San Felipe, nestled along the stunning Sea of Cortez in Baja California, Mexico, has earned its reputation as one of North America's premier RV destinations. This charming fishing village offers the perfect blend of pristine beaches, warm hospitality, affordable living, and year-round sunshine that keeps RV enthusiasts returning season after season. Whether you're planning your first trip or you're a seasoned Baja traveler, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your San Felipe RV adventure.
Why San Felipe is Perfect for RV Travelers
San Felipe stands out among Mexican coastal destinations for its RV-friendly infrastructure and welcoming atmosphere. Unlike more touristy destinations, San Felipe maintains its authentic Mexican charm while offering the amenities and services RV travelers need.
The town's location on the Sea of Cortez provides calm, swimmable waters perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts. The dramatic desert landscape meeting turquoise waters creates breathtaking scenery that never gets old, no matter how many sunrises and sunsets you witness from your RV.
Accessibility makes San Felipe particularly attractive. Located just 125 miles south of the US-Mexico border at Mexicali, the drive from Southern California or Arizona takes only a few hours on well-maintained highways. This proximity means you can enjoy international adventure without extensive travel time or complicated logistics.
The cost of living in San Felipe remains remarkably affordable compared to US and Canadian destinations. RV parks offer full hookups at a fraction of what you'd pay north of the border, while fresh seafood, local produce, and dining out won't break your budget. Many snowbirds discover they can extend their travel season significantly by wintering in San Felipe.
The local community embraces RV travelers warmly. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and the expat community provides a built-in support network for newcomers. You'll find fellow travelers eager to share recommendations, tips, and friendship around campfires and at local gathering spots.
Getting to San Felipe: Border Crossing and Route Information
Most RV travelers reach San Felipe via the Mexicali border crossing. This route offers the most direct access and well-maintained roads suitable for large RVs and towed vehicles.
Before crossing the border, ensure you have proper documentation. US and Canadian citizens need valid passports. You'll also need Mexican vehicle insurance, which you must purchase before entering Mexico as US and Canadian policies don't provide coverage south of the border. Many insurance providers operate near the border, or you can arrange coverage online in advance.
If staying longer than seven days or traveling beyond the "free zone," you'll need a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP) and tourist visa (FMM). These can be obtained at the border. The process is straightforward but allow extra time for paperwork and potential lines during peak season.
The drive from Mexicali to San Felipe takes approximately two hours via Highway 5. This modern, paved highway accommodates RVs of all sizes comfortably. The route traverses dramatic desert landscape with the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir mountains providing stunning backdrop views.
Highway conditions are generally excellent, though you should drive cautiously and stay alert. Mexican highways have different characteristics than US roads, including occasional livestock, varying speed limits, and military checkpoints (routine and nothing to worry about). Driving during daylight hours is recommended, especially for first-time visitors.
Gas stations appear regularly along the route, but fuel up before leaving Mexicali and again in San Felipe. Mexican gas stations are full-service, so attendants will pump your fuel. Tipping a few pesos is customary and appreciated.
Best RV Parks and Camping Options in San Felipe
San Felipe offers diverse RV accommodation options ranging from full-service parks with resort amenities to primitive beachfront camping for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Full-hookup RV parks provide electricity, water, and sewer connections along with amenities like swimming pools, hot tubs, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and social activities. These parks cater to long-term visitors and create community atmospheres where friendships flourish. Rates typically range from $20-40 per night with discounts for weekly and monthly stays.
Many parks sit directly on the beach, offering stunning sea views and easy beach access right from your RV. Waking up to sunrise over the Sea of Cortez and falling asleep to gentle wave sounds creates the ultimate relaxation experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.
For more adventurous travelers, primitive beach camping allows you to park directly on the sand at various beaches north and south of town. These locations offer no hookups but provide unparalleled natural beauty, privacy, and the freedom to create your own perfect spot. Costs are minimal or free, though some beaches charge small daily fees.
When selecting your RV park or camping spot, consider your priorities. Do you want social interaction and amenities, or solitude and nature? How important are reliable hookups and Wi-Fi? Do you prefer being in town near restaurants and shops, or away from development? San Felipe offers options for every preference and budget.
Reservations are highly recommended during peak season (November through March) when snowbirds fill popular parks. Summer months offer more availability and lower rates, though temperatures soar and many seasonal businesses close.
What to Do in San Felipe: Activities and Attractions
San Felipe's appeal extends far beyond beautiful beaches, offering diverse activities that keep RV travelers entertained throughout extended stays.
Fishing ranks among San Felipe's top attractions. The Sea of Cortez teems with species including corvina, yellowtail, dorado, and seasonal catches that challenge anglers of all skill levels. You can fish from shore, hire local pangas (fishing boats) for half or full-day trips, or launch your own boat at the public ramp.
Water sports thrive in San Felipe's calm, warm waters. Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and swimming provide perfect ways to enjoy the sea. The gentle waves and clear visibility make San Felipe ideal for beginners while still offering enough variety to keep experienced water enthusiasts engaged.
The Malecón (waterfront boardwalk) serves as San Felipe's social and commercial heart. This pedestrian-friendly strip features restaurants, bars, shops, and vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handcrafted souvenirs. Evening strolls along the Malecón, especially during sunset, have become cherished traditions for visitors.
Off-roading and desert exploration attract adventure seekers to the surrounding landscape. The dramatic desert terrain offers trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4x4 vehicles. Guided tours can take you to hidden hot springs, ancient rock art sites, and remote beaches inaccessible by standard vehicles.
