One of the destinations in Mexico that has continued to gain popularity in the past year is Mazatlán, also known as La Perla del Pacífico. For my first time in Mexico, which did not involve staying at an all-inclusive resort but instead being part of the city, this destination came highly recommended to me as it blended the three C’s: convenience, culture, and comfort—everything you need for a perfect trip away from home.

In less than a week, I gained so many new experiences without feeling rushed. Yes, the slow-paced coastal beach energy is strong here. Everyone understands it almost unknowingly, and you acclimate to it quickly. So I want to share that feeling with you. Here is our all-purpose guide to enjoying your stay.

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How to Get to Mazatlán

Most international flights will take you directly to Mexico City, then a shorter domestic flight to Mazatlán. But the airlines have recently increased their direct flights from the U.S. and Canada via major international airports such as LAX, Dallas, Minneapolis, Calgary, Toronto, and Vancouver, operated by American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and WestJet.

The alternative is better if you are planning a more extended vacation. As one of Mexico’s most important ports, Mazatlán is a premium cruise destination. Most have the city on their Pacific Coast itineraries between Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Known cruise lines include: Carnival Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Lines. They’ll consist of most of the activities below as part of their shore excursion packages, but if you have been given a recommendation, you can always speak to your cruise line agent for specific requests.

Malecon de Mazatlán

Measured one of the most extensive boardwalks in the world at 21 kilometers (a little over 13 miles), it represents the perfect beach and ocean vibes you are going to find here. All the beaches in Mazatlán are public, so you don’t have to worry about finding an empty spot to relax in the sand and enjoy the ocean breeze. It feels like every mile has a different bronze sculpture capturing an iconic moment of the heritage you will find here.

This boardwalk may seem dead and empty during the day, but at night it’s a whole different story. That’s when the street lights are on, and the entire city is out to play. The bars and restaurants along the beach are filled with live music and socializing. Families are strolling the promenade or buying treats from the local street vendors. It’s all really magical with coastal charm and an ocean backdrop.

The Beatles on Liverpool St

One of the more unique, funny, and interesting things you will find while walking the Malecon is this side street dedicated to The Beatles. Apparently, one of the former mayors here was such a big fan that he had a whole street made for them. You will find life-size statues of the four recreating their iconic Abbey Road album cover in addition to a British phone box, a yellow submarine, and the front entrance to the Cavern Club in Liverpool.

Explore Old Mazatlán

These preserved and restored 19th-century buildings and cobblestone streets fill the heart of the city with that real, authentic atmosphere. You have the beautiful central squares to stop and enjoy some people-watching while sipping a coffee. A must-see is the historic cathedral with twin towers and distinct architecture, open to all visitors. They have a theatre off the plaza, so check their schedule for musical and dance performances. Just wandering the streets, sightseeing, is delightful, with vibrant decorations.

El Faro Lighthouse

Did you know that Mazatlán was one of the first cities in Mexico to have a lighthouse? For an avid hiker or outdoor enthusiast, climbing up this city landmark is a must. It’s not that bad if you go early in the morning, before it gets hot and humid (bring plenty of water). It’s a single roundabout walking trail with stairs near the end. For most visitors, young and old, it’s not too difficult if you go at a leisurely pace.

Note: You will see many stray cats just hanging out along the trails and napping in the shade. Most are friendly and will leave you alone.

Once you get to the top, you have panoramic views of the marina and Pacific Ocean, the skyline of the city, and the coastline. You will see all the boats dotted in the water and the incoming cruise lines from where you stand. And yet there is even more to do once you get to the top.

Cristal de Cristal (Glass Floor Viewpoint)

Extending out over the cliffs, look down and see hundreds of feet below to the coastline and the ocean beyond. It’s perfectly safe with very thick glass and a strong platform, but you will still feel the adrenaline as you walk across it. Those with a fear of heights (like me) can easily skip it or tiptoe onto the glass as far as they are comfortable. Depending on the time, there can be a long line due to its popularity, so be prepared to wait a bit unless you come early in the day.

Farolesa Zipline

Instead of just turning around and walking back down the same path, you can leave by taking a thrilling zipline over the water to the other side. It will give you the chance to see a different perspective of Mazatlán while going at high speeds. Now, I personally passed on this due to my fear of heights, but all of my friends who did it said it was very safe and exciting. What I think is great about this unique adrenaline experience is that the end leads you directly into our next stop, which combines multiple activities.

Observatory 1873

After you detach from the zipline, you can take the funicular up to one of the top attractions in Mazatlán. Originally a 19th-century military observation post, it’s now beautifully restored as a combination museum, scenic viewpoint, and nature experience. They usually host private events on the premises with food and live music.

Behind the observation area, the steps will lead you to the bird sanctuary and aviary. Built to resemble the natural habitat with only a net to keep them from flying away, you are going to find a mix of parrots, parakeets, flamingos, and macaws. I think it’s great that there isn’t a cage between you and the birds, so they can get pretty close as you stroll through this small area.

Taking the pathway will lead you through another aviary and a turtle habitat. At the end of the walk, we head to our next activity: an interactive museum dedicated to marine life.

