. For decades, the real danger here wasn’t the surf—it was crossing the road without becoming a hood ornament.

Now, salvation is rising in steel and concrete: a new pedestrian bridge is under construction right across from the beach. Workers started in June, and while the official line says November, some optimists claim October. We’ll believe it when we see it.

The S-Shaped Star

This isn’t your typical boxy overpass. The design has an S-curve, giving La Misión a bridge with a little flair. It’s the kind of project that makes locals whisper, “Wait—are they actually finishing this one?” Considering Baja’s track record of half-built bridges, that alone deserves applause.

Concrete proof that Baja miracles exist.
#S-shaped and stylish—La Misión levels up.

Safer Sand and Surf

La Misión isn’t exactly a swimmer’s paradise. The surf is strong, and lifeguards recommend sticking to volleyball, soccer, or long walks. Camping is popular, and if you want calmer waters, the La Misión river is perfect for kayaking. Add tacos, a few cold beers, and you get the full family recipe.

The missing ingredient? Safe access. Until now, families ran across the highway dodging SUVs and semis. With the new bridge, both locals and tourists finally get a safe way to reach the sand without sprinting like Olympic athletes.

A Win for Everyone

Drivers get fewer near-death surprises, pedestrians get safer crossings, and La Misión gets a touch of dignity. Whether the ribbon gets cut in October or November, this bridge is a small miracle on the scenic highway.

For once, the view won’t just be breathtaking—it’ll also be a little less life-threatening.

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Team Spirit and Big Catches
 Articles, Ensenada, Fishing

Big Fish, Big Prizes at Dos Mares Baja in Ensenada

ENSENADA – Ready to hook half a million pesos? The international sportfishing tournament Dos Mares Baja California drops anchor this weekend in Ensenada.

The Prize Catch

Organized by SEPESCA BC and the Baja Sportfishing Clubs Association, the event promises serious rewards:

  • 200,000 pesos for first place
  • 100,000 pesos for second
  • 60,000 pesos for third
  • 30,000 pesos for Catch and Release champions
  • 10,000 pesos each for best female, child, and captain

And yes, everyone gets a shot at raffles and jackpot categories for surface and bottom fish.

Species in the Spotlight

Surface hunters can bring in swordfish, bigeye tuna, yellowfin, marlin, dorado, wahoo, jacks, bonito, and roosterfish. Bottom contenders include halibut, lingcod, cabrilla, pargo, and cochito. In Catch and Release, only the heavy hitters count: gulf grouper, broomtail grouper, and giant sea bass.

Weekend Agenda

  • Friday, Aug. 29: Registration 2–6:30 pm at Monumento al Pescador. Opening and captain’s meeting at 7:15 pm.
  • Saturday, Aug. 30: Boats head out at 6 am. Weigh-in 2–4 pm at the malecón. Awards at 7:15 pm back at the monument.
Showoff at the Dock
#That grin says it all—worth every hour under the Baja sun.

Beyond the Rod and Reel

SEPESCA’s Alma Rosa García Juárez credits local maritime and port authorities, ASIPONA Ensenada, and CONAPESCA for making the event possible. The tournament also reels in tourism revenue. Hotels, restaurants, and tackle shops all get a welcome bump as anglers flood the city.

Why It Matters

The Dos Mares isn’t just about bragging rights and prize money. It’s about tradition, community, and proving to your friends that the one that got away actually didn’t.

For details, visit bajasport.fishing/dosmares or call +52 646 172 3080 (ext. 3264 and 3318).

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 Articles, Ensenada, Public Security, Video

“Enough Is Enough”: How the Cartels Choke the Seafood Lifeline of Baja California

We pride ourselves on bringing you No Bad News. That’s the deal. But some truths demand an exception. Today, we echo a voice too long suppressed by fear—and we refuse to let it be silenced.

They call it derecho de piso—literally a “floor right,” but let’s be clear: it’s nothing more than protection money, cartel extortion in its rawest form. For decades, Ensenada’s seafood industry—from abalone harvesters to family-run marisquerías—has been strangled by this invisible tax.

