PUERTO PENASCO (Rocky Point), SONORA, MEXICO
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WELCOME TO PUERTO PENASCO (Rocky Point)
Puerto Penasco (Rocky Port), also known as Rocky Point, is a favorite Mexico getaway for folks from the southwestern U.S., especially Arizona. It is 66 miles from the U.S. border and is located on the northeastern shore of the Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf of California. Directly across from Puerto Penasco, on the western shore of the Sea of Cortez, is the popular Mexican resort of SAN FELIPE. Both of these popular seaside destinations are located in some of the most desolate and inhospitable land in Mexico.
This part of Mexico almost became a United States seaport as a result of the territorial war between the United States and Mexico. Then Mexican President Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana fought hard to keep the area that would separate mainland Mexico from the Baja Peninsula to the west. The Gadsden Purchase in 1854 gave the U.S. the southern portions of Arizona and New Mexico, but allowed Mexico to keep the land bridge to Baja just north of the Colorado River Delta, which included Puerto Penasco and Mexicali. Total price for all of that new territory? 10 million greenbacks!
Puerto Penasco started out as a small Mexican fishing village in the 1920's. The road to town was paved in the mid 1940's and with the fresh blacktop the shrimp industry boomed even bigger in the 1950's. Today the main industries in town are fishing, real estate, shrimping, real estate, tourism and real estate.
With the new millennium significant changes have come to Puerto Penasco. For most of Rocky Point's history the focal point of the area was the small shops and restaurants along the Malecon just west of the downtown area. Today's Rocky Point is not as easy to define. It stretches for over 15 miles along the coast and is now categorized into three different main areas.
Looking north over the Malecon, Old Port, Puerto Penasco.
The main area for Puerto Penasco is still the Old Port area near the Malecon west of town. This area has traditionally been where tourists hang out, shop the shops and enjoy a nice meal along the Sea of Cortez. But the borders of Puerto Penasco have broken free over the last few years, and now head up and down the coast at a scary pace.
New high rise resorts and condos are now popping up along Sandy Beach and Playa Hermosa, an area of new developments a few miles up the coast from the Old Port and Malecon area. This area is beginning to take on a look like South Beach in Miami or Cancun, Mexico. Literally thousands of units are being offered for sale or rent in this new area. Golf courses are completed, and newer and bigger ones are on the way.
South of the Old Port / Malecon area new developments are also completed or under construction. These resorts are located on beautiful beaches and are not built quite as close together as the new resorts north of town. The development south of town follows the coast for over 10 miles, climaxing with the Mega-development Mayan Island which will someday offer over 10,000 housing units in a master panned city.
The list of NEW REAL ESTATE DEVELOPEMENTS in the Rocky Point area seems to be growing every day! Most of the new units are condominiums, but there are a few single family homes as well. Almost everyting being built has spectacular ocean views!
Puerto Penasco receives over one million visitors each year, many from the Arizon are (Tucson is 180 miles from the border). Many of these are travelers who drop in for three and four day weekends, as well as for longer stays over Easter, Thanksgiving and the Christmas Holidays (and Spring Break!). A new international airport will make it even easier to get to this quickly growing tourist resort in a few years.
Visitors who dive down and utilize the Lukeville (US) / Sonoyta (Mexico) border should be aware that the border is closed between midnight and 6:00 a.m. The Calexico (US) / Mexicali (Mexico) border two hours to the west is open 24 hours a day.
People visiting Rock Point as tourists may not realize that this is a community where many gringos choose to live full or part time. Checking out our LOCAL INTEREST section sheds a little light on the community side of Puerto Penasco.
Puerto Penasco is the closest ocean beach to Arizona, approximately three and one half hours from Tucson and four hours from Phoenix (Carlos Fiesta made it from Tucson to Rocky Point in three hours in the fall of 2006 but driving this fast is NOT recommended). Mexico travelers young and old from the Grand Canyon State slip across the border to enjoy the beaches, restaurants, shopping and fishing that this growing city has to offer.
Running north to south, the beach areas at Puerto Penasco include La Choya, Sandy Beach, Playa Hermosa, Puerto Penasco, Old Port (downtown), Playa El Mirador, Las Conchas, Playa la Jolla, Playa Encanto, Playa Dorada and Playa Miramar.
Like it's counterpart San Felipe, the weather and coastal beauty in Puerto Penasco is a main draw. Winters are warm and comfortable, while it can get very hot in the summer. Just spend one day here in August and you will understand why the Mexicans enjoy the traditional siesta in the early afternoon, the hottest part of the day. The weather from November through early April is spectacular, although it can get windy in Spring. Rain in Puerto Penasco is generally less than two inches per year.
The ocean temperature in Puerto Penasco is swimmable almost all year long, but drops below 70 degrees in mid October. The water temperature ranges from a high of approximately 90 degrees in late summer to the low 60's in early Spring. Feel free to check out TODAY'S WATER TEMPERATURES in Puerto Penasco. Also like San Felipe, Puerto Penasco offers extreme tidal ranges and when the tide goes out it goes w-a-y out!
