CULTURE

The landscape enveloping Encántame Towers showcases the glistening Sea of Cortez as well as the vast desert stretching toward the Pinacate mountain range. Within the embrace of desert and sea, Mexican culture mixes with indigenous roots of the region as well as newer traditions celebrated by the varied visitors to the area.

Pinacate Biosphere Reserve

The peak of the Pinacate, revered among the Tohono O’odham as part of their creation story, is also known as the vantage point from which Padre Kino first noted Baja California was a peninsula and not an island. The mountain range is now part of the grander Pinacate Biosphere and Desert of Altar Reserve. This UNESCO Natural Heritage Site is also recognized as one of the 13 Natural Marvels of Mexico. Stop into the Schuk Toak Visitors Center just off the Sonoyta- Puerto Peñasco highway to learn about the volcanic landscape, shifting dunes, maar craters, and rich cultural legacy of the Pinacate.

Fishing traditions

Puerto Peñasco’s history dates back nearly 100 years to its beginning as a fishing village. The large shrimp fisherman monument in the Old Port harks back to these early days, when fishermen flocked to the area to rake in the “pink gold.” The fishing industry continues to be an important part of the city’s economy, with fresh seafood at local restaurants as an added bonus!

Holidays

As any city in Mexico, Puerto Peñasco loves to celebrate traditional fiestas! Whether you are here for Mexican Independence Day in September, Día de los Muertos at the beginning of November, the Revolutionary Day parade in November, or the busy Semana Santa Easter period, you will surely be whisked into a world of wonder. Over the years, people from different parts of Mexico as well as the U.S. and beyond have moved to the area. This all contributes to the varied cultural experiences to be had along these inviting shores.