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The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico

Photo gallery for The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico

Entrance to the Shell Castle
Interior detail
Living area
Exterior
Interior

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Private garden
    A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
San Carlos, SON
  • Place, San Francisco Beach
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, San Carlos Golf Course
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Los Algodones
    ‪19 min drive‬
  • Airport, Guaymas, Sonora (GYM-General Jose Maria Yanez Intl.)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico

Vacation in beautiful San Carlos, Mexico. *****Easter Week requires a 4 day minimum reservation.*****

Stay at the amazing San Carlos Shell Castle. The Castle has over 3000 square feet of living space under roof to enjoy a tranquil and inspiring life style while enjoying all the comforts of American comfort and convenience.

The Shell Castle is made entirely of volcanic rock and stone gathered from the mountains surrounding San Carlos. It is located a half mile from the beautiful sandy beaches around San Carlos Bay. The fishing is some of the best in the world. Snorkeling & scuba diving is very popular. The Shell Castle sits on a half acre of stone wall enclosed secure property. It is located in Ranchitos on Avenue H. The grounds have many native trees and plants. It can serve as a retreat for those looking to experience serenity and rejuvenate one's spirit.

There are two separate bedrooms and a cellar that sleeps 2 with 2 bathrooms and room to sleep up to 12 people. This would be a great location for multiple couples to stay.

It has Directv with two TV'S with DVR recorders and all premium channels along with Tucson local network stations. The Premium MLB Baseball package in now available on Directv. In the fall the NFL package is available. There is an out building with washer and dryer. Security is provided by CYBERCO so there are no worries about your safety. The local police make sure that tourists have a safe and enjoyable stay. The restaurants are first class and the Sonoran beef is second to none.

There is a large fountain in the middle of the Shell Castle and a 22 foot high ceiling. There is an amazing winding stair case leading to an upper patio area with gorgeous views of San Carlos Bay on the Sea of Cortez and the famous Tetakawi Mountain off in the distance.

Everything is provided for your stay and there is an onsite property manager who is available to help out in any way needed. She is completely knowledgeable about where to go and what to do in the San Carlos area.

The golf course is located just a ¼ mile from the Shell Castle. There is a special golf package available for 1 week of unlimited play including cart for just $200. If you want to work on your game than there is no better deal anywhere. The head pro offers lessons at prices unheard of in America.

San Carlos is enjoyed by many Americans and Canadians who have discovered this jewel by the sea. The trip from Tucson to San Carlos is an easy and very safe 5 hour drive on Mexico Highway 15.

Dogs may stay for an additional fee.

Because of the high increase in electricity rates in Mexico I had to raise the rates to offset the costs and yet still have competitive rates. There are 4 large mini-split AC units and several space heaters to keep it cozy in the cooler winter nights. I hope you understand the situation. I am still confident the Shell Castle is the best value in all of San Carlos because of it size and uniqueness.

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House Rules

Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Flexible check-out available (contact host to arrange)
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Only registered quests are allowed to stay overnight.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 729169vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

San Carlos

Located in San Carlos, this holiday home is in the city centre and near the beach. San Carlos Golf Course and Marina San Carlos are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Los Algodones and Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and hiking.
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Map
San Carlos, SON

What's nearby

  • San Francisco Beach - 6 min drive - 2.7 km
  • San Carlos Golf Course - 7 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Marina San Carlos - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Cerro Tetakawi - 14 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Los Algodones - 19 min drive - 12.6 km

Getting around

  • Guaymas, Sonora (GYM-General Jose Maria Yanez Intl.) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Meri Meri Café - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪La Combi - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Hair Of The Dog - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Coralito Beach Club - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Maple y Sal - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico?

As of 6 Jul, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico on 19 Nov, 2026 start from S$293, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico?

On-site parking is available at the property.

Where is The Amazing And Unique Shell Castle In Quiet, Scenic San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico located?

Located in the heart of San Carlos, this golf holiday home is within 3 miles (5 km) of Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California, San Francisco Beach and San Carlos Golf Course. Marina San Carlos is 3 mi (4.8 km) away.

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 13 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.2/10

Location

8.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Archival

10/10 Excellent

Marisela M.

House was beautiful...

Nice place to stay..
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2020
It was great to have Marisela and her family stay at the Shell Castle. Thanks.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erik G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

San Carlos shell castle

This place is unique. Unusual layout but quite comfortable.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sharleen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short drive to scuba

We stayed at Shell Castle while we were in San Carlos to scuba dive. The space was large and able to accommodate our gear and our dogs. Hilda is an exceptional host and answered all questions.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dorothy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The coolest and most unique place ever

The Shell Castle his hands down the most creative and artistic place we have ever stayed. It is beyond what I could describe with all the shells, stone work and mirrors. It was like staying on a movie set. Hilda the property manager is superb and available for any needs we may have had. All the bases were covered. Have to say this is something a person should experience at least once in a lifetime. We took numerous photos and loved it so much! Everything was clean, plenty of towels and bedding, complete kitchen with more than adequate dishes, blender, coffee maker come up toaster, convection oven and mixer. Not one thing could have been better. We are grateful for our stay there!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Josephine A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Not what Expected

