We are living through history right now. The pandemic has reshaped our world in ways we couldn’t have imagined, and Puerto Peñasco is no exception. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, this resilient community has demonstrated remarkable leadership and planning. The decisions made today will echo through the decades to come, shaping our future.

With the help of looking to the future, we now have more streetlights, paved roads (and fixing potholes hopefully soon), roundabouts, new resorts, master planned communities, a Sam’s Club and soon…a Walmart.

History, as they say, is the wisest teacher. And Puerto Peñasco, with its rich and colorful past, offers a treasure of lessons and inspiration.

Did you know that the original inhabitants of this land were called the “people of the sand?” It’s a fitting moniker for a place where life revolves around the sun-drenched shores and the mesmerizing rhythm of the sea.

As Puerto Peñasco approaches its centennial in 2027, it’s the perfect time to revisit its captivating history and explore exciting ways to commemorate this milestone.

15 Fascinating Facts You Might Not Know About Puerto Peñasco:

  1. Officially founded in 1927, Puerto Peñasco’s human history stretches back centuries, with evidence of nomadic tribes traversing this land in search of sustenance and trade.
  2. Lieutenant William Hale Hardy, a retired British naval officer, charted the iconic hill in Old Town as “Rocky Point” in 1826. This English name, alongside the Spanish “Puerto Peñasco,” reflects the area’s diverse heritage.
  3. Padre Kino, a Jesuit missionary, dubbed the early inhabitants “people of the sand” in 1698. This name speaks to the deep connection between the people and their coastal environment.
  4. Whale Hill, a prominent landmark, was once a beacon for travelers, including the Hohokam Indians from Arizona. These intrepid explorers journeyed to the coast for trade, salt, and the bounty of the sea. Early accounts even suggest that some of the earliest visitors practiced cannibalism, a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by those who first inhabited this land.
  5. Notorious gangster Al Capone frequented Puerto Peñasco during the Prohibition era. He and his associates found refuge in this coastal haven. Today, you can even stay at La Roca hotel, a former haunt of Capone and his cronies, and immerse yourself in this intriguing chapter of the city’s past.
  6. Scenic Airlines pioneered air travel to Puerto Peñasco in the 1920s and 1930s. American entrepreneur John Stone established this airline, offering direct flights from Tucson and Phoenix, foreshadowing the vital role tourism would play in our future.
  7. The allure of alcohol during Prohibition drew Americans to Mexico, including Puerto Peñasco. John Stone capitalized on this trend, building a hotel with gambling and liquor, attracting thirsty tourists from north of the border.
  8. In 1941, the population of Puerto Peñasco was a mere 187 residents. Imagine the tranquility of those early days, a far cry from today.
  9. Puerto Peñasco gained its independence from Caborca and elected its first mayor in 1952. This marked a significant step in the city’s self-governance and development.
  10. Neil Armstrong, Alan Shepard, and Buzz Aldrin, the legendary Apollo astronauts, practiced moonwalking in the Pinacate Biosphere. The unique terrain of this volcano provided an ideal training ground for these pioneers of space exploration.
  11. The United States military paved the road from Lukeville to Puerto Peñasco during World War II, intending to build a military port. However, the port was never completed, leaving behind a lasting legacy of this wartime effort.
  12. Cholla Bay remained without electricity until the year 2000. Residents relied on solar power, generators, and the brilliance of the starry night sky. Today, Cholla Bay retains its rustic charm while offering modern amenities and a thriving community.
  13. In 1999, you could ride an ATV from Playa Bonita to the Reef campground without encountering any high-rises. The dramatic transformation of the coastline of Sandy Beach is a testament to the rapid development of Puerto Peñasco.
  14. During the real estate boom of 2005-2006, celebrities like Sylvester Stallone and Tom Lehman expressed interest in investing in Puerto Peñasco.
  15. 2020- 2024 Puerto Peñasco withstood the closure of the border to non-essential traffic during the Pandemic, and a 30-day Government closure of Lukeville. And Mexico elected the first woman ever to be President, Claudia Scheinbaum.

As Puerto Peñasco prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary, it’s an opportune time to reflect on its remarkable journey. From a humble fishing village to a thriving tourist hub, this city has weathered storms, embraced opportunities, and emerged stronger each time.

So, what can we do to celebrate the centennial?

How about creating a Puerto Peñasco time capsule to be opened in 25 or 50 years! Wouldn’t it have been incredible to open one up on the 100th celebration?

I’ll personally take charge of this project and get in touch with the correct personnel. More information to come, but perhaps we can include a few young classrooms, photos, video, any items that would fit in an appropriate size and withstand the test of time.

What else? Here’s a short list to help get inspired:

Fireworks display over the Sea of Cortez, Boat parade, Regatta, Music festival, Historic exhibitions, Commemorative mural, a film festival showcasing movies shot in or about Puerto Peñasco, a series of talks by local historians and long-time residents, Organize a centennial gala dinner with period costumes.

What ideas do you have? It’s not too early to begin preparations.

“Lost time is never found again.” – Benjamin Franklin