Pet Friendly
Getting to Rocky Point
Puerto Peñasco (aka Rocky Point) is a popular beach destination nestled into the northern part of Sonora, Mexico on the Sea of Cortez. Its close proximity to the U.S., at just an hour’s drive from the Arizona border, enhances Rocky Point’s attraction as a great place for the whole family. This beautiful seaside retreat offers fantastic beaches, delicious food, thrilling activities by land, sea, and air, plus fishing, snorkeling, eco adventures, and more.
If traveling to Rocky Point from the U.S. , the primary border crossing is in Lukeville, AZ into neighboring Sonoyta (hours 6 a.m. – 8 p.m., Extended FRIDAY ONLY hours till 10 p.m. March 7 – Oct 10, 2025). Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
What Papers Do I Need To Get To Rocky Point, Mexico?
All adults, 16 and older, need passports to cross the border. A birth certificate will work for kids under 16. Don’t put off getting your paperwork and identification together. Make sure your ID documents, as well as car registration, are within easy reach when you arrive at the border crossing into Mexico.
If you’re bringing your pets, you need to bring proof of their rabies vaccinations. You may only have 2 pets per vehicle.
Can I Drive My Own Car To Mexico?
You are required to have car insurance for travel in Mexico. Mexican car insurance can be easily obtained online prior to your trip or at several locations in towns as you approach the border. Liability coverage is mandatory, and it is best to get full coverage.
Rocky Point is within what is known as a “Free Zone”, meaning an additional permit is not required for your vehicle within the State of Sonora. However, if you plan to travel outside Sonora, you will need to get a permit , which for cars, RVs, and boats typically costs approximately $55 US.
Green Angels – Los Ángeles Verdes
The highway to Rocky Point from the Lukeville border crossing is part of a joint Arizona-Sonora Safety Corridor. You may spot the white and green safety vehicles of Ángeles Verdes, or the “Green Angels”, overseeing traffic along the way. If you have problems with your car, simply pull off to the side and raise the hood. The Ángeles Verdes will offer mechanical assistance free of charge. The only thing you have to pay for is parts or gas. It is worth noting the number for emergencies in general is 911, as in the U.S.
Are There Shuttles That Go To Rocky Point?
If not planning to drive your own vehicle to Rocky Point, or perhaps if flying into Phoenix, there are various shuttle services that can bring you to the beach. Some of these alternative transportation options include:
- Head Out to Rocky Point – door to door, airport pick-up in Phoenix
- Transportes Express – Departure from office location in Phoenix
Can you fly to Rocky Point?
The Mar de Cortés International Airport is well-equipped to welcome private planes and charters. Though there have been commercial flights in and out of Rocky Point in the past, this is not currently an option. Stay tuned for the launch of future commercial flight possibilities. There are rental car options available at the airport, as well as shuttle services to your final destination in town.
Your Rocky Point getaway awaits! So pack your bags, grab your papers and have fun! Be sure to review our Lukeville Border Crossing Info & FAQs for continued updates to address all your travel planning needs!
Other Travel Information
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Frequently Asked Questions
Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) is in the northwestern corner of Sonora, Mexico, on the Sea of Cortez. It is approximately 1 hour from the US/Mexico border crossing at the Lukeville Port of Entry. For additional info, visit www.casago.com/lukeville
Rocky Point is about a 4 hour drive from Phoenix at approximately 220 miles distance.
Similarly, it's about 4 hour drive from Tucson to Rocky Point at 215 miles in distance.
The Lukeville border crossing is open 6 am - 8 pm daily. *Stay alert to possible extended hours.
The Port of Entry at Lukeville-Sonoyta is the most popular crossing point for travelers driving from Arizona.
Generally speaking, Rocky Point, Mexico is considered safe for tourists. It's as secure as most places and has a lower incidence of crime compared to other parts of Mexico. However, like anywhere else, it's important to stay vigilant and follow the law.
Yes, it is safe for Americans to go to Puerto Peñasco. The Federal Highway 8, which leads to Puerto Peñasco, is even designated as a "safety corridor" by Arizona. It's recommended that you drive during the day and use the Lukeville/Sonoyta border for the safest route. The Lukeville border crossing is open daily 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Yes, you can indeed swim in Rocky Point, Mexico. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches along the Sea of Cortez, offering warm waters that are perfect for swimming. As with any beach destination, remember to follow local safety guidelines and avoid swimming in areas not designated for such activities.
The names Puerto Peñasco and Rocky Point refer to the same place on the Sea of Cortez in northern Sonora.
Puerto Peñasco was officially founded in 1928. Historically, when this part of the Sea of Cortez was chartered in 1826, retired British Lt. Robert William Hale Hardy named the spot Rocky Point.
In the 1930s, Mexican President Lazaro Cardenas named the city Puerto Punta Peñasco. "Punta" (point) was later dropped, becoming Puerto Peñasco.
The most pleasant months to visit are from March to May and from September to November. These periods offer more comfortable weather conditions and plenty of activities around town. If you're a beach lover who enjoys warm temperatures, October is considered an excellent time to visit, with high temperatures averaging 88 degrees.
Yes. Rocky Point (Puerto Peñasco) is open. The closest border entry is Lukeville, AZ. Border hours are 6 a.m - 8 p.m. daily.
There is an international airport in Rocky Point, which is only for private and charter planes at this time.
While there have been commercial airlines with flights to cities such as Tijuana and Hermosillo, presently there are no commercial air connections to the area.
More questions?
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