Puerto Peñasco
Sea of Cortez luxury, family fun, and unforgettable sunsets
Highlights
Wake up to sweeping ocean vistas and golden beaches just steps away.
Indulge in ultra-fresh shrimp, fish, and Mexican classics at waterfront spots.
Capture fiery sunsets from the Malecón, the sand, or a family-friendly cruise.
Enjoy low-key boat tours, dolphins, and tidepools suitable for all ages.
Shop, snack, and people-watch in the colorful Old Port district.
Where to Stay
2 picks
Las Palomas Beach & Golf Resort
Large, upscale beachfront condo resort on Sandy Beach with pools, lazy river, on-site restaurants, and an 18-hole golf course, popular with families and groups.[2]
Playa Bonita Resort
Family-friendly beachfront hotel with direct access to Playa Bonita, on-site restaurant, pool, and easy proximity to town and the Malecón.[4][10]
Where to Eat
6 picks
El Restaurante de Ramón at Playa Bonita Resort
Beachfront Mexican and seafood restaurant with views right over Playa Bonita; order shrimp aguachile, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and fresh ceviche.
Pollo Lucas
Casual spot specializing in mesquite-grilled chicken with tortillas, salsas, and sides for easy sharing.
Kaffeehaus
Cozy spot near the Malecón known for hearty breakfasts, pastries, and coffee; think pancakes, omelets, and German-Mexican comfort dishes.
The Point Restaurant
Pier-style restaurant extending over the water in the Old Port with panoramic Sea of Cortez views; order grilled fish, shrimp tacos, and margaritas for adults.
Wrecked at the Reef
Casual beachfront bar and restaurant on Sandy Beach with burgers, tacos, seafood, and live music some evenings.
Chef Mickey's Place
Local favorite for elevated Mexican and international dishes in a relaxed but upscale setting; try the steak, seafood specials, and desserts.
What to Do
8 picks
Playa Bonita Beach
Wide, sandy beach in front of Playa Bonita Resort ideal for swimming, sandcastle building, and lounging under umbrellas.[4]
Malecón Fundadores (Old Port Malecón)
Waterfront promenade lined with shops, seafood stalls, and bars, with sweeping views over the harbor and the Sea of Cortez.
Sandy Beach
Long stretch of soft sand fronting many of the main resorts, good for swimming, boogie boarding, and beach games.
Isla San Jorge (Bird Island) Boat Tour
Full- or half-day boat excursions from Puerto Peñasco to a rocky island home to sea lions and seabirds, often with chances to see dolphins en route.
Sunset Cruise from Puerto Peñasco Marina
Family-friendly boat cruises leaving from the marina with music, drinks, and front-row views of the sunset over the Sea of Cortez.
La Choya Tidepools Area
Rocky shoreline area (around Cholla Bay/La Choya) where low tide reveals tidepools full of small marine life.
El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve Visitor Area
Protected volcanic field and desert landscape north of town with visitor facilities, overlooks, and short walks to view massive craters (check access and hours before going).
Shopping and Snacks in Rodeo Drive (Cholla Mall)
Cluster of artisan and souvenir shops selling pottery, blankets, jewelry, and beachwear, with casual food stands nearby.
Good to Know
5 picks
Border Crossing and Timing
If you’re driving from the U.S., monitor border wait times and try to cross early in the morning, especially on Sunday or holiday afternoons when lines can be long.
Sun and Heat Protection
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brim hats, and light long-sleeve sun shirts for kids, as the coastal sun can be intense even when it feels breezy.
Cash, Cards, and ATMs
While many restaurants and resorts take cards, smaller shops, street vendors, and some tours prefer cash; withdraw pesos from ATMs at reputable banks or major supermarkets.
Driving and Parking Near the Malecón
Streets near the Malecón can be busy and tight; drive slowly, expect pedestrians everywhere, and use paid or obvious parking areas instead of random sandy lots.
Water, Ice, and Food Safety
Drink bottled or purified water, but restaurant ice is generally made from purified water; choose busy seafood spots where turnover is high, especially in the heat.
Map
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