Frequently Asked Questions
 We suggest you read all of the following comments about safely travelling to and staying in Rocky Point, but you can select from the topics below to get answers to your specific questions.
ABOUT ROCKY POINT
- What is there to do in Rocky Point?
Shopping, dining out and nightclubbing. One can also rent ATV’s, Jeeps, SeaDoos, boogie boards, kayaks and bicycles. There is the Cet-Mar Aquarium and CEDO tours as well as exploring the tidepools, sailing, fishing both offshore and out in the ocean, crabbing and clamming, exploring the estuaries, driving around seeing the sights, laying on the beach, bargaining with vendors, scuba diving or getting NAUI certified, exploring the volcanic craters of the Pinacate region, sunset cruises, charters to Bird Island and just plain taking it easy. There are several golf courses currently open for play. They are ocated at Laguna del Mar and is a Jack Nicklaus Golf Course with 9 holes, another at Las Palomis. A new theater is planned for Rocky Point but has been much delayed. . Children, enjoy visiting the Cet-Mar Aquarium, a tour at CEDO (they also offer excursions and tidepool explorations), clamming, parasailing, Bird Island tours, Theme Sunset cruises, dolphin watching, ATV and Jet-ski rentals, banana boat rides and of course playing on the beach!
- What time is it in Rocky Point?
Rocky Point is on the same time as Arizona. We do not change our time.
- What is the weather in Rocky Point?
It is generally moderate during most months, with cool nights. July and August are considered the least comfortable because of humidity and heat. During December, January and February the days are very pleasant 60’s and 70’s but the nights drop down into the 40’s. The water temperature is very pleasant for swimming from April through October.. During the summer months, it is essential to have central A/C and fans.
- What are the busy seasons in Rocky Point?
Rocky Point is a choice vacation spot for some families and young adults whenever they get breaks from school during the winter. The busiest season begins with April Spring Breaks and stretches through late October. Also more and more senior citizens of the US are spending their winters in Rocky Point.
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SUPPLIES YOU'LL WANT & NEED
- What should I bring to Casa Serena?
Very casual clothes, flip flops, strap beach shoes ( or sand socks), sun-tan lotions, sun glasses, laptop computer, favorite CD’s DVD’s , towels, charcoal (if you want to grill), medications, cameras, beach toys, etc. Most people bring some groceries for snacks, breakfast, sandwiches, condiments, etc. But if you forget something, there are lots of grocery and convenient stores. Beer, wine, liquor, soft drinks, groceries, etc. are available at a good price in Rocky Point. Bring a beach umbrella or pop-up tent for the beach.
- Can I stay connected with home by Internet. Yes, bring your laptop and connect either wireless or by hardwire in Casa Serena.
- Should I bring my own water?
No. You can buy bottled water (5 gallons for $1) from any grocery or convenience stores. Return the bottle for your $5 bottle deposit when you leave.
- Is the food safe in Mexico?
Yes, you can shop at a modern super market. It is wise to avoid foods which are not cleaned, cooked, or refrigerated properly. Most of the restaurants use purified water for cooking and drinking. You may want to avoid oysters from May-August. Other seafood such as fish and shrimp is safe all year long although some claim you should eat shrimp and other shellfish only during months with “r” in them.
- Pets:
You can bring pets to Mexico, but pets are generally not allowed at Casa Serena.
- Do I need to exchange my money before I get there?
No, all merchants accept U.S. Dollars. With the Peso changing daily, it might save you a few dollars here and there to weigh the peso against the dollar and see which way you will save money. Travelers Checks are accepted at a few banks or stores. Many stores and restaurants accept credit cards. Your bank card can be used at ATM machines available in banks for up to $3000 pesos(about $300 in dollars) daily withdrawal.
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TRAVEL TIPS
- Is it safe to drive to Rocky Point?
Despite what you hear, it is safe to drive to Rocky Point. There is a good 2 lane highway all the way and the Green Angels Patrol (official green truck who will help you if you break down on the highway during the tourist seasons). Drive carefully as everyone is in a hurry and sometimes they pass when they can’t see.
- Generally, people fill up on gas at Why or Lukeville but gas is readily available and cheaper in Mexico. You can find Rental Cars in Phoenix or Tucson area that allows you to drive to Rocky Point, but you need to buy their Mexican Insurance policy.
- Do I need Mexican Insurance?
Yes. Absolutely. It’s the Law! At minimum you need liability but full coverage is recommended as most US policies do not cover travel into Mexico.
- Is there a transportation service to Rocky Point?
Yes, there are shuttle services and bus lines that make daily trips to Rocky Point. You can try contacting:
• Mota's Place Bus Transportation, Phoenix, Az Tel. 602-455-9522 Tel. 210-1053
• Ajo Stage Lines, Puerto Peñasco Tel. 383-6184 Fax. 383-3209
• El Ave Del Desierto Tours, Puerto Peñasco Tel. 383-1691
(For information only - Casa Serena does not recommend these or other travel services.)
- What documents do I need to cross the border?
Usually you do not need to show any personal documents to cross into Mexico and travel throughout the state of Sonora, MX. You do need your drivers license or other photo ID , a copy of your title, and registration information for your vehicle. When reentering the United States, however, adults are required to have a valid U.S. Passport. Or in lieu of a US Passport, border guards accept a birth certificate with a driver's license or other government issued photo identification. Children (under 17) need to show their birth certificate or passport.
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SIGHTSEEING & FUN
- Are there Snorkel and Dive Equipment Rentals?
Yes, at Sun ‘n Fun Dive Shop you will find everything you need to snorkel and scuba. For shopping, don’t miss the Old Port and Cholla Bay Road (the old one) shopping areas. They both have a lot of little curio, furniture and pottery shops where bartering is expected for a best deal.
- Can I bring my ATV, Seadoo or motorized boat to Las Conchas?
You can bring them to Mexico, but motorized water or land vehicles are not allowed past the Las Conchas gate. You can safely park the trailer with ATV's at the gate for use on dunes outside Las Conchas Gated Community.
- Mexico Tour & Travel and other services will be happy to show you around.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
- What will get me in trouble in Rocky Point, MX?
- Drinking and Driving can get your overnight in jail and a hugh fine.
- Offensive intoxicated behaviors: Rude provoking behaviors.
- Driving away from an accident without contacting the police.
- Beach bon-fires and fireworks in Las Conchas
- Public nudity
- Using or transporting illegal drugs
- Possessing firearms and other weapons
- Bringing and flaunting large sums of money
- Violating the property and personal rights of others
- Attempting to bribe an official
- What do I do if I get stopped by the police?
Never pay the officer who stops you. Most likely they will take your license and ask you to follow them to the police station where, if you have done wrong, you will pay a minimal fine and be sent on your way. A lot of tourists fail to notice Alto signs, and railroad crossings. There are many "4-way stop" streets. Be alert and take your turn!
- What if I am in an accident in Mexico?
Call the police. That is the very first thing you do. All accidents must be reported to the police. They will come out to the scene and make reports. You will then probably have to go to the police station until they determine who is at fault. If you are at fault and do not have Mexican Insurance then your car will be impounded and you may possibly be jailed until you can make restitution to the other party. If they are at fault then the same will happen to them. If you have insurance you need to contact your adjuster immediately and you will begin the process of making a claim. The number for Police in Mexico is 065. Keep a copy of your Mexican Insurance in your purse or billfold.
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MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
- What do I do in the event of an accident, medical emergency or death in Mexico?
Rocky Point has facilities to handle most medical emergencies. Red Cross, Clinics and Hospitals offer English speaking doctors and staff. Emergency Medivac back to the United States is available from Rocky Point.
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