San Carlos & Guaymas Sonora Mexico Newsletter with special events, weekly calendar, local news and weather, photos, videos, fishing report, dive report, Cinemex (movie) listings and more.
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This week’s San Carlos newsletter: September 16, 2020
San Carlos and Guaymas Photos
Palacio Municipal decorated for El Mes de la Patria and Independence Day on September 16, by Esteban Ibarra Ramirez
Villa Bahia, by Rada SC
Sunrise at Posada, by Leonel Garza Sánchez
The 2020-2021 shrimp season began on Monday. Officials stated that over 2000 fishermen from the Guaymas and Empalme regions headed out to sea on their pangas or smaller vessels. Shrimping is vital for our local economy so let’s hope for a successful season!
San Carlos Weather, News & Marketplace
News & Marketplace
- Join us on Facebook for photos, event updates and more (more than 11,000 people already do).
- Join the conversation on the Facebook group San Carlos Forum: What’s Up San Carlos?
- September 2020 Tide Chart.
- Check out September’s special at Lupita’s Salon – New Gelish polish application only 100 pesos!
- Wednesday, September 16 is Independence Day in Mexico and is a national holiday. Schools, banks (including CIBanco) and many businesses will be closed. Athleticlub San Carlos will be closed at noon.
- On Friday, September 18, Rosh Hashanah will begin at sunset and end at sunset on Sunday, September 20. Happy New Year (shana tova)!
- El Mar Restaurant’s All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast Buffet is now available on Sundays, from 8:00am – noon. Check out their restaurant listing below for details.
- As you San Carlos snowbirds start making plans to head south again, now is a good time to look into cross-border health insurance. Did you know that most health insurance plans won’t cover medical treatment in Mexico? ASA Inc. (International Insurance Consultants) is one option that can help you find international health insurance that is right for you. They have short and long term plans that cover Covid-19 related health expenses. You can call them for a free consultation at 1-888-272-8288 or 480-753-1333; or email them at insurance@asaincor.com.
- Check out our San Carlos & Guaymas Business Directory with local businesses, such as International Health Insurance, Emergency numbers, dentists, Mexican car insurance, realtors, restaurants, vacation rentals, hotels, etc. Businesses and organizations, feel free to add your information.
- There is sports equipment, vehicles, boats, houses for sale and rent, and more, listed in the Classifieds. There are also people looking for items, so if you have any to sell, list them now — it’s free.
San Carlos Weather Forecast
This week, we’ll have mostly sunny skies. The daytime temperature will go up to 38 C (101 F) on Wednesday, then drop to 35 – 36 C (95 – 97 F) the rest of the week. Night time temperatures will be 25 – 26 C (77 – 80 F).
Tropical Storm Karina is located several hundred miles west-southwest off the southern tip of Baja, and is forecast to continue moving west away from land.
Keep an eye on the weather at our San Carlos Weather page with satellite images and live weather feeds.
COVID-19 updates for Guaymas, Sonora & Mexico
Of the 31,095 confirmed cases in Sonora yesterday, 14.000 have recovered, 2,803 died, 144 are hospitalized (107 in serious condition). In Guaymas / San Carlos, as of yesterday, there were 1,556 cases (159 new cases last week) and 189 deaths (1 last week).
Today, Mexico had 4,771 new cases and 629 deaths for a total of 676,487 confirmed cases (481,068 have recovered) and 71,678 deceased.
Sonora remains in “Yellow” according to Mexico’s four-color semáforo, or traffic light, Coronavirus rating system. Sonoran Health Secretary Enrique Clausen urges residents not to let their guard down and to continue with the use of masks, frequent hand washing and social distancing.
The U.S. Department of State updated the Travel Advisory for Mexico on September 8, 2020, lifting its blanket Level 4 “Do Not Travel” Advisory. The advisory now says: “Reconsider travel to Mexico due to COVID-19″. Read the entire Travel Advisory. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Mexico due to COVID-19. There’s no word yet on whether the “essential travel” limit will be extended beyond September 21, 2020. For now, travel continues to be limited to “essential travel” only.
Entertainment this Week
Entertainment Calendar
Wednesdays
- Los Bad Rumors. 4:00pm – 7:00pm, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille.
Thursdays
- Luna Band. 7:00pm – 11:00pm, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille.
