Known among many as Rocky Point, the Mexican resort city of Puerto Peñasco on the Gulf of California is perhaps most familiar for its dramatic dune-backed beach and tidal pools. Indeed, it is the city’s natural attractions that have helped make it one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations, not least its spectacular volcanic shield with lava flows, cinder cones and impressive giant craters.
As you would expect from such a major tourism hub, Puerto Peñasco is blessed with plenty of accommodation options, ranging from humble guest houses through to high-rise luxury hotels. There’s also a liberal sprinkling of charming resorts equipped with a wide rage of amenities – we’ve picked out some of the best below.
Sonoran Sky Resort
From $141/ night
If you’re planning to spend plenty of time on Puerto Peñasco’s sandy shores, then this resort offers easy access to the nearest beach – the famous Sandy Beach – which is just a 2-minute walk away. However, if you’d prefer to stay on-site then there’s plenty to keep you occupied too, including a Tiki Bar and grill-house, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, and a pretty garden area. Guest rooms come with bathrobes and free toiletries, and some also feature a relaxing seating area and a balcony or patio. A 24-hour front desk means there’s always someone around to help and offer tips about the local area. Adrenaline junkies will love the watersports opportunities that can be found nearby.
Laguna Shores Resort
From $187/ night
A year-round pool and sun terrace, a bustling on-site restaurant, a hairdressing salon and a tennis court are the stand-out amenities at this Puerto Peñasco resort. Guest rooms come with a coffee machine and a private bathroom, and some also offer a comfy seating area. A dedicated concierge service provides guests with tips on things to do in the area and will also help you book tickets for regional attractions or tables in restaurants. Bike hire is available from the resort too. For those arriving by car, there’s free private parking.
Playa Bonita Resort
From $127/ night
Situated in a plum spot on Rocky Point, one of Puerto Penasco’s most popular stretches of beach, this resort combines a great location with some excellent facilities. There’s an on-site mini-market, a restaurant and bar, two outdoor pools, a hot tub and 24-hour front desk. The air-conditioned guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV and private bathrooms with a bathtub and hair dryer. It’s a 10-minute walk to the shops and restaurants of the downtown district. If the weather lets you down, there’s a highly regarded Aquarium a short drive away.
Princesa De Peñasco
From $122/ night
Featuring several well-appointed apartments, this resort complex is just moments from the aptly named Sandy Beach and a 10-minute drive from the centre of Puerto Peñasco, with its wide choice of restaurants. All of the guest apartments are air conditioned and come with a fully equipped kitchen, a seating and dining area, a television and DVD player, a washing machine and a dryer. Amenities around the resort include three outdoor pools – including one that’s heated – a weekend-only restaurant, private parking and free WiFi throughout. There are also BBQs available for the use of guests, as well as a hot tub.
Bella Sirena Resort
From $159/ night
A few minutes’ walk from the nearest sandy beach, Bella Sirena is a popular accommodation choice with visitors to Puerto Peñasco. Resort amenities include a tennis court, a fitness centre and a pretty garden that’s ideal for cooling off after a day on the beach. There’s also free WiFi throughout the property and private parking for those travelling by car. Spacious and comfortable guest units are well-equipped with a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a kitchen with an oven, microwave, toaster and fridge.