Los Barriles is another destination that campers either love or try to avoid. Because it is a bit out of the way, standing out on its own at the very southeastern end of the Baja peninsula along what is called the East Cape, you will likely add Los Barriles to your itinerary because you are willing to find out which emotion it evokes in you.
For us, Los Barriles has existed along that emotional pendulum where we have experienced both appreciation and distaste for it. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine whether the old fishing village is the kind of place that you may add to a second, third, or even indefinite trip and, like many Canadians and Americans, end up calling home.
Los Barriles maintains its authentic Mexican charm while offering a myriad of modern amenities and activities that make it an irresistible destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. There are reasons why so many people take a straight line (or flight) to Los Barriles and don’t think about other places they pass along the way. There’s great beauty and adventure to be discovered here.
One of the most popular activities in Los Barriles is fishing, staying true to its historical roots. Known as a premier spot for sport fishing, enthusiasts from around the globe flock here to try their luck with marlin, dorado, and roosterfish. Visit at any time of the year and you’ll see large fishing boats moored in the sea just a stone’s throw from shore. On any given morning, locals will troll the shoreline in pangas casting nets for bait or hooking into a dorado (mahi mahi) in the deep water next to the pebbly coastline.
The crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez also provide the perfect playground for water sports. Kiteboarding and windsurfing are particularly favored, thanks to the steady winds that grace the area from November to March. If you enjoy wind sports, you’ve likely heard of Los Barriles, and you must plan to visit, if only to scope it out for future visits.
And for those who prefer a slower pace, the serene beaches offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun. ATVs remain a popular way to get around town and to travel up and down the sandy beaches lined with large colorful houses, restaurants and hotels.
Beyond the waves, Los Barriles and its surroundings offer a wealth of land-based activities. The nearby Sierra de la Laguna mountains are ideal for hiking and exploring, with trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas. Mountain biking and off-road ATV tours are also popular, providing an adrenaline-fueled way to explore the rugged landscape.
Additionally, the town hosts vibrant local markets where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture, sample local cuisine, and shop for handmade crafts. The town is also the jumping-off point for exploratory visits to Cabo Pulmo, where you can stock up on all of the camping necessities before heading off into the rugged adventures the East Cape provides.
If you drive to Los Barriles from the north you will cut through the heart of the mountains and pass through several small villages well worth a stop. In particular, pull over in El Triunfo and head to the cafe one block off Highway 1, for some of the most delicious food and pastries you will find outside of Europe!
Things to do in Los Barriles
Like most destinations we feature, Los Barriles has no shortage of activities to keep you entertained during your visit. Here are a few of the more popular things to do in Los Barriles.
Sport Fishing: Los Barriles is renowned for its sport fishing, attracting anglers eager to catch marlin, dorado, and roosterfish. Head to the south end of town or ask along the beach for captains who offer the opportunity to charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing adventure and experience the thrill of the catch in the bountiful Sea of Cortez. Fishing is no joke in Los Barriles.
Kiteboarding and Windsurfing: With consistent winds from November to March, Los Barriles is a hotspot for kiteboarding and windsurfing. The local schools offer lessons for beginners, making it easy to get started in these exhilarating sports. Most winter season mornings begin quiet and windless. But by noon on most days you’ll find the skyline along the coastline full of kites of various shapes and colors. Walk the beach and you’ll find several schools offering lessons for all sorts of windsports.
Snorkeling, Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm, clear waters near the shore are perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding. Discover vibrant marine life and explore the stunning underwater landscapes just off the beach. We advise that you spend most of your time on the water in the morning hours before the wind picks up. There are some great rocky structures to explore just off the beach within walking distance just south of town. Or rent an ATV and head north along the coast for several opportunities to snorkel.
ATV and Off-Road Tours: ATV and off-road tours are a must for those seeking adventure on land. Explore the rugged terrain and scenic trails of the surrounding desert and mountains, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and take in breathtaking views. There are no shortages of ATV rental companies in town.
Hiking in Sierra de la Laguna: The nearby Sierra de la Laguna mountains offer fantastic hiking trails. Trek through lush landscapes to discover hidden waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic vistas of the region. Combine this with an ATV trip and see places that very few others will.
Local Markets and Shops: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the town’s markets and shops. Browse for unique handmade crafts, sample delicious local foods, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Los Barriles. You can also stock up on prescriptions at a handful of pharmacies along the main drag in town that offer the kinds of medicines that older travelers, in particular, tend to appreciate.
Relaxing on the Beach: Sometimes, the best activity is no activity at all. Los Barriles’s beautiful beaches provide the perfect setting for a day of relaxation. Enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply unwinding with a good book and the sound of the waves.
