Rocky Point (Puerto Peñasco), Mexico: A Guide for Every Traveler

Puerto Peñasco—better known as Rocky Point to many Americans—is just an hour south of the Arizona border and a favorite coastal escape for Arizonans. Nestled into the Sonoran Desert at the northern tip of the Sea of Cortez, this beach town offers sandy shores, affordable lodging, fresh seafood, and endless ways to unwind. Whether you're after a relaxing getaway, family-friendly fun, outdoor adventure, or a lively nightlife, Rocky Point delivers. It's no wonder they call it "Arizona's Beach."

Ready to plan your trip? Let's dive in!

Best Things to Do in Rocky Point

For Families & Chill Seekers

Whether you're traveling with the crew to Mexico or just looking to slow things down, here are some top things to do:

• CEDO (Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans) — See a massive whale skeleton, learn about local sea life, and join an eco-tour. Don't forget to grab some souvenirs to support their conservation efforts.
• El Pinacate Biosphere Reserve — A UNESCO World Heritage Site with volcanic craters, lava flows, and Altar desert landscapes. Highlights include massive craters, unique rock formations, and endangered wildlife. Fun fact: NASA astronauts once trained here for moon missions.
• Fishing — Whether you're a beginner or experienced angler, Rocky Point offers great fishing from the shore, a pier, or on a deep-sea charter. A fishing license is not needed if you're fishing on land (even if wading).
• Isla San Jorge (Bird Island) — Designated a Federal Reserve in 1978, Isla San Jorge is home to one of Mexico's largest seal and sea lion populations, along with many bird species, including pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and swallows. In winter, you might even spot whales nearby.
• Malecón (Old Port) — It's packed with restaurants, bars, shops, a bakery, murals, an art gallery, the iconic Peñasco sign, and the infamous El Camaronero shrimp fisherman statue. It's the place for ocean sunsets, fresh seafood, and vibrant local color. Better suited for adults than kids.
• Massage on the Beach — Unwind with an affordable massage from beachside practitioner or book a spa session at a nearby resort.
• Relax on the Beach: With year-round sunshine and some of Northern Mexico's most scenic coastline, it's hard to beat a Rocky Point beach.
  • Sandy Beach — Resort-lined and great for sunbathing, long walks, water sports, and exceptional sunsets.
  • Playa Bonita & Playa Hermosa — Easy to access and family-friendly.
  • Las Conchas & Playa Mirador — More secluded, known for its tidal pools at low tide.
  • Playa Encanto — Quiet and remote—perfect for unplugging.
  • Playa Miramar — A tranquil beach stretching toward a peninsula at the estuary's mouth.

For Adventure Lovers & Thrill Seekers

Looking to kick things up a notch? Rocky Point has plenty of action-packed activities:

• Swimming — Calm waters and no rip tides make swimming and water sports on Rocky Point's beaches exceptionally safe.
• ATV & Buggy Riding — ATV riding is very popular in Rocky Point. Explore Old Port, romp up the steep dunes of Competition Hill, or just zoom through the streets! ATV rentals are easy to find throughout town.
• Banana Boat Rides, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) — Head to Sandy Beach to hop on a banana boat, rent a kayak, or SUP. It's an easy way to get out on the water and enjoy the coastline.
• Jet Skiing & Parasailing — Feel the rush as you zip across the calm Sea of Cortez or get a bird's-eye view of the coastline while soaring through the sky.
• Golfing — Tee off at Las Palomas Golf Club, The Links or the Jack Nicklaus-designed course at Vidanta Puerto Peñasco.
• Horseback Rides — Ramble down the beach, explore scenic Sonoran Desert trails, or opt for a longer tour through Cholla Bay—a unique way to explore Rocky Point.

For Foodies

Fresh Seafood Everywhere! Rocky Point is famous for its shrimp, especially during shrimp season from fall through spring. You'll also find local grouper, snapper, and sea bass in local markets and restaurants. Top places to eat include:

• Al Capone's Seafood & Pizzeria — Named for Al Capone's historic presence in Rocky Point during Prohibition.
• The Blue Marlin — A longtime staple on the Malecón, this spot serves up delicious food with a side of local history.
• El Buzo Seafood & Beer — Tucked away in an unassuming plaza off Blvd. Benito Juárez García, El Buzo offers an impressive beer selection, tasty seafood dishes, and some of the best flan you'll ever try.

