10 Things you must do in - Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico
Explore Old Mazatlán (Centro Historico):
Take a walking tour through the historic center to admire the beautifully restored buildings, visit the famous Angela Peralta Theater, Plaza Machado and stroll along the malecon (boardwalk) for stunning ocean views.
Personally hiring a bicycle for a few days and getting lost in central Mazatlan and cycling the 21/23 km of cycle path on offer is the best option.
Visit El Faro Lighthouse:
Climb the iconic lighthouse, one of the highest natural lighthouses in the world, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, beaches, and the Pacific Ocean. A little advice is take it easy walking up if you are not the most healthiest person and bring water, I prefer a morning walk or run up there and it offers beautiful views so be camera ready.
Enjoy a Day at Stone Island (Isla de la Piedra):
Take a boat trip to Stone Island and spend a day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and indulging in fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Take a Mazatlán City Tour:
Join a guided city tour to get an overview of the city's history, culture, and landmarks. It often includes visits to the cathedral, the cliff divers, the Mercado Pino Suarez market, and the Mazatlán Aquarium.
Go Sport Fishing or Whale Watching:
Mazatlán is renowned as one of the best sport fishing destinations in Mexico. Charter a fishing boat and try your luck at catching marlin, sailfish, dorado, or yellowfin tuna in the rich waters of the Pacific or enjoy an easy day out chasing whales and dolphins, Whale watching is seasonal between November and April.
I totally Recommend Aqua Sports Marina, they cater for everyone.
Explore Deer Island (Isla de Venados):
You can take a boat tour to Deer Island and spend the day snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches. But personally grabbing a kayak or paddle board is the best way to get there and the best experience. The island is also great for hiking and birdwatching, a morning sunrise here can not be beaten.
Experience Mazatlán's Carnival:
If you visit during late February or early March, don't miss Mazatlán's Carnival, one of the biggest and most vibrant carnival celebrations in Mexico and the 3rd biggest Carnival in the world.
Enjoy colourful parades, music, dancing, and fireworks and from personal experience have a free week to enjoy every moment and recover well.
Tip: Check out the dates for the famous Semana Moto (Moto Weekend) A spectacular event inviting riders and drivers from all over Mexico to this one noisy, fun and engine fulled weekend.
Visit the Gran Aquarium:
The New Mazatlán Aquarium is the biggest of its kind in all of Latin America, a home to a wide variety of marine species that are local to the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California), including sharks, sea turtles, and many tropical fish as expected. Exceptional architecture and beautiful features make it also the most wonderful experiences.
Try Mazatlán's Culinary Delights:
Indulge in the local cuisine by visiting traditional seafood restaurants or trying street food such as aguachiles (spicy shrimp dish) or ceviche. Mazatlán is known worldwide for its fresh seafood and you will struggle to go to any restaurant without seafood being on the menu.
Relax on Mazatlán's Beaches:
Mazatlán boasts beautiful sandy beaches. Spend a day lounging on Playa Olas Altas, Playa Gaviotas, or Playa Cerritos, where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy various water sports like surfing or jet skiing.
Playa Cerritos has become a favourite of mine due its tranquil location.
These activities offer a combination of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities that highlight some the best of what Mazatlán has to offer. Enjoy your time exploring this charming Mexican coastal city!
Peace, love and travel xx