The weekly street market (typically Wednesdays) brings local vendors selling fresh produce, handcrafted goods, clothing, and household items at bargain prices. This authentic Mexican market experience lets you stock your RV with fresh ingredients while practicing your Spanish and supporting local economy.
Whale watching season (December through April) offers opportunities to witness gray whales migrating through the Sea of Cortez. While San Felipe isn't the primary whale watching destination in Baja, occasional sightings from shore or boat tours create unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Local Cuisine and Dining in San Felipe
San Felipe's culinary scene celebrates fresh seafood and authentic Mexican flavors at prices that encourage frequent dining out.
Fish tacos reign supreme as San Felipe's signature dish. Countless taquerías serve these simple yet delicious creations featuring fresh-caught fish, lightly battered and fried, topped with cabbage, pico de gallo, and creamy sauce, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Each establishment claims the best recipe, so tasting your way through town becomes a delicious mission.
Seafood restaurants along the Malecón and throughout town serve everything from simple ceviche to elaborate seafood platters. Shrimp prepared countless ways, fresh oysters, clam chowder, and whole grilled fish showcase the sea's bounty. Most restaurants allow you to select your seafood fresh from displays, ensuring quality and freshness.
Traditional Mexican cuisine beyond seafood includes street tacos, tamales, pozole, and regional specialties that provide authentic flavors at incredibly affordable prices. Local fondas (small family restaurants) offer home-cooked meals that give you genuine taste of Mexican home cooking.
The expat community has influenced San Felipe's dining scene, resulting in restaurants serving American breakfasts, pizza, burgers, and international cuisine for those craving familiar flavors. These establishments often become social hubs where English-speaking visitors gather.
Don't miss the taco stands and food carts that appear throughout town, especially evenings and weekends. These mobile kitchens serve some of San Felipe's most delicious and authentic food at unbeatable prices. Follow the locals to find the best spots.
Fresh produce markets and grocery stores allow you to stock your RV kitchen with ingredients for home cooking. Local fruits, vegetables, and Mexican specialties cost significantly less than in the US and Canada, making meal preparation economical and enjoyable.
Practical Tips for RV Living in San Felipe
Successfully navigating RV life in San Felipe requires understanding local customs, services, and practical considerations that differ from camping north of the border.
Water quality varies throughout San Felipe. While some RV parks provide potable water, most travelers use bottled water for drinking and cooking. Five-gallon jugs (garrafones) are available everywhere and cost just a few dollars. Many long-term visitors install water filtration systems in their RVs for convenience.
Propane (gas LP) is readily available at stations throughout town. Mexican propane fittings differ from US/Canadian standards, so bring an adapter or have your tanks refilled at stations equipped to handle foreign tanks. Propane costs significantly less in Mexico than north of the border.
Electricity in Mexico runs on 110 volts like the US and Canada, but power quality can vary. Surge protectors are essential to protect your RV's electrical systems from voltage fluctuations and power surges that occur more frequently than in North America.
Waste disposal follows different protocols than US RV parks. Many locations request that toilet paper go in waste baskets rather than flushed, as Mexican plumbing systems often can't handle paper. This takes adjustment but becomes routine quickly.
Healthcare services in San Felipe include clinics, pharmacies, and a hospital for basic medical needs. Many medications available only by prescription in the US and Canada can be purchased over the counter in Mexican pharmacies at fraction of the cost. For serious medical issues, Mexicali offers full-service hospitals about two hours away.
Internet and cell service have improved dramatically in recent years. Most RV parks offer Wi-Fi, though speeds and reliability vary. Mexican cell carriers provide affordable data plans, and many US carriers offer Mexico coverage in their plans. Having backup connectivity options ensures you stay connected.
Banking and currency exchange are straightforward. ATMs throughout town dispense pesos, and many businesses accept US dollars, though you'll get better value paying in pesos. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but cash remains king for small purchases, tips, and local markets.
Best Time to Visit San Felipe
San Felipe's climate and seasonal patterns significantly impact your RV experience, with each season offering distinct advantages and considerations.
Peak season runs November through March when snowbirds escape northern winters. During these months, temperatures range from 60-75°F with sunny skies and minimal rainfall. RV parks fill up, the town buzzes with activity, and social events abound. This period offers ideal weather but requires advance reservations and comes with higher rates and more crowds.
Spring (April-May) brings warming temperatures and fewer visitors as snowbirds head north. This shoulder season offers excellent weather, available camping spots, and the advantage of experiencing San Felipe at a more relaxed pace while still enjoying open businesses and activities.
Summer (June-September) sees temperatures soar above 100°F, making it challenging for those unaccustomed to extreme heat. Many seasonal businesses close, and the expat population dwindles. However, summer offers the most affordable rates, empty beaches, and authentic local experience. Early mornings and evenings remain pleasant, and the sea provides cooling relief.
Fall (October-November) marks the transition back to peak season. Temperatures moderate, seasonal businesses reopen, and early snowbirds begin arriving. This period combines pleasant weather with relative availability before peak season crowds arrive.
Your ideal timing depends on your heat tolerance, budget, desire for social interaction, and schedule flexibility. Many veteran San Felipe RVers prefer shoulder seasons for the balance of good weather, reasonable rates, and moderate crowds.
San Felipe offers RV travelers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, affordable living, welcoming community, and endless sunshine. Whether you're seeking winter escape, retirement adventure, or simply a different kind of RV experience, this Baja gem delivers memories and experiences that will have you planning your return before you even leave.