Dark waters run deeper than we thought. Cartels like Sinaloa and CJNG don’t just threaten—they control every link of the chain. They underpay the catch, enforce quotas, hijack supply, and procure “monitored” seafood—often at gunpoint—leaving independent operators to choose between extortion or obliteration.

The Voices We’ve Already Lost

  • Minerva Pérez, head of Baja California’s fisheries chamber and CEO of Atenea en el Mar, spoke out against illegal fishing and extortion—and paid with her life. She was ambushed and shot multiple times outside her Ensenada office in July 2024, just hours after warning the world of cartel infiltration in seafood markets.
  • Sunshine Antonio Rodríguez Peña, a leader in Mexicali’s fishing community, was executed in broad daylight last March—firefights rattled social media minutes after he was live-streaming his fish stand.
  • Servando Valenzuela Nakato, a respected shark-business entrepreneur in Ensenada, was gunned down in December 2024—his life cut short for daring to trade in lawful seafood markets.
  • Emilio Ohiiashi Manjarrez Masuda, a known seafood distributor, was also killed—another voice erased from the chain that feeds families and sustains livelihoods.
  • Rubén Marín Villalobos, founder of the seafood cart El Chava, was assassinated just last week while buying shrimp and octopus at the fish market Mares del Pacífico—a routine visit turned fatal at the very heart of the industry. He was remembered by customers and family as “sencillo, amable y cálido” (simple, kind, warm), yet no arrests have been announced even as the investigation continues.

Each of these tragedies traces back to the same root: a cartel chokehold stretching across sea, supply, and street.

A Voice That Broke Through

And then came Moisés Muñiz, young owner of Mariscos El Compa Moy. On August 23, 2025, his heart-wrenching video exploded nationwide:

“My people… starting today, Mariscos El Compa Moy is closing its doors permanently due to insecurity…, protection money.”

His dream—like so many others—was stolen not by market forces, but by violence and impunity.

Why It Matters—and Why You Should Care

This isn’t an isolated problem—it’s systemic:

  • Cartels control every point: from fishing boats to kitchen tables. Fishers earn as little as 60–75 percent of fair market value—or less—while the rest fills cartel pockets.
  • Illegal species trade is rampant: Highly endangered creatures like totoaba are trafficked for profit, amplifying environmental collapse and cartel dominance.
  • Government response is hollow: Condemnations without action—“cowardly” killings met with empty investigations—only embolden cartels.

Listen to Moisés Muñiz (August 23, 2025)

“My people, starting today, Mariscos El Compa Moy is closing its doors permanently due to insecurity in the municipality. … I have been working here for four years—this was my dream. But today, those dreams have been taken away, just like many of my colleagues in the industry.”

This isn’t just another restaurant shutting down—it’s a siren over dying hopes, a cry for rescue from a community being starved by terror.

These cartels aren’t just drug clans—they’re seafood oligarchs suffocating Ensenada’s lifeblood. And until government forces rise from clichés to concrete action, we’ll keep losing more than fish—we’ll be losing culture, survival, and courage.

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Paellas2025
 Articles, Ensenada, Wine

35 Years of Paella, Wine, and Music Create Baja Energy

Ensenada sure knows how to throw a party. The annual Paella Contest at Viña de Liceaga once again proved it, celebrating its 35th anniversary with food, wine, music, and just the right amount of chaos.

A Crowd Ready for Fun

The vibe was unmistakable. Families, couples, groups of friends, and a few brave loners all strolled in ready to eat, drink, and gossip about whose paella had too much saffron. Meanwhile, others simply claimed the best shade spot and let the feast come to them.

Cooking paella over leña might look romantic in photos. However, the reality is sweaty, smoky, and sometimes downright dangerous. One chef swore the smoke gave his rice “extra flavor.” Maybe. Yet I’m pretty sure it just gave me watery eyes.

