Ultimate Mazatlán Travel Guide: Explore Attractions, Tips, and More

1. Introduction

This Central Pacific Coast port city offers the best of both worlds: a meticulously restored colonial old town and a ten-mile-long crescent of sandy beach. One of the closest Mexican beach resort destinations to the United States, Mazatlán is a well-established tourist destination that still maintains its Mexican traditions and atmosphere. The vibe is laid back and tranquilo, but there’s no lack of fun thanks to the host of water sports and wildlife watching activities available.

2. Location of Mazatlán

Mazatlán is located on the Pacific Coast in the state of Sinaloa, parallel to the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. Just next door is the state of Nayarit, with its lively beach towns and glamorous coastal communities like Punta Mita and Puerto Vallarta just across the border in the state of Jalisco.

3. Mazatlán’s History

Mazatlán, meaning ‘place of deer’ in the Nahuatl language, was a sleepy fishing village until the early 19th century when it began its transformation into a bustling port receiving vessels from as far away as Asia and Europe. The 1930s saw tourism take hold as a major industry, and by the 1970s the sprawling, tourist-tacky Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) was in full swing, finally declining as visitors moved on to other Mexican resort towns like Acapulco. In recent years, the city has undergone a renaissance thanks to a sensitive restoration movement that has helped preserve and revamp the old town’s beautiful colonial district and historic buildings.

4. What to See and Do

• Stroll the Centro Histórico and admire the restored historic homes and significant buildings, including the 19th-century cathedral on Plaza Principal.
• Soak up recent history on Playa Olas Altas, Mazatlán’s first tourist beach, where a stylish crowd gathered in the 1950s. You might envision John Wayne or Gary Cooper stepping into one of the fading ‘50s hotels along the waterfront for a sports fishing adventure.
• Climb up to the famous lighthouse, El Faro, situated on a craggy outcrop, then watch daredevil cliff divers take the plunge into the waves.
• Take a day trip to one of Mazatlán’s picturesque islands. The most popular, Isla de Venados (Deer Island), can be explored on foot or by kayak.
• Enjoy world-class golfing at the 18-hole championship Estrella del Mar Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
• Go bird watching in Isla de la Piedra, a secluded island southeast of Mazatlán, abundant with protected mangroves and diverse birdlife.

5. Where to Stay

For a colonial atmosphere in the Centro Histórico, consider The Melville, a 20-suite boutique hotel housed in a neoclassical former post office on Constitución. The leafy courtyard and hand-picked antiques in each room contribute to the Old World charm.

Casa Lucila is an eight-room boutique hotel on the beachfront that combines traditional Mexican style with modern conveniences such as flat-screen TVs, espresso makers, and a small spa offering various massages and body treatments.

Hotel La Siesta may not boast the most captivating decor, yet it offers great value, and many rooms provide spectacular sea views.

6. Getting There and Around

General Rafael Buelna International Airport is located 17 miles from the Zona Dorada. Several U.S. domestic airlines service this route, including Continental and US Airways. While there is no public bus service between the airport and the city, taxis are readily available and affordable.

A ferry service, Baja Ferries, operates between La Paz in Baja California Sur and Mazatlán; however, it’s a lengthy 17-hour ride, so be prepared for potentially rough waters.

To navigate Mazatlán, renting bicycles or hopping into local cabs known as pulmonias—open-air golf cart-like vehicles—can whisk you among attractions for a pre-negotiated fare.

7. Safety and Weather Considerations

Although Mazatlán is generally considered safe for tourists, it is essential to stay informed about drug cartel-related violence reported in Sinaloa and surrounding areas. Checking government travel warnings for the state of Sinaloa online before you embark on your journey is wise.

Keep in mind that the weather can become uncomfortably hot from May to October. The high tourist season typically runs from late November to April, when days are pleasantly warm. September and October mark the peak of hurricane season; thus, preparation is crucial.

Mazatlán is also home to one of Mexico’s largest and oldest breweries, Pacifico, which has its headquarters in the city.