Nestled in a valley at the foot of Mount Kuchumaa, Rancho La Puerta is a beautiful retreat.

Rancho La Puerta is located just one hour south of San Diego, California and is North America’s oldest spa retreat. Founded in the 1940s, the Ranch’s 3,000 acres now include: 32 acres of gardens; hiking trails; an organic farm; several pools; extensive spa and fitness facilities; a salon; individual casitas for guests; a large dining hall, gift shop, and an intimate library as well as numerous inviting lounges. There is a complimentary shuttle service to/from the San Diego International airport but for those who would prefer to drive, below are the directions.

Rancho La Puerta Address:

Rancho la Puerta, 21520 Tecate, Mexico, 1 800-443-7565

Find it on the Map:

rancho map

Driving Directions from San Diego, CA, USA

It takes 1 hour to drive from San Diego, California, to Rancho La Puerta, just over the border in Mexico. It is recommended you get Mexican Auto Insurance before crossing the border. (Although check with your service provider because the Ranch is only 6.5km (4 mi) over the border so you may still be covered.)

  • The inland route (Highway 94) is one of the most appealing scenic country drives in California. From San Diego, take Interstate 5 South to Highway 94 turnoff.
  • Drive Eastward on 94 for forty miles, to the Tecate turnoff (County Route 188).
  • Turn right and follow 188 for two miles to Tecate’s International Border (open daily 5am-11pm). Present the border patrol officers your passport and ask where to park to purchase a visa. You will need to bring US$30 in cash (preferably small denominations to ensure you have the exact amount). The visa office is open 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Mon-Sat. If you arrive outside these hours, you can return to the visa office the next day (Rancho La Puerta personnel will help you).
  • Continue your journey by proceeding on the same street to the second stoplight, opposite the town plaza. Turn right (Juarez Avenue) and drive west 3 miles to the landscaped spa entrance on your right, clearly marked “Rancho La Puerta.”
  • Please note you will come to a fork in the road; stay to the left and continue onto the Ranch.

Directions if You’re Parking at the Tecate Border

Please call the Ranch (1-858-925-1214) when you reach Campo Road as this will give them ample time to send a driver to the US side of the border to meet you. Plan to park your car in the TC Worthy Grocery Store parking lot (beside Payless). Parking is $5/day and can be taken care of inside of the TC Worthy store. If for some reason there is no space available, simply wait in this parking lot and a Ranch representative can help direct you to another lot nearby.