When I tell people about this little gem in Mexico, no one seems to have heard of it. But the more I share, the more they want to hear and in no time they are planning a visit. This charming little fishing village on the Sea of ​​Cortez really has it all!

Welcome to San Carlos, Sonora, where the desert meets the sea!

Perhaps what I like the most about San Carlos is that it does not have … no skyscrapers, no street vendors on the beach or traffic congestion. You see, San Carlos is not a Mexican tourist spot.

But it is a retirement destination. For decades, many Americans and Canadians have sought the retirement of their dreams in San Carlos. In fact, 75% of the people who live there are foreigners.

But don’t worry, not everyone is a senior and there is a lot to do for the younger ones. Like most sunny Mexican beach destinations, activities abound from kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, kitesurfing, fishing, golf, hiking, and even ATV rides on the beach.

So what else makes San Carlos so popular? Well, for starters, you can comfortably drive there. It’s just a four-hour drive south of the Arizona border on a safe two-lane highway with only a few potholes.

For San Carlos accommodation, you’ll find a popular RV Park, moderate or luxurious hotels, plus vacation rental properties to choose from.

There are many excellent restaurants with flavors to please all palates and there are two great grocery stores if you prefer to cook.

The climate of San Carlos is, of course, a great attraction. Winters are dry with temperatures generally reaching 70 degrees. Despite being a desert, the ocean brings some humidity in the summer and temperatures reach 90 degrees and higher. With warmer and more humid weather, it does rain a bit, but usually at the end of the day or night.

The landmark of this city of 4,500 people is the Tetakawi Mountain that rises majestically over the great marina. Provides the backdrop for many beautiful sunsets.

In fact, grab your camera and head to a trendy new beach restaurant called Sunset Grill. The floor is sand and the walls are glass so you don’t miss the Kodak moment when the sun goes down. In addition, the food, the decoration and the atmosphere are unbeatable.

Shopping questions? Well, there are many small stores in San Carlos, but if you want the big names, you will find WalMart, Sam’s Club, and Home Depot in Guaymus just 15 minutes away.

So what is a typical day like in San Carlos? Well, the best coffee in the morning can be found at Baracudda Bob’s in the Marina Complex before going fishing. Then he goes to the new gym in town for a morning workout with a friend. Then spend some time on the beach enjoying a walk or your favorite water sport. Later, go out to dinner with friends while watching sports on the big screen TV at Off The Edge Restaurant and Pub.

If this doesn’t appeal to you, trust me, some variation will. San Carlos offers lots of fun in the sun, adventures, and even relaxing activities. On the beach in San Francisco, many enjoy watching the pods of dolphins pass near the shore. It is also a great beach to find smooth, colorful shells and rocks.

Best of all, you will meet many kindred souls in San Carlos. It is a charming little Mexican town where you will quickly make new friends. Hang out at La Palapa Griego restaurant on the beach listening to Mark Mulligan (the Mexican version of Jimmy Buffet) as you sip beer and eat fresh guacamole and fries.

There is nothing better than that!

Now I know what you’re about to do … you’re going to ask Uncle Google all about San Carlos, Sonora Mexico, right? Go for it. He can help you plan your trip.

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