I would like to share that the pictures and description of property is not what is actually provided in actual home. First of all, it was not a three bedroom home with three full bathrooms. Second the bathroom in middle and shower was totally a huge inconvenience no privacy what so ever. I mean if you were in bathroom the dinning table was right outside. There was no curtain and the shower had glass blocks but you could see I mean we are family but you need privacy. I mean it was smack right in the middle and not even inclosed. The bed down stairs was broken so couldnt be used. The lights outside would not stay if there was sensored they were totally off we could be outside it was pitch dark. the stove kept turning off and on.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May, 2022
I am so sorry that you had to deal with these issues. In the email I sent you with directions to the Shell castle and the check-in information I stated that I needed you to let me know immediately of any issues you had so that either Hilda the property manager or myself could immediately address them and correct them. I am not aware that Hilda was notified by you or that you notified me. I cannot correct any issues if I am not aware of problems you were having. Again I apologize for any problems you had and would hope that you understand things happen but we can't correct them unless we know about them.
Verified

8/10 Good

Alma M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We love the Shell castle

This our 3rd time here. I highly recommend this home. It's very unique & spacious. Very clean & well stocked. Hilda is great. She is there for anything you may need. We will definitely return ahain soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May, 2022
Thank you for your positive comments. We are glad you enjoyed the amazing Shell Castle.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Spot

Very Clean and Spacious. Had a great time in Mexico, and the property was perfect for my family of 4 and another family of 4. Has everything you need, and is close to all the good things in San Carlos. Will definitely stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elodia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Beautiful house, very clean

The house is beautiful the only problem we had is that they said it was 3 bedrooms and is only 2 , 3rd bedroom was not available the Ned was broke
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of the best ways to experience San Carlos

We stayed a week at the Shell Castle in San Carlos and absolutely loved it! The pictures do not do it justice on the unique beauty and incredible feeling of this place. Our 7 year old and dogs were the main reason we booked this place and we definitely hit the Mark with keeping them entertained. The beautiful rock and shell design kept the home cool but the mini splits added comfort when needed. The windows had beautiful ironworks of marlin and other sea life on them and the grounds were beautiful to explore. Coming from Arizona in late April, we found San Carlos weather to be very mild and the atmosphere, food, and people were just what we were looking for. Hilda, the property host, is very welcoming and gracious and our dogs liked her too! The views from the top deck included sea views, city views, and Tetakawi views and that’s where we spent the majority of our time. Wayne, the owner, kept in touch with us from start to finish and was such a pleasure to communicate with. There is so much to tell that can’t possibly be written in a review but it is definitely worth the stay and we will be back again!!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ivonne G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

San Carlos visit

Beautiful property!! We would surely rent again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mara Leticia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Muy bonito todo muy pasifica donde esta la casa

Muy bien
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Corey P.

Not perfect but had a great time

Pros: Hilda personally met us and showed us around. The owner checked in with us during our stay. Plenty of drinking water and ice was provided to us which we were not expecting. This property is beautifully unique and I would recommend it for at least one stay. The fountain in the middle of the home was my personal favorite. Cons: Bedroom 2 was warm. In Bedroom 1 the A/C would turn on and off making it a little too hot sometimes. There are no complete walls which would give sound privacy for the bathrooms or bedrooms.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2018
Verified

8/10 Good

Ivonne A.

Amazing house, very beautiful!

The house was really beautiful, the owner is so helpful in every way, made us feel at home before we arrived. The only thing was that it was hard to get a hold of the house keeper for suggestions and help finding things within the home or getting information on where tp find things to work the lighting or air conditioning in the home. the pictures can not begin to describe the beauty and uniqueness of this home, i loved every minute of being in this home. In fact i typically spend my vacations touring but this time i spent it mailny in home.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Arcelia G.

Awesome house

We truly loved staying at your awesome house boys didn't want to leave we can't wait to stay there again
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2016
Archival

6/10 Okay

Yadira V.

Nice and cool

Shell castle was nice and cool except for one of the rooms. Stores are close at your convenience. Except for the beach we had to drive like 10 min away from the shell castle. Other then that we enjoyed it.
Archival

8/10 Good

Doug P.

Unique, beautiful, relaxing

The Shell Castle is a very interesting property. Love the shell artwork throughout the house and grounds. Mitch is a wealth of information and very helpful with places to go and things to see. The rooftop is the most amazing spot to sit, have coffee, watch the sun come up - or go down, and to enjoy the Mexican sun. There is one thing that could make the rooftop more enticing - a little upgrading of the table, the cushions on the chairs, as well as the addition of one or two more lounge chairs - one for a party of four is a bit of a stretch, when we all are sun-worshippers. Iguanas was fantastic for burgers, Abelito's for sea food, and Tortuga's for pizza, wings, and particularly steak! Overall a fantastic week spent in the shells and the sun.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2016
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

What a very special place.

This home away from home was truly wonderful. All though a hurricane from weeks prior to our stay had damaged the palm roofing in places the house was a joy to explore. San Carlos is a beautiful place. We hiked a nearby canyon one day, swimming at the beach the next day. We watched the sailboarders having fun and met some good people along the way. Very nice! Would go back in a second!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2015
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2020
Karen and her guests were wonderful people to have stay at the Shell Castle. I am glad that they enjoyed their stay. Have a great holiday season.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Rosa l.

Rosa

Hi, we fell in love with our home. It so beautiful, hope that in the future if we have another family trip. We are for sure to rent your home. The storm did got to us. A little water in the home was the problem but we didnt mind it. Other than that everything was great.

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