Be A Sport!
Fishing - Mazatlan is known throughout the world as a mecca for deep sea fishing. Here, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, you'll find majestic sailfish, powerful swordfish, 900 lb. marlin plus a host of other game fish. And thanks to Mazatlan's very successful "Catch and Release"program, you'll find more of them than ever!
Golf - If fish aren't for you, how about birdies? Mazatlan is home to a variety of courses, including an 18 hole masterpiece designed by Lee Trevino. Each has its own unique personality, but they share the same breathtaking scenery.
Mountain Cycling - Mountain bikers of all levels come to Mazatlan for its numerous valleys and heart-pounding trails. And they get exactly what they're looking for, along with scenic hillsides and panoramic views like nowhere else on earth.
Fun In The Sun!
Beaches
Stroll for miles on the longest uninterrupted beach in all of Latin America! This golden ribbon of sand changes looks, personalities and even names. Experience them all, or claim a quiet spot for your own on one of Mazatlan's three islands.
Playa Olas Altas
Surfers love this beach for the high waves that give it its name.
Playa Las Gaviotas
Named for the seagulls that gather here, this town beckon swimmers and sunbathers. The atmosphere is lively with many cafes and restaurants bordering the beach.
Playa Norte
Six long miles of golden sand on the north side of town beckon swimmers and sunbathers. The atmosphere is lively with many cafes and restaurants bordering the beach.
Playa Escondida
This beach on the northern edge of Mazatlan's coast is a mix of rocky areas and stretches of golden sand. Locals gather here in large numbers on weekends so the best time to visits during midweek.
Playa Los Cerritos
Farthest north about five minutes past Gamino Real Hotel, this beach is the most secluded of Mazatlan's mainland.
Snorkeling and Diving - The waters of Mazatlan hide a sunken treasure: thousands of jewel-hued fish. And there's no better place to discover this tranquil underwater world than off the shores of Isla de Venados and Isla de los Chivos.
Local Color!
Divers Square - Each morning and afternoon, local divers leap from the cliffs of Mazatlan's spectacular El Mirador into the shallow surf below. It never fails to thrill the audience that gathers to watch the show.
El Faro Lighthouse - 500 feet above sea level, you'll discover the highest working lighthouse in the world. Naturally, it's pretty hard to miss. But a visit also rewards you with some other things you shouldn't miss: a large collection of tropical wildlife, and a breathtaking view of the city.
Viejo Mazatlan - After two centuries, "Old Mazatlan"is still alive, a reminder of the city's rich history. Canobbio Arcade reflects the architectural landscape of Mexico in the 1800's. Machado Plaza is home to the annual Carnival celebration, one the the largest in the world.
Museo Arqueologico - It seems whenever anyone visits, they forget something when they leave. And since people have been visiting Mazatlan since the 1500's, this museum is a historical treasure. Exhibits feature hundreds of artifacts dating all the way back to the original Spanish explorers who settled here.
Teatro Angela Peralta - You wouldn't expect to find a European-style opera house right in the middle of Old Mazatlan, but there it is! Named after the famous opera singer Angela Peralta, this 19th century architectural gem is the oldest theater in the city.
On The Town!
Shopping - Whether you're looking for a saddle from a master craftsman or simply a beautiful piece of pottery, you'll find it in Mazatlan. The Central Market and the Arts and Crafts Center are filled with a colorful array of authentic Mexican goods from all over the country. And there are literally hundreds of small shops around town to explore.
Dining and Cuisine - Restaurants serve everything from the finest international cuisine to the most authentic regional Mexican dishes. Of course, fresh seafood is Mazatlan's specialty - no trip would be complete without some of their famous jumbo shrimp!
Nightlife - Mazatlan really heats up after the sun goes down. Mariachis wander about, singing their serenades and everywhere you look you'll find live music, happy hours and most of all, happy people. Get dressed up and head out to some of the most exciting discos around. But don't plan on coming home until the sun comes up again!
Getting Around - When it comes to transportation, Mazatlan offers a variety of options, including bus and taxi. But the most popular way to get from here to there is by pulmonia, the open-air taxis for which Mazatlan is famous. Of course, if you stay close to the Golden Zone, you can easily enjoy it all by foot.
Outward Bound!
Las Tres Islas - There is no more recognizable view in Mazatlan than the three islands sitting just off the coast. Isla de los Pajaros is the place to be for serious bird watching, while quiet Isla de Venados and Isla de los Chivos offer the clearest water for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
Concordia and Copala - Visitors can step back in time by taking a tour of the colonial villages of Concordia and Copala. These two historic towns in the Sierra Madre Mountains are where villagers still use centuries-old techniques to make furniture, tiles, pottery and crafts. Concordia is home to the 18th century San Sebastian, the oldest baroque church in the state of Sinaloa. In copala, the village still retains its 400-year-old whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs and narrow cobblestone streets.
Teacapan - This is the most important ecological reserve in northwestern Mexico. Not only is Teacapan a bird sanctuary and home to the beaches regarded as the most pristine in the region, but its variety of flora is dazzling! Everywhere you look, spectacular blossoms catch your eye.
El Quelite - Venture south of Mazatlan and you'll discover this quaint little town. You'll also discover a whole new sport: Ulama. This Pre-Hispanic ball game is centuries old, but it's played with just as much enthusiasm today...and it's just as much fun to watch!
The El Cid Golf & Country Club has played host to many international golf events, and is situated in a natural setting on a biological reserve home to deer, turtles, fish, exotic birds, and crocodiles. The Course is known for its lakes and excellent views, offering a challenge to all skill levels. A 3rd nine, designed by Lee Treviño, has recently been added to complete this wonderful 27-hole layout. There is also a golf school taught by PGA, LPGA and USGTF Golf Professionals. Designed by Larry Hughes & Lee Treviño. Tel: (69) 13-3333.
Estrella del Mar is a Robert Trent Jones, Jr. 18-hole championship golf course. One of Mexico's finest, this spacious layout features lush fairways and well-bunkered greens that roll true as a billiard table. As the newest and most spectacular course in the Mazatlan area, this verdant masterpiece presents challenging and rewarding play to golfers of all skill levels. Serenely situated along 3 1/2 miles of secluded coastline overlooking pristine beaches and the sparkling Pacific, the course's 175 acres of manicured fairways and shimmering lakes create a serene, peaceful setting without equal. If you are accurate in your shot making, you will be rewarded in your score. Regardless of your game level, this course will challenge your skills within a truly magnificent world class setting.
Club de Golf Campestre is a 30 year old local 9-hole course nestled in the colonias of the city, about 15 minutes from the Golden Zone. The course sports two sets of tees, giving a new look to each hole. Its 6,597 yards are complemented by small greens (in perfect condition), which are very well bunkered. This course will test your abilities. One of the three legs of the Sinaloa state golf tournament is held here each year. Caddies are available at the course and the members and employees will make you feel incredibly welcome. Electric or gas carts will probably not be available. The clubhouse has snacks and a full bar. Lessons are available from the Mexican professional. Ratings: Men: Blue-71.9/127 White-70.8/125 Women: White-75.8/128 Red-70.2/123
