Things To Do
in Mazatlán
Mazatlán is a beautiful coastal city located in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico. Known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Mazatlán offers a mix of relaxation and lively entertainment. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town with its charming colonial architecture and colorful markets, or enjoy water sports such as surfing and deep-sea fishing.
With delicious seafood cuisine, friendly locals, and a rich cultural heritage, Mazatlán is a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of authentic Mexico.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a serene walk along Playa Norte, breathing in the fresh ocean air. Find a cozy spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the waves. Spend the afternoon swimming or participating in water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
Head to the Malecon for a leisurely stroll as the sun sets over the Pacific. Choose one of the many dining options with a view for a delightful dinner.
Explore the historic district's charming streets lined with colorful buildings and art galleries. Visit the Angela Peralta Theater for a glimpse into the city's cultural history.
Savor a lunch of local delicacies in one of the traditional restaurants nearby. Afterward, visit the Mazatlán Cathedral and learn about its architectural significance.
Enjoy dinner in the Plaza Machado, where you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere. End your evening with live music or a cultural event at one of the local venues.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and warm climate year-round
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local festivals
- Affordable cost of living compared to many U.S. cities
- Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood
- Growing expat community providing social opportunities
- High humidity during summer months
- Potential safety concerns in certain areas
- Limited access to certain services or amenities found in larger cities
- Tourist crowds during peak season can be overwhelming
- Public transportation may be less reliable than in more developed areas
Best Activities in Mazatlán
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches of Mazatlán, such as Playa Brujas, Playa Olas Altas, and Playa Cerritos.
Engage in activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Participate in deep-sea fishing charters to catch marlin, sailfish, dorado, and other big game fish.
Take a leisurely stroll through Mazatlán's historic center to admire its architecture, plazas, and landmarks.
Embark on a boat tour to nearby islands like Isla de la Piedra and Isla de los Chivos for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mazatlán with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mazatlán
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and coastline
Waterfront promenade with scenic views of the ocean and city
Historic square with colonial architecture and picturesque surroundings
Food in Mazatlán
Mazatlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing dish featuring raw shrimp marinated in lime juice, green chili, and cilantro. Best enjoyed at El Fish Market or Los Arcos seafood stands.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, combined with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. For an authentic experience, try it at Mariscos el Torito or Mariscos el Veneno.
Grilled marinated fish, typically a whole snook, seasoned with soy sauce, lime, and chili. La Puntilla and El Muchacho Alegre are renowned for serving excellent Pescado Zarandeado.
A local favorite, featuring shrimp, bell peppers, and cheese, served in a warm tortilla. Look for these at Tacos & Beer or at the stands in the Plazuela Machado area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mazatlán better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and authentic street food such as tamales, tacos, and aguas frescas.
A charming square surrounded by food stalls and small eateries. Perfect for sampling local snacks like tamales, carne asada tacos, and churros.
A beachside food stand famous for its fresh coconuts, ceviche tostadas, and seafood cocktails.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity and gender. It is important to greet everyone in the room when entering a social gathering.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Mazatlán. It is important to address older individuals with a formal title such as 'Señor' or 'Señora' and show deference in interactions.
Mazatlán has several important religious sites, and it is crucial to show respect when visiting them. Visitors should dress modestly and observe silence and reverence within these spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mazatlán with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mazatlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mazatlán, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, hotels, and for tour guides. A standard tip is around 10-15% of the total bill, but it's always a good idea to check if a service charge is already included.
Credit cards are widely accepted in Mazatlán, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, it's also advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in more local establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mazatlán.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mazatlán. Expect dry and mild weather with average temperatures around 70-80°F. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
Expect hot and humid weather with temperatures reaching 90°F. This is also the rainy season, so be prepared for brief afternoon showers. Prices may be lower and the city less crowded during this time.
Mazatlán at Night
Hiking in Mazatlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering stunning views of the coastline and the city, featuring a trail that leads up to one of the highest lighthouses in the Americas.
A mountainous area located on the outskirts of Mazatlán, providing challenging trails and beautiful scenery, ideal for experienced hikers.
This trail leads to a scenic lookout point that offers panoramic views of Mazatlán and the surrounding beaches.
A unique coastal area with ancient petroglyphs, featuring easy trails along the beach and opportunities for exploration.
A natural park that offers various hiking trails amidst rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mazatlán through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mazatlán by plane.
The primary airport serving Mazatlán, located just outside the city.
Located in Culiacán, approximately 118 km from Mazatlán.
Located in Los Mochis, about 173 km from Mazatlán.
Located in La Paz, Baja California Sur, around 410 km from Mazatlán.
Another term often used for General Rafael Buelna International Airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Mazatlán, encompassing various cultural backgrounds primarily of Mexican descent.
A smaller demographic group primarily comprising expatriates or descendants of Europeans, often engaging in tourism and local businesses.
Comprising various indigenous groups, though less prominent in population, they contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes a small population of Asian descent, contributing to local culture and business.
Represents individuals from various backgrounds and ethnicities not classified under the major groups.
The Soul of Mazatlán
Discover the essence of Mazatlán through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Mazatlán is known for its passionate baseball culture, with the local team, Venados de Mazatlán, being a significant part of the community and hosting games at the Estadio Teodoro Mariscal.
Soccer is widely popular in Mazatlán, with local clubs and leagues contributing to the sport's growth, and the newly established Mazatlán FC participating in the Liga MX.
With its beautiful beaches, Mazatlán offers ideal conditions for surfing, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers to its waves.
Beach volleyball is a favored recreational activity, with many tournaments held on the coastal beaches of Mazatlán.
Sport fishing is a popular pastime in Mazatlán, famous for its deep-sea fishing opportunities and annual fishing tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mazatlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood dominates the cuisine, vegetarian options are available, especially at restaurants known for their farm-to-table ethos, such as Loopy's The Grill.
Vegan-friendly choices can be found at many establishments, with cafes like Green Sally catering specifically to plant-based diets.
Several restaurants and street food vendors offer gluten-free options. Look for ceviche, grilled meats, and corn-based dishes like tamales and elotes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mazatlán with these cultural adventures.
