Intro to Mexican Craft Beer From San Diego

Traverse the thriving craft beer scene of Tijuana, uncovering a world of bold flavors and rich traditions that await just across the border from San Diego.

Eager beer enthusiasts can venture across the border from San Diego to Tijuana for an immersive introduction to Mexico’s thriving craft beer scene. This day trip offers a unique opportunity to sample a variety of locally-brewed beers, from classic lagers to bold IPAs and rich stouts. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, visitors will explore renowned Tijuana breweries and savor a delicious Mexican meal, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for the vibrant flavors and traditions that define this cross-border experience. What surprises await those who embark on this exciting journey?

This experience made our article of 4 Best Craft Beer Tours In San Diego (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

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  • Set out on a small-group day trip from San Diego to explore the vibrant craft beer scene in neighboring Tijuana, Mexico.
  • Enjoy curated tastings of 3-4 flights of local Tijuana craft brews, complemented by a traditional Mexican meal.
  • Discover the rich brewing history and culture of Tijuana while guided through its iconic landmarks, such as the Millennium Arch.
  • Relax and learn about the unique cross-border experience, with all transportation and logistical details handled.
  • Require a valid passport and moderate fitness level for this personalized, authentic craft beer adventure across the border.

Overview of the Tour

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The tour offers a day trip from San Diego to Tijuana, where participants can enjoy the local craft beer scene.

Included in the tour are transportation, lunch, and 3-4 flights of craft beer. Visitors will explore Avenida Revolución, the iconic Millennium Arch, and one of Tijuana’s oldest breweries.

The small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensures a personalized experience. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and participants must bring a passport and valid ID.

The tour includes a Mexican meal, bottled water, and souvenirs, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Tour Details

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What sets this tour apart is its small-group nature, accommodating a maximum of 12 travelers. This ensures a personalized experience and allows for more interaction with the local guide.

The tour requires a moderate fitness level, as it involves walking around Tijuana’s attractions. Key inclusions are:

A moderate fitness level is required as the tour involves walking around Tijuana’s attractions.

  1. A Mexican meal and drink

  2. 4 flights of craft beer

  3. Bottled water

  4. Transportation from San Diego and back to the border

The meeting point is the McDonald’s in San Ysidro, and travelers are dropped off at the Tijuana border entrance.

Comfortable clothing and a valid passport are recommended for this cross-border adventure.

Inclusions

A key part of this craft beer tour are the inclusions travelers can expect.

The tour provides a Mexican meal and drink, giving participants a taste of local cuisine. Plus, a flight of 4 craft beers allows guests to sample a variety of regional brews.

Bottled water is provided to keep travelers hydrated. Transportation to and from the border is included, along with a knowledgeable local guide who provides commentary and insights throughout the experience.

Souvenirs are also provided as a memento of the day’s adventures in Tijuana’s vibrant craft beer scene.

Meeting and Drop-off Points

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As travelers embark on this craft beer tour, they’ll meet at the front doors of the McDonald’s located at 727 E San Ysidro Blvd, San Diego, CA 92173, USA.

From there, the tour includes:

  1. Transportation to the craft breweries in Tijuana

  2. A drop-off at the Retorno Sentri, Cuauhtemoc, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico, which is the border entrance

  3. A convenient location for travelers to continue their day or return to their starting point in San Diego

  4. Easy access to public transportation options on both sides of the border.

Additional Information

Several important details travelers should be aware of for this craft beer tour. A valid passport and ID are required to cross the border into Mexico.

Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate physical activity. Service animals are permitted, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for travelers to arrive.

Lastly, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility for participants.

Craft Beer Tasting Highlights

Though the tour includes transportation, lunch, and a guided experience, the true highlight is the craft beer tasting itself.

Visitors can expect 3-4 flights, offering a chance to sample a variety of local Tijuana brews. The tasting typically includes:

  1. A classic Mexican lager

  2. A hoppy IPA or pale ale

  3. A rich, malty stout or porter

  4. A seasonal or specialty beer

These flights allow travelers to discover the diverse and innovative craft beer scene in Tijuana, complemented by an authentic Mexican meal.

The knowledgeable guide provides insight into the brewing process and local culture, making for an immersive and enjoyable experience.

Exploring Tijuana’s Brewery Scene

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What makes Tijuana’s brewery scene so captivating? The city’s rich history, cultural diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit have led to the rise of a thriving craft beer industry.

Visitors can explore one of Tijuana’s oldest breweries, sampling unique flavors that blend Mexican tradition with modern innovation. From hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, the carefully curated flights offer a taste of the region’s finest brews.

Explore Tijuana’s oldest breweries, sampling unique flavors that blend Mexican tradition with modern innovation in carefully curated flights.

Beyond the beer, the tour also takes guests to iconic landmarks like the Millennium Arch, immersing them in Tijuana’s vibrant atmosphere.

With its blend of history, culture, and exceptional craft beer, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tour?

No, bringing your own alcohol is not allowed on this craft beer tour. The tour includes 4 flights of craft beer and a Mexican meal, so outside drinks are not permitted. The tour company provides all the beverages for participants.

How Long Is the Drive From San Diego to Tijuana?

The drive from San Diego to Tijuana typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions at the border crossing. The tour includes transportation and drop-off at the border entrance, making it a convenient day trip from San Diego.

Do I Need to Speak Spanish to Participate?

No, you don’t need to speak Spanish to participate in this craft beer tour. The tour includes a local, personalized guide who will provide all the necessary information and translation services throughout the experience.

Can I Customize the Beer Flights?

The tour doesn’t allow customers to customize the beer flights, but it offers 3-4 flights of carefully selected craft beers from one of Tijuana’s oldest breweries. The tour guide will provide information about each beer during the tasting.

Is Photography Allowed at the Brewery?

Yes, photography is allowed at the brewery during the tour. The tour includes a visit to one of Tijuana’s oldest breweries, where travelers can take photos of the brewery’s facilities and the craft beer tasting experience.

The Sum Up

This exciting day trip from San Diego to Tijuana offers a unique opportunity to learn about Mexico’s vibrant craft beer scene. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore renowned breweries, sample a variety of local brews, and savor delicious Mexican cuisine, making for an unforgettable cross-border experience. Don’t miss this chance to discover the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Tijuana’s craft beer scene.

📍 This experience made our list of the 4 best Craft Beer Tours in San Diego