When Fire Meets Footwear

At one point, while interviewing a paellero, a rogue ember leapt from the fire and landed on my boot. I brushed it off like nothing happened. Later, when I got home, I realized the sole had melted into modern art. In the end, that’s how you know it was a memorable fiesta.

Sipping Through the Vineyards

Wine, of course, was the co-star of the day. Rows of vinícolas lined up, pouring glass after glass, each more tempting than the last. As a result, guests happily bounced between tastings, comparing notes—or just nodding politely when someone mentioned “balanced acidity.”

A personal highlight came with Cava Dragón, making its debut. It quickly became the wine you brag about tasting before it got famous. The winemakers seemed thrilled too. Because they shared rows with fellow producers, they swapped vineyard stories like old buddies.

A Lesson with a Toast

Over at the Liceaga booth, things got even better. We filmed a tasting session that included a flawless explanation in English. It wasn’t just informative—it felt like a master class with a refill in hand. Honestly, it could have been a Netflix special.

Meanwhile, music filled the air. With two stages, guests switched between upbeat jams and softer tunes. Consequently, the crowd never lost energy, even as they balanced paella plates while grooving to a guitar riff.

Winners Take the Spotlight

As always, the Liceaga family deserves a big gracias for opening their vineyard. Without them, hundreds of happy, slightly tipsy guests wouldn’t have such a playground.

And now, the moment everyone waited for—the winners of 2025:

🥘 Quality Category

🥇 1st Place: Flor y Compañía

🥈 2nd Place: Los Ponchos

🥉 3rd Place: Los Moreno

4th: Los Abarca

5th: Constructora Makro

🥘 Presentation Category

🥇 1st Place: Xatos Paella

🥈 2nd Place: Vivencias

🥉 3rd Place: Cheo Paellas

4th: Constructora Makro

5th: Los Rústicos

Thanks to every team who battled the flames, stirred endlessly, and nervously watched the judges chew in silence. Because of their efforts, we all ate like kings.

Until Next Year

For us at the Gazette, the cherry on top was running into so many readers. We loved the selfies, the laughs, and the chance to sneak bites from your plates.

By sunset, the verdict was clear. The Paella Contest isn’t just food and wine—it’s tradition. It’s that Baja magic where strangers become amigos, and everyone leaves with a full belly and a happy heart.

Some even leave with melted boots.

See you next year for round 36. Bring sunscreen, stretchy pants, and maybe steel-toe shoes.

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State Water Agency Shares Rosarito Desal Plant Progress
 Articles, Ensenada, Rosarito, Tijuana, Water Watch

Rosarito’s Big Plan to Bring More Water to Ensenada

Rosarito’s dry promise might finally pour

On Friday, August 22, Baja California’s Secretary of Water, Víctor Daniel Amador Barragán, met with Ensenada’s top business group to talk water. Again.

This time, he came with numbers, blueprints, and what sounds like political backing. The focus? The infamous Rosarito Desalination Plant. The one we’ve all heard about, but never actually seen.

2,200 liters per second? That’s the goal

The plan, according to Amador Barragán, is to build the plant under CONAGUA, with the state in charge of operations. The plant is still in the planning and engineering phase — yes, still.

But they’re talking serious numbers now:

  • Capacity: 2,200 liters per second
  • Budget: 15 billion pesos
  • Impact: Double the water supply to Ensenada
  • Bonus: Also benefits Tijuana and Rosarito

If all goes well, this plant could finally put an end to water rotations and last-minute garrafón runs.

A bigger plan for a thirstier Baja

This plant isn’t a solo act. It’s part of the Programa Estatal Hídrico (PEH), which currently includes 58 active projects. The total investment: over 24 billion pesos.

These projects aim to fix everything from drinking water access to wastewater management. And if that’s not enough, there’s the Bono Verde (Green Bond) initiative too.

The Green Bond covers 59 additional projects, worth 3.2 billion pesos:

  • 36 for potable water
  • 19 for sewage
  • 4 for water reuse

It’s a full-on attack against Baja’s water problems — on paper, at least.

