23 Interesting Things To Do In Puerto Peñasco, Mexico

1. Hang out at Playa Arenosa

Considered one of the beautiful beaches in Puerto Penasco, Playa Arenosa with its lengthy shoreline and golden sand is a great spot for some sun and surf. Known as Sandy Beach, it is the closest one to Arizona. Scuba diving and snorkeling are two popular activities here as is beach volleyball. The waters off the coast here are rich in varied marine life. Young ones will have a lot of fun building sandcastles to their heart’s content. Most of the well-known resorts are found along this stretch of the coastline making it a popular destination with holidaymakers.

Playa Arenosa

Address: Sandy Beach, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

2. Go whale watching at Rocky Point

Puerto Penasco is on the migratory route of gray whales and this makes it a great spot for whale watching throughout the year. Gray whales also give birth in the waters off the coast here owing to the ideal temperature in the Sea of Cortez. However, February is the time of the year when there are maximum sightings and the season can last up to mid-May. Hop on a tour boat and get up close with these gentle mammals. If you are really lucky, you might be able to see whales shoot out spouts of water into the air! Do not forget your camera for those once-in-a-lifetime photographs.

Rocky Point Whale Watching

Address: Paseo de las Glorias, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Website: Rocky Point Whale Watching

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm

Price: 40 - 50 USD

3. Experience an ecotour with CEDO Intercultural Centre

An organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of the culture and the natural resources of the Sonoran Desert as well as the Sea of Cortez, they offer eco-adventures for families and children. They have a biological field station as also a visitor center and gift shop. The goal of this organization is to work with governments, visitors, and local communities to reduce the human impact on the environment. You can explore the ocean landscape or the desert accompanied by an expert naturalist. Tours range from leisurely hikes to kayaking the wetland channels to dolphin watching and snorkeling.

Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans

Address: Las Conchas, 83550 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans

Opening hours: 8am - 5:30pm (daily)

Price: 10 USD onwards

4. Drive around town in an ATV

One fun way of getting around Puerto Penasco is to drive an ATV to wherever it is you want to visit. The arid desert surface is ideal for an ATV and given the compact size, is definitely a better option than cars especially when finding a parking spot! Just walk up to a rental place and find a ride that suits you to set off on the adventure of a lifetime. While it is not permitted to ride an ATV on the beach, there are plenty of spots where you can enjoy yourself. Competition Hill near Cholla Bay is a popular place for off-road adventures if an adrenaline rush is what you are after.

Rocky Point ATV Rentals

Address: Blvd Benito Juarez, Calle 6 y, Recinto Portuario, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora 83554

Website: Rocky Point ATV Rentals

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 25 USD onwards

5. Spot some winged species at Estero de Morua

There are many places in Puerto Penasco that are a bird watcher’s delight. One of these is Isla San Jorge, locally known as Estero de Morua. Located just outside of the town, this area is a favorite with nesting sea birds and is also home to numerous sea lions. The area is also a prime spot to watch dolphins and whales depending on the season. You can take a trip to this island starting off early from the city’s marina on the nearly one-and-a-half-hour journey by boat. Along the way, you might be able to spot dolphins and whales depending on the season and weather conditions.

Estero de Morua

Address: Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico

Website: Estero de Morua

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

6. Enjoy a heady tequila tasting session at Tequila Factory

When in Mexico, you simply must sample some tequila and know all about how it is made. Stop by the Tequila Factory to taste some exotic flavors and varieties of tequila including coffee, caramel, and tamarind! Listen to Fernando explain the process of distilling the liquor and guide you in the sampling process. It doesn’t matter if you have done this before or are well-versed in everything related to tequila. You can also grab a quick bite to eat here and their tequila barbecue fries are not to be missed! The reasonable prices and the excellent service add to the experience. Don’t forget to check their collection of tequila barrel furniture!

Tequila Factory

Address: Blvd. Benito Juarez Entre Calle 12 y 13, Centro, 83550 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Tequila Factory

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10am - 5pm (closed on Tue)

7. Enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding at Laguna Del Mar

Laguna Del Mar is the best spot for some cool, outdoor fun while in Puerto Penasco. From golfing to kayaking to paddle boarding and snorkeling, there is something for everyone here. This community has a Jack Nicklaus nine-hole golf course as well as a beach club set amid saltwater ocean lagoons.

Laguna Del Mar

Address: Carretera Entronque Cerro Prieto km 6.5. S/N, Col. Centro, 83550, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Website: Laguna Del Mar

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 7am - 8pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 15 - 50 USD

8. Spend a musical afternoon with Mexican band - Agua De Coco

Mexican culture is characterized by its vibrant dance and music. So, while in the country, do not miss out on this cultural experience. Check out a performance by Agua De Coco, the popular band of Puerto Penasco that performs regularly at the many happening spots around town. The peppy music played by this five-member band will have you tapping your foot in no time. Around the area, since they first came together in 2011, this band has an excellent repertoire of music and is a common face at most of the events that take place in the region.

