Plan your trip
Everything first-time visitors ask about, in plain language — border, insurance, currency, safety, and what to throw in the bag.
Most visitors enter Mexico through the Lukeville, Arizona–Sonoyta, Sonora border crossing. The crossing is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with extended Friday hours until 10:00 PM through September 4, 2026. While crossing into Mexico is often quick, traffic can back up significantly on the Friday before major holiday weekends. Expect longer waits returning to the U.S., especially on Sunday afternoons and at the end of holiday weekends.
Drivers should carry a Mexico-issued auto insurance policy with liability coverage. A U.S. or Canadian policy generally does not satisfy Mexican liability requirements, even when it offers limited coverage near the border. Purchase coverage before crossing and keep a digital and printed copy of the policy.
Foreign visitors may be required to obtain an FMM immigration permit when entering Mexico, including for trips to Puerto Peñasco. Permits for stays of seven days or fewer are generally issued without a fee, while longer stays may require payment. Requirements and enforcement can change, so confirm current guidance with Mexico’s immigration authority before your trip.
U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout Rocky Point, but paying in pesos usually gives you a better and more transparent exchange rate. It also helps local businesses and workers avoid the cost and inconvenience of converting dollars into the currency they use for rent, groceries, wages, and everyday expenses. ATMs around town dispense pesos, and some may also offer U.S. dollars. Carry small peso bills when possible, especially for tips, taxis, street vendors, and smaller purchases.
Many current AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon plans include some Mexico roaming, but coverage, high-speed data limits, and fees depend on the exact plan. Confirm international roaming before crossing and download offline maps in advance. Most resorts have wi-fi for your use.
Don't drink tap water. Resorts and restaurants use purified water for ice and cooking, and bottled water is everywhere and cheap.
Rocky Point has a dedicated tourist police force and is consistently rated one of the safer beach destinations in Mexico. Use the same common sense you would anywhere: don't flash cash, don't drink and drive, lock the car, stick to known areas after dark.
Bring sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles, water shoes for rocky beaches and tide pools, prescribed medication, small peso bills, vehicle-insurance documents, and passports or other required travel documents. From fall through spring, pack a light jacket for windy evenings. Summer visitors should plan for intense heat and sun.