The business community wants to believe

The meeting was held with the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial de Ensenada (CCEE). Their president, Julio Salinas López, welcomed the plan and praised the state’s attention to water infrastructure.

He called the project a step toward not only better service, but also poverty reduction. Access to water, he argued, affects health, education, and the economy. And he’s not wrong.

Still, these business leaders have seen plenty of “in-progress” projects stall. So while they’re hopeful, they’re also cautious — and likely keeping an eye on the budget sheet.

This isn’t the first time we’ve heard this

Back in May, we covered the reactivation of this very same plant. It was headline-worthy then, and it still is now.

Baja’s Big Water Fix Starts in Rosarito

Even my dear Martina Dobesh got in on the action. In her Water Watch column, she warned of the risks of continued inaction. Her editorial in July 2024 was clear: no more delays, or the state could face massive water cuts.

A Stark Warning of Water Cuts – A Water Watch Editorial

She said what most people were thinking but few dared to write. You don’t have to agree with her tone to know she’s got a point.

So, will we finally get water or just more words?

Here’s the good news: the plans are detailed, the budget is real, and the political support seems aligned. That’s more than we had five years ago.

The bad news? Nothing has broken ground yet. Not a single pipe has been laid. Not one shovel photo-op. And until that happens, it’s hard to say this time is different.

Still, if you’re tired of hearing your neighbor’s pump running all night, or rationing toilet flushes, this might be a step in the right direction.

Just keep the garrafón around — for now.

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Unforgettable Flavors Await at Bajas Paella Party
 Ensenada, Events, Wine

Baja’s Paella Contest Celebrates 35 Years With Wine and Music

This isn’t just another cook-off. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest is the grand finale of Ensenada’s 25-day Fiestas de la Vendimia—and this year marks the 35th anniversary. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Viña de Liceaga will once again welcome wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper campestre party under 120-year-old oak trees (plus one majestic 500-year-old roble that’s basically a celebrity).

A Tradition Worth Savoring

Since the late 1980s, this event has honored the memory of Dr. Ramón García Ocejo, who championed Ensenada’s wine and culinary culture. Today, more than 90 paella teams will light their wood fires (gas is strictly forbidden) and serve their creations to the crowd. Meanwhile, 80 Baja wineries will pour more than 160 wine labels—a perfect match for a plate of smoky, saffron-infused goodness. Two live music stages will keep the energy high all afternoon.

Seafood Royalty in a Pan

#Lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops—this paella team isn’t here to play. A true showstopper at the 2025 Paella Contest

The Competition & Prizes

The judging is handled by the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California (Spanish acronym: AGAPE – The “Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California”). Paellas are coded for anonymous tasting and scored on color, appearance, flavor, and texture.

Two categories take the spotlight:

  • Quality: flavor, texture, and presentation.
  • Visual Presentation: beauty and order of the cooking station.

Winners receive trophies, wine, paella pans, aprons, commemorative merch, and consumption vouchers worth around $14,000 MXN from sponsors like Afirme and La Canasta. And yes—tour packages are raffled among all attendees to close the day with a bang.

By the way, if you spot me near a good glass of Sauvignon Blanc, please come say hi. I’ll probably be there.

Family-Friendly (With a Few Rules)

Kids under 12 get in free, but no pets are allowed. The setting is pure countryside charm, with activities for children and plenty of shaded spots for adults to sip and chat.

Baja’s Biggest Paella Party Returns
#Mark your calendar—August 17 at Viña de Liceaga. Over 90 teams, 160 wines, live music, and zero excuses to miss it.

Your Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Paella Contest

Get There Early

Gates open at 12 PM, but parking and prime shady spots go fast. If you arrive late, you risk long lines and missing the first tastings.

Parking & Transportation

On-site parking is limited and fills up quickly. Therefore, consider ride-sharing with friends or using local transportation services. Many guests arrange drop-offs to avoid the parking scramble.

