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Puerto Peñasco Mexico

Also known as "Rocky Point," Puerto Peñasco is located on the coast of the Sea of Cortez, just a short drive from Arizona and California, making it the perfect place to party it up or kick back and relax.

The weather is mostly tropical, with warm summers and cool winters, though temperatures tend to drop at night and frequent breezes can quickly put a "chill" on the town.

Located in Sonora, Mexico, Rocky Point is within Mexico's "free zone," meaning, tourists are not required to obtain immigration papers in order to visit. However, a passport or documentation that declares citizenship is required to enter and exit Mexico.

With dozens of attractions that sit right on the beach, including bars like Manny's Beach Club, Rocky Point has become a Spring Break destination frequented by students in Arizona, California and New Mexico. "Booze cruises" are touted by locals looking to make a quick buck, but they rarely prove to be worth the investment.

Since the destination has become such a tourist hotspot, knowledge of Spanish is not required to get around as many of the locals speak English and are are eager to practice.

Rocky Point is also known for it's seafood, with taco stands that line the streets and fresh fish available at low cost (usually anywhere from .50 cents to $3, depending on the season and how many tourists are in the area).

The city is continually under construction, building additional hotels and restaurants as the city's tourism flourishes.

Puerto Peñasco has many points of interest including Old Town markets, Cholla Bay, golf courses and lodging ranges from world-class hotels such as Plaza Las Glorias to locally-owned hotels which are much cheaper, such as Viña Del Mar or the Playa Inn.

The CET MAR Aquarium and CEDO museum in Las Conchas are large attractions, and scuba diving centers around town provide the opportunity to see the Sea of Cortez in a whole new way.

There are two very distinct tides each day, so water levels are either high or very low. Many beaches are rocky (hence the name!) and difficult to walk on in low tide.

There are rarely any waves since the Sea is mostly mellow, making surfing or related sports difficult, however, the area is often frequented by strong breezes ideal for windsurfing.

Transportation is simple because cabs are everywhere, but make sure to establish your base rate before you accept a ride, as cabs are not frequented with meters.

Walking is also possible, as long as you have a map of the town to keep from getting confused. (Maps are available just about anywhere, but tourist information centers often have the most helpful materials).

The official commerce of Rocky Point is the peso, but American dollars are accepted almost anywhere, and a simple visit to a Bancomex will make for a smooth exchange.

Rocky Point is not a border town, but it is also not far from the border, so be sure to keep your money in a safe place and be cautious with who you trust.

For the most part, the people of Rocky Point are extremely friendly and courteous, but the same common sense rules that apply throughout Mexico and in money-driven border towns apply here as well.

All in all, Rocky Point is a great destination easily accessed through Arizona or California. With such close proximity, (about four hours by car from Phoenix and Tucson), it's a great place to escape to for a long weekend with friends or family.