Mazatlán: Guide for first time travelers

Welcome to Mazatlán! The Pearl of the Pacific awaits you with its golden beaches, vibrant culture and endless exciting activities. This guide will help you plan your perfect trip, whether you're looking for rest and sun or an exciting adventure.

A destination that has it all: beach, culture, romance, relaxation, gastronomy, adventure, fun...

When to visit?

Mazatlán enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. The best time to come here is from November to April, when the sun shines, temperatures are pleasant and humidity decreases. If you are looking for perfect waves to surf and more warmth to enjoy the beach, the months from May to October await you.

How to get here?

Mazatlán has an International Airport (MZT) that receives national and international flights. You can also arrive by road, either by bus or car from other cities in Mexico: arriving by road from the state of Durango, offers one of the most beautiful panoramic routes in Mexico, crossing the Sierra Madre Occidental, on a route of impressive bridges (such as the Baluarte) and tunnels (like the Sinaloense).

Where to stay?

In Mazatlán you will find a wide variety of accommodation options, from cozy places to luxurious stays. The Historic Center and the Malecón offer you a very traditional and charming atmosphere, which revives the colonial culture of northern Mexico. The Golden Zone is one of the most popular, with beachfront restaurants and resorts and a lively nightlife. While the Cerritos area, north of Mazatlán, offers the greatest exclusivity and incredible luxuries.

What to see and do? The unmissable…

• Walk the Malecón: A promenade of more than 20 kilometers with monuments, parks, restaurants and incredible, panoramic views of the ocean. Enjoy a bohemian and family atmosphere, admire its incredible, extremely romantic sunsets, or enjoy the nightlife along the boardwalk where the waves break.

• Explore the Historic Center: Admire the colonial architecture, visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Plazuela Machado and the Ángela Peralta Theater.

• Enjoy the beaches: Relax on the golden sand, swim in the sea, sunbathe or practice water sports. Choose one or visit them all: Playa Norte, Playa Delfines, Playa Olas Altas, Playa Brujas...

• Visit the Lighthouse: Whether you want to exercise or contemplate the panoramic view of the city from the highest point of Mazatlán, visiting the top of the ancient Crestón island, without a doubt, is an unforgettable experience. Next to the Lighthouse, you will find the cantilevered Cristal Viewpoint, to observe the spectacular cliffs, islands, and the coastal contour of the bay.

• Visit Isla de la Piedra: A natural paradise with virgin beaches and ecotourism activities, such as snorkeling, diving and kayaking.

• Get to know the Mazatlán Aquarium: The largest aquarium in Mexico and the most important in Latin America, it will allow you to observe the marine fauna of the Pacific and learn about the importance of conservation, in a space for reflection that awakens the imagination, provokes emotions, inspires, and generates a change in attitudes and will to heal the planet.

• Attend the Mazatlán Carnival: An event full of color, music and dance that is celebrated in February or March, during the six days before Ash Wednesday, where you will find its incredible “Carros Alegóricos”, the artistic quality of the “Juegos Florales” and the beauty of their “Reinas”.

Its Historic Center embodies the colonial essence of Northern Mexico and the picturesque life typical of the region.

Cultural activities

• Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mazatlán: Discover the pre-Hispanic history of the region.

• Attend a show at the Ángela Peralta Theater: Enjoy an opera, a ballet or a concert.

• Learn about local traditions at the Pino Suárez Market: Try the delicious regional cuisine and buy crafts.

Recreational activities

• Surf at “Olas Altas” beach: One of the best beaches for surfing in Mexico.

• Kayak on “Isla del Venado”: Enjoy nature and observe seabirds.

• Take a boat tour of the bay: Observe dolphins, sea lions and other animals.

• Play golf on one of Mazatlán's courses: Challenge your swing while enjoying views of the sea.

The gastronomy of Mazatlán is an eclectic mix of flavors and textures: fresh and delicious seafood meets fine steaks of the best quality meat.

Tips for the traveler

• Use sunscreen and a hat, the sun is intense in Mazatlán.

• Wear comfortable and fresh clothing to get the most out of your stay without worries.

• Try the local cuisine by enjoying fresh seafood, ceviche, fish tacos and traditional carne asada.

• Relax and enjoy the atmosphere, Mazatlán is a place to rest and have fun.

Mazatlán is an ideal destination to enjoy an unforgettable vacation. With its beautiful beaches, rich culture and activities for all tastes, Mazatlán awaits you to discover the Pearl of the Pacific.

Come visit us in Mazatlán!

Additional resources:

• Mazatlán official tourism website (spanish)

• Mazatlán travel guide on TripAdvisor

Have a nice trip!