Skampa Casino

If you dream of experiencing the spirit of Old Hollywood and diving into an atmosphere of excitement, Casino Scampa is a must-see stop on your itinerary. Located in the legendary building of the Riviera del Pacífico historical complex, it stands as a living monument to an era when the city of Ensenada was a favorite getaway for world celebrities. It is not just a gaming club, but a piece of cultural heritage carefully preserved by Mexico.

The building, constructed in an exquisite Spanish-Moorish style with characteristic tiled roofs, is surrounded by picturesque gardens that lead right to the sea. At one time, this complex was compared to the best casinos in Monte Carlo, and today its historic charm blends harmoniously with modern entertainment. Now, the site functions as a cultural center and a popular tourist attraction, drawing guests with its monumentality and rich history.

Visitors can look forward to more than just a chance to try their luck; it's an opportunity to see the opulent halls where top-tier movie stars once danced. Casino Scampa is rightfully considered the heart of the coast's cultural life, offering a unique mix of architectural aesthetics from years past and the drive of the modern entertainment industry.

For your convenience, we have prepared contact information to help you find the venue quickly. A visit here will be a vibrant addition to your city itinerary.

Below is the current contact data and the exact location on the map.

A wide range of entertainment awaits visitors here, from classic slot machines to thrilling games of poker and roulette. The gaming halls are open 24/7, allowing guests to enjoy the excitement at any time, surrounded by interiors reminiscent of the early 20th-century grandeur.

However, a visit here is not limited to gambling. Be sure to find time for a walk through the Riviera del Pacífico complex. You can browse art galleries featuring works by both established masters and talented young artists. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy touring the ballroom where world legends once performed and appreciating the unique atmosphere of luxury that has been preserved to this day.

Don't miss the chance to try a famous Margarita cocktail at the local bar — according to one legend, its recipe was born within these very walls. A walk through the manicured gardens overlooking the ocean is the perfect way to end the evening, allowing for magnificent photos against the backdrop of white walls and vibrant Mexican nature.

Getting to this iconic landmark is easy, as it is located in one of the city's most recognizable areas, right by the waterfront. Casino Scampa is located at Gral. Agustin Sanginés, Carlos Pacheco 4. If you are already downtown, a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride will take no more than 5–10 minutes. For those who prefer modern services, Uber works excellently in the city and can drop you right at the doors of the Riviera del Pacífico complex.

Travelers arriving from Tijuana or San Diego usually take the scenic Highway 1D. The drive from the border takes about an hour and a half and offers stunning ocean views. Ensenada also has a well-developed public transport network — local buses regularly pass by the cultural center, and convenient parking is available on-site for private cars.

The history of this place began in 1928 when architect Gordon E. Mayer embarked on a grand project inspired by the famous Hearst Castle. The grand opening took place on October 31, 1930, and the Playa Ensenada Hotel instantly became a magnet for the Hollywood elite. Among the shareholders was legendary boxer Jack Dempsey, and old legends suggest that the infamous Al Capone himself had interests hidden within the shadows of these luxurious halls.

In its heyday, the casino rivaled the finest establishments in Monte Carlo. Xavier Cugat's orchestra headlined the local ballroom, Bing Crosby performed here, and a young Margarita Cansino, who later became the world-renowned film diva Rita Hayworth, enchanted audiences with her dancing. However, changes in US and Mexican legislation in the 1930s led to the closing of the gambling house, after which the building changed its purpose for many years, even serving as a military headquarters at one point.

There is also a popular version of history claiming that the famous Margarita cocktail was invented right here, named after one of the hotel's managers. After a period of decline in the mid-20th century, the federal government initiated a large-scale restoration in 1978. Today, the building's historic appearance has been fully restored, allowing tourists to touch the "Golden Age" and the former grandeur that is still felt in every curve of its Moorish arches.

To fully appreciate the atmosphere of this place and its historical surroundings, we recommend allocating 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to test your luck in the gaming halls and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds of the Riviera del Pacífico complex.

If you plan to not only play but also visit the art exhibitions or take a tour of the historic halls, it's worth setting aside a bit more time. The gardens add a special charm to the complex, making them a lovely place for a walk before sunset to take memorable photos against the backdrop of the historic architecture.

One of the main advantages of this establishment is its round-the-clock availability. Casino Scampa is open 24/7, making it an excellent option for both a daytime visit and a late-night outing.

The doors are open 24 hours a day, from Monday to Sunday. This schedule allows you to freely plan your time without being restricted by strict hours, which is especially convenient for tourists traveling along the Baja California coast.

The cultural and historical center is surrounded by many interesting locations that allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this port city. A stroll through the surroundings is a great way to continue your visit, as historical monuments and modern recreation areas are within walking distance.

Below is a list of nearby attractions: