About Rocky Point
About & Weather & FAQ's
About Rocky Point, Mexico
Rocky Point is a former fishing village found along the Northeastern shore of the Sea of Cortez. The city of Puerto Penasco, also known as Rocky Point is a great destination for North American travelers all year long. The beautiful beaches offer warm water and are often referred to as “Arizona’s waterfront”. The tides are known for their incredible changes and the swimming and snorkeling is excellent. You can fish, watch the dolphins and in February see the migration of whales all while enjoying our picturesque “old port”.
With a current population of over 25,000, Rocky Point has a colorful history and a vast array of choices while visiting this friendly city on the water. We hope you have an opportunity to visit and explore the unlimited possibilities of Rocky Point.
The sun shines almost all year round in Rocky Point. The weather is one of the main reasons people visit Rocky Point. Rocky Point experiences only 2 inches of rain a year so a dry trip with plenty of sunshine is pretty much guaranteed. For most of the year the days are sunny and warm. During the winter months the days are warm although the nights can get a bit chilly.
The summer months, especially June through September can be warm because the 90-degree plus temperatures combine with high humidity. However, because the water temperature is above 80 degrees and there is almost always an ocean breeze to produce pleasant evenings, some people find this time of the year to be their favorite.
Yearly Averages: Rainfall:
2 inches -- mostly in December and January
and late summer.
Temperatures:
Dec. to Feb. - 40-75 F°
March to May - 60-80 F°
June to Aug. - 68-98 F°
Sept. to Nov. - 62-84 F
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FAQ's
Can I own property in Mexico?
Yes, through what is called a Bank Trust. The Bank holds the Trust and it is Transferable. E-Mail Us for more information.
What is the Restricted Zone?
The Restricted Zone is an area 100 KM along the borders and 50 KM along the coastlines.
What is an Ejido?
An Ejido is a parcel of land that the Mexican Government has set aside for its citizens. Ejidos are sometimes owned by a group of people. You can purchase Ejido land but make sure you go through the necessary title search and make sure everything is legal.
Why do I need a Notary Public?
Notary Publics “Notario’s” have your best interest when it comes to real estate and business transactions. They have extensive knowledge of the laws and documents necessary to make a legal transaction. If you do not have your documents notarized, they are not legal. When entering into any contract in Mexico, you should seek the advice of a Notario.
SIGHTSEEING & FUN
Will I see dolphins?
Most likely yes - all year round and sea lions too.
Where is “Rodeo Drive”?
Rodeo Drive is actually Cholla Bay Road (the old one). Going north on the main blvd. you will make a left on Cholla Road and follow it our past the railroad tracks where you will come upon a bunch of little curio shops - this is Rodeo Drive also known as Shacks Fifth Avenue and the Dirt Mall.
Can I get NAUI certified in Rocky Point?
Yes. Visit Sun ‘n Fun Dive Shop on your way into the Old Port.
Are there Snorkel and Dive Equipment Rentals?
Yes, at Sun ‘n Fun Dive Shop you will find everything you need to snorkel and scuba.
Can I drive my ATV or vehicle on the beach?
No, you may not ride your ATV, buggy or any other vehicle on the beaches within the city limits. The city is also prohibiting them on the main blvd. through town (Benito Juarez) and would like everyone to wear a helmet and no riding at night.
What is there for Children to do?
There are now a variety of activities suitable for children. Visit the Cet-Mar Aquarium, take a tour at CEDO (they also offer excursions and tide pool explorations), go clamming, parasailing, Bird Island tours, Belly Dancing sunset cruises, dolphin watching, ATV and Jet-ski rentals, banana boat rides and of course playing on the beach!
What are the Pinacates?
The Pinacate Mountains are located north of Puerto Peñasco about 22 miles. It is a volcanic crater region and is very interesting. You can visit the Elegante and Cerro Colorado Craters or hike the Carnegie or Pinacate Mountains. The Ranger Station, as you enter the reserve, has all the information you’ll need for the area.
What is there to do in Rocky Point?
As well as shopping, dining out and clubbing, one can also rent ATV’s, Jeeps, SeaDoos, boogie boards, kayaks and bicycles. There is the Cet-Mar Aquarium and CEDO tours as well as exploring the tide pools, sailing, fishing both offshore and out in the ocean, crabbing and clamming, exploring the estuaries, driving around seeing the sights, laying on the beach, bargaining with vendors, scuba diving or getting NAUI certified, exploring the volcanic craters of the Pinacate region, sunset cruises, charters to Bird Island and just plain taking it easy.
Is there a golf course in Rocky Point?
Yes. There is one golf course currently open for play. It is located at Laguna del Mar and is a Jack Nicklaus Golf Course with 9 holes.
TRAVEL
What documents do I need to cross the border?
You do not need any personal documents to cross into Mexico if you are staying within the free zone. It is a good idea though to carry a drivers license or other photo ID in case you are asked. You should also carry a copy of your title and registration information for your vehicle.