Fridays
- DJ Alex Meza. 3:00pm – midnight, La Bartina 64.
- Assterisko. 4:00pm – 6:00pm, Soggy Peso.
- Malibu. 7:00pm – 11:00pm, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille.
- Los Bad Rumors. 7:00pm – 10:00pm, Sunset Bar & Grill.
- Laura y Cadenza Band, 7:00pm – 10:00pm, Tortuga’s Restaurant & Bar.
Saturdays
- Assterisko. 2:00pm – 5:00pm, La Palapa Griega.
- The Dudes. 2:00pm – 5:00pm, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille.
- DJ Alex Meza. 3:00pm – midnight, La Bartina 64.
- Cadenza. 4:00pm – 6:30pm, Soggy Peso.
- Son Desierto. 6:00pm – 9:00pm, Sunset Bar & Grill.
- Grupo Sabor a Mi. 7:00pm – 10:00pm, Colibrí Restaurant & Bar.
- Gembe Jazz Trio. 7:00pm – 10:00pm, Tortuga’s Restaurant & Bar.
- Gigi and The Glow. 7:00pm – 11:00pm, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille.
Sundays
- Sector 7. 2:00pm – 5:00pm, La Palapa Griega.
- Son Desierto 3:00 pm – 6:00pm, Soggy Peso.
- Malibu Lite. 5:00pm – 8:00pm, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille.
- Sonora Jazz Trío. 6:00 – 9:00pm, Sunset Bar & Grill.
Mondays
- Mark Mulligan in La Paz, live stream. 5:00pm.
Tuesdays
- Sensa Nova. 6:00pm – 9:00pm, Colibrí Restaurant & Bar. (Starting September 22)
- Alfredo & Beto. 6:00pm – 9:00pm, Tortuga’s Restaurant & Bar.
Día de la Independencia, September 16
September in Mexico is known as El Mes de la Patria — the month of our country.
Look for push carts offering flags of all sizes, trumpets, sombreros and noisemakers, all in patriotic green, white and red.
The main event is on September 15 – 16, when Mexicans celebrate their nation’s independence from Spanish rule.
On Tuesday, September 15, the President of Mexico will give El Grito (the Cry of Dolores that marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence) in the zocalo in Mexico City. Cities throughout Mexico will join in. ¡Viva México!
This year, there will not be a public celebration in Guaymas, but the Grito will be broadcast on social media.
Wednesday, September 16 is Día de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day). It’s a national holiday. Schools, banks (including CIBanco) and many businesses will be closed.
Future Events
- September 26. Chicken Poop Bingo Fundraiser for Roberto Dunn. 10:00am live stream on FaceBook. Buy a square beforehand to help Robert pay for a prosthetic leg. For more info, please contact georgeinsancarlos@gmail.com.
- San Carlos will again be featured in HGTV’s Mexico Life in episodes airing September 27 & 28 and October 4 & 5.
- October 15. Mexican Pacific League baseball 2020-21 regular season starts with Naranjeros de Hermosillo at Navojoa and Mexicali at Obregon. The Naranjeros’ season home-opener is at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 20 against Los Mochis.
- October 17. Mark Mulligan Welcome Back San Carlos Party. 5:00pm, La Palapa Griega.
Diving Report
Have you seen schools with maybe a hundred or more silvery fish with a black dot on their tail base (caudal peduncle)? Almost every dive and snorkel spot has them. You might also see schools of juveniles that have the black dot, bars, or stripes but may not look anything like the adult. These are all Grunts. There are several different species and they are often all mixed together in one super school.
The Latin and Cortez Grunts can be difficult to tell apart. They both have yellowish fins and tail, diagonal “lines” above their lateral line (a line that runs from tail to head) and horizontal “lines” below. But, the black spot on the tail of a Latin Grunt is very tight and round. The Cortez Grunt has more of a splotch – a dusky, dark yellow tail. They both can be up to 14 inches.
Spottail Grunts are often seen mixed with the two above, but the “lines” on their body are all horizontal, they have no yellow, and they have a round black spot on their tail. These can grow to 10 inches.
