June 20th…not the 21st this year… The Sun was the farthest from the equator that it is going to get in 2012 and it was also the longest day of the year, heralding the official start of summer. Schools across Puerto Peñasco have either begun their summer break, or are about to, and everyone is looking for a place to cool off during the upcoming months.
With the Sea of Cortez hugging the city, beaches such as Mi Playa just past the Mirador, or out by the Reef, are accessible outings and there are also some pools around town where you may consider taking a dip.
As reported just before Semana Santa, Mi Playa is a public beach whose entrance is along Blvd. Fremont (look for the signs). Entry and exit roads to Mi Playa are separate, though they were clearly marked back in the Spring. Recommendations when planning a trip to Mi Playa: watch for strong currents in this area and plan to enjoy time on the beach, plus pack an extra plastic bag in order to “pack in, pack out” your trash (containers don’t seem to always be present).
The Reef is an inviting area, entry is $5 US per car/day (approx. 75 pesos) and as long as you drive carefully across the sand (don’t get stuck), this is one of our favorite spots for a late afternoon and sunset right on the beach. When heading to Cholla Bay from town, turn left at the entrance to Wrecked, Mare Blu, and the Reef RV park – pick the lane by the booth in order to gain access to the beach without ending up in the parking lot for the restaurant or bar (unless that’s where you’re headed).
Another option is a dip in a pool and we’ve got some news on where to go. Over at Baja Hotel in the Mirador, their pool is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (except busy holidays when the hotel is full). There is a minimum consumption “cost” of 50 pesos (about $3.50 per person) and no ice chests, outside drinks or food are let in. Swimwear only in the pool. No lifeguard on duty.
On Mondays, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., you can visit Grand Hacienda Hotel (formally Playa Inn) on Ave. Sinaloa and splash around their pool. Though this is only on Mondays for the moment, Rodolfo at the front desk mentioned they may consider adding more days depending on the response. Swimwear only. Again, outside food and drinks are not allowed though there is a poolside bar and of course food available from the hotel restaurant (great drink prices by the way!). No lifeguard on duty.
Looking for a poolside BBQ spot with your friends? Head out about 1.5 miles from town to the Quality Star, which is getting revamped – starting with the pools! Here you can bring your drinks, bring your BBQ fixins, and your ice chests (with ice as there is none available out there at the moment) and enjoy a day poolside at either of their inviting albercas. 
The smaller one is equipped with short water slides for kids, and there is a security guard and ample parking (particularly considering there are plenty of RV spots that are basically all available through the summer). Cost is 80 pesos (about $6 US) for adults, students (13-18) 50 pesos (approx. $3.50 US), and kids up to 13 are 30 pesos (approx. $2.50 US). We are told that entry is good all day, so once you have your pool bracelet you can go in and out if necessary. Appropriate swimwear only (bathing suits, trunks), and float devices are permitted for children. Hours 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Changing areas, restrooms, and showers. No lifeguard on duty. 
The pools and welcoming gathering spots are also available for private parties or events – plus, the event hall will be available in the near future. For more information on private parties or group prices, etc.: 383-5460 (with Armando). Plus, look for more promotions coming here throughout the summer!!
So, enjoy the summer in Rocky Point at the beach or at the pool…or maybe cool off at any of the favorite local watering holes (swimwear not required).
