Valley of the Giants (Valle de los Gigantes)
One of San Felipe's most iconic attractions, the Valley of the Giants is home to massive cardon cacti — the largest cacti in the world. Some of these ancient plants stand over 60 feet tall and are estimated to be hundreds of years old. The valley is located about 14 miles south of town (roughly a 20-minute drive) on a dirt road that leads inland from Highway 5.
The landscape is otherworldly: towering cacti scattered across a desert floor of volcanic rock and sand, framed by rugged mountain ranges. It's a photographer's paradise, especially during golden hour. A 4WD vehicle is recommended but not always necessary depending on road conditions. Bring water and sun protection — there is no shade or services.
The Malecon
San Felipe's malecon (boardwalk) is the social heart of town. Running along the main beach, it's lined with restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and street vendors. In the evenings, families stroll the malecon, musicians play, and the smell of grilling seafood fills the air. The Virgin of Guadalupe shrine sits at the south end of the malecon on a rocky point overlooking the sea.
San Felipe Shrine (Virgin of Guadalupe)
Perched on a rocky hillside at the south end of the malecon, the shrine to the Virgin of Guadalupe is one of San Felipe's most recognizable landmarks. The climb up the stone steps is short but steep, and the views from the top are breathtaking — the entire town, beach, and Sea of Cortez spread out before you. It's especially beautiful at sunset.
Off-Road Racing & Desert Adventures
San Felipe is legendary in the off-road racing world. The town hosts the San Felipe 250, a prestigious desert race that's part of the SCORE International series. Typically held in late March or early April, the event draws hundreds of race teams and thousands of spectators to San Felipe each year. The race course winds through the surrounding desert, and spectating is free at most points along the route.
Even when there's no race, the desert around San Felipe offers incredible off-roading opportunities. ATV and dune buggy rentals are available in town, and the hard-packed sand at low tide makes for excellent beach driving.
Puertecitos Hot Springs
About 54 miles (90 km) south of San Felipe lies the tiny settlement of Puertecitos, where natural volcanic hot springs emerge right at the shoreline. At high tide, the ocean water mixes with the hot spring water, creating naturally heated pools of varying temperatures. At low tide, the springs are exposed and can be extremely hot. Time your visit with the tides for the best experience.
Stargazing
San Felipe's remote desert location and minimal light pollution make it one of the best stargazing destinations in North America. On clear nights — which are most nights — the Milky Way blazes across the sky, and you can see countless stars, planets, and meteor showers with the naked eye. The desert south of town, away from any lights, offers the darkest skies.
Bird Watching
The San Felipe area is a haven for bird watchers. The coastline and nearby wetlands attract a wide variety of species including pelicans, blue herons, ospreys, and during migration season, numerous shorebirds. The Laguna Percebú area south of town is particularly rich in birdlife.
San Felipe Events & Festivals
- Carnaval (February): San Felipe's version of Carnival with parades, music, dancing, and food.
- San Felipe 250 (March/April): The famous SCORE International off-road desert race and the first round of the SCORE World Desert Championship.
- Spring Break (March): The town buzzes with energy as college students and families descend for beach fun.
- Semana Santa (Easter Week): One of the busiest weeks in San Felipe as Mexican families flock to the beach.
- Blues & Arts Festival: Live music and local art celebrating the creative side of Baja California.
- Salsa, Tequila & Wine Festival: A popular food and drink festival showcasing Baja's culinary traditions.
- Shrimp Festival (November): Celebrating the opening of shrimp season with food, music, and cultural activities.
- Dia de los Muertos (November 1-2): Day of the Dead celebrations with ofrendas, music, and traditional foods.