Watersports are the name of the game in Puerto Penasco. Swimming, personal watercraft rentals, sailing, fishing or just laying by the hotel pool are popular past times. And don't forget those famous Puerto Penasco sunsets over the Sea of Cortez! On a clear day you can see the sun setting behind the 10,000 foot mountain peaks behind San Felipe, all the way across the Sea of Cortez on the Baja Peninsula!
Looking for a reputable company for fishing, boating, diving and sunset excursions? Visit the web site of ROCKY POINT BOAT TRIPS. They have excellent knowlege of the local area!
Puerto Penasco has some nightlife, but don't expect a CABO SAN LUCAS environment. Things begin to slow down after 10:00 p.m. at the Malecon spots, except on busy weekends when there are lots of people in town (and Spring Break!). After the Old Port action dies off the real partying begins 1/4 mile south in the clubs up from El Mirador Beach.
Puerto Penasco offers a variety of lodging options. Small and large beachfront hotels, condominiums and even beachfront homes are available for nightly and long term accommodations. Remember, the closer you are to the beach the easier it is to keep cool!
Private Pilots love Puerto Penasco because of it's proximity to the U.S. border. Most general aviation aircraft can make it from the US/Mexican border to Puerto Penasco in well under an hour. The general aviation airport at Puerto Penasco is an official Airport of Entry, which makes it easy for a day or two of fun in the sun. Aviation fuel is not available, but most pilots fill their birds with fuel before crossing the border heading south and have more than enough avgas to get back to the U.S. The airport is located northeast of town, about a 10 minute cab ride from town. For more information on flying to Puerto Penasco drop by the Message Board of the BAJA BUSH PILOTS web site.
Approximately 30 miles north of Puerto Penasco, near Sonoita, Mexico Highway 8 runs adjacent to Mexico's Pinacate Desert National Park. The unique terrain here includes lava fields, craters and sand dunes. Bring a camera!
And if you are planning on spending time in the ocean check out the current OCEAN TEMPERATURES in the area.
If you want to share a good web site or company for Puerto Penasco tourism we would love to hear from you! SUBMIT INFORMATION HERE.
For a look at what's happening in Mexico drop by the MEXICO EVENT CALENDAR of Mexico Expo.
When first arriving in Puerto Penasco head on down to the Old Port area and the recently enlarged seaside Malecon. A stroll along this 4 block promenade is a great way to stretch after the drive from the border, and to drink in the beauty of the Sea of Cortez.
HOT TIP #1
Take a tip from Carlos Fiesta! If you are looking for a spectacular place to take in the panorama of Puerto Penasco, head for Casa El Capitan on top of the big hill just up from the Malecon. The views of the town, bay and Sea of Cortez are to die for, the food and service is great, and Carlos Fiesta can't remember ever having a more delicious margarita. Visiting this landmark at sunset will take your breath away!
HOT TIP #2
If you really want to enjoy Rocky Point you've got to get out on the water! EL REY DEL MAR is a grand old boat that departs Old Port and heads out into the Sea of Cortez every afternoon! Call 011-52 (638) 383-5155 for information and reservations.
HOT TIP #3
When it comes time to head home from your Rocky Point getaway, do your best to avoid going home on a Sunday afternoon/evening. Between the drug inspection lines and border crossing lines in Mexico, and the Immigration and Agriculture inspections in the U.S., it is easily possible to double the drive home time. If you have no choice, just be aware of these waits and make the best of it. There is no way to get around this traffic nightmare at the end of the weekend.
The beaches in Puerto Penasco are best north and south of town. Directly in front of the Malecon the shoreline is rocky at hight tide, and really rocky at low tide.
If you are planning on swimming in the ocean check out the current OCEAN TEMPERATURES in the area.
For additional information on protecting your skin while enjoying the tropical Mexican sun take a look at the SUNSCREEN TIPS section of Mexico Expo.
SANDY BEACH
Located at the north end of the city.
Plenty of open spaces between the marina and the new condos further north.
Best at high tide, but plenty of room to roam at low tide.PLAYA EL MIRADOR
Located right around the corner from the Malecon.
The closest beach to downtown Rocky Point.
Several places to grab a bite to eat at the top of the bluffs.BEACHES SOUTH
From Playa El Mirador south there are miles of beautiful beaches.
Remember that all beach in Mexico are open to the public, but easy access is not.
Puerto Penasco offers approximately 3,000 hotel rooms and condominium units (with plenty more on the way!
For discount hotel packages contact the Mexico Experts at MEXICO TRAVEL NET!
Although Puerto Penasco offers over 10 miles of beaches and hotels, the heart of the main action is only a couple of miles along the coast, from the new resorts (on the north end) down to new hotels south of the Malecon.
Rocky Point visitors looking for a newer room on the beach should also check out the Real Estate Developments listed in our real estate section. Many of these condominiums have rooms for rent!
The RV crowd can head to the north end of the city along the coast and check out the beautiful coastline at Sandy Beach, 3 miles north of the Old Port.
