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These Tijuana Airbnbs Showcase the Best of Mexico's Underrated Coastal City

Tijuana Epic Stays
by Hannah D. Cooper May 17, 2023

Mexico’s northernmost city, Tijuana, is one of the busiest ports of entry in the world. The city in Baja California is known for its energetic nightlife and diverse food scene, spanning traditional and modern Mexican cooking plus influences from Asia, West Africa, and the Mediterranean. Besides cruising the taquerias of Las Ahumaderas, sampling the wines of the Valle de Guadalupe deserves a spot on your Tijuana itinerary. Accommodation in the border city is scattered across the Zona Centro and the seaside district of Playas de Tijuana while Rosarito is an alternative choice for surfing and partying. Perfect for a weekend or a longer vacation, these awesome Tijuana Airbnbs place you steps from the beach and nightlife.

Taking a trip to Mexico? Check out Matador’s Mexico accommodations guides:

We hope you love the Airbnb Tijuana vacation rentals we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Hacienda-style beachfront villa in Rosarito

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Forty-five minutes south of the Zona Centro, this oceanview two-bedroom villa is located within the gated community of Las Gaviotas. Beautifully styled with Saltillo and Talavera tilework, Fausto Polanco furniture, and a fitted kitchen, the rental is far more than just a place to crash. The private verandah overlooks the Pacific while you’ll have access to the shared swimming pool and tennis courts. Awesome for a couple or small family seeking a beach vacation in Baja California.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $195 per night

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Costa de Oro Airbnb with ocean-view pools

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This luxury apartment complex is located steps from the beach. Spotlessly clean and thoughtfully appointed, the unit has two airy bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and an inviting recliner couch in the lounge that doubles up as an extra bed. Shared facilities include three heated swimming pools, a Jacuzzi, a gym, and a children’s playground. Two secure parking spaces are available to store your rental overnight.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $63 per night

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Modern apartment in Zona Centro

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This Downtown Tijuana Airbnb is moments from the nightlife hub of Avenida Revolución and the major retail spots. Both the bedroom and lounge open out onto the furnished balcony with city views. The kitchen leaves no stone unturned, from the stash of coffee capsules to the oversized fridge and ample glassware for an evening tipple. The condo block features a gym and recreation lounge open to all tenants and guests.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $182 per night

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Playas de Tijuana vacation home with private pool

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One of the best Airbnbs in Tijuana for larger groups or families, this rental can be supplied with additional mattresses. Outdoor space includes a secluded yard with a pool, hot tub, and grill. Gather over an evening cocktail on the roof terrace where views skim over the streets toward the ocean. Located in Playas de Tijuana, the house is a walkable distance of local beaches and parks.

Sixteen guests, three bedrooms
Price: $330 per night

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Luxurious Tijuana Airbnb on the beach

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Ten minutes north of Rosarito, this stunning vacation rental with private beach access is only an hour’s drive from the Valle de Guadalupe. Talavera tiles, honey-colored beams, and large windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean create a tranquil atmosphere at this spacious home. Leisurely mornings may be spent on the balcony sipping coffee, pecking at a fruit salad, and watching the waves roll in.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $315 per night

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Oceanview apartment near Malecón de Playas

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This funky Airbnb in the liveliest part of Playas de Tijuana features bespoke wall murals and playful pop art. Plunging windows peer out over the beach, where you can stroll the boardwalk, surf, and scoff seafood tacos. In addition to three large bedrooms and a remodeled kitchen, the rental has both a TV lounge and a living room to suit everyone’s needs. Dogs are welcome provided they remain leashed while exploring the property’s gardens.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $188 per night

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Downtown Tijuana Airbnb in the sky

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Located in Zona Centro, this Tijuana Airbnb is convenient for the airport, border crossing, and Cultural Center. Stocked with all the essentials, the apartment has a comprehensive kitchen, a powerful rain shower, and lightning-fast Wi-Fi. Floor-to-ceiling windows supply aerial views of the city skyline, best enjoyed at night. Communal amenities at the complex include a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness suite, and games room.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $98 per night

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Oceanfront oasis near Tijuana promenade

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Steps from the sand and Malecón de Playas, this pet-friendly duplex is right in the heart of one of Tijuana’s coolest beachside neighborhoods. The first floor comprises the kitchen and dining area while the first floor is dedicated to the bedroom with a huge balcony granting uninterrupted sunrises and sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Although peaceful during the week, this part of the beach picks up on weekends

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $131 per night

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Art Deco Airbnb with balcony and sea views

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Accented with gold and black, this glamorous condo in Playas de Tijuana has a touch of Art Deco about it. The styling is complemented by kitsch trinkets and a chic bar where you can fix a sundowner Michelada. Ideal for a long stay, the apartment has a well-stocked kitchen, Alexa hub, and a private balcony. You’ll have free-reign of the pool, gym, and sun deck during your stay.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $134 per night

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Pet-friendly casita in an oceanside gated community

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Halfway between Playas de Tijuana and Rosarito, this cozy home is steps from the private beach accessible exclusively to residents. The master bath has a whirlpool tub perfect for easing the muscles after chasing the waves while the hammock on the patio is made for siestas. Due to the somewhat remote location, a rental car is essential. The parking garage has space for two vehicles.

Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $227 per night

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Spacious vacation rental with entertainment room

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Ten minutes from the border station and Tijuana International Airport, this central Airbnb is modern with unusual architectural detail. The main quarters contain a modular couch, dining area, and high-tech kitchen with an island for sociable cooking evenings. A separate den has arcade games, foosball, and a smart TV for casual movie nights. For those heading to Mexico to shop, the house has a ridiculous amount of closet space – plus a soaking tub for tending to sore arms.

Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $398 per night

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Is Tijuana safe?

Like any city, there are areas to avoid and crime exists. However, the majority of visitors to Tijuana don’t experience any security issues. Tourists should still exercise caution and stick to well-lit streets at night, but generally, Tijuana can be a safe destination if you are aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Popular tourist areas such as Avenida Revolución and Zona Centro tend to have high levels of activity during the day. These areas are usually quite safe, as police patrolle them regularly. However, it is best not to venture too far from the tourist areas at night. Since crime can be an issue, it is important to always carry your passport with you and keep all valuables in a secure place or locked in your hotel safe. Be careful of pickpockets in crowded places like markets and buses, as well as in nightclubs and bars.

How far is Tijuana from San Diego?

Tijuana is located just south of San Diego, California. The distance between the two cities is approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers). Driving time from downtown San Diego to Tijuana can vary depending on traffic and border crossing wait times, but usually takes about 30 minutes. Some visitors choose to take public transportation or a taxi instead of driving due to the lack of parking downtown. The trolley line from San Diego also serves the border crossing and can provide a convenient way to travel between Tijuana and San Diego. Regardless of how you get there, Tijuana provides an exciting and diverse experience for visitors just a short distance away from San Diego.

What is there to do in Tijuana?

Tijuana is full of interesting attractions and activities that are sure to delight visitors. The downtown area is home to plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and galleries. The Cultural Center “El Trompo” (The Spinning Top) provides interactive exhibits for children as well as a theater for cultural events. La Casa de la Cultura (The House of Culture) is another great place to explore Mexican culture through classes and performances. Other popular attractions include the famous bullring at Plaza Monumental, the many historical churches in the city, and a vibrant nightlife. Of course, make sure to sample some of Tijuana’s delicious cuisine while you’re there.

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