Must-see attractions in Sonora

About 30km from Puerto Peñasco are the lunar landscapes of El Pinacate, one of the driest places on earth. This remote, spectacular 7145-sq-km reserve is…

Also known as Bird Island, Isla San Jorge is one of the best boat excursions in northern Mexico. This rocky island 40km southeast of Peñasco is home to…

Named for the cotton-ball-like dunes on the south end of the beach, Playa Los Algodones is arguably the most beautiful beach in northern Mexico. The sand…

Created by an eco-minded group of residents back in 2014, this lush reserve encompasses some 112 hectares of pristine tropical deciduous forest. Well…

This mountainous island, Mexico's largest, lies 3km off the coast from Punta Chueca. It was once a Seri homeland, but was depopulated when the island was…

CEDO is a wonderful place to learn about Rocky Point’s fascinating desert-meets-sea ecosystem. Dedicated to the conservation of the upper Gulf of…

The magnificent views from this overlook shouldn't be missed on a visit to San Carlos. From a lofty perch 200m over the crashing waves, you can take in…

A popular spot for snorkeling and dive excursions 28km west of San Carlos, Isla San Pedro Nolasco is a rocky island nature reserve that's home to a large…

Puerto Peñasco's main town beach, Playa Hermosa is an inviting swath of tawny sand with small waves and views of the rocky landscape in the distance…

This small but well-curated museum displays an interesting collection of artifacts, handicrafts and panels about Seri culture and history, including…

Álamos’ parish church is the tallest building in town. It was built between 1786 and 1804 and its altar rail, lamps, censers and candelabra were all…

This village is home to the Seri people, one of Mexico's smallest indigenous groups (fewer than 1000 people). The Seri are known for their handicrafts,…

This magnificent lookout tops a hill on Álamos’ southeastern edge, affording sweeping views of the town and its mountainous surroundings. It’s accessible…

This visitor center services the 900-island Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Islas del Golfo de California, a biodiverse protected area of islands in…

Just 4km outside of the Aconchi is a set of man-made pools, naturally filled with water from hot springs. Said to be medicinal, they are, at the very…

This well-done museum of Sonoran customs has extensive exhibits (all in Spanish) on the history and traditions of the state. Special attention is paid to…

Located about 12km west of Puerto Peñasco, Cholla Bay is a fishing village turned expat enclave with sand roads and quiet, calm beaches. At low tide, the…

Built in 1695 Jesuit missionaries, this mission church was burned down by Apaches just three years later. Continual attacks eventually led to the…

Built by Jesuits in the 17th century, this imposing mission church is worth a stop. It overlooks the central park with its shade trees and benches.

Offers stunning views from atop this peak roughly half way between the marina and Playa Algodones.