Campers can utilize the services of the above RV parks, or try the solitude of the beaches south of town.
NORTH OF TOWN RESORTS DOWNTOWN HOTELS
NORTH OF TOWN HOTELS
To review additional vacation rental options in Puerto Penasco visit the web sites of CONDOMINIUMS DEL MAR, MARINA PINACATE, and ROCKY POINT VACATION HOMES.
PLAYA BONITA RESORT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2586.
Toll free (888) 232-8142.
Located five minutes north of the Marina.
Web site: www.playabonitaresort.com
On the beach.
Number of rooms: 128.
Rooms and suites.
Hotel amenities: Pool / Jacuzzi / restaurant / bar / beachfront veranda / Internet room.
Room amenities: Color televisions / telephones / ocean views / balconies / air conditioning.
Horses for rent just south of the hotel on the beach.
For just a few more dollars the ocean front rooms are the way to go.
Carlos Fiesta slept here and calls it the best beach front hotel value in Rocky point.
Credit cards accepted.
Review their web site for photos and information.PLAZA LAS PUERTO PENASCO
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-6010.
Toll free (888) 598-9866.
Fax 011-52 (638) 383-6015.
Paseo de las Glorias #1, Colonia Antigua Esplanada, Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, 66450.
Located just north of the Malecon on the Marina.
Web site: www.plazalasglorias.com.mx.
On the beach.
Number of rooms: 210.
Rooms, deluxe rooms, Junior suites, one bedroom suites.
Hotel amenities: Pool / restaurant / cantina / pool side palapa bar / room service / kid's club / beach volleyball / happy hour / money exchange / gift shop / laundry service.
Room amenities: Televisions / telephones / ocean views / air conditioning.
Credit cards accepted.
Review their web site for photos and information.
DOWNTOWN HOTELS
If you can think of better ways to spend your money than on a place to sleep, Puerto Penasco has some great affordable hotels!
CASA DEL PUERTO
Located steps from the beach in the Old Port section of town.
Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, 66450.
Web site: www.casadelpuerto.com.
In town.
Number of rooms: 10.
One bedroom suites.
Hotel amenities: Pool / restaurant / cantina / pool side palapa bar / room service / kid's club / beach volleyball / happy hour / money exchange / gift shop / laundry service.
Room amenities: Televisions / sofas / kitchenettes.
Walking distance to shops, markets and restaurants.
Review their web site for photos and information.MANNY'S BEACH CLUB
011-52 (638) 383-3605.
Located close to the beach.
Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, 66450.
Web site: www.mannybeachclub.net
In town.
Number of rooms: 30.
Hotel amenities: Restaurant / cantina / happy hour.
Room amenities: Televisions.
Walking distance to shops, markets and restaurants.
Beach Party every night!
Review their web site for photos and information.EL MIRADOR VILLAGE
011-52 (638) 383-6333.
Located on the beach just south of the Malecon.
Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, 66450.
Web site: www.rockypointcondos.com
On the beach.
Number of rooms: 30.
Hotel amenities: Secure walled parking / beach palapa with BBQ.
Room amenities: Televisions / kitchenettes.
Walking distance to shops, markets and restaurants.
Review their web site for photos and information.POSADA DE LEON HOTEL
Telephone 011 52 (638) 383-3997.
Located in the heart of Puerto Penasco off of Benito Juarez past the baseball stadium.
Number of rooms: 40.
Hotel amenities: On site parking at your front door.
Room amenities: Satellite TV / telephones.
English spoken.MOAB HOTEL
Telephone 011 52 (638) 383-0753.
Located in the heart of El Mirador, just south of the Malecon.
An affordable hotel and a great place to watch the Games!
BORDER HOTELS
One way to make the drive to Rocky Point more enjoyable is to grab a hotel on the US side of the border and then zip into town the next morning!
LA SIESTA MOTEL
US telephone(520) 387-6569.
Located on Highway 85 in Ajo, Arizona.
Web site: www.ajosiesta.com
Smack in the middle of Ajo.
Number of rooms: 10.
Hotel amenities: Pool / Spa / tennis court.
Room amenities: Televisions / Cable TV / microwaves.
A convenient place to stay on the way down or home from Rocky Point.
R.V. Park with full hook-ups!
Review their web site for photos and information.COPPER SANDS MOTEL
US telephone (520) 387-4097.
Toll free (866) 387-4097.
3711 North Ajo-Gila Bend Highway, Ajo, Arizona.
Web site: www.coppersandsmotel.com
On the main highway in Ajo.
Number of rooms: 20.
Hotel amenities: Pool.
Room amenities: Televisions / Cable TV / air conditioning.
On the way down or when going home from Puerto Penasco.
R.V. Park with full hook-ups.
Review their web site for photos and information.
There's lots to do in Rocky Point, both along the beaches as well as in town. If you like to get wet you'll love Rocky Point!
Looking for a reputable company for fishing, boating, diving and sunset excursions? Visit the web site of ROCKY POINT BOAT TRIPS. They have excellent knowlege of the local area!
