Guaymas, located on the Sea of Cortez in the state of Sonora, is a coastal city with a rich maritime history and strong fishing traditions. One of Guaymas’s standout attractions is its proximity to San Carlos, just 15 minutes away by car. Known for its dramatic landscapes, San Carlos is backed by the Tetakawi mountain, a double-peaked formation that draws hikers and photographers. The beaches in this area offer calm waters for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, especially along the bays of Playa Los Algodones and Playa Piedras Pintas. Marine life is abundant, and boat tours often spot dolphins, sea lions, and even whale sharks during the right season.
For those interested in marine science, Guaymas is home to the Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada (CICESE), which collaborates on oceanographic studies in the Sea of Cortez. The Guaymas Basin, located offshore, is an area of hydrothermal vents studied for its unusual ecosystems. While not accessible to tourists directly, this research puts Guaymas on the map for scientists around the world and highlights the ecological importance of the surrounding waters.