Things to do in Sonora

Looking for things to do in Sonora?  If you are ready to enjoy your own Mexican adventure, the Sonora region is well worth a visit. Whether you set your home base in Rocky Point, Puerto Penasco, San Carlos, Hermosillo, Guaymas, Nogales, or elsewhere in the region, you will find excitement everywhere you turn. Here are some of the things to do in Sonora.

Tequila Pairing Dinners

The Sonora region may be known for its great wines, but it is tequila that is most closely associated with Mexico. The country takes its tequila seriously, with unique varieties you will not find north of the border.

Tequila is great on its own or with a dash of salt and a sliver of lime, but this official drink of Mexico is even better paired with food. You can explore tequila pairings at special dinners throughout the Sonora region, satisfying your taste buds and your soul.

Celebrate Carnaval in Sonora

If you are visiting Sonora in February, you can enjoy the nonstop celebration that is Carnaval. New Orleans has nothing on Sonora when it comes to this annual celebration, so come early and plan to stay well into the night. By the time the sun goes down, the fun is just heating up.

International Festivals in Sonora

The Sonora region of Mexico is a cosmopolitan mix of cultures, working and enjoy life side by side. The region celebrates this diversity with a number of international festivals, and each one has a unique flavor all its own.

Some of these international festivals focus on food, with cuisine from around the region and far beyond. Others are centered on arts and crafts, with local and national artisans to show off (and sell) their wares. Be sure to make some room in your car – you will want to pick up a few of these artistic creations for the folks back home.

Guaymas

Just south of the Sonora state capital of Hermosillo is a city called Guaymas. With a population of around 134,000 and access to both the Gulf of California and the Sonoran Desert, Guaymas has an old-Mexico feel with great food, lovely Mexican culture, and more of what you might be looking for in a Mexican adventure or relaxing destination.  We recommend you attend the Carnival the city holds each February. This Carnival has been a staple of the city since 1888.  There are also annual festivities held to commemorate the Battle of Guaymas.

San Carlos

The beachfront subdivision of Guaymas known as San Carlos is one of the state’s most desirable destinations for the slow Mexican life.  There are only around 7,000 people living here so you can expect a mellow vibe and a slow pace.  The lack of population means this is one of Sonora’s hidden gems, where the earth and geography is preserved.  For now.

The beach is gorgeous, and it’s a preferred scuba diving spot if you’re into that sort of thing.  Boating is popular and there are some great RV parks with sunshine and mountain views.  Enjoy both sunsets and sunrises here in San Carlos.

Hermosillo

Hermosillo, the capital, is almost exactly in the center of Sonora.   It is also the commercial hub for more of the northern region of Mexico (with Tijuana a close contender for that title).  Hermosillo is great for business, a more modern city due to the business activity but for vacationers check out Bahia de Kino (Kino Bay) which has the Seri Museum.  You can scuba dive, go fishing and boating is very popular.  La Pintada is another cool place to visit, it’s about 35 miles south of this city and has cave marking as an archaeological site.  Read more on Hermosillo here.

Puerto Peñasco, aka “Rocky Point”

There is almost too much to do here, you’ll definitely need more than a weekend.  Sandy Beach is a white-sand beach with gentle surf.  In addition to Sandy Beach, you can check other beaches Playa Hermosa, Las Conchas Beach, and Playa Mirador.  In addition to the beach-scene, you can go to the Old Port Fish Market, for fresh seafood.  The Seawalk has some of the most beautiful sunsets and it’s lined with restaurants and shops.  It’s the perfect place to end your day in Puerto Peñasco.

As you can see, the Sonora region of Mexico gives visitors a wealth of opportunities. From exciting festivals and international celebrations to relaxing getaways and family-friendly activities. You can find it all here.

Traveling in Mexico is a true adventure. The country offers something for every visitor, from pristine beaches and nature reserves to modern architecture and ancient ruins. No matter what you crave from travel, you are sure to find it south of the border.