In teen movies and TV shows, Tijuana so often is painted as the place where under-agers go off the rails and drink too much. It has come to hold the a seedy reputation and with little cause. Just take a look at some pictures of Tijuana and you will see that there is so much more than the media would like you to think. There is culture, there is art, and there is so much entertainment. Not to mention the wonderfully fresh Mexican food, and all the tequila you could comfortably drink.
Allow us, then, to avert your eyes and minds to the top seven best hotels and resorts in Tijuana. We have the lowdown on where to stay, and what you can expect.
Dig in as we dish up a variety of hotels and resorts to suit any traveler and budget. Which options and locations suit the family holiday-makers? Where do you go if you’re a backpacker on a budget? And where do you turn for a romantic getaway with your beau? We answer all these questions and many more, with some top tips on facilities, fun things to do. Plus the inside scoop on where to stay if you’re headed over the border for a little medical procedure.
The 7 Best Places To Stay in Tijuana
Just a hop skip and a jump over the border, Tijuana is in the Mexican state of Baja California. Its year-round balmy climate and relatively cheap prices make it a great option for a quick getaway. But it also has another draw. A lot of people come to stay in Tijuana for its cheaper medical care. And so you will find a few places in the city center will offer spaces for recovery after procedures. Some of which we will be highlighting for you. It also gives Californians a bit of a break from their usual beautiful beaches and scenery.
With beautiful natural vistas, stunning ranges and a glorious rugged stretch of ocean, there is a lot in terms of outdoor activity. However, when you’re in the center of the city, there is a lot of fun to be had there too. Keep your eyes peeled for some insider advice on where to go and what to do in and around these hotels.
Quartz Hotel & Spa
Open for less than two years, Quartz hotel has a holistic approach to caring for their customers. If you take your health and wellbeing seriously, this is the one for you. It is situated opposite the Medical Tourism complex, and comes well recommended for post-procedure care. The 5 star hotel has 155 beautifully appointed rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, state of the art gym, and a delightful spa setting that features a sauna, jacuzzi, aromatherapy, and a range of treatments. The hotel gardens are well managed, and every room looks out on to a piece of it. Be sure to take advantage of the terrace hot tub while you stay!
The rooms are simply but beautifully decorated, cosy and full of lovely touches. Each one is kitted out with a flatscreen TV, free Wifi, a kettle and coffee machine, and air conditioning. Light sleepers will also be comforted to know that each room is sound-proofed to avoid city noises disturbing your slumber. Your room becomes an oasis of calm. Room-service is also available, and for anything else staff at the the 24-hour front desk are on hand to assist. Guests can also take advantage of the full American or Continental breakfast.
The Quartz is fortunately situated between lively downtown Tijuana and the business district of Zona Río. This also doubles as a fashionable hangout for wealthy locals, with high end shops, bars and restaurants just a stones throw away. Just over 3km from the hotel is El Popo Market, and Tijuana International Airport is just 7 km from the property, and private parking is also available.
Alou Hotel Boutique
If you are into quiet, calm and low-key environments, this is where you should stay in Tijuana. This chic boutique offers guests an escape from the city, but within walking distance of the Tijuana Cultural Center. This is a very popular area for locals and tourists due to its entertainment options for all ages. Getting tired of sightseeing or want to escape the sun? Take in a show at the IMAX movie at the Omnimax! You are also around 2km from the vibrant El Popo market and Plaza Rio Commercial Centre, and 5km from Estadio Caliente. Great if you plan on taking in a football match.
The hotel itself is a gorgeous little escape, with beautifully designed rooms in an array of calming colours. Each room has air conditioning, flatscreen TV, and either one or two double beds. The 24 hour desk is available for room service, tour bookings, and any other queries. There is also free tea and coffee for guests in the lobby, and free private parking. There is a Deli located on site, though for a more substantial meal you can venture out to the local cafes and restaurants. Everything is less than a 15 minute walk away!
This fantastic little find is super close to the airport, and about a 10 minute drive from the United States/Mexico border. This is a fantastic spot to get a good nights sleep and wake refreshed for a day of sightseeing, shopping, or a trip to the beach. You will find gorgeous beaches located a mere 15 minute drive from the centre.
Hotel Lucerna
When considering where to stay in Tijuana, the Hotel Lucerna is always top of the list. It is opulent and spacious, complete with a fabulous pool set into the well-kept grounds. And it is only 3km from the border between Baja California and San Diego in the United States. Whilst staying at the hotels, guests can indulge in a range of cuisines from the two on-site restaurants. The El Acueducto is a more casual affair, serving Mexican and International fare, as well as a buffet breakfast in the morning. For fine-dining, the Rivoli offers a variety of fresh, mouth-watering mediterranean options.
