by Alexis Stone

Created on: April 16, 2008   Last Updated: April 25, 2008

This rapidly growing fishing village is an enormous playground for those who love the water. Puerto Penasco, Mexico offers a wide range of great water activities for families, couples and adventurers. Sunbathing, tide pooling, snorkeling, parasailing and fishing are only a few of the countless experiences you can encounter at this sun splashed paradise the travelers refer to as "Rocky Point."

Beach Front:
The shoreline alone offers priceless experiences. You'll find that while exploring the sands, you won't have to go far before finding a variety of sea shells. CEDO Marine Science Center makes guided tide pool exploration educational or just explore it on your own. A few creatures you may discover include crabs, brittle stars, octopus and even rays. At the end of the day it's neat to visit the docks which are bustling with local fishermen that have their catch of the day in tow or to take a romantic stroll along a stained beach curtained in hues of pinks and purples from the glorious sun set.

On the Water:
Nothing is more rewarding than to charter a fishing boat and guide to catch your own dinner. Although a fishing license is required, for only ten dollars a day, its worth the investment. Some of the finest Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Yellow Fin Tuna, Dorado and several other species inhabit the royal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez.

Other activities on the water include; sea kayaking, banana boat rides, pirate dinner show, whale watching and sunset cruises. Also parasailing and kite surfing lessons along with all equipment rentals are available, allowing you to pack light.

In the Water:
In Puerto Penasco, snorkeling and scuba diving provide an opportunity to get an up-close and personal encounter with some of the areas eight hundred species of marine life including sea lions, dolphins, rock fish and eels. The best months for this activity are the summer through the fall, when the water is warm and visibility is good. The best area is off of the famous Bird Island, known to the locals as Isla San Jorge, Bird Island is home to one of the largest colonies of sea lions in the Gulf of California, not to mention twenty different rare species of exotic birds.

A few things to know; the venders on the beach are very pushy. I your not interested a firm "no thank you" and the absence of eye contact is usually enough to persuade them to move on. While shopping in Old Port, make sure you bring exact change as well as your negotiation skills. There is no need to exchange your money, but make sure to use cash. Keeping these few tips in mind, you are sure to have a wet and wild vacation of a lifetime while visiting Puerto Penasco.

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