Volunteer in Los Barriles
Cortez Rescue
Cortez Rescue takes in stray dogs, providing care for them with the goal of finding forever homes with adoptive parents. Having rescued over 2,500 dogs since 2018, the organization primarily connects Americans and Canadians with rescued dogs and always needs help transporting the dogs to their new homes. There are also great volunteer opportunities to simply play with the dogs for a few hours on a daily basis! If you’re interested in helping to transport dogs north of the border, volunteering or would like to support Cortez Rescue, connect with them right away!
Website: https://cortezrescue.org/
Campgrounds in Los Barriles
Because Los Barriles attracts many seasonal visitors, several great campground options range from more high-end resorts to basic dry camping. However, the number of campers also means you can expect to pay at least $30-$35 USD or more for a full hookup campsite.
Looking for campground contact and location information? Check out our 280-page paperback guidebook with everything you need to know to plan and enjoy your Baja camping adventure!
Playa Norte RV Park
Playa Norte RV Park is another beachfront campground on the northern end of town just past the big arroyo and within walking distance from the center of town. The campground is slightly expensive for its location, but the sites are clean, well-maintained and suitable for big rigs.
The toilets are clean, and the staff is friendly. There are also excellent laundry facilities if you need to wash a load of clothes. Beach access is available through the campground, and you can either walk or ATV along the beach or take the road back to town as needed.
One great thing about Playa Norte is that reasonably priced dry camping is available if you want to check out Los Barriles without committing to the otherwise more expensive campground fees. The campground also offers a dump station for a few dollars.
| Price Range | $30+ | Sewer Hookup | Y | Laundry | Y |
| # of Sites | 25+ | WiFi | Y | Pool | N |
| Big Rig Friendly | N | Cell Service | Y | Security | Y |
| Electric Hookup | 30A | Shower | Y | Pet Friendly | Y |
| Water Hookup | Y | Toilet | Y | Tent Friendly | Y |
Martin Verdugo’s Beach Club
Verdugo’s Beach Resort is a huge RV park with a beachfront restaurant and a pool. It is not a big rig-friendly campground (30 foot maximum), but it does have clean toilets and showers, fast WiFi, and good food at the restaurant. Plus, the location is worth the stay, whether you want to access the beach or walk the main road through town.
You’ll be packed in pretty tight with other campers, most of whom are likely to be long-term campers during the peak season. There is a narrow gate to enter the campground, so be mindful of your rig as you enter Verdugo’s.
Most campers here are long-term seasonal campers and you will be lucky if you can find a campsite on short notice. So plan to reach out in advance if you are interested in camping here.
| Price Range | $35+ | Sewer Hookup | Y | Laundry | Y |
| # of Sites | 50+ | WiFi | Y | Pool | N |
| Big Rig Friendly | N | Cell Service | Y | Security | Y |
| Electric Hookup | 30A | Shower | Y | Pet Friendly | Y |
| Water Hookup | Y | Toilet | Y | Tent Friendly | N |
Baja’s Resort at East Cape
Although it is not beachside, Baja’s Resort at East Cape is an excellent campground within walking distance of the town center. And while you’re not on the water, the famous windsurfing beach is only a 5-minute walk from the campground.
The grounds are covered with many trees and plants to help provide protection from the wind and give it a truly oasis feeling, as though you aren’t camping right in the middle of town. There are fantastic amenities, including full hookups, clean bathrooms, and even a pool and hot tub.
East Cape RV Resort is big-rig friendly. However, there are only 18 RV spots between permanent campers and rental bungalows. Making early reservations to secure a place at this popular campground is best.
| Price Range | $35+ | Sewer Hookup | Y | Laundry | Y |
| # of Sites | 15+ | WiFi | Y | Pool | Y |
| Big Rig Friendly | Y | Cell Service | Y | Security | Y |
| Electric Hookup | 30A/50A | Shower | Y | Pet Friendly | Y |
| Water Hookup | Y | Toilet | Y | Tent Friendly | N |
Baja Sunrise RV Park
Baja Sunrise RV Park is on the south end of town, on the water side of the highway, about one mile past the turnoff to enter Los Barriles. While it seems like it may be a little out of the way, the campground is in a great location for getting into town.
All sites have full hookups with 30A electrical service, and there is a dump station on site if you opt to dry camp or need a place to dump your tanks while in the area. Most waterfront sites are occupied by long-term and permanent campers, but if you can snag one during shoulder season, the views are worth the additional price.
The bathroom and shower facilities are nice and well-kept, and there is an on-site washing machine and dryer if you need to wash a load of clothes. WiFi is available throughout the campground, but it works best in the covered pavilion by the office. The campground is also big-rig friendly if you need the extra room.
| Price Range | $35+ | Sewer Hookup | Y | Laundry | Y |
| # of Sites | 25+ | WiFi | Y | Pool | N |
| Big Rig Friendly | Y | Cell Service | Y | Security | Y |
| Electric Hookup | 30A | Shower | Y | Pet Friendly | Y |
| Water Hookup | Y | Toilet | Y | Tent Friendly | Y |