Baja: The Last Frontier
Produced in Partnership With
Words and Photography Jason Stilgebouer
Empty beaches and trails promise great and rewarding challenges that lay ahead for those willing to give it a chance. It is often said that Baja is the last frontier for adventure, from off-road adventures like the most grueling off-road racing in the world known as Baja 1000 to incredible fishing, surfing, and hiking. No matter what, you are in a mood for an adventure waiting to be had for anyone.
The truth is, insurance is required in Baja. It is the law, and American insurance policies don't cover international driving, even if you drove that vehicle from the U.S. But not all too often that it is effectively communicated that it is needed. Fortunately, Ride Baja Insurance can make sure you are covered with the proper amount of coverage and can even recommend a few taco stands along the way. Anything could happen in Baja; having the right insurance partner can make your trip stress-free.
A few friends and I took a Friday off, loaded up the Lexus, and headed for the border for a weekend adventure. This would be the first time ever exploring the upper Baja peninsula on a real adventure. Some may think the adventure starts when you cross the border and to some extent, that may be true, but for us, it was when the pavement ends at Santo Tomas to turn off and head for the coast. A long smooth rally-like road driving past ranches and cattle reminds us where we are. Nothing but incredible landscapes and incredible beaches were waiting for us.
As we crested over the final hill, the Pacific Ocean peaks in the distance - still today, it is one of the best feelings seeing this view for the first time. It is an incredible sight to see the natural beauty of the Baja coast, no big hotels, no tourist traps, just the last frontier to go explore.
We headed down to a beach near Ejido Eréndira, a local community known for fishing and great surfing. We would set up camp and hang out there for a few days. No social media, no phones, just great times are escaping from day-to-day hustle with friends. Baja is a place to experience culture and adventure, and sharing that experience with people only makes it even more special. Even though it was a short trip it got us down there gearing us up for the next big adventure in Baja.
It is often said, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder," and to be the beholder, you have to be there. Beauty is much more than the visual appearance of something. That applies to Baja; it is much more than than the beautiful coastline or rolling hills that make it so incredible it is a part of a beautiful country that has incredible people who are willing to share their home with many to go explore and experience for themselves. That is the Spirit of Baja.
