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The beach town of Puerto Peñasco in the Mexican state of Sonora is a popular coastal destination known for its spectacular beaches and abundance of attractions.
Also known as Rocky Point, this small city can get busy during the peak season when road trippers head down from the neighboring U.S. state of Arizona. But don’t let its popularity put you off! There are plenty of lesser-known attractions that you’ll love just as much as the most popular crowd-pleasers — and if you’re lucky, you may even have some of them all to yourself!
Here are our 13 can’t miss hidden gems in Puerto Peñasco that you shouldn’t miss on your next Mexico getaway.
1. Puerto Peñasco’s Oyster Farms
Photo Credit: Monontour
Rocky Point is a paradise for oyster lovers, and there are three ostioneras (oyster farms) to discover in the area. These farms offer the freshest imaginable oysters between Playa Encanto and Las Conchas (where many of the city’s ex-pats have condos), just 15-20 minutes from the famous Malecon Boardwalk:
La Ostionera Acuamar
- Website: facebook.com/acuamarfreshoyster
- Address: Puerto Peñasco Carretera Puerto Peñasco a, Caborca Km 4.5, 83550 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 7.00 am – 8.00 pm daily
Bring your own drinks and accompaniments when you visit this rustic oyster farm. Workers open the oysters as you order them, and they provide hot sauce, limes, and salt to enjoy them with. Oysters are only available to be eaten raw here, so skip this farm if that isn’t for you.
Cooperative Punta Roja
- Website: facebook.com/p/Cooperativa-Punta-Roja-100057287446322/
- Address: Carretera Caborca Km 10.5, Playa Encanto, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm daily
This sustainable oyster farm sells fresh oysters and flavorful crab tostadas, and it’s possible to request that the oysters be cooked if you don’t like them raw. The farm is a simple outdoor dining experience, and there are no indoor restrooms, but it’s worth it to taste the stunning seafood that’s served here.
La Ostionera El Barco
- Website: facebook.com/ostionerayrestauranteelbarco/
- Address: Estero morua, direccion conocida domicilio conocido Estero Morua, 83553 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm daily
For a more comfortable oyster-eating experience, don’t miss El Barco. You will, of course, find fresh oysters here, but other delicious dishes include tacos, tostadas, and ceviche. Drinks are also available, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
2. The Seashell Museum
- Website: seashellmuseum.com
- Address: C. Ramón Figueroa 375, José López Portillo, 83552 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours:
Winter: October – May 10.00 am – 3.00 pm Fridays / Other days and times by email appointment / Summer: June – September open only by appointment.
Scouring the seafront for pretty shells is a popular pastime for families visiting Puerto Peñasco, but did you know it’s possible to take a glimpse at a huge collection… for free? The Seashell Museum is a charming hidden gem where you can learn all about seashells that originate from the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. There’s also a small store on-site where you can pick up trinkets to remember your trip.
3. Plaza Luis Donaldo Colosio
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons via Google Images CCL
- Website: casago.com/rocky-point/things-to-do/malecon-fundadores/
- Address: 1 de Junio 28, El Puerto, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
The Malecon and its many bars, shops, and restaurants are a top tourist attraction in Rocky Point. However, the tranquil Plaza Luis Donaldo Colosio is an often-overlooked gem. Colorful tiles depict marine images that pay homage to the city’s fishing heritage, and several historical plaques and statues are on display.
The huge Puerto Peñasco sign is located by the plaza, and no trip is complete without snapping a selfie in front of it.
4. Schuk Toak Visitor Center and Museum
- Website: https://elpinacate.com.mx
- Address: Carr. Federal 8 Km. 72, 83550 Sonora
- Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm Thursday to Sunday
Pinacate Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-do day trip while in Puerto Peñasco. The dramatic craters scattered across this volcanic field can be explored on foot or via ATV, and the largest active sand dunes are also located here.
Be sure not to overlook the Schuk Toak Visitor Center during your visit. This small museum and information center gives you a glimpse into the fascinating history and biodiversity of the Sonoran desert and surrounding areas and is where you can arrange an exciting range of guided tours and activities.
5. Mar de Cortes Acuario
- Website: programadestinosmexico.com/acuario-cet-mar-puerto-penasco/
- Address: Camino a Las Conchas, Las Conchas, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm daily
Rocky Point is known for its idyllic location on the coast of the Sea of Cortez and the diverse marine life that calls this area home. For an opportunity to learn more about these creatures, pay a visit to Mar de Cortes Acuario. This small aquarium opened after Cet-Mar Aquarium closed in 2017 and relies solely on donations to remain open.
The dedicated staff here take care of the sea turtles that once lived at Cet-Mar and have been out of their natural habitat for too long to survive. Pay a visit to learn about local sealife and support this important organization.
