The fishing city of Guaymas and resort town of San Carlos are a well-kept secret. For years, Mexican nationals and Arizona residents have flocked to this area on the Sea of Cortez, yet the destination remains remarkably, appealingly undeveloped. The stark desert landscape contrasts with the calm, warm, blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. Great snorkeling and scuba diving can be found in coves just off the beach, and boat trips to nearby San Pedro island provide a chance to fish, dive, and even get up close and personal with sea lions who make the island their home.

Weather and Geography

Guaymas and San Carlos are located in the Sonoran Desert of northern Mexico on the west side of the Sea of Cortez. Summer daytime temperatures can be very hot – regularly in the low 100s Fahrenheit, while winter daytime temperatures are in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Water temperature is in the 80s June through October. This time of year also offers the best visibility.

Quick Facts

• Though they’re located on the beach and seafood is plentiful and good, Guaymas and San Carlos also offer some of the best beef in Mexico on the menu. A plateful of carne asada (grilled beef) or machaca (dried beef) is highly recommended.
  
  
• Because of its close proximity to the United States, English is spoken widely.
  
  
• San Carlos’ calling card, the commanding two-horned mountain Tetakawi or Teta de Cabra, as it’s also known, is named after a goat’s udder, which it’s said to resemble.

Expert Travel Tips

• Have seafood at the traditional thatched roof restaurant at the north end of Guaymas on the west side of the highway. It might not look like anything special from the highway, but its shrimp cocktails, fried fish, and ice-cold beer make it a winner.
  
  
• Enjoy a sunset from the heights of Tetakawi.
  
  
• Take a boat ride out to San Pedro Island and swim with the sea lions.
  
  
• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated in the desert heat of the summer, even if you’re spending your time in the sea or the hotel pool. Beer does not count!

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