Mazatlan is one of the most important ports on the Pacific coast. It is known as the Pearl of the Pacific because of its beautiful beaches and its abundant marine life. Because it is a working port sea town, visitors can experience some of the real-life, day-to-day adventures of Mexican life as opposed to an artificially created tourist trap. The climate is warm with an average year-round temperature of 25º C (77º F).
Mazatlan combines traditional architecture in its Historic Center, known as Old Mazatlan, with modern hotels and restaurants in the Zona Dorada. The city of about 336,000 is located on a peninsula reaching into the Pacific Ocean with a natural bay and protected harbor.
Here are some quick practical tips and suggestions to have a positive Mazatlan holiday.
Mazatlan Transportation
Because Mazatlan is close to the U.S. border, there are a multitude of international flights landing here. Most people arrive in town from the airport by bus, taxi or van. Its close location to the border result in many visitors arriving by car or RV. Mazatlan has a great affordable bus system to help visitors get around town or get to nearby locations. Most points of interest in town are within walking distance.
Mazatlan Accommodation
Lodging here comes in all price ranges from high-end resorts to smaller boutique hotels. The Mazatlan Holiday Inn Sunspree right on the beach – is a reasonable option that includes a comfortable and delicious waterfront restaurant. This 4 storey hotel has a more intimate atmosphere than some of the high rise hotels. This is not an all-inclusive hotel – although there are many nearby all-inclusive hotel options.
Mazatlan Activities
Beautiful beaches such as Playa Norte, Playa Gaviotas and Playa Venados are available to travelers. These areas are ideal for surfing, diving and sailfish or marlin fishing. In Old Mazatlan, you can visit la Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepcion (The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception) and stroll down beautiful streets lined with 19th-century buildings while checking out the open-air markets. The Malecon seaside roadway through the city stretches about 13 miles along the coastal waters and sandy beaches.
At Creston’s peak, you’ll find a lighthouse, which is the world’s second tallest. It’s located near the cruise ship docking area with regular bus service. The Mazatlan Cultural Festival, the Sinaloa Arts Festival and the world famous Carnival, a week long celebration that takes place in February, are also popular.
Visitors can also partake in activities such as: fishing, kayaking, scuba diving, shopping, site seeing, surfing, swimming and of course sunning. A short kayak trip (about 20 minutes) to the small islands of Deer or Wolf Islands across from the Holiday Inn Sunspree is a worthwhile adventure for a hike, bird watching or a lazy picnic on the quiet beach.
Mazatlan Restaurants
Travelers will find tasty Mexican, Italian, German, American, seafood and all manner of international choices. Seafood of many kinds, in this shrimp capital, is a delicious feature in many restaurants. The locals recommend Los Arcos Restaurant, part of the most popular chain of seafood restaurants in Mexico. Chili Pepper, on the beach, serves ample appetizing servings of Mexican dishes with friendly affordable service. For something a little different, La Casa Country with its lively western entertainment and dancing makes for a great evening’s fun. All three of these restaurants are within a block of the Holiday Inn Sunspree hotel strip.
Other Resources
Travel Guides such as Lonely Planet also offer great information on Mexican locations.
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