Puerto Peñasco: Good Food, Great Views, and Nights We Didn’t Want to End

Published on September 29, 2026 at 12:31 PM


This trip to Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) was all about trying new places, spending time with family, and seeing where the day would take us. We found sunny patios, beachside bites, live music, late-night laughs, and a few places we’re already planning to visit again.

Patio drinks and picture-perfect views at The Crane

The Crane at Islas del Mar was a real treat. We settled onto the patio, ordered drinks and appetizers, and took in the beautiful water views. The breeze, the scenery, and good company made it easy to slow down and enjoy the moment. Of course, we had to wander near the water for some fun photos, too.

It’s away from our resort, but we felt welcome. Just let security at the gate know you’re heading to the restaurant.

Texas Hold ’Em for him, beachside bites for us

At Lucky’s Cantina El Mirador, we stumbled into a hidden little bar with a Texas Hold ’Em game going on. My husband didn’t need much convincing before joining in! While he tried his luck at the table, the ladies headed next door to Pitaya Bar.

What a great find. We had a beautiful beach view, a relaxed atmosphere, and exactly the kind of food you want to share: fresh homemade guacamole with chips and coconut shrimp that disappeared fast. It was one of those afternoons where nobody was in a hurry to leave.

Fish fry, friendly faces, and a little DJ moment

A visit to the Malecón (the fish market) called for dinner at Sr. Amigo. If you’re craving a great fish fry in Puerto Peñasco, don’t pass this place up. The food was full of flavor, the beans and rice were comforting, and the warm tortillas were perfect for scooping up every last bite. The staff were so friendly, they made us feel like family.

We stopped at Outlaws Bar for drinks just across the street from Sr. Amigo. It’s a small, cozy spot with a friendly feel and before long, we were picking the music on the iPad. Good drinks, our favorite songs, and plenty of laughs: a perfect way to keep the evening going after dinner.

The spot we kept coming back to

Near our condo at Sonoran Spa, we discovered Borracho Tequila and one visit turned into several. The chef deserves a prize! We loved the omelet breakfast, the butterflied shrimp with its amazing sauce, and the beans, rice, and homemade tortillas. I also tried the red pozole, which tasted like it had been made with all the traditional, home-cooked goodness you hope for. And the chocolate flan? Save room.

The drinks were refreshing, the air conditioning felt wonderful on those humid days, and Alex, our bartender, took great care of us. We enjoyed his suggestions and the lively atmosphere, especially when the band started playing. It quickly became one of our favorite stops.

Music, ocean views, and a sandy game of cornhole

We made it back to JJ’s Cantina at Cholla Bay for the views and live band. There’s something about sitting together with music in the background and the water in sight that makes the whole evening feel like vacation.

We also stopped at The Reef, formerly Wrecked at the Reef, and it felt just like old times. We played cornhole right on the sand, cheered each other on, and had the kind of fun that makes you forget to check the time.

Rooftop views at Sky Lounge

One of our favorite discoveries was Sky Lounge, a rooftop bar near our condo. We rode the elevator up and stepped out to sweeping views of Puerto Peñasco the kind that make everyone reach for their phone to take a picture. There was a live band, tasty food, and great drinks. My favorite was the cheese board, piled with all my favorite snacks and paired with a cold drink. Add good company and that rooftop view, and you have a pretty perfect evening.

This trip gave us exactly what we wanted: time with family, new places to explore, great meals, live music, and memories we’ll be laughing about for a long time. We’ve added plenty of these spots to our “we’re definitely coming back” list.

Ready to make some Puerto Peñasco memories of your own? Book our condo!

By Ivette Roche, Open Roads Retreat


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