San Carlos, Mexico
SAN CARLOS, MEXICO DIVE TRIP · SEA OF CORTEZ
Sea lions, twelve wrecks, and the Sea of Cortez. Six dives across two days out of San Carlos, with curious California sea lions at Isla San Pedro Nolasco, three nights at the Marina Terra Hotel, and the world's best tacos on Gary's boat. Drive down from Arizona, no flights.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
San Carlos Dive Trip: Sea Lions, Wrecks & the Sea of Cortez
SEA OF CORTEZ · GARY'S DIVE BOAT · MARINA TERRA HOTEL
The Sea of Cortez starts where the desert ends. San Carlos is a drive from Queen Creek, no flights, no airport, and what's under the water has almost nothing to do with the desert you crossed to get there: twelve wrecks on the bottom of the bay, and California sea lions at Isla San Pedro Nolasco that will circle you, buzz you, and get close enough to change how you feel about diving. You leave Thursday morning and you're in the water Friday.
Topside, San Carlos is a small coastal town worth walking. Fresh seafood tacos, the malecon along the water, and a group that's usually planning the next trip before the drive home.
✓ Included
- 6 guided boat dives across 2 days (3 tanks per day)
- 3 nights lodging at Marina Terra Hotel
- Tacos (world's best) on Gary's dive boat
Not included
- Travel to and from San Carlos (carpooling may be available)
- Gratuities
- Meals beyond what's noted above
- Personal expenses
Itinerary
- Thursday: Depart Queen Creek at 8am. It's about a seven-hour drive, so we roll into San Carlos in the afternoon, stop by Gary's Dive Shop to sign waivers, then check in.
- Friday: Full day on the water, three dives across wrecks and/or Isla San Pedro Nolasco.
- Saturday: Full day on the water, three more dives.
- Sunday: Head home, back in Arizona by evening.
Getting there
San Carlos is about a seven-hour drive from Queen Creek. The group departs together at 8am Thursday. Carpooling may be available, call (480) 881-4013 and we'll connect you with other group members. A valid US passport is required for travel to Mexico.
Frequently asked questions
What certification do I need?
Open Water Diver or higher from any recognized agency. Close to finishing your Open Water course? Call (480) 881-4013, we may be able to get you certified before the trip.
Will we see sea lions?
Probably. Sea lions are wildlife and do what they want, but they're a regular, curious presence at Isla San Pedro Nolasco. An encounter is the normal outcome here, not a guarantee, but the chances are good.
Which wrecks will we dive?
San Carlos Bay has twelve wrecks on the bottom. The guide picks sites the morning of each dive day based on conditions, visibility, and current. You'll dive at least one or two wrecks across the two days.
How far is the drive?
About seven hours from the Queen Creek area. The group departs together at 8am Thursday and arrives in San Carlos in the afternoon. Carpooling may be available, call (480) 881-4013.
Do I need a passport?
Yes. A valid US passport is required for travel to Mexico.
Is this trip good for newer divers?
Yes. San Carlos suits divers at all experience levels. The wreck dives are accessible to Open Water divers and the San Pedro Nolasco dives are straightforward. The guide manages the group by experience and conditions.
What's the cancellation policy?
All deposits and payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. Travel insurance is recommended.
Let's. Go. Diving.
No flights, no passport-line marathon, just a drive, six dives, sea lions, and tacos. Reserve above, or call to hold your spot.
📞 Call to book (480) 881-4013All deposits and payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. By reserving, you agree to our Terms & Conditions.
