Arizonans are proud to claim Rocky Point México as their own beach, given its proximity to Phoenix and Tucson. I have been traveling to this popular beach town for many years and I would like to share some helpful tips and information.
First-time travelers might be unsure about safety. You should know that Rocky Point, México has been a popular and safe travel destination for years. With over 2 million visitors every year and 80% of these visitors being from Arizona, you’ll be in good company.
If you’re a beach lover in search of warm waters and pristine beaches, don’t let the idea of crossing the border deter you. The drive to Rocky Point is relatively easy and secure, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a quick getaway.
What Documents do you need?
All Visitors – When crossing the border on your way back to the U.S., you will need to show your passport and children under 16 years old only need their birth certificate. However, every day many Americans cross the border providing a driver’s license and a birth certificate. Personally, I have a passport and I have not taken this risk but, hopefully, this clarifies one of the most common questions. For more information about large groups like school field trips, click on the link below.
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/your-trip
Drivers – You need a valid U.S. driver’s license, car registration, and proof of Mexican Insurance for the duration of your trip or longer. You do not need a permit for your car if you are not planning to travel beyond the Rocky Point area.
Pets – If you are traveling with dogs, you will need proof of rabies vaccinations. Please be aware that most hotels and vacation rentals do not allow dogs. You can check the requirements for other pets at www.aphis.usda.gov.
What is the best place to buy Mexican Insurance?
Buying auto insurance has never been a fun part of a road trip. Fortunately, you can buy a Mexican Insurance policy online. Prices are based on the value of your car, length of stay in México, and amount of coverage.
Take a little time to compare a couple of quotes to make sure you have the best coverage at the best price. I’m so glad I did! Our trusted broker has been in the business for 72 years and he has offered a generous discount using promo code ENCANTO. Just click below to get a free quote.
If you have any questions, please reach out to CustomerService@MexicanInsurance.com or call (800) 466-7227.
What can you NOT bring across the border?
It’s important to be aware of Mexican and American laws to avoid the waste of food, fines, and even arrest.
DO NOT BRING GUNS into México! Not even an empty shell. Many gun owners store these items at the Why Not Store at reasonable prices. The store is conveniently located a few miles before the border.
DO NOT BRING PESTS into the U.S. or México. Pests can be found in fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, cut flowers, meat, animal products, seeds, rice, and live animals. Always declare all items. The border agents might have to dispose of prohibited items but you will avoid expensive fines. You can find the most current and detailed list in these official sites:
What is the best time to travel?
Don’t Forget about Border Hours! If you’re planning on driving across a border, it’s important to know the border hours. For instance, the Lukeville/Sonoyta border crossing is open from 6am to 8pm, except on certain holidays when it’s open until 10pm. Here are the extended holiday hours for 2023:
Border closes at 10 p.m.
Friday May 26th – Memorial Day
Friday June 30th – Independence Day
Friday Sept. 1st – Labor Day
Friday Nov. 10th – Veteran’s Day
Both sides of the border open and close at the same time. For more information visit: https://www.cbp.gov/about/contact/ports/lukeville-arizona-2602
What should you know about the drive?
Look out for immigration checkpoints
Be aware of border patrol immigration checkpoints in Arizona and slow down as you approach them. These are different from the border crossings, and you might be asked questions or waved through.
Reduce your speed as you approach the border
The speed limit here drops rapidly. Traffic is lighter during mornings, and you should expect to cross the border fairly quickly.
However, during peak vacation seasons like spring break and long holiday weekends, there may be long lines.
Take note of the “safety corridor”
In late 2016, Arizona and Sonora officials designated the stretch of highway from just past the border to Puerto Peñasco as a “safety corridor.”
Look out for bilingual signs, surveillance cameras, and law enforcement personnel during busy periods like spring break. They will be there to keep you safe and assist you if necessary.
Ajo
Adhere to the speed limit
It’s always a good idea to follow the speed limit. Also, remember that you will be driving through two small towns with very low speed limits. Both Ajo and Sonoyta have vigilant police officers who aim to maintain the peaceful lifestyle of their towns. Please be patient, as this is a brief part of your journey.
Sonoyta
What should you do if you are pulled over while driving in Mexico?
You got this!
The process is similar to traffic stops in the United States. Stay calm and provide the officer with your driver’s license, registration, and proof of U.S. or Mexican insurance.
If you are given a ticket, politely request a written citation that can be paid at the police station. Remember, never offer cash to the officer. Do not become part of the problem. If you are asked to follow the officer to the police station to pay the fine, obey the speed limit and remain calm throughout the process.
Whether you are in the U.S. or in Mexico, it’s a good idea to record the time and location of the incident, the police vehicle identification number, and the police officer’s badge number before leaving the scene. If you don’t speak Spanish, consider downloading a translation app on your phone before your trip.
Where can you stop for gas, bathrooms, snacks and meal breaks?
On this drive you will not find the traditional highway rest area. Driving from the Phoenix area you will have the following options for bathrooms, snacks, and meal breaks.
Gila Bend – This is the first stop with several convenience stores, gas stations, and restaurants.
Ajo – This is charming town has a very nice downtown to walk around and take some pictures, grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants.
The Why Not Store – This is a very iconic store, gas station, and storage place for guns and cars on the way to Rocky Point. They also provide great service to travelers by sharing information in their facebook page. Just keep in mind that you will lose cell phone service for a few miles just before the border.
The visitor center to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Park – It’s open every day from 9am to 5pm and it’s located about 4 miles before the border just of the road.
Gastrak station – It’s right on the border on the U.S. side. This is a good point to switch to your speedometer to kilometers.
Sonoyta – As you drive through the town you will find several gas stations, restaurants, and a couple of grocery stores. This will be your last option before arriving at Rocky Point.
Quick Stop – This is the first gas station as you arrive at Rocky Point. They have clean bathrooms, snacks, drinks, basic pantry and refrigerator items, and a small fast-food restaurant.
What places should you visit on your road trip to or from Rocky Point?
To make your journey a fun part of your trip there are some stops you can make along the way.
Ajo’s Downtown – This old copper mining town has a charming downtown with beautiful spanish architecture it’s a great place to stop, walk around and take some pictures. https://www.ajochamber.com/explore/what-to-do/
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument – This park is located just a few miles north of the border and it’s an International Biosphere Reserve. It has a visitor center, scenic drive and hiking trails. Open every day from 9am to 5pm. https://www.nps.gov/orpi/planyourvisit/hours.htm
El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve – This park is located 72 kilometers from the U.S. border in the Sonoran desert. You should check-in at the Museum Schuk Toak to receive guide and more information. It’s open Thursday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm. https://elpinacate.com.mx/inicio/museo-schuk-toak/