6. Caborca
Photo Credit: centli
- Website: vivacaborca.com
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
If you’d like to explore more of the state of Sonora, Cabora is a top pick. This historic city is located close to the Sonoran border with the U.S. state of Arizona and just two hours from Puerto Peñasco. Make time to explore the beach villages located near Caborca, and don’t miss the thousands of petroglyphs — ancient rock carvings — that provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Be aware that the city is surrounded by a desert environment, and the heat can get intense during summer. So, if possible, try to time your trip during the cooler times of the year.
7. Rey del Mar Pirate Ship
- Website: reydelmarpenasco.com
- Address: Av. Plutarco Elías Calles 89, Recinto Portuario, 83553 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm daily
Boat tours are a popular pastime along the glistening Mexican coastline, but Rey del Mar Pirate ship offers an adventure with a difference! This sunset cruise features an interactive pirate show complete with exhilarating sword fights on the boat’s deck. Family-friendly games are ideal if you’re traveling with kids, and there are lots of surprises along the way that will thrill guests of all ages.
Keep a lookout for dolphins during the tour — they can often be found frolicking in the waters off the coast of Puerto Peñasco during sunset hours.
8. Mermaid’s Market
- Website: mermaidsmarket.com
- Address: Shrimp Park, Corner Blvd Freemont, 83554, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 10.00 am – 3.00 pm 1st and 3rd Saturday in the month
Cholla Mall is where many visitors go to pick up souvenirs and handmade items. However, if you’re in town on the first and third Saturdays of the month, head down to Shrimp Plaza for the popular Mermaid’s Market.
Here, you’ll find around 25 vendors selling gifts, artisan products, and tasty food and drinks (don’t miss the specialty margaritas). The vibrant atmosphere alone is worth checking out, and there’s often live music that you can enjoy without having to spend a peso.
9. Playa Encanto
- Address: De Los Langostinos, 83553 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
U.S. citizens flock across the border from Arizona cities, including Phoenix and Tucson, to enjoy a relaxing Rocky Point beach trip on the miles of powdery white sand. The majority of visitors head to the most popular beaches, including central Sandy Beach and Playa Bonita, which sits in front of Las Palomas Resort. Tucson Beach is also popular for its tidepools and sealions but can be crowded during the high season.
For a beach day off the beaten path, head to Playa Encanto. This tranquil beachfront area is perfect for relaxing and unwinding, collecting seashells, and swimming in the clear blue waters. If you’re looking for some excitement at Playa Encanto, there’s also the option to rent a jet ski or paddleboard, snorkel in the clear blue waters, or hop aboard a banana boat.
10. ATV Destination: Competition Hill
- Webite: puerto-penasco.com/atvs.html
- Address: Competition Hill or San Juan Hill, 83560 Sonora
- Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm daily
Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, head inland for a sandy adventure of a different kind. One of the best ways to discover the Sonoran desert is by ATV, and Competition Hill is a great place to start. This sandy hill is located next to Cholla Bay and offers half a mile of steep slopes to zip up and down on.
There are several vendors offering ATV rentals in the center of the city, or you can book an ATV guide if you’d prefer not to ride alone.
11. Marua Estuary
- Address: Estero de Morua, 83553 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
This compact ecosystem is located 15 minutes Southeast of Rocky Point and is home to more than 140 species of native and migratory birds.
Kayaking in Marua is a tranquil way to see Mexico’s diverse avian population. If you’re looking for a sustainable and educational adventure, eco-kayaking tours can be arranged at the Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans (CEDO).
12. Wrecked at the Reef
- Website: facebook.com/WreckedBars/
- Address: Blvd. Paseo de la Duna, Playa Arenos, 83555 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
- Opening Hours: 10.00 am – 10.00 pm Monday to Thursday / 8.30 am – 11.00 am Friday to Sunday
This small city isn’t lacking in nightlife, and you’ll have no trouble finding fun beachfront spots around the Malecon. For something a little different to do at night, check out Wrecked at the Reef. This spot lies a few miles west of Puerto Peñasco and is a fun place to drink, dine, and relax. Grab a spot by the fire pits for a cozy night on Mexico’s stunning coast.
13. Deep Sea Fishing
Photo Credit: Lux Blue
- Website: delmarcharters.com
- Address: Calle 4ta y, Recinto Portuario, 83550 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico
- Opening Hours: Tour times vary
Rocky Point has a long history as a fishing city, thanks to its enviable location among islands, reefs, and estuaries. If you’d like to try out your own fishing skills while on vacation, join a deep-sea fishing tour.
Several charter companies are available, and Del Mar Charters is one of the best. Their crew will provide you with all the equipment you need and will take you to the best spots with the highest concentration of fish.
For a deep-sea fishing trip with a difference, join one that heads to Bird Island (Isla San Jorge). And, if you go during whale watching season, you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one of these giants!
Get to Know Rocky Point Mexico’s Best Hidden Gems
Puerto Peñasco is a well-known destination filled with popular tourist attractions and things to do. And, once you get off the beaten track, you’ll discover hidden gems that will have you coming back time and again.
