FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If you need the most current information, and want to speak to the Experts, please call Sea Side Reservations locally at 602-404-2982 or Toll Free 866-785-2350.

FOOD & WATER

Is it safe to drink the water in Mexico?
It is safe to drink water that has been purified. There are many stores that sell purified water for you to drink. However, it is not recommended to drink water from the tap. You may use the water from the tap for brushing your teeth, showering or cooking. When you are at a restaurant, ask for an unopened bottle of water.

Is it safe to eat the food in Mexico?
Yes, it is safe to eat in Mexico. Most restaurants use purified water for cooking food. Before eating at the taco and hot dog stands, you should get recommendations on which stands cook with purified water. Do not eat food that has been sitting out for long periods of time, such as condiments. Always remember to maintain the eating habits that you do at home, as most travelers get sick because of overeating, eating foods that they don't normally eat, and consuming too much alcohol.

What kind of food can I eat in Rocky Point?
Rocky Point has a variety of foods that will please all appetites. Enjoy pizza, Chinese food, seafood, and of course excellent Mexican fare.

Is it safe to buy fresh fish and shrimp?
Yes. Rocky Point offers an amazing selection of oysters, clams, fish and shrimp. We are happy to recommend our favorite places to buy fresh seafood!

Should I not eat seafood in the months of May-August?
This is partly true. Shrimp and fish are safe to eat year round. However, you should avoid eating oysters from May-August (or the months without an "R").

How much shrimp am I allowed to bring back to the U.S.?
You are allowed to take 5 pounds (2.26 kilos) per person of shrimp home with you.

How much alcohol may I bring back to the U.S.?
1 Litre of alcohol per person.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

What do I do if I have a medical emergency in Mexico?
Rocky Point has a Red Cross, many clinics and hospitals, some of which offer English speaking doctors and staff to assist you. The Red Cross offers help to any injured person at no cost.

Does Rocky Point have air ambulance services to transport back to the U.S.?
Sun West Aviation and AirEvac are available to transport patients back to the U.S.

MONEY

Do I need to exchange my money before I get to Rocky Point?
No, all businesses and merchants accept U.S. Dollars. However, you will most likely not receive change in U.S. Dollars. Most businesses do accept Visa and Master Card in Rocky Point.

Will the bank cash Travelers Checks?
Not at this time. Some merchants now accept them, however.

How do I know if I should pay in pesos or dollars?
In most cases, it is not worth the hassle of trying to gain a few cents to determine which is better. You can pay in either pesos or dollars. If you do want to determine what is the better rate, check out our currency converter to get an idea of what the current exchange rate is. Most merchants use the current exchange rate, but a few still use the 10:1 ratio (10 pesos to $1).

Can I draw money from a US bank account with my credit card?
Yes, you may draw money from a US bank account with a credit card; however, the Serfin Bank and ATM will give you Pesos, not Dollars. IF you do decide to draw money from your US bank account, we advise you to know the exchange rate well.

PETS

Can I bring my pet into Mexico?
Yes. You may bring Domestic Dogs and Cats into Rocky Point. You will need to carry a current copy of the rabies certificate in case you are asked to provide it at the border. Most hotels and condo rental agencies do not allow pets however.

Can I bring a bird back to the U.S. from Mexico?
Yes you can but it is not advised. If you do bring a bird back with you to the U.S., you will need to exit through San Luis. The bird will be quarantined for 30 days.

Are there veterinarians in Puerto Peñasco in case my pet has an emergency?
Yes, we do have vets in case of emergency or if you need general care for your animal. You will also find dog and cat food and pet items for sale as well as pet boarding and bathing services.

Is there an Animal Shelter in Puerto Peñasco?
There is no longer an animal shelter. However, if you would like to help, contact Nancy Phelan (011-52-638) 383-1012 or email her. She is collecting and distributing pet food, pet toys and medicine and trying to continue her spay and neuter program. Help is needed to make sure these animals get the proper care they need.

Do your Resorts allow pets?
Only owners are allowed to bring pets to our resorts. Renters are not allowed to bring pets.

SIGHTSEEING & FUN

What is there to do in Rocky Point?
For a complete list of activities in Rocky Point, check out our activities page.

Is there a golf course in Rocky Point?
Yes. The Links are open at Las Palomas on Sandy Beach.
To reserve a tee time at the links, call (011 52 638) 108 1072

Is there shopping in Rocky Point?
Absolutely! There are small "curio" shops where you can purchase clothing, pottery, rugs, glassware, jewelry and all kinds of gift items. There are also many specialty shops that you can visit to buy more expensive items.

