Driving to San Felipe
San Felipe is one of the most accessible Mexican beach towns for American visitors. Located just 125 miles (200 km) south of the Mexicali border crossing, the drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours on a well-maintained highway. For travelers from Southern California, it's a quick weekend getaway that feels a world away from the hustle of city life.
From San Diego / Southern California
The most popular route starts from San Diego. Take I-8 East to El Centro, then Highway 111 North to the Mexicali border crossing. You can use either the Calexico West port of entry (downtown) or the Calexico East port of entry (newer, often faster). Once through the border, follow the signs for Highway 5 South toward San Felipe. The total drive from San Diego is approximately 4-5 hours depending on border wait times.
From Phoenix / Arizona
From Phoenix, take I-8 West to Yuma, then continue to the Los Algodones or Mexicali border crossing. From Mexicali, follow Highway 5 South to San Felipe. Total drive time is approximately 5-6 hours.
From Ensenada / Highway 3
If you're already on the Pacific side of Baja, you can take Highway 3 East from Ensenada through the stunning wine country of Valle de Guadalupe, over the mountains, and down to the desert. This scenic route takes about 3 hours and passes through some of Baja's most beautiful landscape.
Border Crossing Tips
- Passport Required: US citizens need a valid passport or passport card to cross the border and return.
- Mexican Auto Insurance: Your US auto insurance is not valid in Mexico. Purchase Mexican auto insurance before you cross — available online or at offices near the border.
- FMM Tourist Permit: If staying more than 7 days or traveling beyond the border zone, you'll need a Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM). The permit is free for stays of 7 days or less. For longer stays, the fee is approximately $983 MXN (about $54 USD). FMMs can now be obtained digitally online before your trip, or at the border immigration office.
- Vehicle Import Permit: Not required for the Baja California peninsula — a major perk of driving to San Felipe.
- Crossing Times: Calexico West (downtown) is open 24/7 for non-commercial traffic. Calexico East operates from 6 AM to midnight. Weekday mornings are typically the fastest for crossing south. Returning to the US on Sunday afternoons can mean 1-3 hour waits. Check border wait times at CBP.gov before heading back.
The Drive: Highway 5
Highway 5 runs south from Mexicali through the Sonoran Desert to San Felipe. The road starts as a four-lane highway for roughly the first 50 miles (80 km) out of Mexicali, then narrows to a two-lane road with little or no shoulder through the middle stretch. About 25 miles (40 km) north of San Felipe, the road widens again into a broad, divided four-lane highway with smooth asphalt all the way into town. The road is well-paved and generally in good condition throughout. The scenery is dramatic — vast desert plains, distant mountains, and the occasional roadside shrine. There are a few small communities along the way but very limited services, so fill up on gas in Mexicali.
About halfway through the drive, you'll start to see the Sea of Cortez in the distance, and the landscape shifts from flat desert to rolling hills. As you approach San Felipe, the road descends toward the coast and the views become spectacular.
Important Driving Tips
- Fill up on gas: Gas stations are scarce between Mexicali and San Felipe. Fill your tank before leaving Mexicali.
- Drive during daylight: The road is unlit and livestock can wander onto the highway at night.
- Slow down for topes: Speed bumps (topes) are found at the entrance to small towns. They are often unmarked and can be severe.
- Carry cash: Pesos are preferred, but many places accept US dollars. ATMs are available in San Felipe.
- Cell service: Coverage is spotty on Highway 5. Download offline maps before you go.
What to Bring
San Felipe is a casual beach town, so pack light and practical. Essentials include sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes for walking on sand, and plenty of water. If you're camping, bring all your supplies — while San Felipe has stores, selection is limited compared to US cities.