Others you might see are the Greybar Grunt with its obvious 5 – 6 grey bars (to 18″), the Wavyline Grunt with 7 – 9 narrow orange strips that can appear wavy (to 18″), and the Burrito Grunt with a more rounded profile and a yellow-greenish sheen to its body (to 20″). On our last dive to the southwest corner of Isla San Nicholas, we saw some Burrito Grunts that were at least 20″, maybe larger.
Water temperature at both Isla San Pedro Nolasco and locally was 86 degrees last week. Locally the visibility was about 30 feet. At the island, visibility was 60 feet. Divers reported seeing lobster and a sea turtle at the island. With the air temperatures cooling some, this is a great time to do some snorkeling or diving.
Here is El Mar Diving Center’s weekly diving schedule — book your spot today at 622-226-0404 or email elmarmexico@gmail.com.
Wednesday, September 16: 2 tank dive at San Pedro Island
Thursday, September 17: 2 tank local dive
Friday, September 18: 2 tank local dive
Saturday, September 19: 2 tank dive at San Pedro Island
Sunday, September 20: 2 tank dive up the coast at the sunken Ferry Diaz Ordaz (for advanced divers only)
by Annette Felix and Feliza Rios, El Mar Diving Center, elmarmexico@gmail.com
Fishing Report
A few more fishermen were trying as the water slowly cools off. Water temps have dropped to the mid-80s, triggering a few chills from the locals. There is lots of bait in the bays and along the shorelines. Farther offshore we could see some better fishing as the water cools and appears to already be greening up and possibly concentrating the fish.
Many boats had luck with small to medium-sized Sierra and some small Dorado in close. I saw that one sail and a marlin were released, but the offshore fishing still sounds pretty slow. A few yellowtail and red snapper are biting deep on the Reef. There are a few fish along the shorelines, but I didn’t hear of any corvina bite. There are lots of calm days trading off breezy mornings to afternoons, with the smoke cover keeping the temperature bearable.
by Bryan Replogle, Team Margarita Sportfishing, repsilon@aol.com
Other News Around Town
Many of you know that local musician, Mark Mulligan, has been entertaining us all summer with his online shows every Monday. His performances are currently available on his Facebook page, but Facebook may cancel all live streamed shows starting October 1.
If that happens, Mark will switch his live stream shows to his YouTube channel so he can continue to sing for us, but he needs a minimum of 1000 subscribers due to the YouTube rules.
Please click here and “SUBSCRIBE” to Mark Mulligan’s channel so he can continue performing online until touring is possible again. Even if you do not watch Mark’s Monday shows, this will help to ensure he can use this channel for future performances. Thank you for supporting our San Carlos musicians during this pandemic.
Happy Hours and Food Specials
Explore San Carlos: Tours and ExcursionsEl Mar Diving Center
We are San Carlos’ Premier Scuba Diving Center, providing Adventure since 1988. We offer certification courses (Open Water; Advanced; Diver Specialties such as navigation, underwater digi-photo, night, deep, and wreck diving) representing SSI and PADI Training. Already certified? Then come to El Mar to rent or fill your tanks or service your equipment. We also offer a snorkeling course. For a memorable day on the water, join us for one of our diving, snorkeling, kayaking or fishing trips. We also rent kayaks, snorkeling and scuba gear. Click here for more details. Phone: 622-226-0404 (San Carlos Office); 1-877-365-0251 (Toll Free from U.S. & CAD) Jack Wilde Kayak Adventures
Family and friends coming to visit? Do you want them to experience the beauty and wonder of San Carlos, to really understand why you love it here so much? Why don’t we take them kayaking? Out on the water we can truly enjoy the gorgeous scenery, the interesting wildlife, and the feel of the Sea of Cortez beneath us. Combine it with a swim or snorkel and a little beach time; what better way to show off this incredible location? A three-hour tour, including kayak, costs only $40 USD per person. Trips are in stable and dry double kayaks and include basic instruction, all required equipment, a light snack and a biologist as your guide. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You can also take Kayak Paddling lessons. Click here or call Jack for more information. Team Margarita Sport Fishing