Dress for the Occasion

Comfortable shoes are a must—remember, you’ll be walking on dirt paths. A hat and sunglasses will help you handle the Baja summer sun, and a light jacket can be handy for the evening breeze. Additionally, some people treat this event like a Valle de Guadalupe-style fashion show—think wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and crisp white linen.

Cash or Card?

Vendors may accept both, yet cash tends to be faster. Moreover, don’t forget your ticket includes all wine and paella tastings—no surprise charges for the essentials.

Plan Your Tastings

With 90+ paella teams and 160+ wines, you won’t try everything—but you can come close. Therefore, pace yourself, and don’t ignore the lesser-known wineries; they often have the hidden gems.

Stay for the Raffle

The prize drawings happen toward the end of the event. Consequently, many people miss out because they leave early. Stick around—you might just win that vacation.

Quick Facts

  • Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Place: Viña de Liceaga, Ensenada, Baja California, MX
  • Price: $1,450 MXN (kids under 12 free)
  • No pets allowed
  • Dress code: Comfortable, summer-friendly, or go full Valle chic

Thirty-five years, thousands of paellas, and countless wine pours later, the Paella Contest remains Ensenada’s tastiest tradition. Therefore, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of wine, wood smoke, and friendly competition. Just remember—show up early, stay hydrated, and save room for seconds.

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Baja’s Moving… in Its Own Way
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, San Diego, Tijuana

Baja’s New Ferry Waits, Tijuana’s Viaduct Shrinks—Progress, Baja Style

Baja California is on the move… sort of. Ensenada has a shiny new ferry sitting pretty at the dock. Tijuana’s long-promised viaduct is, well, shorter than promised. It’s progress—just not the fast-lane kind.

Ferry Fantasy Meets Dockside Reality

The Azteca Express I made its grand entrance into Ensenada’s port on July 25. Locals cheered, phones snapped, and Instagram lit up. But anyone hoping to hop on for San Diego this week is in for a plot twist—the first passenger trip won’t be until late August.

Phase one will carry people only—no cars until next year—but it will have a bar on board. Because priorities. It’ll seat about 230 passengers and take 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

Tickets aren’t on sale yet, but early chatter points to $70 USD one-way or around $130 USD round trip. The experience promises full customs and immigration checks at both ends—think “airport with a sea breeze.”

The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.
#The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.

Viaduct Loses the Beach

Meanwhile, in Tijuana, the Viaducto Elevado—that elevated road designed to whisk drivers from the airport toward Playas—has officially been downsized. The new plan ends the road at Cañón del Matadero, about 1.5 kilometers short of the beach.

The change trims the original 10.5-kilometer project and cuts Playas de Tijuana out of the direct link. Local residents worry this will dump traffic into their neighborhoods and worsen the rush. Officials say the viaduct is still on track to open late 2025 or early 2026.

Same Goal, Different Routes

In a way, both projects have the same mission—make it easier to move people and goods in and out of Baja. But like a good Baja road trip, there are always detours.

The ferry is stuck in “coming soon” mode. The viaduct is trimming its route. Neither is a total win yet, but each inch forward matters for a region that relies on cross-border travel like fish rely on water.

We’ll take the progress, even if it comes in small, slightly salty steps.

Viaduct in Action
#Workers and machines hustle under the sun, assembling what might just be the fastest road Tijuana has never seen… yet.

Quick Facts:

ProjectStatusETAFun Fact
Ensenada–SD FerryDocked, delayedLate August 2025Has a bar before it has car space
Tijuana ViaductRoute shortenedLate 2025/Early 2026Lost the beach but kept the traffic

Baja’s building momentum—just not at the speed locals (or drivers) might hope for. But hey, at least we’re not bored.

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Claudia Agatón Makes History at the Grito
 Articles, Ensenada

Historic First Woman Grito in Ensenada With Edith Márquez 

Ensenada’s about to swap its sandals for sombreros. This September 15, the city will celebrate Fiestas Patrias like never before — and make history in the process.