Agua De Coco

Address: Puerto Penasco, Mexico

Website: Agua De Coco

9. Explore street art in the Malecon area

Puerto Penasco is a popular haunt of artists, both local and imported. While there are a good number of galleries showcasing excellent pices of art, there is no beating the unique experience of enjoying some street art. The town’s Malecon area, in particular, is a favorite with street artists who have turned into a colorful sea of murals. Just step off the main street and you will find yourself among vibrant art works that depict various aspects of life and local culture.

Malecon

Address: Puerto Penasco

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

10. Relax and unwind at Playa Bonita Beach

The perfect beach to sit back and do absolutely nothing but enjoy the sun, surf, and the sand. Close to the heart of the city, this beach can attract lots of people during holidays and peak tourist season. Yet, it does not appear crowded primarily due to being a large beach. You can rent a jet ski or go for a ride on a banana boat. Horseback riding on the beach is yet another enjoyable pursuit available here. There are lava rocks at some spots, so it is best to keep an eye out for those when you are barefoot. There are a few stalls offering snacks and refreshments as well as souvenirs.

Playa Bonita

Address: Calle 13 94, 83553 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico

Website: Playa Bonita

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

11. Take a leisurely stroll along Cholla Bay

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KathrynArter (@k_papes)

With a host of vacation homes popping up along the area, Cholla Bay has become an exciting spot to spend some time exploring. Sitting just outside of the actual town of Rocky Point, it offers some solitude from the hustle and bustle. Stroll down the beach which is popular with water-skiers and gliders. It is a great place to watch the sunset from. The locality is also a popular spot for various sporting events.

Cholla Bay

Address: Cholla Bay, Puerto Penasco, Sonoroa, Mexico

Website: Cholla Bay

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

12. Visit the fish market in the Old Port

See the variety of fresh catch available for purchase at the fish market at the Old Port each day. There is nothing like enjoying delicious seafood every day you are here! Grill it, cook it, or use it in tacos; but be sure to try some seafood from this market. From shrimp to clams, this clean and well-maintained market is the place to head each day. Watch out for sellers trying to make a quick buck and drive a hard bargain if making purchases. The area is also great for enjoying views of the sea and watching birds catch their prey from the water. You can surely visit with your family.

Old Port fish farket

Address: Circunvalación y o Malecón Kino, El Puerto, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Old Port fish farket

13. Pick up souvenirs at Rodeo Drive Cholla Mall

An ideal place to find some interesting souvenirs for friends and family, Rodeo Drive, also called Cholla Mall, is a shoppers’ delight. From decorative pieces to functional items such as beach apparel, sandals, and flower pots, you will be spoilt for choice. You can also get a stained glass art piece made according to your specifications. Shell craft, Talavera pottery, and various other handicraft products are all yours at unbelievable prices if you know how to bargain! Make a list of all the people you want to shop for beforehand because it is easy to get overwhelmed by the variety on offer here.

Rodeo Drive Cholla Mall

Address: Choya SN, Obrera, 83555 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: Free

14. Admire the privately owned collection at The Seashell Museum

This privately-owned museum is open only seasonally and during July, August, and September, appointments must be made through email if you wish to visit. From October through June the museum opens only on Fridays, earning it the nickname of Friday Museum. Get a glimpse of the many different varieties of seashells found in the region. Learn interesting facts such as how the shells are formed and also know more about the people who lived in the area decades ago.

The Seashell Museum

Address: Calle Ramón Figueroa 375, José López Portillo, 83552 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: The Seashell Museum

Price: Free

15. Plan a day out with children at Plaza La Madre

Plaza La Madre or Plaza of the Mother is a fun place for families large and small. Spend a day at this sprawling park which has play areas for kids with swing sets and slides as well as plenty of room for outdoor activities. Enjoy a picnic lunch or lounge in the sun as you watch the children have a fun day. The park also hosts events such as art and craft workshops for children on a regular basis. A must-visit for families with young ones in tow. Fun is guaranteed for each member of the family

Plaza La Madre

Address: 83550, Adolfo López Mateos SN-S PARQUE, Centro, Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

16. Stop by El Camaronero at Malecón Fundadores

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the waterfront esplanade at Malecón Fundadores. Massive columns, seating benches, and of course, the massive statue of El Camaronero set up in honor of shrimp fishermen will greet you as you saunter around. Stop to click some photographs at this vista point as you enjoy the cool sea breeze that wafts up at all times of the day.

