Puerto Penasco, Mexico, also known as Rocky Point, has some wonderful beaches dotted along the Sea of Cortez. This warm body of water is so clear and full of marine life that even the reknowned Jacques Cousteau referred to it as "the world's aquarium." Beaches here range from sandy to rocky and from quiet and uncrowded to party central!

1. Sandy Beach: As the name suggests, this is a wide sandy beach. The long crescent-shaped shoreline is flanked by beautiful natural dunes, with a background of mountain peaks. The calm blue-green water are great for swimming, snorkeling, water skiing, jet skiing, clamming, surfing, and fishing. Local vendors line the beach, selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. This beach is located at the north end of the city and is popular with families.
2. Playa La Jolla: Located 12 minutes from Rocky Point, La Jolla stretches from the Sea of Cortez to the Morua Estuary. The beach here is white sand and is often deserted, making it a quiet retreat for couples or families. La Jolla is one of the nicest beaches in the area and is abundant with interesting shells.
3. El Mirador Beach: This is the closest beach to downtown and is the entertainment center for Rocky Point. Some sections of the beach are sandy, and some are rocky. Located just around the corner from the Malecon, there are several restaurants and bars located nearby. Be sure to check out the views from the top of the bluffs! A great place for singles to meet people.
4. Playa Hermosa: The waterfront at this beach is a haven for nature lovers. At low tide, visitors can find coral, fish, shrimp, squid, octopus, seaweed, crabs, and vibrant plants in the shallow tidal pools, offering wonderful educational opportunities for children. The adjacent land, however, is quickly developing and is beginning to look like Miami's South Beach.
5. Las Conchas: A huge quiet beach, where no ATVs or jet skis are allowed to disturb the serenity. Located on the southeast side of town, the area is beginning to build up, with multi-million dollar homes overlooking the beach.
6. Playa Encanto: Located 15-20 minutes from town, this is a wide sandy beach full of natural beauty, with fascinating tidal pools at low tide. Quiet and laid back.
7. Old Port: A beach for active folks, Old Port has beach volleyball and adjacent restaurants, bars, shops, and motels. Lots of beach parties!
8. Cholla Bay: The area's nothernmost beach, a great place to escape the crowds. Just 10 minutes from downtown, this is a quiet rocky beach, famous for spectacular sunsets. A wonderful romantic spot for couples!
9. Playa Bonita: Located 5 minutes north of the marina, Bonita Beach is lively, with restaurants, bars, and shops nearby. Horses for rent can be found right on the beach, offering a relaxing ride in the surf.
10. Rocky Beach: Located between downtown and Cholla Bay, this is a great area for snorkeling among the rocks in the clear water. The best snorkeling is at high tide.

by Holle Abee 

Don't just go to the beach when you visit Rocky Point, Mexico - stay on one!  Rent a luxurious oceanview villa or find a beachfront condo rental in Puerto Penasco, Mexico.