Michael SatterfieldOn a recent trip to Mexico, I found myself driving along California’s State Route 94, where quickly the landscape shifts from the urban sprawl of San Diego to the rustic charm of the backcountry. As the road winds through rolling hills and rugged terrain, a sign appears: “Welcome to Dulzura.” This unincorporated community, whose name means “sweetness” in Spanish, is the last place to stop for travelers en route to Tecate, Mexico. If you are planning to drive into Mexico, the Tecate border crossing offers shorter wait times, and from San Diego International Airport is about the same distance as San Ysidro; it also takes down Highway 3, which, if Ensenada is your final destination,n takes you past some of Baja’s best wine country for a beautiful drive.
Dulzura: A Step Back in Time
A notable landmark is the Dulzura Post Office, which feels like it is straight out of a Wes Anderson film, located at 17015 Highway 94. Established in 1887, this post office has served as a cornerstone of the community for well over a century.
Adjacent to the post office is the Dulzura Mini Market & Taqueria, a small roadside shop that caters to both locals and passersby. This establishment offers a variety of goods and services, including a taqueria known for its flavorful offerings. Visitors have praised the market for its delicious food and reasonable prices, making it a popular stop for those traveling through the area. I stopped in for a snack and had to agree with the reviews online; it is worth the stop.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the remnants of Dulzura’s storied past. The Dulzura Schoolhouse, a one-room educational landmark from the early 1900s, stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to education during that era. Although closed in the 1950s, its presence evokes memories of a bygone time. Additionally, the area was once known for the Clark Ranch’s production of candied fruit delicacies, notably the “Pickelized” figs that were popular across the United States.
A Taste of Local Viticulture
One of the first stops you’ll see in Dulzura is the Dulzura Vineyard & Winery. Established on the historic Clark Ranch, the winery’s tasting room is housed in the original “Pickle House,” a relic from the early 1900s when the Clark family produced the famed Clark’s Pickelized Figs. Today, visitors can sample a variety of wines, each bottle telling the story of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Exploring Natural Wonders
For those seeking a touch of nature, the nearby Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area offers hiking trails that meander through diverse habitats. The area serves as a vital wildlife corridor, connecting the Otay Mountain Wilderness to the Jamul Mountains. Hikers might encounter native plants like the San Diego sedge or catch glimpses of local fauna amidst the coastal sage scrub and chaparral.
The Road to Tecate
Continuing southeast on SR 94, travelers approach the U.S.-Mexico border, where the vibrant town of Tecate awaits. Known as Baja California’s only Pueblo Mágico, Tecate enchants visitors with its rich cultural heritage, traditional plazas, and the famed Tecate Brewery. The town’s blend of history, culture, and gastronomy offers a fitting contrast to the tranquil charm of Dulzura, making the journey between these two locales a diverse and enriching experience.
I pushed on in the Dodge Hornet rental car to Ensenada, where I had some meetings with automotive aftermarket companies. By avoiding the mess and traffic of Highway 1 and Tijuana, crossing in and out of Baja at Tecate is much smoother and has a much shorter wait time.
