
One size doesn’t fit all in Rocky Point Mexico. And no one says it should. There is much to do and not do on getaways to Puerto Peñasco. The choices are yours. However, for some, a tour to experience Bird Island (Isla San Jorge) may be just the ticket.
Do you want to explore the Sea of Cortez rather than just see it from Sandy Beach? If so, here is your chance to commune with nature and perhaps get some cool photos and memories. Are you interested? Okay then, let’s get you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Do you want to explore the Sea of Cortez rather than just see it from Sandy Beach? If so, here is your chance to commune with nature and perhaps get some cool photos and memories. Are you interested? Okay then, let’s get you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Bird Island – A Day to Remember

You should know what you are getting into here. A visit to Bird Island is an excursion. We called it “A Day to Remember” because this activity is generally going to take around 6 hours. Isla San Jorge as it is formally known is less than 30 miles southeast off Puerto Penasco. The boat rides there and back are each about 2 hours long. Exact times depend on factors such as the weather, sea conditions, and the boat you choose.
The rides should be fun. You will be out on the open seas. In addition, music, food and drink are included. Furthermore, your trip can be as educational as you want. This is because your captain and crew will happily answer your questions and provide commentary. Therefore, you can wisely think of a Bird Island trip as more of a family or nature outing than merely another drinking opportunity. Okay?
Now.. IF you are lucky, your boat rides will attract the attention of fun and friendly dolphins. Such encounters are common.
Mexico Federal Reserve Protected Island
For nearly 50 years, Isla San Jorge has been protected as a Federal Reserve of Mexico. This is great news for its inhabitants and those who want to visit. The destination is a haven for multiple species of birds. You will see plenty of pelicans, swallows, blue herons and even blue footed boobies. But that’s not all.
Don’t be fooled by the Bird Island name. You see, this spot is also a popular home to seals and sea lions. A whole lot in fact. The best guess is at least a couple thousand of them. This makes for the largest gathering of seals and sea lions in Mexico. Given the number of inhabitants, it is safe to call Bird Island a popular place for breeding.
Bird Island Activities
You won’t find hotels, beachfront bars, or hiking trails. This is basically a rock formation which rises above the Sea of Cortez. This makes for an ideal landing and relaxing area for various forms of nature who otherwise live on or in the water. For humans, it is important to remember you are a visitor here observing life in their home. Please don’t be an ignorant and invasive tourist like some people who try to take selfies with bison and bears in their natural habitat at Yellowstone National Park. Having said that, there are Bird Island activities to enjoy beyond watching sunbathing sea lions and birds showing off their flying skills.

The waters in this part of the Gulf of California are often crystal clear. During the warmer times of year, this provides a great setting for snorkeling or swimming with the friendly creatures who want to join you and even interact with you. And year-round, there is kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding for those who want to enjoy activities on the water by Bird Island, not necessarily in it.
Tips on Boat Tours from Rocky Point
You have multiple options for taking Bird Island tours. However, we recommend taking one of the reputable tour operators such as Del Mar Charters or Eco Fun Adventures. You can easily guarantee your reservations by booking with them directly. There is no reason to go through various middlemen or women who pitch activities. Pricing and availability may differ on which tour operator you choose. But you can expect to pay over $100 per adult, and under $100 for kids. While that may sound like a lot, remember all you are getting on a typical Bird Island tour. Despite all the amenities and offerings on the boat, you might want to think of this as more of a family or nature outing than another drinking opportunity. After all, the tours leave early in the morning hours. It is Mexico, so not too early. Usually in the 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. range. We highly recommend you take a swimsuit, and a change of clothes, perhaps in layers. Wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are always good ideas for protection from the sun as well as its reflection on the water. Meantime, keep in mind it is good luck or at least a good laugh if a bird accidentally poops on you or intentionally uses you for target practice. And finally, whatever you do, remember to bring a camera.
A Tour for the Birds

For some people, the idea of taking a Bird Island tour is strictly “for the birds.” They think it costs too much and takes too much time on a Rocky Point weekend getaway. Meanwhile, a good share of our guests prefers the activity of lounging around the pools with the sun on their face and a drink in their hand. They can also enjoy time chilling out under our palapas while staring at the Sea of Cortez. For the really ambitious, there is always a good time for a stroll on Sandy Beach.
Whatever your idea is of fun in the sun, we welcome you at Sonoran Sun Direct.