Plaza Monumental | Tijuana

The Plaza Monumental de Tijuana, often simply called "La Monumental" or the Tijuana Bullring by the Sea, is one of the city’s most iconic structures. Located just a stone’s throw from the U.S.-Mexico border and steps from the Pacific Ocean, it’s a dramatic, round structure steeped in history, tradition, and controversy.

🏟️ Overview

Opened: 1960

Capacity: About 21,000 spectators

Location: Playas de Tijuana, right on the beach near the border fence

Design: Circular open-air arena, traditional in its bullring architecture

Nickname: La Monumental – because of its size and grandeur

It's one of the largest bullrings in the world, and one of the few where you can hear the roar of the ocean while watching an event.

🎭 What Happens There?

While originally built and most famous for bullfighting, the Plaza Monumental has evolved into a multi-use venue over the decades.

🐂 Bullfighting (Corridas de Toros)

Once the main draw, especially during the summer season and holidays.

Events featured top matadors from Spain and Latin America, drawing international crowds.

Bullfights have become less frequent due to changing public sentiment and activism against the sport.

🎶 Concerts & Festivals

Now commonly used for music concerts, boxing matches, and wrestling events.

Hosted major artists, traditional Mexican performances, and even U.S.-Mexico border cultural festivals.

🧯 Special Events

It’s also been the setting for:

Political rallies

Religious gatherings

Food and wine festivals

Cultural exhibitions

🌊 Location Perks

Located in Playas de Tijuana, a scenic and laid-back coastal neighborhood.

You can literally see the U.S. border fence dipping into the ocean nearby—it's a surreal and symbolic backdrop.

The surrounding malecón (boardwalk) is perfect for walking, eating, and catching the sunset.

Plenty of restaurants and cafes line the area, many with sea views.

📸 Photo-Op Alert

Even if you don’t go inside, the Plaza Monumental is a popular spot for photos thanks to its:

Distinctive round shape

Location by the sea

Massive entrance gates and murals

Border views that capture the cultural and geopolitical contrasts of the region

🔍 Fun Facts

Boxing matches held here have featured world-famous Mexican fighters.

The venue has been used in films and music videos, often symbolizing the raw, gritty charisma of Tijuana.

It once hosted a border concert where the stage faced both countries—symbolizing unity across the wall.

🧭 Visiting Tips

Open mainly during events — check schedules in advance.

Even when closed, the exterior is worth visiting for its architecture and views.

Combine your trip with a stroll along Playas de Tijuana’s boardwalk or a visit to the border art murals.

Good for families during the day, though nightlife picks up around nearby bars and cafes in the evenings.

🔥 Why Visit?

The Plaza Monumental is a unique blend of Mexican tradition, border politics, and Pacific coast energy. It’s part stadium, part time capsule, and part symbol of a city that lives between two worlds.