“Top Things to Do in Mazatlán: Beaches, Culture, and Carnival”

Explore Mazatlán – Where Golden Beaches Meet Colonial Charm

Known as “The Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán is a coastal city located on Mexico’s Pacific shoreline in the state of Sinaloa. Blending sun-soaked beaches, historic old town, and rich cultural heritage, Mazatlán is one of the most diverse and authentic seaside destinations in Mexico.
 

Whether you're strolling along the vibrant Malecón, relaxing on Golden Zone beaches, or discovering the beautifully restored Centro Histórico, Mazatlán offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and tradition.

✨ Why Visit Mazatlán?

A stunning combination of beach resort and historic city

Home to one of the longest seafront promenades in the world (21 km!)

Known for authentic culture, traditional cuisine, and vibrant music

A top destination for fishing, surfing, and marine activities

Hosts one of the largest Carnivals in Latin America

📌 Quick Facts About Mazatlán

🏝️ Top Attractions & Things to Do in Mazatlán

1. Relax on the Golden Zone Beaches (Zona Dorada)

Mazatlán’s Golden Zone is the heart of its beach life.

Soft golden sands and calm surf, great for swimming and sunbathing

Home to beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars

Enjoy beachside activities: parasailing, jet-skiing, banana boat rides

☀️ Don’t miss Playa Gaviotas and Playa Camarón – two of the most popular spots.

2. Stroll the Malecón – One of the Longest in the World

Stretching over 13 miles (21 km) along the Pacific Coast, Mazatlán’s Malecón is legendary.

Ideal for walking, biking, and watching ocean sunsets

Dotted with sculptures, open-air cafés, and panoramic viewpoints

The Cliff Divers at El Clavadista offer thrilling performances

3. Explore Centro Histórico (Historic Center)

The beautifully restored Old Mazatlán is full of 19th-century architecture and cultural gems.

Visit Plazuela Machado, the city's cultural hub

See the Angela Peralta Theater, a 19th-century opera house

Discover charming cafés, art galleries, and boutiques

🎭 At night, the square comes alive with live music and open-air dining.

4. Ride the Funicular to El Faro Lighthouse

Mazatlán is home to the highest natural lighthouse in the Americas.

Hike or take a funicular to the top of El Faro (The Lighthouse)

Enjoy panoramic views of the city and Pacific Ocean

A must-see for sunrise or sunset

5. Take a Boat to Stone Island (Isla de la Piedra)

Despite the name, Stone Island is a lush tropical escape.

Just 10 minutes by water taxi from Mazatlán’s harbor

Perfect for horseback riding, kayaking, or simply relaxing under palm trees

Less crowded than mainland beaches

6. Join the Mazatlán Carnival

Held each February, Carnaval de Mazatlán is one of the biggest and oldest in the Americas.

Six days of music, parades, costumes, fireworks, and cultural celebration

A fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and Caribbean traditions

Best experienced from the Malecón or Plazuela Machado

7. Discover Mazatlán’s Culinary Scene

A port city, Mazatlán is known for its incredibly fresh seafood and Sinaloan flavors.

Try ceviche, aguachile, or the famous pescado zarandeado

Enjoy seafood tacos at El Muchacho Alegre or sunset dinners at Pancho’s

Visit Mercado Pino Suárez for a taste of local street food and ingredients

8. Go Deep Sea Fishing

Mazatlán is one of the top sportfishing destinations in the world.

Catch marlin, tuna, sailfish, and dorado year-round

Charter boats from Marina El Cid or Marina Mazatlán

Great for both experienced anglers and first-timers

🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Beaches and Malecón

Morning: Relax on Playa Gaviotas

Afternoon: Stroll the Malecón and visit cliff divers

Evening: Dinner at El Presidio + cocktails in Plazuela Machado

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning: Explore Centro Histórico, Angela Peralta Theater

Afternoon: Ride up to El Faro Lighthouse

Evening: Attend a local music or dance performance

Day 3: Nature and Excursions

Morning: Take a boat to Stone Island or Deer Island

Afternoon: Enjoy beachside lunch and water sports

Evening: Sunset on the beach + seafood dinner

📅 Best Time to Visit Mazatlán

🏨 Where to Stay in Mazatlán

Luxury Stays

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa – 5-star resort with ocean views

The Inn at Mazatlán – Elegant suites in the Golden Zone

Mid-Range

Hotel Playa Mazatlán – Beachfront comfort with all-inclusive options

Casa Lucila Boutique Hotel – Charming hotel near the Historic Center

Budget-Friendly

Hotel Posada Freeman Centro – Rooftop views in Old Mazatlán

Mariana Beach Hotel – Affordable and steps from the sand

🧳 Travel Tips for Visiting Mazatlán

Getting Around: Use pulmonías (open-air taxis) – fun and iconic

Local Etiquette: Tipping is customary (10–15% in restaurants)

Safety: Tourist zones are generally safe – exercise standard precautions

Currency: Exchange USD to pesos for better local prices

Packing: Don’t forget sunblock, breathable clothing, and beachwear