Visiting San Carlos and Guaymas

City in Sonora, Mexico
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    These two delightful cities within the Mexican State of Sonora are only 30 minutes apart so we combine them into a single post so that you have all the resources at your fingertips if you’re at either location. Find specific Guaymas details by scrolling down further on this page, as we start with San Carlos just below.

    FACTS ABOUT SAN CARLOS, SONORA

    The state of Sonora has a lot to offer, but the beautiful beachfront subdivision of Guaymas, known as San Carlos, is one of the state’s most stunning attractions. Despite a population of around 7,000 people, San Carlos has much to offer tourists and residents.

    HISTORY OF SAN CARLOS

    Believe it or not, the community was built on land that used to be occupied by large ranches. These ranches were eventually purchased, and the land was used to create this magical village, which was one of the very first tourism-based communities in the state. The Township was officially incorporated on 28 September 1963. The land was declared a high-priority Tourist Zone and became a popular destination.

    Throughout its history, San Carlos has been used in numerous films. These films include Catch-22, The Mask of Zorro, Lucky Lady, Camaroneros, and the Spanish soap opera Por Tu Amor. This helped further to solidify the city as a tourism hot spot.

    GEOGRAPHY

    A Los Algodones Catch 22 Beach and Tetakawi Mountain Shot in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico

    While there are a few exciting and cool things about this place, the fact that it’s on the beach is the best. Whatever you typically do in a beach city, chances are it’s available here. The coolest part about the water is that it’s hot and clear, which makes it even better than a typical beach.

    GUAYMAS

    THING TO SEE AND DO IN SAN CARLOS

    If you’re looking for the best sights to see and the best things to do in the area, look no further than the beach. Thanks to the beautiful ocean and excellent weather, it is a real hot spot for scuba diving. There are many wonderful dive sites in the area and people who can help you get set up.

    FACTS ABOUT GUAYMAS, SONORA

    Shortly south of the Sonora state capital of Hermosillo lies a city called Guaymas. With a population of about 134,000 and access to the Gulf of California and the Sonoran Desert, Guaymas has much to offer, no matter what you want.

    A Scenic Sunrise View from Mirador Lookout, San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico

    HISTORY OF GUAYMAS

    When Francisco de Ulloa arrived in 1539, he called the area “the port of ports.” However, it would take centuries before Guaymas authorized commercial maritime traffic and established customs in the early 19th century. In 1825, the port of Guaymas became a municipality. Despite being occupied by various outside groups through the middle of the 19th century, it would eventually become a somewhat prosperous city by the end of the century.

    Believe it or not, the community was built on land that used to be occupied by large ranches. These ranches were eventually purchased, and the land was used to create this magical village, one of the very first tourism-based communities in the state. The Township was officially incorporated on 28 September 1963. The land was declared a high-priority Tourist Zone and became a popular destination.

    When Francisco de Ulloa arrived in 1539, he called the area “the port of ports.” However, it would take centuries before Guaymas authorized commercial maritime traffic and established customs in the early 19th century. In 1825, the port of Guaymas became a municipality. Despite being occupied by various outside groups through the middle of the 19th century, it would eventually become a somewhat prosperous city by the end of the century.

    GEOGRAPHY

    As far as geography goes, Guaymas is unique because of the two natural beauties it sits between. While the western edge is on the coast of the Gulf of California, the eastern edge of the city is near the edge of the west of the Sonoran Desert. The city is a mere 13 feet above sea level, which means it has wonderful beach access. Despite this, beautiful mountains surround the city of Guaymas.

    THING TO SEE AND DO IN GUAYMAS

    Perhaps the best thing to do here is to attend the city’s Carnival each February. This Carnival has been a staple of the city since 1888, making it some of its oldest history. There are also annual festivities held to commemorate the Battle of Guaymas.

    GUAYMAS

    If you’re looking for a more traditional tourist experience, you can go snorkeling, sport fishing, and more, thanks to its beautiful beaches. The subdivision of San Carlos is a popular RV retreat. There are also some excellent golf courses in the area. And, of course, you can never go wrong with a simple horseback ride or bike ride through town to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful scenery.

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