Driving to Rosarito is a snap. Unless, of course, you have someone in the back seat who feels compelled to constantly shout out instructions on how you should drive. In that case, leave that person behind in the driveway and you'll have a lot more fun. If you would rather you can also take one of our Shuttles!

Take the 5 or 805 freeway south to the U.S. - Mexico border (San Ysidro crossing). Both freeways end at the border so take your pick. Hint: the 5 seems quicker with more things to look at, the 805 is kind of boring but faster if you happen to be on the road around rush hour. As you cross into Mexico follow the signs that say Rosarito - Ensenada Toll Road / Cuota or Scenic Toll Road. Rosarito is just under 20 miles from the border.

The scenic toll highway is well maintained and safe for driving. However, if you are driving at night keep your speed at a safe rate (speed limits are posted in kilometers) and keep an eye open for critters in the road. The road is well marked, just follow the green signs to the first toll booth. The toll is currently around $2.00 U.S. You won't need exact change (they have plenty) but you must pay your toll in one currency - they don't accept mixed monies (like dollars and pesos).

Rosarito has 4 exits from the toll road. Any exit will take you directly to Boulevard Juarez which runs smack down the middle of town from beginning to end. For convenience, take the final exit just before the 2nd toll booth (through the white arch). The exit ramp street goes for three blocks and ends at the main boulevard. Turn right and you are in downtown Rosarito. You will see Festival Plaza on the third block down, left hand side. Look for the hotel that appears to have a roller coaster on the front. Hey, we're pretty hard to miss.

Visitors to the northern part of Baja California do not need passports or tourist cards if staying in the country less. If you plan to stay longer or travel beyond Ensenada, you'll need to obtain a tourist card.; proof of U.S. citizenship is required.

NOTE: If you happen to miss the 4th exit (we told you to leave the backseat driver at home) don't panic. You'll know you missed it if you happen upon the 2nd toll booth. Just before the toll booth is AM/PM (bow down to the Big Gulp!) whose parking lot is bordered by the toll road on one side and the free road on the other. Cut across the parking lot to the free road and make a right. Just follow the signs less than one mile back into town; the free road becomes Boulevard Juarez.