ATV's, Quads, and Sand Rails in Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco)
Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco) is located in a desert environment which means there is a lot of sand. This makes it great for some excellent off-road riding. Riding any vehicle on the beach is no longer legal in and around Rocky Point (incl Sandy Beach and Las Conchas). The military police typically patrol the beaches which are all considered public property and will on occasion confiscate any vehicle abusing the beaches.
There still is plenty of quad riding behind the beaches at Las Conchas, Sandy Beach, Cholla Bay, Playa Encanto, etc. Most resorts will allow you to park your off-road vehicles and trailers on the property and you can ride your quads to nearby vacant areas with plenty of sand to enjoy.
It is still quite common to ride quads, and sand rails on the roads and through the town regardless of if they are street legal. It seems the local police tolerate this provided you obey the traffic laws.
One of the most popular places to ride is known as Competition Hill. The hill is located adjacent to Cholla Bay. Basically it is a 30° sloped, 300 foot long sandy hill. All types of vehicles can be seen sprinting up the hill day and night.
There are plenty of rental shacks set up everywhere in and around Rocky Point that will rent you quads and sand rails by the hour. Prices range from $15 to $50 depending on the vehicles. Bartering is to be expected. You will need your drivers license and will be required sign a one page rental agreement.
A few rules to follow and be aware of:
ATV’S ARE NOT PERMITTED ON CITY BEACHES
Please follow these rules when riding ATV’s in Rocky Point.
- Helmets recommended
- Only 2 persons per ATV
- No riding after dark
- Driver’s must be 16 yrs. of age
- Do not race, jump, do wheelies, etc.
- Do not drink and drive
Please do not ride in the following areas:
- Main Blvd. Benito Juarez
- Blvd. Fremont or in the Old Port
You may be fined if riding in these areas. Fines are to be paid only at the police station. You do not want to end up at the police station but in case you need it for whatever reason, here some info.
Puerto Penasco now has two police sites, staffed with bilingual officers, dedicated to helping tourist. There is one Police Assistance station located at the Municipal Building on the corner of Fremont and Benito Juarez. There another Police Assistance station located on the back road to Playa Bonita near the paved beach access. If you need help with ANY police matter, please stop by either location. NEVER pay a police officer on the street for any information.