El Camaronero, Malecon Fundadores

Address: Circunvalación y o Malecón Kino 18, El Puerto, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: El Camaronero, Malecon Fundadores

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

17. Have swashbuckling fun on Rey del Mar

The only pirate ship in the region, the Rey del Mar is a great place to party and watch the sunset from or spot dolphins. The cast and crew do a great job of ensuring that you have a good time during the entire trip with contests and dancing throughout. You can also opt for dinner with or without unlimited drinks onboard. It is also a good choice for private celebrations. The pirate ship welcomes children on board and they are sure to enjoy it just as much as you. Games such as musical chairs are sure to keep the little ones busy for quite some time.

Rey del Mar

Address: Av. Plutarco Elías Calles 89, Recinto Portuario, 83550 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Rey del Mar

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 10 - 30 USD

18. Relish seafood delicacies at The Friendly Dolphin

This charming restaurant with views of the water is a good place to savor seafood delicacies. Relax as you enjoy a refreshing pint or a cool margarita with your chips and salsa. Their garlic flounder and shrimp dishes are definitely worth a try. There is limited bar seating though the restaurant seating is adequate and the ambiance is quite Mexican. Vegetarians do not fear, for there are quite a few options available to ensure you do not go hungry here! The service is pretty quick and courteous.

The Friendly Dolphin

Address: Calle Jose Alcantar 44, El Puerto, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: The Friendly Dolphin

Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)

19. Satiate your thirst at Tekila Bar

Situated on the main street in Malecon, this cool hangout is easy to find and is the place to head for is its dance, drinks, and good food that you are looking for. With custom tequila barrels dominating the décor, you can enjoy the fresh catch of the day with fish tacos leading the way. The Tekila Burger is yet another not-to-be-missed item on their menu. Enjoy the sunset from the balcony as you sip a refreshing margarita or beer while live music plays in the background. The place is a magnet for young people, locals, and tourists alike.

Tekila Bar

Address: Circunvalación y o Malecón Kino 22-C, El Puerto, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Tekila Bar

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 9am - 3am; Thu - Sat: 9am - 3am; Sun: 9am - 12am (closed on Wed)

20. Hit the dance floor at Elixir Bar Lounge

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alfonso Macalier (@alfonso_macalier) on Jul 5, 2018 at 1:00pm PDT

With three different bars pumping out different music at each, you are sure to find one that you like. Four resident DJs, as well as frequent guest DJs, ensure that there is pulsating music all the time. There are regular “all you can drink” specials as well as “door specials” happening here that can add to your fun. The drinks are unlimited and you only have to pay the door charge.

Elixir Bar Lounge

Address: Av Durango 20, Benito Juárez, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Elixir Bar Lounge

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 8pm - 3am (closed from Sun - Thu)

21. Watch a hit blockbuster at Citicinemas

Watching a movie is a fun activity and more so when you are on vacation. Head to Citicinemas to catch the latest releases and get some delicious popcorn to go with it. Settle back in your seat to enjoy the action on screen in the cool comfort of the theater. You can also choose to watch Spanish movies with subtitles and all of this at affordable prices.

Citicinemas

Address: Av. Luis Encinas 61, Recinto Portuario, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: Citicinemas

Opening hours: 11am - 10:30pm (daily)

Price: 3 - 7 USD

22. Relax and rejuvenate yourself at La Bella Spa

A holiday is a perfect time to relax and let the stress melt away. What better way to do this than with an extensive spa session. Head to La Bella Spa for your pick of massages, manicures, and pedicures. They also offer couples massages as well as various packages for your convenience. The clean place and friendly staff ensure that you have a memorable experience.

La Bella Spa

Address: Calle Manuel Arista 70, Benito Juárez, 83554 Puerto Peñasco, Son., Mexico

Website: La Bella Spa

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7am - 6pm (closed on Sun)

Price: 16 - 50 USD

23. Try your hand at Vidanta Golf

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this beautiful golf course is known for its unique location on a peninsula with the sea on one side and a tidal estuary on the other. This challenging 18-hole sand dune course offers you a golfing experience like no other. Novice or veteran, nothing can compare to the feeling of playing amid natural beauty with the azure water and the pink mountains making for a picturesque setting. Named by Golfweek Magazine as one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean and Mexico, there is a restaurant, and a pro shop on the premises.

Vidanta Golf

Address: Km. 24 Carretera Peñasco-Caborca A2, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Website: Vidanta Golf

Opening hours: 7am - 4pm (daily)

Price: 50 USD

Puerto Penasco: more than what meets the eye

These are just some of the reasons to put this happening resort destination on your list of places to visit. In fact, once you tick everything on this compilation of things to do in Puerto Penasco, Mexico, you might want to stop by again and again!