If you are planning on spending time in the ocean check out the current OCEAN TEMPERATURES in the area.
For additional information on protecting your skin while enjoying the tropical Mexican sun take a look at the SUNSCREEN TIPS section of Mexico Expo.
DIRT BIKES * FISHING * GOLFING * HORSEBACK * KAYAKS
SAILING * SURFING * TENNIS * WINDSURFING
If you really want to enjoy Rocky Point you've got to get out on the water! EL REY DEL MAR is a grand old boat that departs Old Port and heads out into the Sea of Cortez every afternoon! Call 011-52 (638) 383-5155 for information and reservations.
DIRT BIKES
If you like putting something hot between your legs check out the annual ROCKY POINT RALLY. The race benefits several Mexico charities and is usually held in November. If you like bikes it's the most fun you can have with your clothes on.
FISHING
Yep...Puerto Penasco has a long history as a shrimping town, but there are plenty of fish out there too! The marina (just north of the Malecon) is a good place to 'hook up' with a boat for the day.
Looking for a reputable company for fishing, boating, diving and sunset excursions? Visit the web site of ROCKY POINT BOAT TRIPS. They have excellent knowlege of the local area!
ROCKY POINT BOAT TRIPS
Email: mail@rockypointboattrips.com"
Puerto Penasco, Rocky Point, Sonora, Mexico.
ROCKY POINT BOAT TRIPS! Your ticket to Adventure in Rocky Point! Offering boat charters of all types, Deep Sea Fishing, Scuba Diving, Sunset Cruises, Dinner Cruises, Bird Island Charters, ParaSail Rides and more...
Drop by their web site for additional information!
GOLF
In the summer the rules of the golfing game are the same in Puerto Penasco as they are in Palm Springs...get up early before it gets hot! Several golf courses are now open and more are under construction or on the drawing boards.
For more information on golf packages to Mexico contact the folks at BEST GOLF.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Want to ride a horse on the beach? This is your chance to look like one of those people in the deodorant commercials on television...without the slow motion. There are several places along the coast where you can catch a steed for a romp, including the beach just south of the Playa Bonita Hotel.
KAYAKING
Getting up early is your best bet for kayaking in Rocky Point. Sunset glass-offs are also a good time. The waters are generally calm until lunch, and then the winds can pick up in the early afternoon.
Kayaking from the marina around the Malecon just offshore is a great excursion, and they are only a short paddle from the beautiful beaches to the south!
PARASAILING
Some of the resorts offer parasailing. If you haven't tried it yet...here's your chance!
SAILING
Most boaters heading down the Mexican Coast from the United States usually provision in Cabo San Lucas or La Paz in Baja and then hit Mazatlan as the first port on the mainland. Some head further up the Sea of Cortez to Rocky point, most do not. While ocean going boats are not very common in the waters off of Puerto Penasco, day boats can be found at the marina for short excursions and sunset cruises.
The winds in this section of the sea of Cortez are fairly predicable, but in the fall the winds can pick up.
Sailors looking for a good book of information on cruising Mexican waters would do well to pick up a copy of MEXICO BOATING GUIDE by captains Pat and John Rains. It's a great book with tons of valuable cruising information. Also check out CHARLIE'S CHARTS. GERRY CHARTS by good old Gerry is another quality option.
For boat permits and entry documents contact ROMERO'S MEXICO SERVICE.
Drop by THE LOG website for additional information on marina facilities in Mexico!
Carlos Fiesta almost made it to Puerto Penasco on his 2,200 miles SOLO BAJA CIRCUMNAVIGATION!
TENNIS
Most of the newer hotels and condos that are being built north and south of town have tennis courts.
WINDSURFING
Windsurfing is not a big sport in Rocky Point, mainly because the area does not receive any degree of consistent strong winds. Beginning to intermediate board heads can enjoy the protected calm waters on the north beaches of Sandy Beach.
There is a lot more going on in the Rocky Point restaurant scene than the fresh shrimp from local waters. Just about anything you want to eat can be found here!
LA CASA DEL CAPITAN
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-5698.
Location: On top of the hill behind the Malecon.
Specialty: Killer views in all directions!
Carlos Fiesta's favorite restaurant in Rocky Point.
THE POINT RESTAURANT AND BAR
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-8660.
Location: Located on the Malecon, north end.
Specialty: Seafood and Mexican.
The only restaurant in Rocky Point over the water!
MANNY'S BEACH CLUB
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-3605.
Location: On the beach south of the Malecon.
Specialty: Diverse menu.
Beach Party every night!
PORTOFINO RESTAURANT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-6838.
Location: In Plaza Bonita in the Old Port.
Specialty: Italian.
Happy Hour 4-6 pm.
Visa and Master Card accepted.
EL AGAVE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-0778.
Location: Old Port Avenue.
Beach views and great service!
EL CATORCE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383.
Location: On Cholla at km. 7.5.
Specialty: Mexican.
Live music on weekends!
HACIENDA LAS FUENTES
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-0056.