• El Oktopus — A local favorite known for flavorful seafood tacos and casual waterfront dining.
• La Casa del Capitan Restaurant & Bar — Perched on the hill above the Malecón, this is hands-down the best place to catch a sunset in Rocky Point—unbeatable views and a perfect end to the day.
• Manny's Beach Club — A popular hangout on Mirador Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and great food served all day.
• Mare Blu Ristorante — A beachfront restaurant offering Italian and Mediterranean favorites, along with an extensive wine list.
• Mariscos El Conchal — Go here for fresh seafood tacos, served in a casual, no-fuss setting.
• Pane e Vino Italian Ristorante Cuisine — An Italian eatery and wine bar located on the hill above the Malecón, with great food and panoramic views.
• Panaderia Cornejo — This third-generation family-owned bakery has been serving up delicious treats since 1952. Now run by the founders' granddaughters, it offers a wide variety of baked goods at five locations around Rocky Point. We visited the one on the Malecón, next to Coffee Roasters.
• Restaurante El Barco — A women-owned eatery on the estuary near the oyster farms. Fresh oysters cost a fraction of U.S. prices—and the shrimp tacos are the best I've ever had.

There are too many great restaurants in Rocky Point to list or try them all. If you have a favorite we missed, send us an email or share it on our Facebook page. We'd love to hear from you.

Shopping

You can find fabulous pottery and metal statues at Temo's Talavera on the Malecón. Rodeo Drive is the best place for authentic Mexican crafts, pottery, jewelry, and more.

Nightlife in Rocky Point

Once the sun sets, Rocky Point comes alive. From beach bars and live bands to sunset cruises and tequila tastings, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the night—often with an ocean view.

• Banditos — Located off Sandy Beach, Banditos is known for its lively atmosphere, ongoing events, and proximity to nearby resorts. Owned by Roger Clyne, it's a great place to catch a live performance by Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers.
• Manny's Beach Club — Always a hub of activity, Manny's constantly hosts must-go-to parties, fundraisers, and the best drinks and chilaquiles around.
• The Malecón area — Old Port is full of bars and restaurants with live music, street mariachis, and sunset views. Great for barhopping or a casual night out.
• Sunset Cruises — Kick off your night with a party on the water. These cruises serve up drinks, music, and snacks while you soak in a jaw-dropping sunset over the Sea of Cortez.
• The Tequila Factory — This family-owned distillery produces small-batch, 100% blue agave tequila with no additives. Fernando lets you sample up to 23 varieties while exploring the process, flavors, and craftsmanship behind each one.
• Palamidas Casino — Head to the Peñasco del Sol Hotel for slots, poker, and roulette.
• Wrecked at the Reef — Between Sandy Beach and Competition Hill, this beachside bar delivers live music, drinks, food, a laid-back crowd, and friendly servers.

Where to Stay

Whether you want resort comforts, walkable nightlife, or a quiet beach escape, Rocky Point has a spot for you.

• Sandy Beach — Best for beachfront resorts like Las Palomas, Sonoran Sun, and Sonoran Sky. Great for families and those who want resort amenities.
• Mirador Beach — A more laid-back, lively area with budget-friendly hotels like Hotel Baja.
• Old Port — Stay on the Malecón, in the heart of the action at Posada La Roca.
• Las Conchas & Cholla Bay — Best for rental homes and peaceful surroundings away from the crowds.

Weather in Rocky Point

As part of the Altar desert, Rocky Point experiences warm temperatures and minimal rainfall throughout the year. The average yearly high is 82°F (28°C). Summers are hot, with temperatures reaching up to 104°F (40°C). Winters are milder, with average highs ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Its coastal location helps moderate temperatures, keeping it slightly cooler compared to inland areas.

Travel Tips & Safety

Keep your trip smooth and stress-free by following these important travel tips:

• Bring a Passport! — It is required for re-entry into the U.S. You might not be asked for it, but it's still the law.
• Get an FMM Tourist Permit — Legally required when traveling into Mexico. Some travelers to Rocky Point aren't asked for it, but you still need one—and it must be stamped at the border.
• Buy Mexican Auto Insurance — U.S. auto insurance isn't valid in Rocky Point, and liability coverage from a Mexico insurer is legally required. Be sure to get coverage before crossing the border.
• Get Pesos — While U.S. dollars and credit cards are widely accepted, using pesos often gets you better prices.
• Watch Your Speed in Sonoyta — Speed limits are strictly enforced in Sonoyta. Keep it under 25 mph (40 km/h) to avoid tickets.
• Avoid Tap Water — Stick with bottled water to avoid getting sick.

Final Thoughts

Rocky Point is the kind of place that offers a little bit of everything—sun, seafood, adventure, and easy beach days. Whether you're sipping cocktails with live music, eating fresh seafood under a breathtaking sunset, riding ATVs through the Altar Desert, or paddleboarding on the calm Sea of Cortez, there are endless ways to unwind. You won't be disappointed.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Rocky Point.