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz will be the first woman in Ensenada’s history to lead the Grito de Independencia. About time, right? She’ll be up on the Playa Hermosa stage, ready to shout ¡Viva México! to thousands of locals, tourists, and anyone within earshot — probably including a few confused pelicans.

And because historic moments deserve a proper soundtrack, Mexican pop legend Edith Márquez will follow the patriotic yelling with a full-on concert. Bring tissues. She’s famous for songs that make you cry, sing, and question your last breakup — sometimes all at once.

What’s in Store Before the Grito

The fun starts at 7:00 PM. Playa Hermosa’s esplanade will turn into a giant, family-friendly block party. Expect tacos, tamales, pozole, churros, and that smell of grilled corn that makes you instantly hungrier than you thought possible. Drinks? Oh, plenty. From aguas frescas to Baja’s craft beers — and yes, the grown-up margaritas will be there too.

There will be live performances before the main act, because nothing says “We love you, Mexico” like dancing in the sand while holding a plate of street food.

The Moment Everyone’s Waiting For

At around 11:00 PM, lights dim, the crowd pushes forward, and Mayor Agatón grabs the microphone. Cue the bell ringing — the tradition that’s been part of the Grito since 1810. She’ll shout out the heroes of independence, and the crowd will shout back ¡Viva! after each name. By the time she yells ¡Viva México! the energy will be electric — and slightly sticky from all the cotton candy in the crowd.

Edith Márquez Lights Up Ensenada’s Fiestas Patrias
#Edith Márquez Lights Up Ensenada’s Fiestas Patrias

Then the stage belongs to Edith Márquez. Her set list will likely include Fue mi Error, Mi Fantasía, Entiende Que Ya, and Mírame. If you’re not singing along, don’t worry — the crowd will carry you.

Day Two: The Parade Showdown

On Monday, September 16, the party switches gears. The Plaza Cívica de la Patria will host the official ceremony marking 215 years since the start of Mexico’s independence movement. Then comes the Desfile Cívico Militar — part marching band, part military precision, part “wait, is that a horse in the middle of downtown?”

You’ll see school kids marching in perfectly imperfect lines, veterans in polished uniforms, and community groups waving flags like their lives depend on it. The parade route will snake through Ensenada’s main streets, so plan ahead if you want a good spot — or if you just want to avoid being stuck behind a drum line for an hour.

Why You Should Go

It’s not every year you get to see history, music, and churros in the same night. This is the first time a woman has ever led Ensenada’s Grito, and the first time Playa Hermosa hosts the city’s biggest patriotic bash. Plus, the weather in mid-September? Warm enough for sandals, cool enough to survive the crowd.

So, September 15 and 16 — two days of ¡Vivas!, music, and patriotic calories. We’ll see you there. And yes, you can bring your dancing shoes… but flip-flops work too.

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Tuna in Formation: Wellness in Motion
 Articles, Ensenada

Happy Tuna Swim Better

Baja Aqua Farms breaks silence with world-first tuna ranch report

Salmon farms? Sure, they’ve had sustainability reports for years. But tuna ranches? Nothing but crickets—until now.

Baja Aqua Farms just dropped the first-ever sustainability report from a Pacific bluefin tuna ranch. And they didn’t hold back. It’s got transparency, tech, tuna behavior charts—and even a Tuna Shocker. No joke.

Five freedoms, zero fishy business

The farm follows the five internationally recognized animal freedoms. Not for show, but because healthy tuna make tastier tuna. They’re aiming for higher survival rates and better product quality. It’s ethical. It’s smart. It works.

Lunch time at the ranch. That sardine never stood a chance. Healthy tuna = strong appetite = premium harvest.
#One Hungry Bluefin

Algae? Not on their watch

In late 2024, two nasty blooms of harmful microalgae crashed the party. These sudden outbreaks mess with oxygen levels and can suffocate fish. Baja Aqua’s crew didn’t panic. They hit the emergency protocol and evacuated the farm fast.

This wasn’t luck—it was training. The team checks ocean conditions 24/7. Every 15 minutes, sensors measure oxygen, temperature, and currents at multiple depths. They also take four phytoplankton samples a day to spot toxic microalgae early. If numbers rise? Boom—contingency mode activated.

