Hey there, future Rocky Point adventurer! If you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, fresh shrimp tacos, and those epic Puerto Peñasco sunsets, you’re probably wondering about the practical stuff—like what money to use when you get there. Let’s break it down in a way that keeps things chill and simple, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Pesos, Dollars, or Both?

Puerto Peñasco, aka Rocky Point, is super close to the U.S. border, so it’s no surprise that both Mexican pesos (MXN) and U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted. But here’s the deal: pesos are your best bet for most transactions. Why? Because you’ll often get better deals and avoid weird exchange rates when paying in the local currency. Many businesses, especially smaller ones like taco stands or souvenir shops, prefer pesos, and some might not take dollars at all.

That said, dollars are usually fine at bigger spots like resorts, grocery stores (think Sam’s Club or Bodega Aurrera), and some touristy restaurants. Just keep in mind that if you pay in dollars, you might get change back in pesos, and the exchange rate they use might not be in your favor. So, it’s smart to have some pesos on hand for the full Rocky Point experience.

Where to Get Pesos

You’ve got a few options for getting pesos, and it’s worth planning ahead to avoid high fees or sketchy situations:

• ATMs in Rocky Point: These are your best friend. Banks like Banorte, Santander, or BBVA have ATMs around town that spit out pesos at a decent exchange rate. Just make sure to use an ATM at a bank, not a random one at a bar or convenience store, to avoid crazy fees or scams. Pro tip: Check with your bank before you go to see if they have partnerships with Mexican banks to cut down on withdrawal fees.

• Exchange Houses (Casas de Cambio): You’ll see these spots around town, especially near the border. They’re convenient for swapping dollars for pesos, but compare rates at a couple of places first. Some offer better deals than others, and you don’t want to lose out on a few bucks that could buy you an extra ceviche.

• Bring Pesos from Home: If you’ve got a bank or currency exchange near you, consider getting some pesos before you cross the border. It’s nice to have cash ready for small purchases right when you arrive, like paying for parking or grabbing a street taco.

• Avoid Airport Exchanges: If you’re flying into Phoenix or Tucson and driving to Rocky Point, skip the airport currency exchange. Their rates are usually terrible, and you’ll end up with less cash for your trip.

Paying with Cards

Good news: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Rocky Point, especially at restaurants, hotels, and bigger shops. Visa and Mastercard are the most common, though American Express might not work everywhere. Just let your bank know you’re traveling to Mexico so they don’t flag your card for suspicious activity. Also, watch out for foreign transaction fees—some cards charge 3% or more per purchase, which adds up fast. If you’ve got a travel-friendly card with no fees, that’s the one to bring.

One thing to note: Smaller vendors, like market stalls or food carts, are often cash-only, so always have some pesos in your pocket for those impromptu churro runs.

A Word on Being Mindful

Rocky Point is a welcoming place, but it’s worth remembering that many locals earn modest wages—around $200 USD a week for some. Flashing a lot of cash or being careless with your money can come off the wrong way and might even make you a target for pickpockets. Keep your cash discreet, maybe split it up between a wallet and a money belt, and only carry what you need for the day. It’s all about blending in and showing respect for the community that makes Rocky Point so special.

Budgeting Tips for a Smooth Trip

To give you a sense of costs, here’s a quick rundown of what you might spend in pesos or dollars:

• Street tacos: 20-40 MXN each (~$1-2 USD)

• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: 200-400 MXN per person (~$10-20 USD)

• Beer at a beach bar: 50-80 MXN (~$2.50-4 USD)

• Souvenirs at the market: 100-300 MXN (~$5-15 USD)

• Gas: Around 24 MXN per liter (~$4.50 USD per gallon)

Prices can vary, especially in touristy areas, so having pesos gives you flexibility to shop around. If you’re budgeting, using pesos makes it easier to stick to your plan since you’re not mentally converting currencies all the time.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to currency in Rocky Point, think pesos first, dollars as a backup, and cards for convenience. Get your pesos from a bank ATM or a reputable exchange house, keep some cash handy for small vendors, and stay mindful of how you handle your money. That way, you can spend less time worrying about payments and more time soaking up the sun, savoring fresh seafood, and making memories in this awesome beach town.

Got more questions about your Rocky Point trip? Drop a comment below  Safe travels, and see you on the beach!