Don’t fall for what U.S. politicians may say. Besides, you could waste even more time fact-checking their falsehoods. The truth is Americans love visiting Mexico. Surely, you’ve heard of popular hotspots like Acapulco, Cancun, and Cabo San Lucas. This year’s estimates are that roughly 40 million Americans will go south of the border. However, upwards of 3 million of them will instead hit the beach in Rocky Point Mexico for some more affordable fun in the sun.
Rocky Point is the popular nickname for Puerto Peñasco. Both names are widely used for this small seaside resort town at the top of the Gulf of California, also called the Sea of Cortez. The location is the Mexican state of Sonora just below “The Grand Canyon” state of Arizona in the United States.
Rocky Point Mexico is “Arizona’s Beach”
Because it sits so far north near the United States, Rocky Point Mexico has embraced becoming “Arizona’s Beach.” Overall, the distance between Puerto Peñasco and Arizona’s large metropolitan areas of Phoenix and Tucson is only about 200 miles. However, from the border crossing in Lukeville, Arizona, you can be sitting with a margarita on the beach for about an hour.
Meanwhile, the proximity and lack of commercial flight service make Rocky Point Mexico a year-round driving destination for Americans. Every day, proof of this is that you will commonly see license plates around town from the surrounding states of California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. In the fall and winter months, you will see plenty of visiting Canadians escaping the cold at home.
Puerto Peñasco – Tourism Treasure Discovered
200 years ago, the Rocky Point name was spread by Robert William Hale Hardy, a retired British Royal Fleet officer. Hardy was sailing in search of pearls and precious metals. The explorer used the name, “Rocky Point,” because of the view from his ship, and got it placed on maritime maps as such.
Today, that same rocky terrain and hill is now the center of the town of Rocky Point Mexico. The former tiny fishing village is now firmly on the map as a popular tourism destination.
The certified-clean Sandy Beach is the most popular part of Puerto Peñasco. It stretches just a couple miles but is home to beachfront condominium complexes such as the classic Sonoran Sun Resort. Many owners use and rent their condos for vacationers who want priceless views of the beach and sea at very affordable prices.
Enjoying Mexican Culture
Most employment for the 75,000 Rocky Point Mexico residents supports tourism. Jobs range from hospitality at beach resorts to activities such as boating and fishing tours, parasailing, and riding ATVs. Puerto Peñasco also offers retail options from large Walmart-owned stores to countless Mom & Pop-type businesses.
However, it is through serving food and drink that many locals proudly share their Mexican culture. From tacos to tequila, and burritos to cold beer, you will enjoy getting a taste of Mexico.
Restaurants range from corporate touristy spots to hidden gems family-owned and operated. Adding to the local flavor are street vendors who quickly prepare deliciousness. And to quench your thirst there is an array of beachfront bars and swim-up pool bars.
A bonus is English speaking Americans find many locals speak English as well as Spanish. It’s all part of the special embrace of tourism which helps make Rocky Point Mexico a safer, easier, and more affordable travel option.