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Decades of first hand Mexico tourism information from me, "Mexico" Mike Nelson.

Puerto Nuevo

PUERTO NUEVO

Puerto Nuevo is famous as the lobster capital of Baja California.  This traditional seaside village is a must-visit destination.  Located in the municipality of Rosarito Beach, this enchanting lobster village is home to less than 150 residents.  However, cultural charm and lobster make it an attraction with culinary delight and warm Mexican hospitality.

Puerto Nuevo Style

The whole region of Rosarito is well acquainted with the Puerto Nuevo style of lobster.  But, the village itself is the first place to enjoy it.  Here, Chefs and cooks pan fry the lobster in lard to keep the lobster meat delicious and moist.  The village is home to about thirty restaurants that specialize in this pan-fry expertise.  Served authentically with tortillas, rice, and beans, a Puerto Nuevo lobster meal is the best in Mexican cuisine.

Puerto Nuevo
Lobster Tacos in Puerto Nuevo

Puerto Nuevo

Enjoying a perfectly cooked lobster while watching the sunset into the Pacific Ocean is a good day.  But, visitors to Puerto Nuevo also enjoy shopping for Mexican goods and handicrafts in the town.  While not as developed as its Rosarito neighbor, Puerto Nuevo offers a village experience filled with authentic culture as well as tastes.  Puerto Nuevo is near many Baja attractions; it is a favorite place to visit for a delightful getaway or side-trips from other Baja California cities like Rosarito Beach and Tijuana.

Puerto Nuevo
Puerto Nuevo

Just ten minutes to the south of Rosarito, the lobster village is also only under an hour from San Diego, California.  Many people also head to the town for various town festivals held on the main street like the famous Beer and Lobster Festival and Steak and Lobster Fest.  Lobster is at the heart of Puerto Nuevo, but it’s the main reason why so many tourists flock there for a meal—and return for yet another!

Puerto Nuevo Restaurants

When it comes to choosing a restaurant, many visitors opt for ambiance or a local recommendation.  Since they all offer pan-fried lobster, it’s not surprising that it can be challenging to decide on a place to eat.  Some visitors prefer fresh lobster to be frozen, so be sure to find out what your restaurant of choice serves.  Invariably, most serve fresh lobster, but for the tastiest tastes, go for a medium lobster which tends to cook to perfection.  Cash is preferred to credit cards when it comes to Puerto Nuevo, so it’s best to plan to pay with cash.  Some of the higher-end restaurants have elegant dining and provide an oceanside setting.  Many of the town’s best places to dine also boast patios and well-stocked bars.

Regional Attractions

Rosarito Beach

With its beautiful beaches and scenery, nearby Rosarito Beach is a major tourist destination for the state of Baja California.  From luxury hotels to affordable inns, there are plenty of great places to stay.  And, of course, many things to see and do.  From horseback riding on the beach to whale watching to scuba, Rosarito provides all the makings of a first-class vacation.  Plus, its proximity to the lobster capital is just another one of its many charms.

Puerto Nuevo
Rosarito Beach

Tijuana

Enjoy the city’s incredible nightlife or enjoy a weekend getaway—Mexican style. Tijuana is full of great restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues that visitors to the country love.  Within driving distance from Puerto Nuevo, Tijuana is filled with enticing places, but many visitors love to momentarily escape the crowds and head to the lobster village for its unparalleled eats.

Puerto Nuevo
Tijuana

Ensenada

This internationally acclaimed vacation hot spot has everything vacationers to Mexico.  Activities include world-class hotels and resorts, and lots of breathtaking ocean views and beaches.  Shopping, dining, golfing, and even visiting the nearby wineries are just a few more things visitors to the Ensenada love to do.

Puerto Nuevo
Ensenada Skyline

Sport Fishing

The Baja Peninsula is world-famous for its sports fish and fishing industry. While many fishers successfully make great catches, if you fail to hook something eat, head to the lobster village for a meal!

Off-Roading

Tourists come from far and wide to enjoy internationally renowned races like the Baja 500 and Baja 1000.  The region around Rosarito and Puerto Nuevo offer great off-roading opportunities and plenty of scenic terrains.

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