Each one of the 162 rooms has a balcony overlooking the luscious grounds, Flatscreen TV, as well as free wifi and bottled water. Room service is also available to guests day and night. If travelling with children, give yourself the night off and take advantage of the in-room childcare facility. The Hotel is situated just minutes away from the Tijuana Country Club, and a short walk from Zona Rio, should you want to go and experience a bit of nightlife!
For the health conscious amongst you, there is a gym on site. And if you are heading to Tijuana for Medical procedure, there is a 24 hour medical service on site. Considering the hotel is just a short walk from the medical tourism complex, this is a great option for a night or two, pre or post operation.
Puerto Nueve Baja Hotel & Villas
This hotel comes very highly recommended if you are wanting to plan a little family vacation. With 248 rooms available and many two bedroom villas there is lot of value for families of four or more. Many of the villas have a living area and full kitchen, with glorious views over the gardens and sea. Plus prices are generally super reasonable.
Kids are guaranteed a good time, with the children’s pool and playground proving popular. And when the kids are happy, parents can relax. Sit and sip cocktails as the kids play near-by. There is also an indoor pool with jacuzzi and an outdoor pool available for adults. There are also campfire areas, which are lit in the evening, a variety of poolside bars serving drinks and snacks. The Puerto Nuevo restaurant also boasts an extensive menu and sumptuous fresh seafood dishes!
Entertainment is lively, with Karaoke on Friday and Saturday night. Guests can also take advantage of the tour desk to book a trip to the Valle de Guadeloupe wine region, as well as diving, horse-riding and motorcycle tours.
There are a few caveats to be made aware of. Whilst the hotel is located close to the waters edge, it does not have its own beach. The closest beach is in Rosarito, a 15 minute drive from the hotel. When in the hotel, Wifi is only available in the communal spaces, such as lobby, bar, and the indoor and outdoor pool areas. And be warned, only the deluxe golden villas have air conditioning. Aside from these caveats, the hotel and surrounding areas are lovely. Plus there is enough entertainment that you could comfortably stay for your whole trip without having to leave!
Oui Madame B&B
This is where to stay in Tijuana if you are looking for affordability, and with a great beach location! Situated in the Playas de Tijuana region, it’s B&B style offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with a shared kitchen for cooking your own food. It is also an eco-lodge! The small selection of rooms are available for up to three guests per room, and in a range of lovely styles. Some have the cutest bunkbeds (with a difference) or a balcony overlooking the gardens. One of the room types is called ‘The Hobbit’, adorable! Whilst rooms are compact, every one is light and airy, and feel just like home.
The couple who run it are also well-placed to offer a rest-stop for those who have come to Tijuana for medical procedures. They’re also into providing guests with a healthy meal to start the day, so you will often find green smoothies and healthy omelettes on offer. However, they do supply all sorts of wonderful yummy breakfast options, so don’t despair if you’re a fan of something a little less healthy. Plus, there are some wonderful eateries on the surrounding streets. Kurtoz Rolling Bakery and Cafe will serve your craving for coffee and sweet treats well!
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Hotels in Tijuana are often a little larger, so it is nice to find something with a homely and communal feel to it. The area is beautiful, with lots of lovely places to eat and drink, and just a 200 yards from the beachfront! This is a huge consolation to the fact that there is no pool on the premises. There are also some lovely small parques nearby, and the city center is just 12km away.
Tijuana Marriott Hotel
Travelers who stay at the Marriott In Tijuana often give great reviews of the property due to its location and wealth of amenities. Yes, if you like to see a lot of dining options with your accommodation, this is the Tijuana hotel to get booking! Guests can enjoy a wide variety of cuisine in the Marriotts three restaurants. From small plates and delicious cocktails in the Lobby Bar, Coffee, pastries and lunchtime offerings at the Great Room, and a wide array of local fresh and intercontinental dishes in the Condimento Restaurant. And with only 209 rooms, it is not a large complex! So you are always likely to get a seat.
Every room contains minibar, flat-screen TV, and Wi-Fi, though this is chargeable. Whichever style room you choose, you will be sure to have a great view, with many overlooking the golf course close by. Some guests may even want to play a few rounds, it would be rude not to! There are also a wealth of other activities to take advantage of in the vicinity. Play tennis or head off for a bit of horse-riding. You could always book a trip our to Valle de Guadeloupe for a tour of the local wine country. Whilst at the hotel, the outdoor swimming pool is a relaxing getaway and a saviour from the Baja California heat.
