Looking for the best things to do in Rocky Point? This is the guide for you!
Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico that offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure.
Located on the stunning Sea of Cortez only 5 hours by car from Phoenix, this quaint vacation destination is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and water activities.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Puerto Peñasco and I was blown away by the culture and landscape only a drive away from Phoenix.
Puerto Peñasco is informally known as Rocky Point. The popular vacation destination is also known to attract retirees and snowbirds from neighboring Arizona, California, and Canada.
It’s not hard to see why! The laidback beach life paired with downtown activities, water sports, and kick-ass sunsets is enough to convince me to return.
Best Things to do in Puerto Peñasco
Sunset on the Beach
Catching a sunset on the beach at Rocky Point is an unforgettable experience, largely due to its spectacular setting along the Sea of Cortez.
The sun setting in the west paints the sky with vivid hues of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting off the tranquil waters and creating a breathtaking panorama.
This natural phenomenon is further enhanced by the unique geography of the area, which allows for unobstructed views of the horizon.
The combination of the warm sea breeze and the calming sound of the waves adds to the serene atmosphere.
Tip: Want to elevate your sunset game? You can book a sunset tour here or with an operator at Malecon. No need to book far in advance- you can likely score any tours you need the same day!
Playa Bonita
And of course, just relax at the beach! Playa Bonita is one of the most popular beaches in town. Tons of restaurants line up to the beach.
Swim, relax, play games, fly a kite, or cozy up with a book at Playa Bonita.
Eat Amazing Street Food
Remember, you are in Mexico! Mexico is known for some of the best authentic street food in the world, so take advantage of it!
I loved the restaurant El Torro Negro Tacos on Calle 13. They had reasonable prices, tons of authentic food choices, and options to take your food to go.
El Malecon
The colorful sign of giant “Puerto Peñasco” letters at El Malecon is one of the first things you see when searching up Rocky Point on Google.
The Malecon in Rocky Point is a vibrant and picturesque boardwalk filled with shops and restaurants.
It’s a great place to walk around for a bit, but in my opinion, gets over-stimulating after a while!
Some of the top landmarks at Malecon include:
- Malecon Fundadores
- Puerto Peñasco letters
Plaza de la Madre
Plaza de La Madre is one of the small town squares in Puerto Peñasco. It’s like a small plaza/park!
There are benches, a gazebo, and occasional stands set up.
Shopping
I always recommend checking out the local shopping. You may have already experienced this at the Malecon boardwalk.
But if you’re looking for something a bit more lowkey, I recommend checking out Avenida 32 Mercado de Artesanias.
It’s about 10 minutes by car away from the main activities of town but provides a quieter experience and some spacious shops.
Parasailing
Parasailing is a common adventure activity at Rocky Point. You can rent a time slot from a seller along the Malecon boardwalk.
Parasailing tours usually run every hour. As of May 2024, the cost is generally $100 USD for two people on a 10-minute parasailing flight.
ATV
ATV riding in Puerto Peñasco offers an exhilarating way to explore the rugged landscapes surrounding the town.
Rental options are plentiful, with several local vendors situated along the main streets and near popular tourist spots, especially around the Malecon area.
Generally, the price to rent an ATV can range from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the type of ATV and the duration of the rental.
Once equipped, riders often head to the sandy stretches along the beach or venture into the nearby desert areas, where designated trails promise an adventurous ride through Puerto Peñasco’s unique scenery.
Tequila Factory
The Tequila Factory is one of the favorite tourist activities in town.
We didn’t make it there during my visit, but the owner is known to give a brief tour, explanation, and samples of various types of Tequila.
It’s more of a store than an operating factory but is known to provide something else unique to do around town.
El Pinacate Biosphere Reserve
Checking out the local biosphere is at the top of my list the next time I visit Rocky Point!
The UNESCO World Heritage site features volcanic craters among desert mountains and rugged terrain.
Tip: Visit at the beginning or end of your Rocky Point Trip. The biosphere is about 15 minutes away from the border entrance into Mexico, and you’ll drive another 45 minutes to get to the central area of Rocky Point.
I recommend beginning or ending your Rocky Point Visit at the Pinacate Biosphere because it is located about halfway between the international border crossing at the town of Rocky Point.
FAQ
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Puerto Peñasco?
A: The best time to visit Puerto Peñasco is from March to May and then again from October to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months. (But spring break is known for crowds!)
Q: Is there surfing in Puerto Peñasco?
A: Puerto Peñasco is not widely known for its surfing as the Gulf of California tends to have calmer waters.
However, there are days, especially during the windy season, where beginners might find suitable waves. For avid surfers, it could be a hit or miss.
Q: Do I need a passport to travel to Puerto Peñasco from the United States?
A: Yes, U.S. citizens traveling to Puerto Peñasco by land need a passport or a passport card to re-enter the United States.
Make sure to carry the appropriate documents for a hassle-free travel experience.
Q: Are there direct flights to Puerto Penasco?
A: Currently, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Puerto Peñasco. Most visitors fly into Phoenix and drive to Rocky Point. The drive is scenic and you can easily extend your road trip with stops along the way!
Q: Is Puerto Peñasco safe for tourists?
A: Puerto Peñasco is considered safe for tourists. Like any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow standard travel safety precautions.
The local authorities and businesses make considerable efforts to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, you can do one of the activities on this list, all the activities, or zero of them. However you choose to spend your adventure in Rocky Point is sure to be amazing.
This laidback beach town allows you to experience Mexicano culture through cuisine, relaxation on the beach, and an adrenaline rush from your choice of water sports.
Whether you are enjoying Puerto Peñasco as a short weekend trip from Phoenix or an extended vacation, I recommend experiencing the tranquility and flair of Rocky Point, Mexico.