TRAVEL

What documents do I need to cross the border?
If you are traveling to Rocky Point by land, you do not need a passport at this time (although we recommend that if you have a passport to bring it), but you are required to have a form of identification with you at all times. All U.S. Citizens are now required to have a valid U.S. Passport when re-entering the United States by air. If you have further questions about travel rules and regulations, please contact your local UPS Office at 1-800-275-8777 or the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778.

Will we have to pass through vehicle inspections at the border?
It is possible that your vehicle may be inspected at the border. Please drive slowly when you arrive at the border, and stop at all required stop signs. If the sign flashed red (Alto), please pull over and answer the simple questions that are asked of you. Usually, they will ask you "where is your destination", or ask to look in your trunk. It is a very simple process. If the sign flashed green (pase), then please proceed slowly through this check-point and make your way to your vacation destination!

Is it safe driving in Mexico?
If you follow the rules of the road, then driving is very safe in Mexico Here are a few helpful tips to help you be a safe driver:
1) Miles are in Kilometers in Mexico.
2) On occasion, you may encounter vehicles with only one light in the front and back traveling at slow speeds. This is normal, so please do not overreact.

If we have car trouble on the highway, what should we do?
Highway #8 in Rocky Point has the Green Angels looking out for you. These traveling mechanics will help you get your car fixed in no time. If a part is needed or a major repair made, they will charge you a small fee to cover those costs. Tips are welcome!

Is Mexican gas bad for my automobile?
Some people claim that it is bad for their automobiles but we all use it.

Is there a transportation service to Rocky Point from the U.S.?
Yes. Shuttle services and bus lines make daily trips to Rocky Point. We also have an airline company that makes weekend trips to Rocky Point as well.

Can I rent a car to drive into Rocky Point or rent a car in Rocky Point?
Yes. You will find a few national rental car companies in Tucson and Phoenix that allow their rental cars to be taken into Mexico. You usually have to carry their Mexican insurance, which can be costly.

Insurance & Accidents

Do I need Mexican Insurance?
Yes, we suggest you use Adventure Mexican Insurance Services, Inc. Check your policy first to see if it covers your travel into Mexico.

If I drive into Mexico, will my US car coverage policy work? Or do I need separate Mexican car insurance?
It is required to have Mexican coverage when traveling in Mexico, because US policies are not recognized in Mexico, which includes Rocky Point. We do recommend purchasing full coverage because the small price difference is well worth it.

Do I need insurance on a towed trailer or vehicle?
Yes. Any towed vehicle must be insured with the towing vehicle. This includes house trailers and ATV trailers.

Is it possible to get insurance in Phoenix or other cities to save time at the border?
Yes, many insurance companies will prepare your for you in advance.

If I get stopped by the police, what do I do?
In most cases, you will follow the officer to the police station and pay a minimal fine. Never pay the officer who stops you. Obey the traffic rules just as you would driving in the U.S.

What if I am in an accident in Mexico?
The very first thing you need to do is call the police. They will come to the scene to determine who is at fault. If you are found to be at fault, and you do not have proper Mexican car insurance, you could face possible jail time and car impoundment until you can make the proper payments to the other party involved. If you do have insurance, contact your insurance company immediately.

Do I need to declare my merchandise if I think I am over my limit of $50?
Yes! Stop and declare any merchandise that you have purchased above your allowed limit of $50 USD per person. Do not run the risk of trying to get past a checkpoint with more merchandise than you are allowed. Your limit does include food, household items, etc. And do not pay an officer or inspector to try to pass a checkpoint without claiming your merchandise!

How much money am I allowed to take into Mexico?
You are allowed to take $10,000 USD into Mexico, including checks. Do not bring any form of cancelled check into Mexico. If you are transporting more than the allowed $10,000, stop and declare.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Mileage from US Cities to Puerto Penasco, Rocky Point, Mexico
Albuquerque, Nm. - 630 Miles
Denver, Co. - 1,086 Miles
El Paso, Tx. - 486 Miles
Las Vegas, Nv. - 472 Miles
Los Angeles, Ca. - 568 Miles
Phoenix, Az. - 212 Miles
San Diego, Ca. - 468 Miles
Sante Fe, Nm. - 683 Miles

How long does it take to get to Rocky Point?
From Phoenix or Tucson it is about 4 hours to Rocky Point.

What type of clothing should I take to Rocky Point?
Appropriate clothing will vary from season to season. The winter season in Rocky Point can be cold, so sweaters and jackets are recommended just in case. The summer season is generally hot and humid, so shorts and tee shirt apparel is recommended. March through November tend to have the best weather conditions for travelers. Check our weather feed for conditions in the Rocky Point area to help you plan your travels.

How do we call to Rocky Point from the US?
You must dial the following sequence: 011-52-638-, then the 7 digit local number (Example 38-32586)