San Felipe

A remote fishing village on the Sea of Cortez known for pristine beaches, excellent seafood, and dramatic desert-to-sea landscapes. It offers an authentic, less-developed alternative to other coastal towns with strong recreational fishing and increasingly popular with sand buggy enthusiasts.

Things to do

• Sport Fishing for Corvina and Grouper — Charter a boat from the marina to fish the rich waters of the Sea of Cortez, where corvina and grouper are abundant year-round.
• Dune Buggy Tours into the Desert — Rent or join a guided sand buggy excursion into the surrounding Sonoran Desert to experience dramatic landscapes and remote backcountry trails.
• Calamajué Hot Springs — Drive south along the coast to these natural hot springs nestled between desert cliffs and the sea, accessible by high-clearance vehicle or organized tour.
• Beachcombing at Punta Estancia — Walk the northern beaches to search for shells, sea glass, and fossils along pristine stretches of sand backed by dramatic desert bluffs.
• Sunset at the Malecón — Stroll the waterfront promenade at dusk to watch the sun set over the Sea of Cortez while local fishermen bring in their catch.
• Isla Consag Snorkeling — Take a boat trip to this remote island to snorkel in clear waters teeming with tropical fish, sea lions, and vibrant marine life.

Food to try

• Ceviche de Camarón — Fresh shrimp cured in lime juice with onion, cilantro, and jalapeños, served with tostadas—a signature dish reflecting the day's catch.
• Grilled Whole Fish (Huachinango or Corvina) — Whole sea-caught red snapper or corvina seasoned simply with salt, lime, and garlic, then grilled over charcoal at beachfront palapas.
• Camarones a la Mantequilla — Large Gulf shrimp sautéed in butter, garlic, and spices, typically served with rice and fresh lime wedges at waterfront restaurants.
• Caldo de Camarón — A warming broth of shrimp, potatoes, and vegetables, often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch as a nourishing local staple.
• Fish Tacos (Tacos de Pescado) — Crispy or soft tortillas filled with fresh grilled or fried white fish, topped with cabbage slaw, crema, and salsa picante.

Local customs & good to know

• Cash is Essential — San Felipe is remote with limited ATM availability; bring sufficient pesos and US dollars as card payments are unreliable outside major establishments.
• Fishermen's Rhythm — Life revolves around tides and fishing seasons; expect restaurants and shops to have flexible hours, and plan activities around local fishing schedules.
• High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended — Many attractions and backcountry areas require sturdy, high-clearance vehicles; standard sedans are impractical for exploring beyond the town center.
• Respect the Desert and Sea — The environment is harsh and unforgiving; always carry water, inform someone of your route when venturing out, and respect local fishing territories and marine reserves.