Thrifty Ice Cream - Old Port

Calle Ignacio Zaragoza 11, El Puerto, 83554 El Puerto, Sonora

Hours

Open daily 9 a.m. - 11 p.m.

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About

Nothing beats a scoop of Thrifty Ice Cream on a warm, humid day in Rocky Point. This classic parlor has earned its spot as a favorite sweet stop for visitors and locals alike, holding its own against popular spots like La Michoacana.

Signature Style & Flavors

Thrifty stands out with its famous cylindrical scoops—easy to spot and loved on both sides of the border. Choose from timeless flavors served in a cup, sugar cone, waffle cone, or waffle bowl. The ice cream delivers a rich, thick, creamy texture with bold, satisfying taste that keeps fans coming back.

Some crowd-pleasing flavors to try include:

Chocolate Malted Crunch
Cookies n' Cream (Galletas y Crema)
Cotton Candy
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Bubble Gum (Chicle)
Butter Pecan (Nuez Mantequilla)
Strawberry Cheesecake

Pricing & Portions

Thrifty keeps things budget-friendly and generous. A single-scoop cup or cone runs about 52-57 pesos (roughly $3 USD). Craving more? Go for a sundae, waffle bowl, or grab a half-gallon to mix flavors and enjoy later. Pre-packed half-gallons are ready in the freezers at the back of the shop.

Locations

You'll find multiple convenient Thrifty spots across Puerto Peñasco. The largest and main location sits on busy Calle 13, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and ATV rentals—right near the Casago office if you need vacation rental assistance.

Another handy stop is in the Malecón area, next to the popular Moo Steakhouse & Grille, perfect for a seaside treat.

Local Tips

Multiple locations make it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth no matter where your Rocky Point adventures take you. Look for the signature cylindrical scoops and enjoy the creamy classics that have delighted generations.

Location

Calle Ignacio Zaragoza 11, El Puerto, 83554 El Puerto, Sonora

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rocky Point, Mexico?

Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) is in northwestern Sonora, Mexico, on the Sea of Cortez, about 1 hour from the Lukeville Port of Entry in Arizona at the US/Mexico border.

How far is Rocky Point from Phoenix or Tucson?

Rocky Point is about a 4-hour drive from Phoenix, approximately 220 miles away, and a similar 4-hour drive from Tucson, at a distance of 215 miles.

What time does the border close to Rocky Point?

The Lukeville border crossing operates daily from 6 am to 8 pm, with occasional extended hours. It is the most popular entry point for travelers driving from Arizona.

When is the best time to go to Rocky Point, Mexico?

The best times to visit Rocky Point, Mexico, are from March to May and September to November, when the weather is more comfortable, and the town is bustling with activities. For beach enthusiasts who love warm weather, October is ideal, with average highs around 88°F.

Seasonal Activity Tips:

Spring (March-May): Perfect for beach outings, water sports, and exploring tide pools. Spring break also brings lively events and entertainment.
Fall (September-November): Great for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying local festivals like the Shrimp Festival.
October: A prime month for swimming and sunbathing, as the sea remains warm and inviting.
Winter (December-February): While cooler, it's a fantastic time for whale watching and quieter beach strolls.
Summer (June-August): Though hot, it's ideal for diving, snorkeling, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

Can you fly to Rocky Point, Mexico?

Rocky Point is home to the Mar de Cortes international airport, which currently serves private and charter planes exclusively.

Though commercial airlines have previously operated flights to destinations like Tijuana and Hermosillo, there are currently no commercial air services available.