Located less than 7km from the San Diego border, the hotel is well placed just a short drive (or a longer walk) from downtown and Zona Rio and shopping center. It is also just a short walk from Rio Tijuana, the Tijuana River.
Real Del Mar Golf Resort and Spa
The final of our Tijuana Hotels is a 5 star Resort that will leave you spellbound. Just 20km from the downtown zone of Tijuana, this resort and spa is a well-curated oasis of calm and tranquility. Well manicured gardens and the beautifully rendered golf course is a sea of green, with views over the ocean to complete the aesthetic. Both inside and out, this hotel feels like a true Mexico escape. Whitewashed buildings covered in climbing plants and muted tones inside the spacious and elegant rooms bring a real holiday feel to the place. Much of its charm is in how well the modern yet colonial architecture fits in with the landscape.
Both studio and suites are available for booking, and many offering a full kitchen complete with a fridge and microwave. Every room is equipped with a coffee maker, TV, and air conditioning. Sadly, however, there is no free in-room Wifi . This is chargeable at check-out, with free Wifi available throughout the hotel lobby.
Didn’t opt for the kitchen, or don’t feel like cooking? Enjoy dinner at the Havana Café Bar, with a great menu serving a selection of Mexican treats and international options. A continental breakfast is also available to guests in the Lobby each morning.
Aside from the 18 hole golf course, residents can take advantage of the serene outdoor pool, tennis courts and on-site gym amongst other facilities. And if you feel like relaxing, the spa is on hand with a range of sumptuous treatments. Fancy a day at the beach? Rasarito is just 12km from the hotel.
Where is the best area to stay in Tijuana for families?
When taking a family trip to a seaside town, the best option for families is to opt for a location by the sea, with lots of entertainment for the kids. This is why the Puerta Nueve Baja Hotel & Villas is a great option. However, Playa de Tijuana is also a great location, and with more beaches to satisfy the whole family. Closer to the United States border, it has a wide variety of hotels to suit all budgets. Though often with fewer villa style apartments. Being situated less than 10km from the centre of the city, however, means you have a lot more entertainment options. The more you have to do, the less time you spend in your accommodation.
On the malécon, or beachfront, you will find a variety of shops, bars and restaurants, as well as street sellers offering ice-cream, corn, horchata, handicrafts and lots more. Whilst in Tijuana Mexico, be sure to head to the Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) to experience culture and excitement for all ages. Parque Morales is also a great option for some outdoors activities. This large park with a lake in the centre also has an operating train for getting around the whole area. Great entertainment for the kids!
Where is the best area to stay in Tijuana for couples?
If you are wondering where to stay in Tijuana for a Romantic Break, look no further than Zona Río. Whilst the beach can often be attractive, this area of Tijuana has the best shops and upmarket restaurants. It also has some pretty killer nightlife too. Couples can getaway and spend some time alone in small downtown accommodation like Alou Boutique Hotel, or the Quartz Hotel and Spa. Then, when it is time to play, all the exciting parts of Tijuana are right outside.
The Quartz Hotel is a great option as it is newly built, and with the guests comfort in mind. Sound-proofed rooms allow guests to get a restful nights sleep without hearing the hustle and bustle of the downtown core. And with an on-site spa, you can take a couples massage and spend the afternoon relaxing before hitting the Zona Río for some adventure!
Where is the best area to stay in Tijuana for backpackers?
For backpackers on a budget wondering where to stay in Tijuana that wont cost you a bomb, think Playa de Tijuana. Or Tijuana beach. There are a range of hotels and B&B accommodations to suit any budget, and the surrounding area is full of local bars and cafes. Plus, you are a short ride away from Tijuana center. The Oui Madame B&B is a fabulous option as it has cooking facilities. However, you can also find a range of larger budget hotels, as well as a few hostels if that is more your thing.
Whilst Tijuana city centre is is action packed—and Avenida Revolucion and Calle Sexta are great for nightlife—but staying by the beach gives the best of both worlds. Plus, when the day calls for some chilled sunbathing while sipping a cocktails, you can also find some wonderful places on the beach.
Where will you stay in Tijuana?
So there you have it, not a drunken teenager in sight! And with a headful of beautiful hotels of all shapes and sizes, you should be about ready to book your next trip. Whether you are out for a wild and wonderful trip, looking for a calm escape, or wanting a bit of sun and sea with the family. There is something for everyone in Tijuana.
So what are you waiting for? Share this with your fellow adventurers and get planning now. And if you have stayed at any of these properties, we would love to hear your experiences!