Check out our weekly Fishing Report on whatsupsancarlos.com. We can also host sunset cruises, eco-cruises (whale watching, dolphins, birds, etc), and snorkeling trips. We specialize in sailing trips, kayak excursions, and windsurfing. Boat, kayak, and equipment rentals available. Click here for more details. Phone: 622-855-5926 or 622-227-0219 (San Carlos Office); 1-520-232-2103 (U.S. & CAD) Thrift Stores & Book Shoppes for CharityAltered Tails Book Shoppe
Masks are mandatory. We’ll have hand sanitizer at the door, and of course control entry by scheduling appointment times, so we can minimize any risks. For an appointment, please contact Carole Bonhorst at 622-226-0683 or 520-326-6580 (Vonage). Altered Tails Book Shoppe is located in Marina San Carlos. The Book Shoppe validates parking. Every peso supports the SBPA spay / neuter program. If you’d like to further support SBPA, please go to the SBPA website and click donate: sbpasancarlosmexico.com or for peso donations in San Carlos, contact Carole Bonhorst at 622-226-0683. Rescate Treasures Thrift Store
They have shoes, clothing, housewares, small appliances, DVDs, sporting goods, hardware, jewelry, electrical, bedding, towels, lamps and pillows. Rescate Treasures Thrift Store Hot Sale Continues, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, September 17, 18, and 19. We had such a huge success last week, we are continuing 50% off all housewares and glassware. Also, ALL summer clothing is buy one, get one free (of equal or lesser value). As the inventory turns over, be assured the shelves are being replenished with new items. We wish to thank all of you who have so kindly donated to support Rescate de San Carlos. All proceeds from store sales directly fund daily operations. To make an appointment, please call Pat Adams, 622-227-0502. Emergency Numbers
After you read the San Carlos Newsletter, Keep Exploring … San Carlos |
NOTE: Due to COVID-19, Captains Club is temporarily closed. 
Delfines Bar and Grill has been recognized with a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, based on the consistently great reviews we’ve earned! San Carlos’s finest international dining experience with a full service bar and bilingual staff.
Just a short 7 minute drive from town, on the old Club Med beach, you’ll discover this one-of-a-kind handcrafted restaurant.
It’s Hammer-Time! Check out the best sports bar in town. Located at the San Carlos Marina, HammerHead’s Dockside Bar & Grille is your best choice for great meals, cold drinks and great atmosphere. Come watch the sun set behind Tetakawi and the boats come and go from the marina.
We welcome you to the Colibrí Restaurant & Bar, a garden oasis like no other in San Carlos. Located in the north-west corner of Plaza Las Palmas (where the CEA water company is located) in the center of town, Colibrí (which means “hummingbird” in English) is your best choice for an intimate, romantic dinner or for a fun outing with a bunch of friends.
Looking for a casual dining experience in the heart of San Carlos with views of the beautiful Sea of Cortez! Then look no further than La Bartina 64 – located upstairs in the Seascape Plaza.
Blackie’s Restaurant & Bar has been a staple in San Carlos for over 20 years, offering a delicious dining experience and excellent service for its national and international guests.
At Turquesa Restaurant, admire the beautiful Sea of Cortez and watch the sunset from our outdoor patio or air-conditioned restaurant.
Los Arbolitos de Cajeme in San Carlos welcomes You!
You haven’t experienced San Carlos, Mexico until you’ve been to Tequila’s. Named after Mexico’s national drink, Tequila’s Restaurant & Bar is the quintessential Mexican experience. We also specialize in Seafood!
NOTE: Due to COVID-19, Hair of the Dog is temporarily closed.
The craft beer revolution finally comes to San Carlos, as the only LOCALLY BREWED craft beer debuts at Marvida Taproom & Kitchen. This is REAL craft beer from kegs (not bottles), and the difference is right there, on your palate. We’ve got all your favorites: IPAs, Stouts, Hefeweizen, Blonde Ales, and more. Beer flights are available too. Come in often to see what’s new on tap at our microbrewery. And if beer is not your beverage of choice, we offer wine and a full bar.
WE ARE OPEN!
Now Open!
San Carlos offers outstanding sport fishing year-round and our Team Margarita charter boats can adapt to whatever fishing style you prefer. We practice “catch and release” on all billfish, but other varieties can be excellent food for the table. Light tackle or fly-fishing enthusiast? We can set you up!
Rescate Treasures Thrift Store is open again by appointment only on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. They are allowing 2 adults at a time (children under 16 not permitted at this time) for 30 minutes visits with appropriate masks and sanitized hands. Sanitizer will be available at the door.
