Things To Do
in San Felipe
San Felipe is a small Mexican town set in a sunlit landscape with a relaxed pace of life. It offers a mix of traditional markets, colonial architecture, and easy access to nearby natural areas. The town welcomes visitors with warm hospitality and a chance to sample regional flavors.
It's a great base for day trips to surrounding canyons, pueblos, and scenic viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring authentic Mexican pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets of San Felipe's Historic Center, admiring the charming colonial architecture. Visit the San Felipe Church, where you can appreciate its beautiful façade and the serene atmosphere.
For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, where you can taste the catch of the day. Afterward, explore the local artisan shops, picking up unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. Take a moment to relax at the nearby plaza, where you can people-watch and immerse yourself in the local culture.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront to witness a stunning sunset over the Sea of Cortez. Enjoy dinner at a popular local eatery, where you can sample traditional dishes like fish tacos and ceviche. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the gentle waves and enjoying the night sky.
Kick off your morning with breakfast at a beachside café, enjoying the ocean breeze and scenic views. Afterward, rent some gear for thrilling water sports, such as jet skiing or paddleboarding, and hit the waves for an adrenaline rush. Spend your morning splashing around in the warm waters, feeling invigorated by the sun.
For lunch, return to the beach for some delicious fish tacos from a local vendor, soaking in the vibrant beach atmosphere. After refueling, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the rich marine life just off the coast. Keep an eye out for colorful fish and maybe even a sea turtle as you swim through the crystal-clear waters.
As evening approaches, unwind on the beach with a refreshing drink in hand, watching the surfers catch the last waves of the day. Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner, and then choose a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Enjoy a leisurely meal while listening to live music, creating a perfect end to your beach-filled day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-90 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $2-7 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Mexican town experience
- Affordability and good value for money
- Close access to nearby canyons and nature
- Friendly, welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- English seldom spoken outside major tourist hubs
- Limited public transportation to outside areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Quisiera..." - I would like...
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Qué recomiendas?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in San Felipe
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled square centered on a grand church with colorful facades and morning light.
Tree-lined street with colonial buildings, murals, and morning activity.
Panoramic desert-and-hillside views, ideal for sunset shots.
Quiet waterfront or canal-side paths offering reflections and golden hour tones.
Colorful stalls, handmade crafts, and vibrant textiles—great for candid photography.
Food in San Felipe
San Felipe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow‑cooked beef stew served with tortillas and a rich consommé.
Must-Try!
Marinated pork tacos with pineapple, cilantro, onion, and lime.
A tortilla soup with chiles, avocado, cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips.
A hearty hominy stew with meat, radish, and lime; popular at family meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, tortillas, spices, and local snacks.
Street vendors serving corn on the cob with mayo, cheese, chili, and lime.
Colorful stalls near the plaza offering agua fresca, churros, and fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with 'Buenos días/tardes' and a smile; use 'Señor/Señora' with respect in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or historic sites; speak softly inside sacred places.
Punctuality is flexible in social settings; engage in friendly conversation and avoid loud, confrontational talk.
Safety
Tipping in San Felipe
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave around 10-15% for good service; for taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated. Tipping in cash is often best when possible.
Muchas places accept pesos; many restaurants and shops also take credit/debit cards. ATMs are common in town; have funds in local currency for street vendors who may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming cacti and clear skies; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Very hot afternoons; hydrate, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Comfortable temperatures with cool evenings; ideal for hikes and plaza dining.
Mild days and cooler nights; light layers recommended; occasional chilly evenings.
San Felipe at Night
Hiking in San Felipe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic canyon hike with desert flora and views of the valley.
An elevated viewpoint offering panoramas of the town and surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach San Felipe by plane.
Serves León, Silao, and surrounding areas; typically a 2–4 hour drive to San Felipe depending on road conditions.
San Luis Potosí’s international airport; alternative gateway for connections to northern destinations.
Major national and international hub for connections; farther away but provides the broadest flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for weekend trips and festivals, often traveling in small groups.
Residents and visitors seeking a relaxed pace and nearby nature.
Some retirees choose the area for affordable living and tranquil surroundings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely followed and played at local clubs and schools.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Felipe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for beans, cheese, avocado, and vegetables. Request no lard in sauces, and opt for vegetable stews or salads.