Things To Do
in Mazatlán
Mazatlán sits on the Pacific coast of Sinaloa, blending a historic old town with a lively modern beach scene. The city’s jewel is the Malecón, one of the world’s longest waterfront promenades, lined with sculptures, palm-lined beaches, and sweeping sea views. Mazatlán is famed for its seafood, especially tacos gobernador and pescado a la talla, served from lively mercados to sunset-front restaurants.
From the colonial charm of Plaza Machado to the towering El Faro lighthouse, Mazatlán offers culture, sun, and waterfront adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day wandering through the charming streets of Mazatlán's Historic Center, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and vibrant plazas. Visit the Angela Peralta Theater to appreciate its ornate façade and learn about its cultural significance. Enjoy a traditional Mexican coffee at a nearby café while soaking in the lively morning atmosphere.
Head to the Plaza Machado, the heart of the Historic Center, where you can browse local artisan shops and sample authentic Mazatlán cuisine at a sidewalk restaurant. Stop by the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception to admire its stunning design and peaceful interior. Take a leisurely stroll along the Olas Altas boardwalk, enjoying the ocean breeze and scenic views.
Return to Plaza Machado for an evening filled with live music and street performances that showcase Mazatlán’s vibrant arts scene. Dine at a local seafood restaurant, savoring freshly caught shrimp or fish dishes unique to the region. End your night with a relaxed walk around the plaza, illuminated by charming street lamps and buzzing with nightlife energy.
Begin your day at Playa Norte, where the sun rises over golden sands and gentle waves invite you to swim or relax. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from the water, feeling the refreshing Pacific breeze. Grab a light breakfast from a beachfront vendor, enjoying tropical fruits and fresh juice.
Join a guided snorkeling tour to discover vibrant marine life at the nearby reefs, spotting colorful fish and curious sea turtles. Alternatively, try parasailing for a thrilling aerial view of Mazatlán’s coastline and sparkling waters. Refuel with a beachfront lunch featuring ceviche and other seafood specialties.
Watch the sunset from the iconic El Faro Lighthouse, perched atop Cerro del Crestón, as the sky transforms into a palette of warm colors. After descending, enjoy a casual dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring grilled fish tacos while listening to the soothing sound of the ocean. End your evening with a peaceful stroll along the shore under a starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧴Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee or breakfast | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-10 |
| 🏖️Beach chair and umbrella for a day | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class Malecón and coastal scenery
- Fresh seafood and coastal cuisine variety
- Two distinct vibes: historic Centro and vibrant Golden Zone
- Cultural life and accessible day trips to nearby islands
- Hot and humid summers; rain and humidity peak mid-year
- Some areas can be crowded with tourists during peak season
- Beach currents can be strong in certain spots; swim with caution
- Language barrier may exist in smaller markets or rural areas
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Mazatlán
Visit one of these nice places.
A long waterfront promenade with sculptures, waves, and dramatic golden-hour lighting.
Colonial facades, vibrant balconies, and daytime activity ideal for street and architectural photography.
Rocky beachfront and surfers with scenic foregrounds for coastal shots.
Sweeping bay vistas from the city’s iconic lighthouse overlook.
Sculpture-filled sea breeze stroll with photogenic angles on water and sculpture.
Food in Mazatlán
Mazatlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shrimp, cheese, and peppers folded into tortillas, a Mazatlán staple often finished with a squeeze of lime.
Must-Try!
Split whole fish marinated in a chili-garlic paste and grilled, typically served with rice and beans.
Chili-lime marinated shrimp with cucumber and onions; fresh, spicy, and very popular in beach towns.
Fresh fish or shrimp cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and chiles.
Grilled lobster with a red chile paste, often served with lime and butter.
Rich shrimp soup with aromatics and lime, a comforting coastal classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh fish, seafood, produce, tortillas, chiles, and traditional snacks.
Traditional market district with stalls for seafood, salsas, and regional treats; great for day-of-purchase ingredients.
Casual beachfront shacks where you can grab ceviche, grilled seafood, and cold drinks right by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello or buenos días is appreciated; handshakes are common, and a light nod or kiss on the cheek may occur among friends.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or private spaces.
Be polite, avoid loud confrontations, and show respect for family and elder members in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Mazatlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included; many tourist spots include service, but extra tip is appreciated for good service. For bars and taxi drivers, a small tip is common.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and casual street stalls. Many restaurants and hotels accept credit/debit cards; some smaller venues may be cash-only. Pesos are standard, but US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with pleasant evenings; great for outdoor dining and early beach visits before peak humidity.
Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy sea breezes along the Malecón.
Continued warmth but occasional tropical activity; seas can be rough on some beaches—watch local advisories.
Milder temperatures, ideal for outdoor exploration and whale watching opportunities in nearby areas.
Mazatlán at Night
Hiking in Mazatlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep coastal hike ending at Mazatlán’s historic lighthouse; rewarding city and bay views.
Forest-covered trails and canyons within a short drive, offering lookouts and nature immersion.
Airports
How to reach Mazatlán by plane.
Mazatlán’s main international airport with connections to major Mexican cities and some international flights; straightforward taxi or shuttle links to the city center.
North of Mazatlán, a larger airport with regional connections; typically accessed via longer overland travel to Mazatlán.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mestizo with long-standing fishing and mercantile traditions; strong sense of community in Centro and nearby neighborhoods.
A growing number of international retirees and expatriates attracted by climate, lifestyle, and services.
Domestic and international visitors, especially from the US and Canada, flock to beaches, the Malecón, and cultural sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Mazatlán is renowned for deep-sea fishing tournaments and chartered trips targeting marlin, dorado, and other big-game species.
Local and regional baseball events are common, alongside soccer in stadiums around the region.
Certain beaches offer consistent waves, appealing to both beginners and experienced surfers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mazatlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-forward dishes, beans, rice, nopales, and quesadillas; ask for veggie tacos or salads and confirm no fish sauce or shrimp stock.