Location: Freemont Boulevard downtown.
Specialty: Mexican.
Great food, Happy Hour, Rocky Point's largest margarita!
GUISEPPI'S CAFE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-5181.
Location: On Freemeont Boulevard across from Baja 1000 Auto Repair.
Specialty: Coffee, Tea, Latte, Mocha, smoothie's u much mas!
Wireless Internet!
THE FRIENDLY DOLPHIN RESTAURANT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2608.
Location: Old Port at 44 Avenida Alcanter.
Specialty: Seafood and Mexican.
THE BLUE MARLIN RESTAURANT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-6564.
Location: Old Port on Zaragoza.
Specialty: Seafood.
Ocean view patio dining.
OLD PORT GALLEY RESTAURANT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-3354.
Location: 2nd block on the right as you leave Old Port.
Specialty: American, Mexican, and more.
Wedding and catering specialists!
MANNY'S COPA CABANA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-0606.
Location: Benito Juarez at Calle 12.
Specialty: Steaks, Seafood, Mexican.
Casual dress, huge menu!
MOAB BURGERS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-0753.
Location: In the Mirador on Matamoros.
Specialty: The Mother of all Burgers...'nuff said?
New menu with fish baskets.
LA MARIA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 108-1000.
Location: Costero Boulevard #150, Sandy Beach.
Specialty: International fusion.
Carlos Fiesta's favorite restaurant in Rocky Point.
MAXI'S CAFE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-1011.
Location: Paseo de las Glorias Avenue at the Marina.
Specialty: Pizza and deserts!
A good place for a light bite.
Each year the nightlife scene gets a bit more active in Rocky Point. Most folks start off in the Old Port section up form the Malecon, and then after 10:00 p.m. transition over to the nightlife just a bit south at El Mirador.
Contact EL REY DEL MAR for Sunset Cruises departing Old Port and heading out into the Sea of Cortez! Call 011-52 (638) 383-5155 for information and reservations.
EL RAY DEL MAR SUNSET CRUISES
011-52 (638) 383-5155.
Location: At the Marina docks by Balnoa's Restaurant.
A great way to start your night in Rocky point!
Also available for special events.MANNY'S BEACH CLUB
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-3605.
Location: On the beach south of the Malecon.
Beach Party every night!PINK CADILLAC
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-5880.
Location: 103 Avenidos Matamoros.
Hip Hop and American music....cheap drinks.BLACK DOG BAR AND GRILL
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-6888.
Location: Freemaon Boulevard, downtown.
Cocktails, pool tables and casual fun.REEF BAR
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2282.
Location: On the water at the Malecon.
An easy transition from an ocean view dinner.EL CATORCE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383.
Location: On Cholla at km. 7.5.
Live music on weekends!OLDIES BAR
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-1510.
Location: 982 Juarez Boulevard.
www.All types of dance music in a locals environment.J J's CANTINA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2785.
Location: 58 Seaside Avenue, Cholla Bay on the water.
www.jjscantina.com.
NORTHERN ZONE DOWNTOWN MALECON
For supermarket shopping there is a Ley Supermarket near the corner of Constitucion and Lazaro Cardenas just east of the railroad tracks in downtown Puerto Penasco. For retail goods and handicrafts visit the locations stated below.
NORTHERN ZONE SHOPPING
Located just north of town on the other side of the railroad tracks shoppers will find a delightful avenue with a collection of nice small shops stocked with just about anything you could imagine! Four blocks of "Shop 'till you Drop!" just 5 minutes from the Malecon! Go to Avenida 32 between Revolucion (to the north) and No Refleccion (to the south).
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
As with most large Mexican cites, Puerto Penasco has a host of retail shops set up to serve the local population. These shops offer prices that are generally less than the shops located in the main tourist areas. To find the shops just take Puerto Penasco's main street Benito Juarez and then head south on any major street.
MALECON SHOPPING
Plenty of parking is only part of the good news! Just park in the large lots right above the ocean on the Malecon and walk in any direction. There are vendors and small shops in all directions. The views of the Sea of Cortez are worth the price of admission (free!).
Getting to and getting around Rocky Point is easy. Since most visitors have driven down from the United States, driving to the restaurants, shops and resorts is the most common way to get around. Taxis can be a good way to make those short hops around town, the Malecon or to El Mirador Beach once the visitor gets settled in to their hotel room. Remember...U.S. automobile insurance is NOT valid in Mexico. Obtain at least liability insurance from a Mexican insurance company before crossing the border.
For extensive information on driving an RV into Mexico visit the web site of ON THE ROAD IN MEXICO.
AIRPORT INFORMATION
* BUSES * CAR RENTALS
TAXIS * TOURS
AIRPORT INFORMATION
A large international airport is in the planning stages which will be located about 10 miles south of town. This is all part of a master plan to make getting to Puerto Penasco as easy as possible for as many people as possible.
There is currently a general aviation airport north and west of town, right off of the main highway. This airport is indeed an official "Airport of Entry" for aircraft entering Mexico from the United States. No major airline service is available at this airport at this time.