A simple chart tells the team when to go from green to red alert. It even tracks tuna behavior: from “hungry and speedy” to “swimming weird and starving.”

Gentle harvest, Japanese style

Harvesting starts with a Tuna Shocker (yes, it’s a real thing). Then comes the Ikejime method, a precise, painless technique that prevents stress and preserves flavor. No bruising. No panic. No yake—that rubbery texture that ruins good sashimi.

All harvesting happens by daylight, under calm ocean conditions. Fish go straight into chilled seawater at 0°C. No delays. No shortcuts.

No GMOs, no exceptions

The farm follows strict rules from Mexico’s National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries (CONAPESCA), the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC), and the National Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (INAPESCA). These agencies regulate wild tuna capture and say: no GMOs allowed. Baja Aqua Farms listens.

These aren’t alien landing pads—they’re the offshore homes where Baja Aqua’s bluefin tuna grow big, strong, and sushi-grade.
#Not Your Average Fish Tank

Chill tanks, traceable tuna

Each tuna is tracked from sea to table. They store the harvest in tanks chilled to –0.5 °C using a custom-built chiller. It’s all about keeping it fresh, safe, and sushi-ready.

This isn’t just a fish tale. Baja Aqua Farms raised the bar. Now, let’s see who swims up next.

SustainabilityReport2024BAF_ESPDownload
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Ensenada Airport Plans Resurface—Is This Finally for Real?
 Articles, Ensenada

New Ensenada Airport Could Land by 2029—For Real This Time

If you’ve been hearing rumors about an international airport in Ensenada since the ‘90s—you’re not alone. It’s been the Baja version of “I’ll believe it when I see it.” But this time, it might not be just talk.

From Rumors to Blueprints

Plans for a new airport date back to the mid-1990s, and in 2007 it was even listed in Mexico’s National Infrastructure Plan. Multiple studies were commissioned for a site in Ojos Negros, about 80 km inland. At the end, only one dirt runway was built, which is barely used as an alternative to the Cipres airport, during the Baja 1000 off-road race.

Fast forward to 2024, and the federal Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes (SICT), which oversees infrastructure and transportation, allocated over 16 million pesos for studies on hydrology, soil conditions, and environmental impact in Ensenada. That’s a lot more than just lip service.

Then, in July 2025, Ensenada’s mayor Claudia Agatón confirmed that the project is officially back on the radar. According to her statement and sources from federal agencies, the plan is for a new international airport to be located in El Tigre, a zone about 30 km north of downtown Ensenada.

The ASA Plan

The airport would fall under the management of Aeropuertos y Servicios Auxiliares (ASA), the federal agency in charge of Mexico’s airport network. ASA has already released blueprints that include:

  • A 2,800-meter runway
  • An 8,000 m² terminal
  • A new control tower
  • Commercial zones, parking, and access roads

The total investment? 5.5 billion pesos—but important note: that budget is not just for Ensenada. It’s part of a broader ASA strategy that includes multiple airport projects across Mexico. So while Ensenada is in the mix, it’s sharing the pot.

So… Is This Finally Happening?

We know what you’re thinking: Didn’t they say the same thing in 2007? And in 2016? Yep. Baja residents (and frequent visitors) have seen this movie before. But this time we’ve got:

  • Confirmed site and design (El Tigre)
  • Federal and municipal coordination
  • Concrete funding allocations
  • A proposed timeline: earthworks in 2026, terminal structure in 2027, and operations by 2029.

Bottom Line

We’re cautiously optimistic. With backing from SICT, project management by ASA, and a mayor who’s actively promoting it, this version of the Ensenada airport feels more grounded than ever.

But let’s be honest—we’ll believe it when we see the bulldozers. Until then, Gringo Gazette North will keep a close eye on progress. And if it does happen, maybe you can book your next flight into Ensenada instead of dealing with Tijuana or San Diego.

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