Is it safe to drive to Rocky Point?
Yes. Please click here for more information about driving in Mexico. We have a nice 2 lane highway all the way to Peñasco and the Green Angels patrol it every day and chances are if you are coming during the season there will be other tourists on the road with you. Be extremely careful when coming or leaving on busy weekends - seems everyone is in a hurry and sometimes they pass when they can’t see.
Can I use Mexican gas in my automobile?
Yes. Some people claim that it is bad for their automobiles but we all use it. I doubt it will do any damage for the short time you will be here. If you are still worried add a cleaner with your next U.S. tankfull.
How much gasoline can I bring into Mexico?
None. Since Mexico sells gas you are not allowed to bring any in. Some people can get away with a few gallons but be prepared to be turned back or pay duty.
Is there a transportation service to Rocky Point?
Yes, there are shuttle services and bus lines that make daily trips to Rocky Point - please check our Phone Numbers Page.
Can I rent a car to take into or in Rocky Point?
Yes. There are a few national rental car companies that allow their cars into Mexico. You usually have better luck if you call a company in Tucson or Phoenix or at one of the airports in those two cities as they deal with Mexico travel more often. You usually have to carry their Mexican insurance. Rocky Point now has Rio Vista Car Rentals, located on the main blvd. Check our Phone Numbers page.
Do I need Mexican Insurance?
Yes. Absolutely. It’s the Law! At minimum you need liability but full coverage is recommended as most US policies do not cover travel into Mexico. Check your policy first. Your US policy is not recognized in Mexico - you must purchase Mexican insurance. You may purchase and print your policy from: http://web2web.mexicaninsuranceonline.com/
Do I need insurance on a towed trailer or vehicle?
Yes, it is the law in Mexico that any towed vehicle must be insured with the towing vehicle whether it is a house trailer or a trailer carrying ATV ’s.
Get it here: http://web2web.mexicaninsuranceonline.com/
Is it possible to get insurance in Phoenix or other cities to save time at the border?
Yes, you may call ahead to many insurance companies and they will have your policy ready for you. For some of those companies please visit our Insurance Page. http://web2web.mexicaninsuranceonline.com/
What do I do if I get stopped by the police?
Never pay the officer who stops you. Most likely they will take your license and ask you to follow them to the police station where, if you have done wrong, you will pay a minimal fine and be sent on your way. A lot of tourists run stop signs and railroad crossings on accident but it is the law that you stop so be sure to keep your eyes open.
Is it illegal to drink and drive in Mexico?
Yes. Contrary to popular belief it is illegal and you will be taken to jail if caught. If you’re in an accident and are found to be intoxicated your Mexican insurance could be voided. Our new Mayor is enforcing the no drinking and driving law.
What if I am in an accident in Mexico?
Call the police. That is the very first thing you do. All accidents must be reported to the police. They will come out to the scene and make reports. You will then probably have to go to the police station until they determine who is at fault. If you are at fault and do not have Mexican Insurance then your car will be impounded and you may possibly be jailed until you can make restitution to the other party. If they are at fault then the same will happen to them. If you have insurance you need to contact your adjuster immediately and you will begin the process of making a claim.
Can I bring my boat into Mexico?
Yes, you can bring your boat into Mexico. Please bring all documents and ownership papers.
Can I bring in my camera, video camera or telescope with me to Mexico?
Yes, you are allowed to bring all of these items into Mexico as long as you are a resident of another country. Please review our Information page for items you can bring into Mexico.
Can I bring my ATV into Mexico?
Yes, you may bring your ATV, buggy, etc. into Mexico just make sure you have proof of ownership in case you are asked at the border. If you do not have the proper paperwork (title, registration, etc.) you may be turned back.
What time is it in Rocky Point?
Rocky Point is on the same time as Arizona. We do not change our time.
Is there a helmet law in Rocky Point?
Yes, the police are issuing tickets to persons riding ATV’s not wearing helmets. Rental companies are required to furnished riders with helmets.
Is it safe for me to let my teenage daughter and friends go to Rocky Point alone?
Obviously you know your child better than anyone. They must, of course, be careful as they are when they go out at home. The bar owners at the more popular dance clubs keep an eye on the girls and take action when someone is being harassed and all they have to do is complain to one of the security guards or the owners who are usually in attendance during the busy weekends. Tell them to stick together and not to ditch each other - make sure everyone is accounted for when they leave the cantina. Make sure you have the hotel number where they will be staying and try the number to make sure it goes through before they leave also write down the license plate number of the vehicle they will be driving. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18. The U.S. Consulate is usually here during Spring Break also for any troubles that arise.
Are there Flights into Rocky Point?
Yes. West Wind Air had their first flight into Rocky Point on Feb. 19th. E-Mail Us for more up to date information.