BUSES AND VANS
Bus and van service is available from the United States to Puerto Penasco, originating in Phoenix and Tuson. These companies include Head Out To Rocky Point (602) 971-0166, Kona Shuttle (602) 956-5696, and Superior Transit (800) 982-6988.
Once in town the local buses can be used to get around Rocky point, service is inexpensive but somewhat unpredictable.
CAR RENTALS
Because of the lack of a large international airport, car rental services are not as common in Rocky Point as most Mexican destinations. To find a local car rental company it is best to talk with the person at the front desk of your hotel. Rio Car Rentals are located in town 011-52 (638) 383-8181. Many US car rental companies do not allow their cars to be taken to Mexico. Car rental companies that have been known to allow their cars to be driven to Mexico (with proper insurance) include Enterprise, Dollar and Advantage.
TAXIS
Taxis are common in Puerto Penasco, and are located near the entrance to most hotels, and in the busier restaurant and downtown locations. Always set a price before getting in...expect a little negotiating! If your visit to a location in Rocky point does not involve a long wait, many taxi drivers will wait for you while you take care of business.
Puerto Penasco real estate is on fire. More visitors each year are discovering how easy and affordable it is to own a piece of drive-down paradise! Condos are the most popular for an "easy" getaway! And there are more than enough Brokers in town to service the never ending supply of buyers!
Most of the new developments in Rocky point have their own sales staff on site. But there is an increasing supply of existing homes and condos in town that are serviced by the local Brokers.
Looking for a piece of coastal Paradise not too far from the U.S border? Rocky Point may just be the answer!
For escrow and bank trust services visit the web site OTP TRUST, LLC..
REAL ESTATE BROKERS * DEVELOPER PROPERTIES
REAL ESTATE BROKERS
Most of the real estate Brokers in Mazatlan speak English. If you need a referral for a real estate agent, start by talking to the manager of the hotel you are staying in. Remember the Golden Rule of Mexican real estate... never buy a property on your first trip down! Try to obtain as much information as possible, then go home and let it all soak in.
RE/MAX LEGACY
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-1425.
U.S. (602) 334-4359.
U.S. Fax (602) 288-9097.
Malecon Kino and Zaragoza, Puerto Penasco, Mexico.
U.S. address: Post Office Box 1200, Lukeville, Arizona, 85341.
E-mail: ylachini@hotmail.com.
Web site: www.remax-legacy-penasco.com.
Real estate sales, new developments, leases and rentals.
The real estate team committed to service with integrity.
Visit their web site for additional information.COLDWELL BANKER ROCKY POINT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-4699.
U.S. telephone (602) 334-4134.
13 Paseo Las Glorias, Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico.
Located across from the Plaza Las Glorias Hotel.
E-mail: heidiwosak@cbrockypoint.com.
Web site: www.cbrockypoint.com.
Playa Encanto, Whale Hill, Las Conchas, Old Port, Sandy Beach, Cholla Bay and more.
Real estate sales, new developments, leases and rentals.
Visit their web site for additional information.CENTURY 21 SUN AND SAND
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-1295.
U.S. telephone (877) 441-9109.
Fax 011-52 (638) 338-1298.
Jose Alcantar #1, Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico.
Located in the Old Port section of town.
E-mail: info@century21penasco.com.
Web site: www.century21penasco.com.
Real estate sales, commercial, new developments, rentals and property management.
Visit their web site for additional information.TWIN DOLPHINS REAL ESTATE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-3919.
U.S. telephone (602) 324-7241.
Freemont Boulevard, Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico.
Located next to the Red Cross.
E-mail: dbrooks@twindolphinsrealty.com.
Web site: www.twindolphinsrealty.com.
Real estate sales, property management, leases and rentals.
Visit their web site for additional information.PROASET REAL ESTATE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-4404.
Fax 011-52 (638) 383-3411.
Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico.
E-mail: proaset@proaset-realty.com.mx.
Web site: www.proaset-realty.com.mx.
Serving Rocky point since 1989.
Member Multiple Listings Service.
Visit their web site for additional information.SBR REALTY
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382-5050.
U.S. telephone (623) 444-2327.
Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico.
Web site: www.sbrealty.com.
Rocky Point, Cholla Bay and more.
Visit their web site for additional information.
DEVELOPER PROPERTIES
There are more new real estate developments under construction in Rocky Point than in almost anywhere else in Mexico! Like Los Cabos in the 1990's, Puerto Penasco has been discovered by the rest of the world.
And just when you thought Rocky Point development would finally slow down, the folks at Mayan Island south of town have an entire community on the drawing boards. Cancun, step aside. We have a new winner on the way.
