Rio Rico, Arizona

Rio Rico is just 10 miles north of the border with Mexico and 55 miles south of Tucson. Situated at the foot of the 6500 foot San Cayetano mountain with the year round Santa Cruz River flowing through it Rio Rico is an oasis in the desert. Up to 15 degrees cooler then Phoenix in the summer Rio Rico is a favorite weekend place for those who want to relax and have a short excursion into Mexico.

From the ranches and farms that line the river to the huge array of desert trees and plants Rio Rico sparkles. As you drive along the rural roads in Rio Rico you may see coyotes, red tail hawks, a grey fox, javelinas, deer, and maybe even a mountain lion. Bird watching is a relaxing fun activity with the many species of ducks and herons who visit the wetlands formed by the river right along Rio Rico Drive.

Rio Rico, which means rich river in Spanish, is a 39,000 acre community craved out of the Maria Baca Float. More than 15,000 full time residents call it home. The population increases in the winter with vacationers who come to enjoy the magnificent weather, the fantastic golf, the majestic sunsets, and some of the best star watching available anywhere.

Housing is still some of the most affordable in Arizona. Prospective owners have a variety of existing and new homes to choose from. You can choose from property near the golf course, a couple of acres away from it all, or perhaps 36 acres of pristine desert in one of the most prestigious “neighborhoods” in Arizona the Morning Star Ranches is closer to your liking.

There are plenty of fun things to do for the entire family. Attractions include a par 72 Robert Trent Jones, sr. golf course whose front nine has been described by one critic as “The most beautiful and beastly stretch of golf in Arizona”. There is a riding stable, a luxury four diamond resort with tennis courts and one of the best restaurants south of Phoenix. Executive Chef Warren Weekes is not only famous throughout Arizona for his unique brand of southwestern cuisine he takes tourist and town folks alike on a tour of culinary delights of Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora.

There are hiking and walking trails one of which is the newest section of the de Ansa trail which when completed will stretch from the border of Mexico through Tubac. Soon there will be a new Arizona State park that will run along the Sonoita Creek. Rio Rico is the perfect place to bring your family for a weekend or forever.