You can use U.S. dollars almost anywhere. Bargaining is expected at most of the shops and by all the street vendors. November through April is the ideal time to visit San Felipe. Days are usually warm and sunny, and nights are refreshingly cool. Summers, however, can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures sometimes exceeding 115 Fahrenheit.
Rainfall is less than two inches per year.
Nuevo Mazatlan is the nicest campground south of San Felipe. The campsites are equipped with decent restrooms, showers, running water from faucets, and a beautiful beach. Also, bring your own toilet paper. Ice is available in town. Trinket vendors are always around to sell you hammocks, silver jewelry, etc.