Fourth of July tourism report released

The number of occupied hotel rooms during the U.S. Independence Day holiday increased 10 percent this year compared to 2017.

The state Department of Tourism reported more than 143,000 visitors who spent 163 million pesos, or $8.8 million.

Secretary Oscar Escobedo said the increases came despite the holiday falling on Wednesday.

Statewide hotel occupancy rate was 75 percent with Ensenada, Rosarito Beach and Tecate, averaging 91 percent, 90 percent and 89 percent Friday and Saturday, respectively.

Rosarito Beach reported the highest tourist activity with 40,220 visitors, who spent 47.5 million pesos, or $2.5 million.