ACROPOLIS
Telephone 011-52 (998) 185-6974.
www.acropolisrockypoint.com.comBALLENA ESTATES
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-5101.
www.ballenaestates.comCASA BLANCA GOLF VILLAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382-8082.
www.casablancagolfvillas.comCORONA DEL SOL
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382-0442.
www.coronadelsol-rp.comENCANTO
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-0700.
www.encantoliving.comESMERALSA RESORT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382-8293.
www.esmeraldaresort.netGILA TOWERS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-4699.
www.gilatowers.comHACIENDAS DEL CARMEN
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-4699.
www.cbrockypoint.comLA BELLA VITA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-7701.
www.la-bellavita.comLA PERLA DEL MAR
Telephone (480) 626-8949.
www.laperladelmarinfo.comLAS PALAPAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-0808.
www.longrealtyrp.comLAS PALMAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382-8139.
www.laspalmas-mex.comLAS PALMAS RESALES
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382
www.rockypoint.com.mxLAS PALOMAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 108-1090.
www.lpsgc.comLAS PALOMAS RESLAES
Telephone 011-52 (638) 108-1080.
www.lpresales.comLINDA VISTA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-4295.
www.century21penasco.comLOS CLAVELES LAS GARDENIAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-1295.
www.lasgardeniasrockypoint.comLUNA BLANCA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-7701.
www.lunab.comMARBELLA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-4404.
www.condosmarbella.comMAYAN LAKES
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-0440.
www.mayanislandpenasco.comMISION DEL MAR
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-5856.
www.misiondelmar.comPALACIO DEL MAR
Telephone (866) 403-1344.
www.palaceonthesea.comPLAYA AZUL
Telephone 011-52 (638) 382-8088.
www.playaazul.com.mxPLAZA MELI DEL SOL
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-8661.
www.rockypointinvestments.netPUERTA PRIVADA
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-1020.
www.pueraprivada.comPRINCESA DE PENASCO
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-8657.
www.pablorealty.comRIVIERA REAL
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-7701.
www.rivierareal.comSANTO TOMAS
Telephone (888) 788-6627.
www.santotomasmexico.comSONORAN RESORTS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-1044.
www.sonoran-resorts.comSONORA SKY RESORT
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-1044.
www.sonoran-resorts.comTESSORO
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-6288.
www.tessoro.com.mxTHE POINT DE LAS CONCHAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-6288.
www.thepointemex.comVILLA CORTEZ
Telephone (877) 691-3902.
www.villacortez.comVILLAS IN LAS CONCHAS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-0699.
www.thevillageinlasconchas.com
Rocky Point is more than just a vacation destination...much more. It is a tight community of people who car about the area and it's people.
AMERICAN LEGION
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-5746.
Rocky point Post MX 15.LION'S CLUB
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2488.
Helping the Puerto Penasco community.ROTARY CLUB
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-5413.
Meets every Wednesday evening.ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-.
Helping needy local citizens.LADIES LUNCHEON
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-6325.
2nd Thursday of each month. Guests welcome.SOUTH OF THE BORDER SINGLES
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-3381.
Happy Hour every Wednesday at Playa Bonita.LARRY LARGE FOUNDATION
Telephone (520) 547-1970.
Committed to the health, education and welfare of Puerto Penasco residents.MASIONIC LODGE
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2525.
Inquire about becoming a new member.NORTH AMERICAN NEIGHBORS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-8468.
Trying to better the community.OLD BOY'S SOCIAL CLUB
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-.
Monthly meeting to discover fun!PENASCO CHILDREN'S FUN
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-7797.
Helping needy children and their families.PENASCO THEATRE GROUP
Telephone 011-52 (638) 388-0179.
Aspiring actors polish their skills with public displays.MEN'S SHELTER
Telephone 011-52 (044) 105-3669.
Helping men in need.NUEVA CREACION
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-8356.
Drug and alcohol rehab center.RED CROSS
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2266.
Free services for the general public.PROFESSIONAL WOMEN'S CLUB
Telephone 011-52 (638) 383-2052.
Local professional women sharing ideas.SANRA CLAUS CLUB
Telephone (602) 840-1528.
Annual event to help th local children.
A fun side trip when visiting Rocky point is Cholla Bay. Cholla Bay (also spelled Choya) is a collection of about 300 homes in an mostly American community about 15 minutes north of Rocky Point. The village sits on a point overlooking a beautiful bay, and the dirty streets run in all different directions throughout the village. A couple of markets in town provide the cold drinks and snacks that help make this a fun "mini" road trip!
Good news...bad news. The good news is that you can now keep in touch with the rest of the world when visiting Rocky Point. The bad news is that you can now keep in touch with the rest of the world while visiting Rocky Point. In other words, spending time in Puerto Penasco just as recently as 5 years ago used to mean escaping from all of the drama back at home because of the lack of communication. Today many people tap into all of the drama going on back at home by utilizing telephones, cell phones and e-mail in Rocky Point when they should be out having fun. Don't misunderstand, there are definitely times when it can add to a Rocky Point vacation by making a quick call home or to the office to make sure there are no emergencies. But keeping these communications to a minimum takes discipline, and many travelers get too caught up in the problems going on back home at the expense of missing out on the 'now' of being on vacation. Moral to the story? Wherever you are...."be there". Rocky Point is just too much fun to get distracted by aunt Edna's arthritis (or a business client's neurotic requests) back home.
