Prodigio natural
When Mother Nature wishes to bestow natural gifts upon an area, she does it in a masterful and unique way. However, when she includes intense flashes of joy, color and harmony to the composition, we can assume that her creation is nothing less than an incredible and inspirational masterpiece.
San Carlos was elegantly designed so that visitors could enjoy the most serene beaches, have fun in fascinating spaces and admire the attributes that nature has generously bestowed upon these lands. Without a doubt, San Carlos represents a visual and recreational gift that we all deserve and it is just waiting for our arrival.
Los Algodones Beach
This beach’s name is accredited to the fine texture of its delicate white sand dunes that resemble cotton balls. This image gives us an idea of the attractiveness and appeal of this natural wonder. Scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing and many more activities are supported by the high-class services offered in the area.
San Francisco Beach
One of the most popular and extensive in the area, this beach boasts smooth swells that are perfect for family gatherings as well as boat, snorkel and kayak tours. Condominiums and adjacent hotels abound with luxury class services.
Piedras Pintas Beach
The absence of a hotel infrastructure makes this beach very attractive for all of those who seek outdoor adventure. This beach is especially appealing to scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Sonora Dolphin Aquarium
Modern and spectacular recreational, educational and therapeutic space where children and adults have the opportunity to see, admire, and interact with the surprisingly well-trained dolphins and sea lions. Supervised by expert animal trainers, visitors to this aquatic center can enjoy guided tours, interactive and educational swims with the dolphins, as well as professional dolphin therapy. All activities have a small fee. Kilometer marker 5.57 on the San Carlos-Las Tinajas highway. Tels. 01 622 225 2600 / 19.
Panoramic Lookout
This spectacular point of reference is situated on Vigía Hill. From here visitors can contemplate the full majesty of the Sea of Cortez. The lookout represents a corporal and spiritual escape for visitors, and it is accessible by vehicle.
Tetakawi Hill
An unmistakable symbol of the bay, this spot is an impressive natural formation that welcomes us from a distance. Its sloped terrain is a challenge and a delight for hiking and climbing enthusiasts. Even though the word Tetakawi means “stony or rocky hill” in the Yaqui language, it is popularly known as las tetas de cabra (goat’s teats).
Nacapule Canyon
This authentic tropical oasis is located in the middle of the desert where the area’s moisture and spectacular rock formations have created an exotic ecosystem with extremely unique flora and fauna. Pristine water pools, nacapule trees (meaning earlobe in native Cahíta), palm trees, cacti, and endangered plants are only part of what we can admire while touring. Six kilometers (4 miles) north of San Carlos.
San Pedro Nolasco Island
Located just 45 minutes from the bay, this sanctuary of sea lions and thousands of birds is a favorite spot for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Exploring the richness of the ocean while surrounded by playful sea lions is a unique experience that cannot be missed.
El Soldado Marsh
Considered a Natural Protected Area, this aquatic ecosystem is a sanctuary for hundreds of plant and animal species. In addition, it is the only place in northwestern Mexico that boasts the three types of mangrove swamps that exist on the continent.
San Carlos Golf Course
This course’s closeness to the mountains and its semi-arid characteristics prove an interesting challenge for even the most advanced and experienced golfers. The course combines green areas with desert sands, used as obstacles. Designed by Roy and Pete Dye, this 18-hole, 72-par golfer’s haven stretches for 6,542 yards. It has hosted national tournaments, drawing players from across the country and abroad. Tels. 01 (662) 226 1020 / 1102, E-mail: sancarlos@prodigy.net.mx.
Marinas
The San Carlos Marina (Tels. 01 (622) 226 1230 / 1202. www.marinasancarlos.com) and The Marina Real (Tels. 01 (622) 227 0011 / 0110 Email: marinareal@prodigy.net.mx) provide protection for modern yachts used for sporting activities. With a complete infrastructure that provides all the necessary services, these two
marinas offer close to 700 docks. Both contain dry-storage.
Nighttime Hotspots
When it seems that one activity has ended, there is always another waiting to begin. Parties in San Carlos are always romantic, energetic and harmonious. Modern lounges, bars and nightclubs open their doors and invite partygoers inside to experience a night filled with excitement.
Mountain Biking
The natural landscape of San Carlos and its surrounding areas has powerfully captivated experts and fans of this sport. The hills and mountains offer not only a great variety of routes but also a spectacular view of the majestic Sea of Cortez. Experts recommend:
El Soldado Path.
A 7.6-km (4.7-mile) trail filled with hills, gullies and valleys.
The Potrero.
An 11-km (6.8-mile) dirt access road and another 8-km (5-mile) path among deserts, mountains and oases.
Los Anegados.
Rarely visited and easily-traveled paths; wild fauna can be observed here.
San José de Guaymas.
The route to this old mission is both comforting and illustrative.
Vigía Hill.
Strength and good equipment are necessary, if not indispensable.
El Faro de Guaymas.
A 10-km (6.2-mile) ride that visitors won’t want to miss.
For more information about routes and competitions: covotrel@yahoo.com.mx
