Why Mazatlan, Mexico Should Be Your Next Beach Escape

Known as the “Pearl of Mexico’s Pacific Coast,” Mazatlán is more lush than Cabo San Lucas and quieter than Puerto Vallarta. Set along golden sand and gently crashing waves, there are so many areas to explore.

Those who choose to stay at a resort during their vacation will discover warm sunshine, appealing culinary offerings, views of the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean and spectacular sunsets. The city of Mazatlán blends historic charm, long stretches of beaches, flavorful food and lively culture.

Located in northwestern Mexico, in the state of Sinaloa, the city is right on the Pacific Ocean coast. It’s about 620 miles from Mexico City, and just north of Puerto Vallarta and across the Gulf of California from Baja California Sur.

When you fly into Mazatlán International Airport (MZT), there are well-paved and connected highways to travel by car, taxi, or shuttle to your resort.

International nonstop flights are from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and Minneapolis. Some routes are year-round (LAX, PHX, DFW), while others are seasonal. Canadians leaving Toronto-Pearson, Regina, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Vancouver, and Winnipeg may have nonstop or fly through Mexico City.

The official language is Spanish; however, the resort staff and many attractions also speak English.

Where To Stay in Mazatlan

I’ve stayed at two different resorts that provide visitors with oceanfront fun. One is located in the Golden Zone, while the other is farther from the action and the crowds, and offers miles of beach walks next to the water’s edge.

Dreams Estrella del Mar

Guests staying at Dreams Estrella del Mar have a 10-minute ride from the airport to the gated resort. Enter a beautiful palm tree-lined drive along a verdant golf course before stopping at two different security gates to enter this exclusive Hyatt all-inclusive property.

Designers combine old Mexico design elements into this elegant and new beach resort. Enjoy a day at one of the multiple oceanfront pools with swim-up bars and slide down the exciting water slides.

This family-friendly resort features a kids’ water play area and a kids’ club. Adults enjoy visiting the serene spa with a therapeutic hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, and sound bath experiences.

The spacious guest rooms all face the ocean and have a soaking bathtub outside on the balcony. Ground-floor rooms have steps in the patio leading down to a swim-out pool.

Dream Estrella del Mar offers an array of internationally themed dining venues and feels more authentic and not overly polished.

Activities include golf, bike tours, water aerobics, and visits to the resort’s turtle sanctuary. It’s also more affordable than many resorts in Cabo and Cancun.

Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan

Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán is another all-inclusive retreat blending Old-World charm with modern comforts. This beachfront resort is set along the famous Zona Dorada in Mazatlán, about a 30-minute drive from the airport.

Once at the resort, guests can ride in unique pulmonias, decorated golf cart taxis, that are in front of many nearby sightseeing destinations.

The rooms are spacious, and there are multiple dining options and swimming pools. Local musicians play right on the sand between the hotel and the ocean, providing a lively atmosphere.

Things To See & Do When In Mazatlán

Walk Along Zone Dorada

This lively area is filled with resorts, shopping, dining, and long swimmable beaches. During the day, the beach clubs offer water sports and views of the three islands. In the evening, this area is filled with colorful nightlife.

Walk Or Bike The Oceanfront Malecón

Mazatlán has one of the longest promenades in the world, measuring 13 miles long. Locals gather here to watch cliff-divers, play in the water, and catch a magnificent sunset. It connects Old Mazatlán, downtown, the Golden Zone, and northern beach areas.

Along the promenade are beautiful sea-themed sculptures, monuments, and informative viewpoints. Street food vendors sell coconuts, churros and seafood snacks.

The Mazatlán Aquarium

Located on the Malecón, next to Parque Central, is the city’s newest top modern attraction. Opened in 2023, it’s the largest aquarium in Latin America.

The focus is on marine life from the Sea of Cortez, known as ‘The Aquarium of the World.” It was designed for families of all ages to learn about conservation while enjoying immersive experiences.

There are sharks, rays, groupers, and colorful schools of fish in huge tanks. Learn about sea turtles, jellyfish, and sea lions during educational presentations and feeding times. Combine your visit with a Malecón walk or a sunset meal.

Culinary Delights

Mazatlán is known as “La Capital del Camarón” (Shrimp Capital). There are shrimp tacos, shrimp empanadas, shrimp cocktails (cóctel de camarón) and grilled shrimp straight from charcoal stands.

The food culture has been a major part of the city since the 16th century. Mazatlán is considered one of Mexico‘s top seafood cities, due to its working port and fishing heritage.

Seafood pairs well with an icy-cold Pacifico beer, one of the most popular beverages to drink with a meal. In the early 1900s, German immigrants brought beer-making to Mazatlán by opening the first Pacifico brewery near the port.

Visit the Mercado Pino Suarez, a local favorite for aguachiles (raw shrimp cooked in lime juice). It can be spicy, sour and refreshing with each bite. Try the marlin tacos (a local specialty), fruity aguas frescas, and regional sweets, while getting a glimpse into everyday Mazatlán life.

