Puerto Peñasco, or Rocky Point on the Sea of Cortez, is just four hours away from Phoenix.

Puerto Peñasco, or Rocky Point, is just four hours away from Phoenix, Arizona. Set on the Sea of Cortez, this small town is home to the most beautiful, clear, clean ocean beach I have found without having to get on an airplane from California!

There are also plenty of good eats around town. Here are the top spots to grab a bite:

Mariscos El Calamar Gigante

Also known as the Giant Squid, this place is just down the malecon, or “boardwalk.” This place is so good, I end up coming back three times for the clam cocktails served in their giant shells, and shrimp tacos – my favorite. Past the port full of shrimp boats, the docks are lined with pescaderias, or fish markets. Stop into any one of them for all kinds of fresh shrimp in different sizes, as well as other fish and seafood. It’s easy and cheap to buy a big bag and cook in your condo!

Fish

The malecon is full of restaurants, bars and gift shops. I find it best to park the car and walk around, see the El Camaronero statue (“The Shrimp Fisherman”) and maybe get some ice cream. Whale Hill, above the malecon, is where I grab a sunset drink and some snacks at Fish, which is perched on a cliff under the lighthouse.

El Barco

Continuing past the Las Conchas area and taking the main road toward the airport for about 10 minutes, I turn off onto a dirt road for about a mile before it ends at an oyster farm, or ostionera, and a restaurant called El Barco, “The Ship.” It is, by far, my favorite place to hang out in Peñasco. Located on the sand at the edge of the water, they serve up fresh-shucked, to-order oysters, seafood and ceviche. Sit down, and order several dozen – served with hot sauce and fresh lime – then kick back!

Mariachis y Tequila

Mariachis y Tequila has excellent Mexican food and margaritas, and is located on Rodeo Drive, a souvenir strip where you can find blankets, gifts and pottery. I love to barter with the locals for them.

Pollo Lucas

Pollo Lucas is under a large palapa, and its marinated char-grilled chicken served family style with rice, beans and homemade tortillas is possibly the best char-grilled chicken I’ve ever had.

Tacos El Poblano

For tacos at night, I found Tacos El Poblano and Tacos Brissa. I like the caramel style with cheese and carne asada in flour tortillas. Or, you can try Tacos Brissa.

Combo Taco

Combo Taco is great for seafood tacos during the day – theirs are huge, so keep that in mind when ordering!

Churros Peñasco

For dessert, I found Churros Peñasco lit up like a circus tent on a side road near Tacos El Poblano. It’s the go-to place for everyone in town at night.