Things To Do
in Cerritos
Cerritos, Mexico sits in the arid hinterlands of north-central Mexico, framed by desert scrub and distant hills. The town blends ranching heritage with a growing scene of local markets, small eateries, and friendly encounters on every plaza. Visitors come to experience wide-open landscapes, traditional crafts, and easy access to outdoor trails.
At the heart of Cerritos lies a welcoming community that maintains its classic rural charm while quietly embracing travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and fresh fruit. After breakfast, stroll through the vibrant streets of Cerritos, admiring the charming colonial architecture and colorful murals that tell the story of the town. Don’t miss the local artisan shops, where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs.
Visit the main square, where you can relax under the shade of palm trees and watch the locals go about their day. For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal at a nearby restaurant, trying local seafood specialties that Cerritos is known for. After your meal, explore the nearby historic church and learn about its significance in the town's history.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local bar or restaurant for some refreshing cocktails and traditional music. Engage with friendly locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences of your day. Cap off the evening by taking a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the sound of waves and the starry sky.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading to Cerritos Beach, known for its beautiful sands and gentle waves. Rent surfboards or bodyboards, and take a lesson from local instructors who can help you catch your first wave. Enjoy the thrill of the ocean as you spend the morning in the water, feeling the refreshing sea breeze.
After an exhilarating morning, take a break for lunch at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh ceviche and refreshing drinks. Post-lunch, opt for some paddleboarding or kayaking along the coast, exploring the stunning rock formations and marine life. Alternatively, relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach for a bonfire, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow beachgoers. Enjoy the vibrant colors of the sunset as they reflect off the water, creating a picturesque backdrop. End your day with a walk along the shore, listening to the waves and savoring the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small snack | $1-3 |
| 🚗Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $5-20 |
| 🩺Basic medical visit | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Accessible desert landscapes and short outdoor drives
- Affordable food and authentic regional flavors
- Compact town center that is walkable
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment options
- Rural medical facilities require planning for serious issues
- Market stalls and small eateries may be cash-only
- Transportation options outside the town can be sparse
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "No como carne" - I do not eat meat
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cerritos
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square with colonial-inspired architecture, a classic gazebo, and colorful storefronts—best during golden hour.
Open desert viewpoint offering expansive horizons, distant mesas, and dramatic sunsets.
Narrow artisan lanes where crafts, pottery, and woven goods provide vibrant textures for street photography.
Food in Cerritos
Cerritos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted goat, a regional specialty often prepared in clay ovens; best enjoyed in ranch-style eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled beef served with tortillas, pico de gallo, and salsa; a staple at many local cantinas.
Shredded dried beef scrambled with eggs, onions, peppers, and tortillas; a hearty breakfast option.
Steak sandwiches on crusty bread with avocado and toppings; a popular street-food choice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, tortillas, salsas, and prepared foods; great for sampling day-to-day flavors.
Taco stalls around the plaza offering asada, cabeza, and tripas, plus fresh aguas and fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake or brief kiss on the cheek in familiar circles. politeness goes a long way.
Show respect during religious or family gatherings; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in sacred or quiet areas.
Ask for permission when photographing people or private homes; many locals welcome photos with a friendly smile and courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Cerritos
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 10-15% tips if service is not included. Round up at street stalls or cafes as a courtesy.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Many shops and larger restaurants also take cards; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with abundant sunshine. Hydration and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild to cool evenings with comfortable daytime temperatures. Layering is wise for variable temperatures.
Afternoon showers can occur; carry a light rain jacket and plan indoor options for sudden storms.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies, ideal for hiking, photography, and wandering the plazas.
Cerritos at Night
Hiking in Cerritos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hill trail offering panoramic desert views and a moderate climb.
A network of gentle trails across mesa landscapes with viewpoints of the valley.
Airports
How to reach Cerritos by plane.
The closest major airport serving the region, offering flights to and from major Mexican cities and select international connections.
A larger hub in nearby Coahuila with broader domestic and some international connections; reachable by road from Cerritos.
Regional hub with additional flight options; may require a longer drive but provides more connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many multi-generational households centered around the plaza and community events.
A significant portion of residents are engaged in farming and cattle operations in surrounding areas.
Some residents commute to nearby cities for work or education, contributing to a small but growing professional scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; local leagues and informal matches are common in plazas and fields.
Horses and cattle work are integral to the landscape and culture, with occasional community rodeos.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cerritos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for bean-based dishes, queso-filled options, and grilled vegetable plates. Communicate 'sin carne' (no meat) and 'sin Queso' if dairy is also restricted.