June has arrived and it’s hard to believe that we’re halfway through 2026 already? Yikes! Puerto Peñasco had a very good month last month and we’re ending the first half of the year on a high note despite getting off to a bumpy start. Great news for everyone! We’re still seeing an uptick in traffic and new visitors, projects around town are still going strong, lots of new businesses have opened this year and you can drive through any part of town and see lots of construction happening. Even though we’re entering warmer weather, I foresee lots of people flocking to Rocky Point to unplug, relax and enjoy our beautiful beaches, sunsets, live music and fabulous food. And, of course, the absolutely beautiful Sea of Cortez. I encourage you to take a sunset cruise and get out to Bird Island to snorkel with the sealions – incredible!
There isn’t a whole lot going on in June but have no fear – there’s still lots to do and events pop off at the last minute all the time. Remember that our border hours are from 6AM to 8PM every day except Friday when they stay open until 10PM. If you haven’t made your reservations for July 4th weekend, you’ll probably want to do so now since we’ll be busy. There should be some celebrations around town for the 250th anniversary and the resorts always put on some spectacular light shows out over the water. Fireworks are sold in Peñasco but lighting them off can get you removed from your rental – just an FYI as it happens every year. And the Red Cross does offer emergency services for those of you who blow off a finger or two. Be safe, respectful and have fun!
During the warmer months be sure to take in some of Mexico’s favorite summertime treats like raspados, paletas and aguas frescas. They are available all over town in open storefronts like La Michocana, and from little shack stands on any corner, and from travelling carts pedaled or pushed by hand – those guys definitely deserve a big tip! They travel up and down the beach as well, so you probably won’t even have to leave your perfect sandy spot. Also check out the mango and coconut treats. So much natural goodness. Once you try any of the above, you’ll be hooked and lucky for you they are available all year long.
A little bit of interesting news…José Antonio Pérez reported last month for Ahora Noticias Peñasco that the Government of Sonora, through the Secretariat of Economy and Tourism (SETUR), is seeking to restore commercial flights to Puerto Peñasco. You can read the entire article online, but the TLDR is that SETUR held meetings with Mexicana and Volaris airlines to assess the possibility of reestablishing flights to Puerto Peñasco among other locations in Sonora, Mexico. Fingers crossed.
I’ve addressed this issue ad nauseam so I apologize in advance. What to do about the Peso vs. USD dilemma? I would venture to say that the vast majority of businesses in Puerto Peñasco offer a fair exchange rate – they want your repeat business, and they want to stay in business. There are some that do not offer an ideal exchange rate and you may not know until your transaction is completed so you must educate yourself. Forewarned is forearmed!!
A few pieces of advice:
- Carry both denominations and get the best exchange rate for your dollar.
- If the price of a good/service is listed only in USD, ask for the price in pesos and/or what rate of exchange they are offering.
- Do the math.
- Ask questions before the transaction is made.
- Be prepared to walk away.
In any foreign country, knowledge and options are your best weapons. I’ve lived in Mexico a long time and am very familiar with our – let’s say – quirks, but have to say I was caught by off guard in the U.S. last month I went to pay for a service at a large corporation using my credit card and the cashier told me if I did, they would charge a fee. Huh? When did that happen? I am used to that in Mexico and other countries, but don’t think I’ve encountered it in the U.S. Luckily, I had a debit card and cash with me as well. But cash wouldn’t have worked at a veterinarian I took my dogs to because when I went to pay, I was informed that they were no longer accepting cash. WTH? You have got to be kidding me! In numerous cities, undisclosed “fees” and gratuities have been added to my bill. For reals? (I do hate that one – Vegas, I’m looking at you!) When making any transaction, “surprises” are always very frustrating so hopefully the above tips will save you some time, aggravation and money.
Happy June and Happy Father’s Day to all you dads. Have a super summer and, as always, see you at the beach…or at the pool with cocktail in hand…woohoo!