Today, cell phones work almost all of the way form the border crossing down to Puerto Penasco. And they work very well throughout town. Keep in mind that cell phone charges will be higher than the calls made from the U.S. side of the border because of International connection charges and roaming fees. $1.30 per minute is not unusual.
Most of the hotels, resorts and condos in Rocky point now offer very good telephone service from the rooms. Again, be aware of significant connection and long distance charges.
Most of the newer resorts and condo projects offer Internet connections for keeping in touch via e-mail. Also, there are plenty if Internet Cafes in downtown Puerto Penasco. The cost of using these Internet Cafes has come down significantly over the last few years, and now you can usually sneak out with a bill under $5.00 U.S.
Hanging out by the pool can be fun, but sometimes it can be even more fun to get away from your hotel/condo and do something different!
ALL TERRAIN VEHICLES
North of town (past the railroad tracts) there are several places where ATV's are for rent, and where sand dunes are the name of the game. These are not particularly large sand dunes, so there is very little danger involved. But they are tons of fun and a great way to get the wind in your face.
SUNSET CRUISES
Head on down to the marina (just north of the Malecon) about an hour before sunset and get ready for a sunset cruise on the sea of Cortez. The ocean is usually calm this time of night, the boats offer refreshments and music, and this mini-adventure beats the heck out of watching the sunset from your room. ( not that there is anything wrong with that!).
We have designed this section of our Mazatlan travel guide to help you with commonly asked questions about this particular part of Mexico. It's always a good idea to sharpen up your learning curve before you start your vacation!
- Carlos;
My boyfriend says he never gets insurance when he drives to Rocky Point with his friends. I told him he should, but he said it costs too much. ~ Amanda
Amanda;
Sounds like your boyfriend likes to take chances. Liability insurance only costs about $14 per day and that will keep him out of jail if he gets into an accident. He can buy it on-line if he wants to save time. ~ Carlos Fiesta
Carlos;
My girlfriend and I are thinking about driving to Puerto Penasco from Arizona. She is a little afraid of driving down. Is it likely that we will have any problems? ~ Rick
Rick;
Chances are good that you will have a great trip if you drive down. Rocky Point is less than a one hour drive from the Arizona border and the road is very good. To keep things safe I would not drive it at night. You will not need to get a Tourist Visa at the border because Rocky point is located in the "Free Zone" just like Rosarito Beach on the west coast.
Carlos;
Do you think we need to buy pesos before we leave home for Puerto Penasco? ~ Katlyn
Katlyn;
Not only will you not need pesos before you leave home, you will probably not need pesos during your entire stay in Rocky Point. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in Puerto Penasco by almost every vendor or service you do business with. Keep in mind that it helps to have smaller bills available, as many places will not have change available for $50 and $100 bills ~ Carlos Fiesta
Carlos;
Cabo San Lucas was a blast, but we didn't like being constantly approached by timeshare salesmen. Will we have this same problem in Rocky Point? ~ Matt
Matt;
Probably not. Although there are a few time share developments in Rocky Point, there are not nearly as many as there are in Cabo. Your best bet is to avoid any dialog with these nice people, say "no thank you" and then keep moving! ~ Carlos Fiesta
Carlos;
Is it true the legal drinking age in Puerto Penasco is 18 years old? ~ Maria
Maria;
Yes. Inexperienced drinkers should be careful and pace themselves. It's hard to have fun in Rocky Point if you have a hangover and sleep all day after partying too much at night. ~ Carlos Fiesta
No question....Puerto Penasco has good weather almost all year long. Yes, it can get very hot in the peak summer months (can you say 110 degrees?) but the rest of the year the weather is warm and very pleasant.
Curious about the current PUERTO PENASCO WEATHER? Check out the 10 day forecast while you are at it!
For more information on weather and climate in Mexico drop by the WEATHER section of Mexico Expo.
Two new roads are on the drawing board for Rocky Point. A new four lane road is planned from the border to an area just south of Rocky Point. This road is being proposed to help make it easier to get to Rocky Point from the border.
Another road is under construction along the coast north of rocky point, in an effort to make it easier for visitors from California to get to Paradise. When these roads are completed in a few years you can expect to see a few more people in town, especially on busy weekends.
The local US Consulate for the Puerto Penasco area is located in Nogales, Mexico. The phone number is 011-52 (631) 313-4820 from the United States.
If you really want to enjoy Rocky Point you've got to get out on the water! EL REY DEL MAR is a grand old boat that departs Old Port and heads out into the Sea of Cortez every afternoon! Call 011-52 (638) 383-5155 for information and reservations.
Drop by the web site of ROCKY POINT GUIDE and the PUERTO PENASCO TOURISM web site for more good local information on Puerto Penasco!
For additional information visit the web sites of ROCK POINT.COM and ROCKY POINT MEXICO.
For more information on the area visit the web site of ROCKY POINT MEXICO and SEASIDE RESERVATIONS. Or call the Puerto Pensaco Tourist Office at 011-52 (638) 383-4129.
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