Guaymas is the main port of the state of Sonora, situated on the coast of the Sea of Cortez. San Carlos is about 12 miles to the North West.
Guaymas
Guaymas was founded in 1769 by the Spaniards. In the 1800s it was hotly contested harbor with invasions attempted by many groups and nationalities, including the Americans. In 1852 the notorious French pirate Gaston Raousset de Bourbon managed to capture the port for several months. The pirates left for two years, however on their return the Mexican army was waiting for them. Most of the pirates were captured and executed. Today Guaymas has a thriving fishing industry. Some of the day’s catch is served in the local restaurants, the local delicacy being the Camarones Gigantes – giant shrimp.
The most notable sights in Guaymas are the Plaza de los Tres Presidentes commemorating the three Mexican presidents who have come from Guaymas. The Iglesia de San Fernando was built in the 19th century, as was the Palacio Muncipal. The Plaza del Pescador has beautiful views, with the bay on one side and the city spread out on the other. There is a statue of a fisherman here, dedicated to those who have died in their dangerous profession.
San Carlos
San Carlos developed as an offshoot of the larger and older Guaymas and today it faces the Sea of Cortez from beneath the spectacular Mount Tetakawi. The town boasts what may be the most spectacular ocean view in the world.
San Carlos is a more popular destination for tourists, with many Americans coming in the winter months. The beaches aren’t particularly sandy, more rocky actually, but San Carlos is excellent for outdoor sports of all kinds. Diving, sailing, fishing, horse riding, kayaking and golf all have their place here. There are fishing tournaments in May, July and September, and golf tournaments throughout the year.
Playa los Algodones is probably the most famous. The town is also home to a sea lion sanctuary on the San Pedro Nolasco Island just offshore. It’s a favorite for people with their kids along for the trip.
San Carlos is likely most famous for grilled foods, including fresh fish and other seafood. The influence of the Yaqui people is everywhere apparent, but especially in the handcraft traditions that you’ll see everywhere around the town center.
By Air
San Carlos/Guaymas does have an international airport. Guaymas International Airport (GYM) is 15 minutes away from San Carlos. However, it is mainly regional and major airlines do not fly here.
Hermosillo, the capital of the state of Sonora, is 1 1/2 hours to the north and visitors will fly into it’s international airport and either rent a car or take a first class bus ride to Guaymas and from there take a taxi or local bus to San Carlos.
By Land
San Carlos/Guaymas is 250 miles from the Arizona border. From Nogales, Arizona: Take Mexico International Highway 15 south to Navojoa. From the Arizona border it is a divided four-lane toll road as far as Navojoa. The 370 miles take about seven hours from the border.
Car Permit: Sonora Only is the name of the simplified vehicle registration program for travel only within the State of Sonora, good for a period of up to 180 days. This permit sticker is only given at the Nogales Port of Entry at Kilometer 21. Make sure all papers for the vehicle have the same name on them. Have two copies of all the following:
ACCOMMODATIONS
ACTIVITIES & TOURS
RESTAURANTS & BARS
REAL ESTATE
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