Understand

Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, is a rapidly growing tourist center in northern Mexico. Its population has significantly increased in the past few decades, attracting many American and Canadian expats. The village's intriguing history includes a claim that Al Capone used Puerto Peñasco as a transfer point for liquor during the Prohibition era. The village even has a building rumored to have been constructed by Capone himself. Puerto Peñasco offers different areas for visitors to explore. The Fish Market area, with its seafront promenade, is filled with curio shops, restaurants, and bars. Playa Mirador, known for its beach parties during Spring Break, is a popular destination for college students. There are also areas like Calle 13, famous for its restaurants and ATV rentals, and Sandy Beach, where new developments including resorts and golf courses are taking place. Puerto Peñasco has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to luxurious resorts, making it a must-visit destination in northern Mexico.

Get in

Reaching Puerto Penasco: If you are driving your own vehicle, there are several routes you can take to get to Puerto Penasco. The most direct and easy route is from Arizona through the point of entry in Lukeville. The distance from Phoenix or Tucson is approximately 220 miles, which takes about 3.5 hours of driving time. From Phoenix, you'll need to take I-10 going west to Los Angeles and get off on exit 112 that connects to State Route 85. Follow this road south, passing through towns like Gila Bend, Ajo, Why, and Lukeville. Once you cross the border, continue straight after the bridge for about a block and then turn right into Mexico Highway 8, which will take you straight into Puerto Penasco. From Tucson, you'll need to connect from I-10, taking exit 260 to I-19. Then, take exit 99 (Ajo Way) and go west. Eventually, Ajo Way will turn into State Route 86, which goes west through Sells, Quijotoa, and Why. State Route 86 will dead end into State Route 85, where you'll need to turn left and head south to Lukeville. After crossing the border, follow the road over the hill and past the bridge. After about a block, turn right into Mexico Highway 8 and continue straight to reach Puerto Penasco. Please note that driving from Southern California requires crossing south of Yuma at San Luis Rio Colorado, which entails more driving in Mexico. However, this route is accessible via the new highway, Mexico Highway 3, from El Golfo de Santa Clara to Puerto Penasco. Take caution when encountering sand build-ups, as they can be dangerous at high speeds. It is recommended to avoid off-road driving unless you have a four-wheel drive vehicle and experience driving in sand. It is important to have Mexican auto insurance when driving in Mexico. US policies are not valid, so be sure to purchase Mexican insurance prior to your trip or at one of the many places along Highway 85 before crossing the border. Alternatively, if you prefer not to drive, there are shuttle services available. These can be arranged through companies such as Head Out to Rocky Point from Phoenix or Rocky Point Rides from Tucson. In Puerto Penasco, you can find transportation options through companies like Transportes Nena's or Transportes Superior. For those who prefer public transportation, there are direct bus services to Hermosillo and other points statewide from Puerto Penasco. Albatros Bus Company operates these routes, including stops at Nogales and various locations along Mexican Highway 15 & 2, Caborca, Santa Ana, Guaymas, Empalme, and Huatabampo. The bus station is located on Benito Juarez street. Please note that this particular bus does not pass through Sonoyta, Rio Colorado, or Baja California. If you want to travel through these areas, you will need to board another bus company.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**Tacos al Pastor**: A traditional Mexican dish consisting of marinated pork (although sometimes made without meat or with chicken and other meats) cooked on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served in corn tortillas. The dish is typically garnished with pineapple, fresh cilantro, and diced onions, and accompanied by a spicy salsa.

**Mole Poblano**: A rich, complex sauce originating from the region of Puebla, mole poblano is typically made with a combination of chili peppers, nuts, seeds, chocolate, and spices, resulting in a slightly sweet and deeply flavorful sauce. It is often served over chicken or vegetables, and garnished with sesame seeds and edible flower petals.

**Guacamole**: A famous Mexican dip made from mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, and often combined with chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeno peppers, and cilantro. It is typically served with tortilla chips or used as a condiment for various dishes.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing