Puerto Nuevo, Mexico: Lobster Camp

“Hay langosta aqui! Tres por quince dolares!”

Ten legs jut out from a slender form. It’s dark red in parts and golden in other sections. Your salivary glands are jolted. Yes, Puerto Nuevo lobster times are waiting. Although the plates are not as inexpensive as they once were, by US standards they’re still a bargain at around $15 for three modestly sized crustaceans (or another variation of prices for larger specimens).

The visitor walks the town’s streets and is undoubtedly hounded by “lobster agents.” But try not to bite into the first offer — saunter around town for a bit to get a gauge on the area. There are 20+ restaurants, mostly offering the same menu and prices, all packed into three blocks. Choosing your restaurant based on atmosphere is usually the best way to go.

The locale has been decided, the first round of beers appears within seconds and the lobster is on its way. It’s uncanny how in just minutes from San Diego, your surroundings and culture have categorically changed. The “todo bien” attitude subtly slides into reality, guided along by Pacificos or Dos Equis.

Things to Do. If you’re looking to shop, walk along the seaside bluffs to check out the shops and get ready to bargain — they expect to negotiate. Hire a mariachi group (who will assuredly visit your lunch table) and ask for your favorite Mexican song.

Festivals. October: Wine and Lobster Festival

Eats. Villa Ortega Restaurant is recommended for good food and prices with an impressive Pacific Ocean view from its patios. In the southwest corner of the village, it’s a giant restaurant hard to miss.

Directions. From the San Ysidro crossing, simply follow the “Rosarito Ensenada Scenic Road 1” signs. In 45 minutes you’ll see Puerto Nuevo on your right-hand side.