San Carlos is one of the premiere ecological destinations in the Sea of Cortez and features a wide variety of activities. Year-round ocean attractions include Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Deep Sea Fishing, and Nature Cruises. This traditional town features a variety of attractions such as easily accessible beaches, hotels, RV parks, restaurants and bars. Rental houses and condos are a popular alternative lodging option.

This location is famous for it's variety of sea-life which includes the Island of San Pedro Nolasco - a 1.5 hour boat ride out. Sea-life includes dolphins, whales, sea lions (colony at San Pedro), sea turtles, pelagic fish (dorado/mahi mahi, various bill-fish, yellowtail/jurel, etc), non-pelagic fish (cabrilla, grouper, red-snapper), and a large variety of coral and other organisms.

The town of San Carlos is a subdivision of Guaymas in Sonora, Mexico. It is located 1.5 hours south of the Sonoran capital Hermosillo, and 5 hours south of the U.S. / Mexico border at Nogales, AZ. Airports are located in both Hermosillo and Guaymas, and the newly constructed Mexican Interstate 15 offers smooth driving if you are coming from the U.S.