Punta San Francisquito, MX

Location Overview
Situated near the 28th parallel at roughly the midpoint of the Baja California peninsula — right on the boundary between Baja California and Baja California Sur — the airstrip sits directly on the Gulf of California coast. The field sits at just 20 feet MSL within the Municipality of Ensenada and is used exclusively for general aviation. The resort buildings and beach are steps away, making it one of the more dramatically placed strips in all of Baja.

Camping & Recreation
The area offers a coarse white sandy beach, crystal-clear water, swimming, snorkeling, and some of the best fishing on the peninsula. The waters sit in the heart of the Sea of Cortez's famed midriff region, where upwelling nutrients fuel exceptional fishing. White sea bass run in spring, yellowtail and sierra dominate summer and fall, and dorado make summertime appearances. Rustic cabin accommodations have historically been available at the small resort, and camping is offered nearby at the adjacent fishing village known locally as "The Port," about a mile up the runway.

Notes & Warnings
The airstrip has two runways: an asphalt runway (16–34) that is no longer maintained and has broken pavement, and a packed-dirt runway (15–33) that is fully operational. Pilots should bring their own tie-down ropes. Unicom is 122.8 (not always monitored) and Mazatlan Center is 126.3. Parking is less than 200 feet from the main resort area. The overland approach is extremely difficult — making a fly-in the strongly preferred method of arrival. Always verify current runway conditions before departing, as the resort has gone through extended periods of reduced activity.

History
Punta San Francisquito was established by Rodolfo "Rudy" Valladolid, and for decades it served as a beloved fly-in hideaway for Baja aviation enthusiasts drawn to its remote tranquility. After Rudy's passing, his son Genero managed the resort until around 2006. The property changed hands in 2008 but fell into disrepair over the years, with multiple caretakers cycling through over the decades. A 2021 report noted only one usable cabin remained and the old paved runway had deteriorated completely, though the dirt strip was marked and operational. Despite its on-again, off-again resort status, the point itself has remained a cherished destination for pilots who value solitude, natural beauty, and the kind of raw Baja experience that has largely vanished elsewhere on the peninsula.