Explore Old Mazatlán Centro Histórico

Explore the colorful buildings, restored plazas, cafés, and galleries that make this area the cultural heart of the city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset and in the evening.

Be sure to visit the magnificent Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Built in the baroque-revival style, it is home to the Catholic Diocese of Mazatlán.

During construction in the mid-1850s, the church took over 40 years to complete due to a lack of funds. With the help of a wealthy Jewish family, the church was completed in 1899.

As a nod of appreciation and thanks, there are 28 stained-glass Stars of David displayed in the cathedral. This is the only Roman Catholic Church in the world to have these stars.

Best Views and Birds

Take a funicular up to The Observatory 1873, one of the oldest buildings in the city. It’s a museum filled with historic photos, antique furniture, and marvelous views from every window.

You can also learn about the traditions of making mezcal in Mexico up here. Stroll through a cactus garden and step inside a fenced bird aviary filled with various kinds of rescued birds, including flamingos, scarlet macaws, yellow-cheeked parrots, and toucans.

There is a rooftop bar for snacks and an icy cold Pacifico beer or margarita to enjoy while taking in the city and ocean views.

Hike to El Faro Lighthouse

Nearby is El Faro, one of the highest lighthouses in the world. The circular paved and step hike rewards you with panoramic views of the city, islands, and vast open ocean. The incline trail is also home to a lot of feral cats.

This still-operating lighthouse was built around 1879, and today the 1000-watt bulb can be seen for 30 nautical miles.

Below the lighthouse is a clear glass bridge cantilevering over the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can walk out to the end of this bridge for a photo opportunity to capture the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.

Play A Round Of Golf

Guests at Dreams Estrella Del Mar have access to the Robert Trent Jones Jr., 18-hole golf course. It’s a picturesque course with lagoons, coconut trees, and maintained greens for all levels.

Hotel guests can enjoy discounted green fees during their stay. Specials at the resort include one round of golf per room when you stay in a Preferred Club Junior Suite Swim-out category or higher. Golf club rentals are not included.

Spa Time

The world-class Spa at Dreams Estrella Del Mar offers guests a trip through the different hydrotherapy stations before a relaxing wellness treatment.

Groups can reserve the Turkish hamam or sit in the extra-large sauna overlooking the hydrotherapy circuit bubbles. Warm and ice-cold plunges are part of the hydrotherapy aqua course.

There is also a special bridal area at the spa for the bride and her bridal party. This resort provides everything for a spectacular destination wedding.

See Las Tres Islas

From the Golden Zone, one can see three small islands just off the coast. They are a defining feature of the city’s ocean views. All the islands are important wildlife conservation zones.

The closest island to the Malecón is Isla de Pajaros (Bird Island). It is a protected ecological reserve and an important nesting area for seabirds. The public can only view this island from the beach or by boat.

Next is Isla de Venados (Deer Island), which is the only island open to visitors. It’s a five-minute panga or water taxi ride to reach calm water and sandy beaches ideal for swimming or snorkeling.

The last island is Isla de Lobos (Sea Lion Island). It’s the furthest from shore and is named after the sea lion colony living at the protected island. This one is also not open to visitors, but they can view it by boat.

For first-time visitors wanting to cover the essentials efficiently, the Mazatlan Sightseeing and Golden Zone tour hits the city’s highlights, from cliff divers and Cathedral Basilica to the Open Market, with panoramic bay views and local dining recommendations included.

If You Go

The currency in Mazatlán is the Mexican peso. Bank notes are in $20 to $500 denominations. Cash is king for street food, taxis, beach vendors, and tips. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and resorts, restaurants, and tours.

What To Pack

Swimwear, water shoes, sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, a rash guard for snorkeling, sunscreen and sunglasses. It can get hot, so pack shorts, sundresses and cotton shirts.

Best Time To Visit

The weather is ideal from November to April, with warm days around 80 degrees and minimal rain. Visit on Nov. 1-4 to experience Dia de Los Muertos. Visit in February/March to experience Mazatlán Carnival, one of the world’s largest immersive festivals.

Inspire your next adventure with our articles below:

• From Cabo to Cozumel: Exploring the Mexican Riviera on Discovery Princess
• Small Town Charm: What to See and Do in Todos Santos, Mexico

Author Bio: Jill Weinlein is a travel, food, and lifestyle writer known for her extensive coverage of Hawaii, cruising, and Mexico. Her articles have inspired travelers to discover the best spots to visit when exploring Waikiki Beach, Maui, Mazatlán, Cancun, Isla Mujeres and Riviera Maya.

Want to discover more hidden gems and helpful travel tips? Join our free newsletter for the latest travel secrets and travel articles.

We are reader-supported and may earn a commission on purchases made through links in this article.