Things To Do
San Carlos Vista Point
Mirador San Carlos was ranked number one for ocean views by National Geographic, thanks to its prime spot overlooking not just the Sea of Cortez, but the rugged Mount Tetakawi too. Take in a sunset before heading down the track which leads to the Playa Piedras Pintas.
San Pedro Nolasco Island
A trip to Isla San Pedro is another must when in San Carlos. Not only can you spot plenty of native and visiting feathered friends, including pelicans and egrets, you can also hang out with the sea lions that call this nature reserve island home. Watch out for dolphins on your boat ride over too. For this tour you can find more information at the Marina and also several options for boat and yacht rentals.
Cerro Tetakawi
Tetakawi is a strenuous hike, but you are rewarded with 360 degree views over San Carlos from the top. There are two marked trails to the top of Tetakawi: road-side and beach-side. It will take about 2 hours to go to the top and back, depending on how long you stay at the top to admire the view and take photos.
San Carlos Golf Club
You can play golf in San Carlos at the San Carlos Country Club, an 18-hole, par 72 golf course. Lower rates are often in effect for certain days and times. There are both men’s and women’s leagues and several tournaments throughout the year.
San Carlos Beaches
There are many fantastic beaches in San Carlos and Guaymas — some are secluded, and others are located in the busier areas by marinas and restaurants.The following is a list of some of the best beaches in San Carlos, Guaymas, Miramar, and Empalme: Algodones Beach “Algodones” means “cotton” which is a perfect name for this beautiful beach with soft white sand dunes. It has the softest smoothest sand in San Carlos. San Carlos Plaza (hotel) Beach The sandy area in front of San Carlos Plaza is clean and well-maintained and is part of Algodones Beach. La Posada A beautiful beach in a protected cove. You can snorkeling up either side of the cove. At the far end is a cave. If the tide is low, you can walk to the cave and if the tide is high, you can snorkel or swim. This is also a nice beach to read on the lounge chairs under the shaded palapas, and then have dinner and listen to the nightly entertainment at the restaurant.You may also be lucky and find dolphins swimming near the shore.
Where to eat in San Carlos?
The following is a list with the best restaurants in the area: La Zurda Beer Co. San Carlos’ newest and coolest gastropubs. Here you’ll find a dozen or more craft beers. Maguro Barra This restaurant offers a traditional and contemporary mix of sushi along with a variety of eclectic seafood items. Xunuta San Carlos This restaurant and bar has become a favorite hangout for those looking for a rooftop experience.At night, Xunuta becomes your place to party, with a live DJ on the weekends, great music, ambience, and light shows. Embarcadero Cocina + Bar at MarinaTerra It specializes in fresh and cooked seafood, and Sonora select meat on the grill. They have an extensive choice of wines and cocktails. HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille is your best choice for great meals, cold drinks and great atmosphere. Tortuga’s Restaurant Tortuga’s is your fine dining experience in San Carlos. It serves the best meals in town with a great mix of Italian and Mexican style.