Mazatlán: Mexico's Pacific Gem

Take an ATV tour

Mazatlán is unique because it sits between the Pacific coastline and the Mexican jungle. ATV tours into the interior are a great way to get a dose of local flora and fauna. Contact me for help booking excursions like this.

Visit the beaches

Mazatlán’s coastline offers a variety of golden-sand shores, from calm bays perfect for swimming to rugged breaks for surfing. Some options include Playa Gaviotas (widely considered to be the liveliest beach), Playa Norte (ideal for families), and Playa Olas Altas (favored by surfers).

Visit the Mazatlán Cathedral

The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, also known as Mazatlán Cathedral, is the main church in Mazatlán. It was built in 1899 in the Baroque-Revival style of Sinaloa, Mexico, and became home to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mazatlán.

Walk along the Malecón and enjoy Mazatlán street food

This is one of the longest and largest boardwalks in the world. The 13-mile stretch snakes along Mazatlán’s gorgeous beaches, and as you walk north, you will eventually hit the Historic District. Here, you can usually find a large grouping of food trucks that serve everything from local seafood and BBQ to traditional Mexican street food.

Hike to El Faro Lighthouse

This is one of the tallest lighthouses in the world, located on a hilltop overlooking the Port of Mazatlán. You can visit the lighthouse during the day by taking a half-mile hike up the partially paved path. There is also a glass-bottom lookout point that extends out from the cliffs. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water to drink on your way up. This is a physically intense activity and not suitable for young children, nor is it wheelchair accessible.

Enjoy a tequila tasting

Vinata los Osuna, a mezcal distillery, is located on the outskirts of Mazatlán. Southern Sinaloa has a rich history in the planting and harvesting of Blue Agave and the production of “mezcal” (from Nahuatl—“mexcalmetl”—meaning Agave). You can visit the distillery, sample tequila, and even enjoy ziplines available on the distillery’s property.

Charter a fishing boat

Besides Cabo, this is one of the best places to go deep-sea fishing in Mexico. While there are many charter companies out there, we’ve had great luck with Star Fleet Fishing Sportfishing. This family-owned company has operated out of Mazatlán since 1953.

Visit Isla del Venado

Isla del Venado is a little island located off the coast of Mazatlán. Get there via a chartered boat, the ferry, kayaks, or paddle boards if you’re up for a workout. This is a great spot to snorkel and enjoy untouched nature.

Shekinah Beach Club

This relaxing but trendy beach club is located on the Pacific and offers some of the best views in Mazatlán. Day passes are required, but a pass allows you to enjoy the full restaurant, bar, live music, and sometimes they feature activities like yoga.

El Presidio Cocina de México

Located in the historic part of Mazatlán, this one-of-a-kind spot is known to be one of the best restaurants in the city. Once a 19th-century colonial mansion, the restaurant (which was originally built in 1876) is celebrated for combining elevated, modern Mexican cuisine with a romantic, jungle-like garden patio where ancient trees wind through the crumbling brick ruins. My brother's rehearsal dinner was held here.

Yoko Sushi Bar

This famous and popular sushi spot is located in the residential area of Mazatlán. They're best known for their take on Sinaloan sushi, a wildly popular fusion cuisine originating from this area of Mexico. It swaps the delicate, minimalist nature of traditional Japanese sushi for bold, "machismo" Mexican flavors, frequently featuring cooked meats, melted cheese, spicy sauces, and tempura frying. This is one of my brother's favorite restaurants in Mazatlán, and reservations are not necessary.

El Acaxee Sky Tropic Lounge

This casual, slightly upscale rooftop lounge specializes in local seafood (tostadas, ceviche, etc.), creative sushi, steaks, and burgers. It truly has something for everyone, making it great for larger parties. Reservations are recommended, and I highly suggest going to catch the sunset.

Casa 46

A classic Mazatlán spot with chic vibes specializing in traditional Mexican cuisine. They serve breakfast and dinner but are closed for lunch. Reservations are recommended.

Observatorio Skybar 1873

This restaurant claims to have the best views in town, and I tend to agree. It sits south of the city, so it takes about 30–45 minutes to get there, but it's absolutely worth the drive. The bar is located on top of Cerro de Vigia, which offers nature and history tours. Skybar offers brunch and dinner, making it the perfect place to begin or end your trip. Reservations are required.

Mariscos Beto Zona Dorada

This casual eatery is located along the beach strip. Reservations are not required, walk-ins are welcome, and they specialize in authentic Sinaloan "mariscos"—seafood! This includes shrimp, crab, lobster, octopus, squid, clams, mussels, and more.