Munba (National Whale Museum)

The first thing you will notice about this museum is its sustainability efforts. This multi-level building was constructed using recycled materials, such as shipping containers, to give it a distinct, unique look. That goes hand in hand with their mission of education and research for the conservation of whales, dolphins, and marine life.

As you walk through the different exhibition halls, you will learn about their origins, evolution, ecosystems, communication, and social behavior. What sets it apart is the specially designed interactive exhibits and immersive experiences. The displays are all very modern and sleek with the skeletons and electronics.

There are two favorites I recommend that are fun with friends and family. One records your impression of whale sounds before playing back to see if it is accurate enough to catch a real whale’s attention. The other is practicing photo identification, capturing the unique tails of the whales on camera, which is used to monitor and track them across the ocean through a shared international database.

Munba Expeditions

In addition to the museum, you can join their attached whale watching tour during the humpback whale’s migration and breeding season. But it’s a lot more than that. Your guides are actual marine scientists focused on ecology, aquatic life, and conservation efforts in the Pacific. And you can help them during this tour in gathering much-needed scientific data and documentation on these majestic creatures. They’ll drop the hydrophone so you can listen to the gentle sounds of whale speech under the water. You can also have the opportunity to see sea lions, dolphins, and birds as you drive across the water and along the large, standalone rocks.

Pirate Mansion

Recently opened in 2025, you can learn about Mazatlán’s history with pirates along the Sea of Cortez and its Spanish trade routes. With several themed rooms containing a replica ship, life-size figurines, and forgotten treasure, your in-character guide will lead you through and dramatically tell you what it means to be a pirate with the lifestyle and code.

While I can appreciate the history and effort put in by the staff (especially those with English as a second language), I was expecting more on pirates of Latin origins and local treasure stories. They focused more on the most famous European pirates who operated in Latin America and the Caribbean, such as Edward Teach (better known as Blackbeard) and Jack Rackham. Still, they didn’t mention anyone else.

Mazatlán Aquarium

Here you have another all-in-one experience. It’s been called the largest aquarium in Latin America, but it’s not just about the marine life and ecosystem here. The main exhibits and displays inside feature schools of fish, sharks, and rays in coral reef systems and other mixed ecosystems. At the same time, the outside, separate buildings now house habitats for penguins, capybaras, deer, sea lions, and tropical birds. There are now interactive opportunities with most of these animals, including supervised petting and even feeding.

All of this is dedicated to the education and conservation efforts for the different ecosystems and biodiversity. A top attraction for nature lovers, animal lovers, families, and those looking to try somewhere new in Mazatlán.

Mazatlán’s Food Scene

You’re seriously in for a treat here with Mazatlán cuisine. Here was some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever had in my life. Dishes like ceviche and aguachile are always recommended as standard traditional dishes. And of course, tacos, tacos, and tacos are the more casual quick bites if you are busy running around and exploring.

However, some things leave a bit to be desired in the culinary world here. While there have been more modern restaurants with their creative takes on traditional dishes and gourmet fusion, you have no Michelin-starred restaurants here, and there is no one at the moment to be considered for submission.

For other types of international cuisines, it varies, which is understandable given where we are, despite the decent-sized expat population here. So I was expecting more on the menu. Pizza places are very popular, but I could only find a few Italian restaurants. Not that many European/Bistro restaurants either.

There is a small Asian community here, reflected in the lack of a designated Chinatown-type area and the few such eateries scattered throughout the city. According to locals, you have no Vietnamese Pho establishments, two to three Chinese restaurants, one Thai restaurant, and several Japanese sushi and ramen spots.

I highly recommend taking this local food tour, as I did, which lets you enjoy street food from local vendors and visit classic markets.

Where to Stay in Mazatlán

Most first-time visitors like to stay in what’s commonly known as the “Golden Zone”. This is the strip where most of the major all-inclusive resorts and beachfront hotels are located. Prices are mid-range to high, but they’re worth it for the amenities and services. If you are looking for a more family-friendly, touristy vibe and convenience over culture, this is where you want to be. The nightlife in this area is also lively with plenty of bars, restaurants, and dance clubs for you to attend.

Almost an hour’s drive outside of the city limits is Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort. It’s a massive all-inclusive resort that has everything you need (even a waterpark). Perfect if you are not looking to move around much and want the easiest lazy vacation possible. The price is a little on the pricier side, but with their Unlimited Luxury option, everything seems endless.

Other choices include boutique and budget hotels scattered throughout Old Town and other foreign-friendly neighborhoods. I personally recommend Pueblo Bonito Vantage Centro Histórico, where I stayed, both for its proximity to the Malecón de Mazatlán and to historic old town Mazatlán, as well as for its relatively small size, which means fewer people and much quieter.

Conclusion

At first, I was a little worried about visiting a city in Sinaloa, but after the first day, that feeling was completely gone. The friendly atmosphere, must-do attractions, and coastal blend made it an unforgettable trip, and I felt completely comfortable. Mazatlán is really a gem on Mexico’s coast.