Lighted Boat Parade — December 21 & 27, 2025
Get ready for one of the most magical holiday traditions in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico — the annual Lighted Boat Parade, hosted by the San Carlos Yacht Club. On Saturday, December 21 and Saturday, December 27, 2025, brightly decorated boats will illuminate the bay at sunset (around 5:30pm) in a dazzling Christmas Parade of Lights on the Sea of Cortez.
The best places to watch the parade include La Palapa Griega, and El Mar Restaurant where you can enjoy dinner, music, and front-row views as the glowing vessels circle the bay.
Every year, the local marine community and visiting captains join together to “deck out” their vessels with festive lights, ornaments, and holiday cheer. Professional tour boats are also invited to participate, offering unforgettable viewing experiences from the water.
Whether you’re a local resident, winter visitor, or first-time guest, the San Carlos Lighted Boat Parade 2025 is a must-see event that captures the spirit of the season. If you can’t make it on the 21st — or just can’t get enough — catch the second parade on December 27, 2025 for another sparkling night on the water.
When & Where — Parade Schedule:
The San Carlos Lighted Boat Parade 2025 will begin at sunset (around 5:30pm) on Saturday, December 21, with a second parade on Saturday, December 27.
Spectators can enjoy the best views from El Mar and La Palapa Griega restaurants, Posada Beach, and San Francisco Beach — perfect spots to bring a beach chair, a blanket, and a warm drink.
The boats will gather in the Bahía San Carlos at dusk before setting sail past Isla San Nicolás and into Posada Bay. There, the fleet will make two shimmering passes in front of El Mar and La Palapa Griega, offering a spectacular view from the shoreline.
From there, vessels continue along the shore side of Honeymoon Island, parading close to San Francisco Beach, where bonfires and cheers light the way. The boats then turn out to sea before looping back toward La Palapa Griega and El Mar for a final pass along the beach — completing their festive route back to the Bahía.
The following info is from 2024 … 2025 info coming soon …
Watch the Lighted Boat Parade at:
La Palapa Griega Lighted Boat Parade, December 22 & 28
Join us at La Palapa Griega for an exciting beach-front view of all the lighted vessels as they make their way by our restaurant. We will be serving our famous Baby Back Ribs and Chicken served with a baked potato and green salad. Enjoy this delicious meal for only 380 pesos per person. The regular menu will also be available. Please call us for reservations at 622-226-1888 today! View La Palapa Griega‘s menu, map and details. |
El Mar Restaurant Boat Parade Party, December 22
Seating is limited, so please call for reservations at 622-226-1008. Discover El Mar’s menu, location, and more info. |
Join the Boat Parade of Lights – Boat Cruises & Tickets:
No Le Hace Boat Cruise, December 22
The cost is 800 pesos or $40 USD per person and it includes: 3 hour outing in the lighted boat parade, a fireworks show, typical regional Mexican food, Sangria and Buñuelos. For more information and to make your reservation, contact Tomas via cell or WhatsApp at 622-176-0348 (Mexico) 602-677-7383 (US). You will be leaving from Iguana Dock (right in front of Marvida Taproom & Kitchen) at Marina San Carlos The same boat will also be participating in the 2nd Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 28 and you can reserve your place for that event now too. |
Oasis Tours, December 22
The cost is 600 pesos or $30 USD and it includes: * A 2+ hour boat tour along the shoreline of Posada and San Francisco beaches where you’ll be cheered on by all the parade-watchers along the beach. The boat leaves at approx. 5:30pm from Dock M at Marina San Carlos. You need to be at the dock at 5:00pm. To book your spot, please WhatsApp +52 622-169-4231 or come into the office between HammerHead’s restaurant and the Marina Office. We have spaces available on Oasis and Oasis II and the Dhow, so bring your family and friends. This will be an unforgettable evening so don’t miss out! The same boats will also be participating in the 2nd Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 28 and you can reserve your place for that event now too. |
Aquanimity Catamaran Sailboat, December 22
It will leave from Marina San Carlos and the trip is from 5:00pm – 8:00pm (approximate times). The cost is 1300 pesos ($65 USD) per adults; 1/2 price for kids ages 5 – 12; and free for kids under 5. The cost includes: The Aquanimity will also be participating in the 2nd Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 28 and you can reserve your place for that event now too. |
Lighted Boat Parade 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch the Lighted Boat Parade?
You can enjoy the best views from the San Carlos Marina, La Palapa Griega, El Mar, and along the waterfront on Posada and San Francisco Beaches. Arrive early to get a good spot!
What time does the parade start?
The parade begins around 5:30pm each evening (December 21 and December 27, 2025) and continues until approximately 9:00 PM.
Is there an admission or ticket cost?
No tickets are required — the Lighted Boat Parade is free and open to everyone. Food and drinks are available for purchase at nearby restaurants.
Where can I park?
Parking is available in the San Carlos Marina parking lot if you’d like to watch the boats leave, and along the main boulevard to watch the parade. Please allow extra time as spaces fill up quickly.
How can I join the parade with my boat?
Boat owners who wish to participate can register through the San Carlos Yacht Club. Visit the Club office or contact them in advance for entry requirements and decoration guidelines.
Parking, Access & Tips
Make the most of your San Carlos Lighted Boat Parade experience with these quick tips:
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🚗 Arrive early — parking fills up quickly near La Palapa Griega, El Mar, and Posada Beach.
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🪑 Bring beach chairs or a blanket for comfortable viewing along San Francisco Beach.
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☕ Pack warm drinks and snacks — evenings on the water can get cool once the sun sets.
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🚶♀️ Walk or carpool if possible; nearby streets may have limited parking or temporary closures.
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♿ Accessibility: restaurants and beach areas near Posada Bay offer accessible access points and restrooms.
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🔦 Bring a flashlight or use your phone light for walking along darker beach paths.
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📸 Don’t forget your camera — the reflections of lights on the bay make for incredible photos.
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🎄 Stay for both parades — December 21 and December 27 — for two chances to enjoy the show!
Photos & Video
Lighted Boat Parade photo by Rada SC
Lighted Boat Parade Video
Celebrate the holidays in San Carlos, Sonora! Watch boats shine across the bay in the 2025 Lighted Boat Parade — a dazzling seaside Christmas tradition for the whole family.
