Travel to a delightful fishing town on the west coast of Mexico that borders a playground for whales and other marine mammals.
Puerto San Carlos is a fishing port and community on the shores of Magdalena Bay in the Pacific Ocean that is also a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visit Puerto San Carlos for a chance to observe magnificent marine mammals up close.
Come during the winter and go on a whale-watching tour. From December until March, grey and humpback whales migrate to these waters to mate and nurse their young. The first whales to arrive in the area are pregnant females and young whales followed by adult males. Among the other species of whales that can also be seen off the coast of Puerto San Carlos at this time is the finback whale.
Time your visit to coincide with the International Festival of the Grey Whale, which is held in February. The annual fiesta includes cultural events such as live music, traditional dances and a competition for the best decorated boat as well as trips to see dolphins, whales and sea lions.
For more encounters with the area’s wildlife, grab a pair of binoculars and head for the Isla de Los Pájaros, the Island of the Birds. This is a sandy bank that’s home to many species of birds including frigatebirds, sandpipers and gulls.
Other popular activities at Puerto San Carlos are surfing and sport fishing. Charter a boat and venture out to the open sea to fish for puffer fish, halibut, grouper, marlin and tuna among many other species. A fishing licence is required and should be obtained in advance of your trip.
Puerto San Carlos is a quiet town with not a lot happening after dark. However, there are a few restaurants. Reserve a table and sample regional seafood specialties.
The easiest way for international travellers to reach Puerto San Carlos is to fly into Loreto International Airport approximately 125.5 miles (202 kilometres) away and make the rest of the journey by rental car. Note that there are no car rental companies or taxis within the town. Once you arrive in Puerto San Carlos look forward to a holiday of unforgettable wildlife encounters.
