Located on the Pacific Coast, just across from the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula, the city came to be in the 16th century by Spanish settlers. Starting out as a small place to settle, it eventually became a major seaport, it is now a popular tourist destination with lots of beaches, attractions and sunshine.
Take a gander at our list of the top ten things to do in Mazatlán, in no particular order:
Mazatlán Walking Tour – What better way to begin your Mazatlán vacation than to spend an afternoon on a guided walking tour of the must-see sites in the city. Although each stop won’t be in depth, this will give you a great idea of what you want to do to, aside from the beaches of course! Stop by the Majestic Cathedral, Central Market, Dolphin Monument and so much more on this historic and cultural adventure.
Stone Island – Stone Island is a popular day excursion for vacationers in Mazatlán. Many resorts have an adventure with a tour of the island, starting with a catamaran ride to the island. There are many activities once there, such as kayaking, horseback riding, snorkeling, boogie boarding, swimming and more. Grab a bite to eat at an open-air thatched palapa restaurant; you’ll feel like you’re a native to the island!
Old Mazatlán – Located at the center of downtown, Old Mazatlán is the original hub of the almost 500-year old city. As you stroll the streets, take in the colonial architecture of the plazas, courtyards, churches and other buildings. Stop by the Mazatlán Art Museum, the Archaeological Museum or the Angela Peralta Theater, all seeping with culture and back-stories. A mention of Old Mazatlán brings us to….
Plaza Machado – The hub of Old Mazatlán is the Plaza Machado, a gathering place equally as noted as other attractions across the city. Here visitors may enjoy restaurants, events and festivals year round.
Mazatlán Lighthouse – El Faro Lighthouse, atop Creston’s Peak that juts out into the harbor, is a very popular tourist attraction, and is even considered the second highest lighthouse in the world, only behind the Rock of Gibraltar. In fact, it’s super hard to spot from the distance. But once you trek to the top of the hill and visit it, the views are remarkable.
Mazatlán Aquarium – As one of the top rated attractions in Mazatlán, the aquarium is a wonderful destination for families. Considered the largest aquarium in Mexico, it features marine life exhibits, a tropical botanical park and live entertainment by the seals. Explore over 200 species of fish, and aviary and a small crocodile exhibit.
Shopping – The shopping in Mazatlán is as beautiful and eye-popping as the beaches are! La Gran Plaza Mazatlán features three department stores and a host of other shops and restaurants, a cinema and a nightclub. El Malecón is an authentic Mexican shopping experience with silver, tequila, pottery, arts & crafts and other hand-made souvenirs for the picking. Also, try La Zona Dorado, Los Tiangis and the shops of Old Mazatlán.
El Quelite – A great day trip idea is to visit the historic and rural town of El Quelite. With beautiful views of the mountains, river and Pacific Ocean, the architecture and agricultural way of life hearkens back to the Colonial era of Mexico. Shopping, dining and enjoying the scenery are a great way to round out a day of horseback riding, hiking and strolling the hills.
Beaches – So, we saved the best for last. The beaches in Mazatlán are probably what attracted you to the destination to begin with. The beaches lining the Pacific Ocean are ideal for sunbathing, relaxing with book in hand or living on the wild side with land and sea adventures. From lounging at Zona Dorada to swimming at Sabalo Beach, boating to one of the islands. OlasAltas Beach is a great sport for surfing, while Cerritos Beach is known for the coarse sand and beige-colored water.
Nowhere is better for enjoying sand, surf, turf, good food and a rich cultural history like Mazatlán. Enjoy paradise!
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