Driving to San Felipe for the first time can feel daunting — you’re crossing an international border, navigating unfamiliar roads, and heading into the desert. But thousands of Americans and Canadians make this drive every year, and once you’ve done it, you’ll realize it’s one of the easiest border-town beach trips you can take. Here’s everything you need to know.
Choosing Your Border Crossing
Most visitors cross into Mexico at Mexicali, the capital of Baja California. There are two ports of entry:
Mexicali East (Mexicali II) — This is the recommended crossing. It’s newer, typically less crowded, and has a more straightforward approach from the US side. If you’re coming from San Diego on I-8 East or from Arizona on I-8 West, take the exit for the Mexicali East port of entry.
Mexicali Downtown — This crossing works but tends to be busier, with more congested city streets on both sides. Avoid it on weekends and holidays if possible.
Wait times vary, but Mexicali East usually moves faster. Heading south into Mexico is typically quick (often no stop at all). The wait is on your return to the US — plan for 30 minutes to 2 hours on weekends. A SENTRI card can cut this to minutes.
Documents You Need
- Passport — A passport book or passport card is required for re-entry to the US at the land border.
- FMM tourist permit — Technically required for stays beyond 72 hours or travel south of the border free zone. You can get one at the immigration office at the border. Cost is around $35 USD.
- Mexican auto insurance — This is mandatory. Your US or Canadian auto insurance does not cover you in Mexico. If you’re in an accident without Mexican insurance, your vehicle can be impounded and you may face legal complications. Purchase a policy online before your trip — companies like Baja Bound and Lewis & Lewis offer policies starting at around $25/day.
- Vehicle registration and driver’s license — Keep these in the car as always.
The Route: Mexicali to San Felipe
Once you cross the border at Mexicali East, follow signs for Highway 5 South (San Felipe). The route is straightforward:
- Cross the border and follow signs toward San Felipe / Highway 5
- Drive south on Highway 5 through flat agricultural land, then open desert
- The road is a two-lane paved highway in generally good condition
- Total distance: approximately 120 miles (193 km)
- Driving time: approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
The landscape shifts as you drive — irrigated farmland near Mexicali gives way to scrubby desert, then dramatic volcanic hills, and finally the brilliant blue Sea of Cortez appears on your left as you descend toward town.
Road Conditions and Tips
- Highway 5 is well-maintained for the most part. Occasional potholes appear, especially after summer rains, so stay alert.
- Drive during daylight hours on your first trip. The road has no lighting, and livestock sometimes wander onto the highway at night.
- Speed limit is generally 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph). Watch for reduced speed zones near small communities.
- Military checkpoints are common and routine. Soldiers may wave you through or ask where you’re going. Be polite, answer honestly, and you’ll be on your way in seconds.
- Gas stations are available along the route and in San Felipe. Pemex stations accept cash (pesos preferred) and some accept credit cards. Fill up before you leave Mexicali just in case.
- Cell service is spotty between Mexicali and San Felipe. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before you cross the border.
Arriving in San Felipe
As you enter San Felipe, Highway 5 becomes the main road through town. For Las Casitas at La Hacienda:
- Continue through town heading south
- The main road becomes the Carretera Punta Estrella (the south beach road)
- About 6 miles south of town, look for the La Hacienda development entrance on the ocean side
- Las Casitas is inside the gated La Hacienda community
See our Location page for a map and more details.
The Drive Home: Returning to the US
- Allow extra time for the northbound border crossing, especially on Sunday afternoons and holiday weekends
- Know what you can bring back — Generally 1 liter of alcohol per person, no fresh fruits or vegetables, no meats. Declare everything.
- SENTRI or Global Entry cardholders get access to expedited lanes, which can save significant time
- Consider crossing early in the morning (before 8 AM) to avoid the worst lines
Quick Reference
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Recommended crossing | Mexicali East (Mexicali II) |
| Distance (border to San Felipe) | 120 miles / 193 km |
| Drive time | 2–2.5 hours |
| Road | Highway 5 South, two-lane paved |
| Mexican auto insurance | Required — buy online before your trip |
| FMM tourist permit | ~$35, needed for stays over 72 hours |
| Gas | Available along route; fill up in Mexicali |
| Cell service | Spotty — download offline maps |
Book Your Stay
Now that you know the route, it’s time to plan your trip. Las Casitas at La Hacienda offers vacation villas on San Felipe’s south beach — quiet, comfortable, and just a short drive from town. View our properties or contact us to check availability.