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 Mexico's often unique and superb coastline lends itself to many naturally sheltered harbors which inturn are the basic foundations to build a world-class marina. In particular, the Guaymas-San Carlos area along Mexico's Sonora state coastline boasts two of the nation's most recognized seaport resorts: Marina San Carlos and Marina Real.
In a city with only 7,000 inhabitants, it is rather surprising the number of RV parks, resorts and stores that populate San Carlos. A large amount of residents are U.S. citizens who have a bought a second home here. San Carlos lies only six hours away by car from the U.S. border and is an attractive spot for diving and sailing enthusiasts. Marina San Carlos has all the amenities you would expect of a top class seaport. It can dock boats from 21 ft to 51 ft, has 336 slips, and pledges 24-hour security with a card key entrance. There are bathrooms and showers located on the north and south side of the marina and car parking is ample. One thing that the marina stipulates is their refusal to take reservations and operate solely on a first come, first serve basis. The rival Marina Real is the bigger of the two ports with 356 slips. It can also handle longer boats (63 ft) and again like Marina San Carlos services include fuel, fresh water, electricity for each slip and 24-hour security. Also, because of its location and well-protected entrance, the marina is considered to be safe for anchoring during the hurricane season. When talking about the creme de la creme of marina resorts in Mexico invariably Marina Vallarta on Banderas Bay appears in everyone's top three picks and more often than not as the number one marina in the country. It's a huge complex: 555 slips, golf course, water park, luxury condominiums and state-of-the-art marina technology. A highlight is taking a boat trip to Los Arcos, a rock formation south of downtown with scuba diving or snorkeling, or in the other direction towards Punta de Mita where the Marietas Islands offer even better diving. Close proximity to water tours allows easy access to the whaling activity during the winter season. The surrounding neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta also offers top quality hotels, abundant water sports, tennis, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. It's a favorite with families and is also great for groups. The newly-opened Costa Baja Resort & Marina in La Paz which lies off the Sea of Cortez is privy to one of Mexico's most wonderous ecological sights: Isla Espiritu Santo. The island, which is protected under UNESCO as a biosphere, is completely unihabited and is regarded as one of the nation's top eco-tourism destinations. The neighboring Isla Partida, which is connected to Isla Espiritu Santo via a narrow isthmus, is home to Ensenada Grande beach. It was voted the most beautiful beach in Mexico by the British publication, The Travel Magazine, in February 2007, and is one of the top 12 beaches in the world. Both islands can be easily accessed from the Costa Baja marina. This new seaport has 250 slips and can hold everything from 30-foot wood-detailed sailboats to 200-foot mega yachts. Set within a 500-acre gated community, the double-basin marina is part of a massive complex that includes an 18-hole golf course designed by golfing legend Gary Player, spacious condominiums, a beach club and a luxurious spa. Costa Baja Resort & Marina is part of the growing trend of stylish and ecologically-conscious coastal resorts that are popping up all over Mexico. One To Watch Out For By the tail-end of 2007 a trully amazing resort and marina will open its doors for business along the Yucatan coastline. A mere 25-minute drive from Cancun International airport La Amada promises to be the benchmark for contemporary luxury living in Mexico. This freestanding beachfront community will include an inland marina, two Greg Norman signature golf courses, luxury residences, gourmet restaurants, elegant shopping, and a boutique hotel. With proximity to the world’s second largest coral reef and one of the Caribbean’s most abundant fisheries, La Amada's inland marina offers 170 slips and can accommodate yachts of up to 120 feet. First-class marina services - including dry marina - will ensure that even the most demanding boater will be satisfied. The marina will also be a convenient port of entry on the Mexican Caribbean, complete with immigration personnel and gentle customs. Plus, throughout the year the resort will host several top fishing tournaments. |
