7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Puerto Penasco

Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure by the Sea of Cortez. While the town itself offers plenty of attractions, the surrounding areas are ripe for exploration, especially for those looking to escape for the weekend. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven weekend getaways that cater to a variety of interests and provide a refreshing change of scenery.

El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve is a geological wonderland just a short drive from Puerto Peñasco. It's a fantastic destination for those who appreciate stark natural beauty and unique landscapes. The reserve features volcanic craters, lava flows, and the largest active dune field in North America. Hiking, photography, and stargazing are popular activities here, given the area's clear skies and minimal light pollution.

How to Get There: The best way to reach the reserve is by car. It's approximately a 45-minute drive from Puerto Peñasco, making it an easy day trip or weekend adventure.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the El Elegante crater, one of the most impressive and accessible craters in the reserve. Its sheer size and the contrast with the surrounding desert is a sight to behold.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations within the reserve, you can find several hotels back in Puerto Peñasco, such as the Peñasco Del Sol Hotel, which offers a pool with ocean views.

Where to Eat: After a day of exploring, enjoy fresh seafood at La Casa del Capitan in Puerto Peñasco, known for its stunning views and delicious shrimp dishes.

San Carlos

The coastal town of San Carlos offers a picturesque escape with its beautiful beaches and the dramatic backdrop of the Teta Kawi mountain. It's a popular spot for water sports, including diving, kayaking, and fishing. The town also has a vibrant expat community, which means there are plenty of activities and services catered to English-speaking visitors. The Mirador Escenico de San Carlos provides a panoramic view of the town and is a must-visit for sunset lovers.

How to Get There: San Carlos is about a 6-hour drive from Puerto Peñasco. While it's a bit further away, the scenic journey along the coast is part of the experience.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to see the diverse marine life, including dolphins and sea lions, which are abundant in the waters around San Carlos.

Where to Stay: The Sea of Cortez Beach Club by Diamond Resorts offers comfortable accommodations and a beachfront location.

Where to Eat: Savor Italian cuisine with a Mexican twist at Jax Snax, a local favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and tasty pizza.

Caborca

For a weekend steeped in history and culture, head to Caborca, a small town with a rich past. Visit the Mission Church of Pueblo Viejo, a 17th-century Jesuit mission, and explore the petroglyphs at La Proveedora. Caborca is also known for its agricultural products, particularly grapes, so a visit to a local vineyard is a must for wine enthusiasts.

How to Get There: Caborca is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Puerto Peñasco, making it a manageable road trip for a weekend getaway.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of Caborca's festivals, such as the Grape Harvest Festival, to experience the town's traditions and hospitality.

Where to Stay: Hotel Jardin offers a comfortable stay with a central location, perfect for exploring the town.

Where to Eat: Enjoy traditional Sonoran cuisine at Restaurante El Herradero de Caborca, known for its carne asada and regional dishes.

Bahía de Kino

Bahía de Kino, or Kino Bay, is a serene beach destination that remains relatively undiscovered by international tourists. It's a place where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of beach life, such as swimming, sunbathing, and collecting seashells. The nearby Isla Tiburón offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and cultural experiences with the indigenous Seri community.

How to Get There: The drive to Bahía de Kino from Puerto Peñasco takes about 5 hours, with the route offering beautiful desert landscapes along the way.

Travel Tip: Visit the Museo de los Seris to learn about the local indigenous culture and their connection to the sea and the land.

Where to Stay: Kino Bay Estates provides comfortable beachfront accommodations, ideal for a relaxing weekend.

Where to Eat: Dine at Jorge's Restaurant, a beachside eatery famous for its fresh fish tacos and friendly service.

Álamos

Álamos is a colonial gem hidden in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental. This "City of Silver" is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Museo Costumbrista de Sonora, take a bird-watching tour, or simply enjoy the town's old-world charm.

How to Get There: The journey to Álamos from Puerto Peñasco is about 7 hours by car, but the destination's unique character makes it worth the trip.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the Álamos Cultural Festival (Festival Alfonso Ortiz Tirado) for a week-long celebration of music and arts.

Where to Stay: Hacienda de los Santos offers luxury accommodations with authentic Mexican decor and several pools.

Where to Eat: Teresita's Pandería y Bistro is a charming spot for breakfast or lunch, offering homemade bread and pastries.

La Aduana

La Aduana is a small, off-the-beaten-path village located near Álamos. It's a quiet retreat for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The village is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to the beautiful La Aduana Church. Hiking and horseback riding are popular activities in the surrounding hills.

How to Get There: La Aduana is just a short drive from Álamos, making it an easy side trip if you're already visiting the colonial town.

Travel Tip: Visit during the weekend when local artisans sell their crafts, offering a perfect opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs.

Where to Stay: While options are limited in La Aduana, nearby Álamos has several charming inns, such as Casa de los Tesoros.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the quaint and cozy El Patio restaurant in Álamos, which serves up delicious regional dishes in a picturesque courtyard setting.

Sierra de la Laguna

For an adventurous weekend, the Sierra de la Laguna in Baja California Sur provides a stark contrast to the coastal desert landscape of Puerto Peñasco. This biosphere reserve is a hiker's paradise, with trails leading through diverse ecosystems, from dry desert to lush forests. It's also a hotspot for biodiversity, with many endemic plant and animal species.

How to Get There: Reaching the Sierra de la Laguna requires a ferry trip from the mainland to Baja California Sur, followed by a drive to the reserve. It's a longer journey, but the experience of this unique environment is unparalleled.

Travel Tip: Make sure to pack plenty of water and prepare for varying temperatures as you ascend through the different climate zones of the reserve.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are sparse within the reserve, but the nearby town of Todos Santos offers a range of options, such as the Hotel California, known for its vibrant decor and historic charm.

Where to Eat: In Todos Santos, don't miss the opportunity to dine at La Casita Tapas & Wine Bar, which offers a fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine.

Whether you're a digital nomad in search of a quick beach getaway or an immersive cultural experience, these destinations around Puerto Peñasco offer a delightful escape from the routine, each with its own unique charm and attractions.