Alternate Names
The Sea of Cortez is also known as the Gulf of California, Gulfo de California, Mar de Cortes and the Mar Bermejo.
Climate
Costal regions along the northern portion of the Sea of Cortez experience warm temperatures, while areas flanking the southern tip of the sea are tropical.
Islands
There are more than 900 islands in the Sea of Cortez. Marine mammals and sea birds prefer to nest, feed and live on these islands due to the abundant supply of sardines, anchovies and tuna in the sea.
Wildlife
The Sea of Cortez is known to be a whale breeding ground. The presence of flying mobulas (a cousin of the manta ray), leatherback sea turtles and vaquita marina (rare porpoises) also delight visitors.
Water Sports
Scuba diving, fishing, boating and water skiing are popular outdoor pursuits on the Sea of Cortez.
Article Written By Angela Tague
Angela Tague has worked in news writing and photography since 1998. After attaining a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communications at the University of Iowa, her journalism career has led to positions at two daily newspapers and several weeklies in the Midwest. She currently freelances in editorial writing, photography and Web content.
