10 Best Things to Do in Mazatlán

The beachfront promenade, the Malecón, is one of the most popular things to do in Mazatlán. This boardwalk is the beating heart of the city, where tourists and locals gather to watch street entertainers, grab a tasty taco from a street food vendor or sip a cocktail taking in the wonderful ocean views. 

By day, the Malecón is used by cyclists, joggers and rollerbladers, making the most of the scenic walkway that runs for a huge 7 km stretch. Make sure you stop to watch the cliff diving show from ‘El Clavadista’. After dark, this is the area to stroll, eat, drink and party till the sun comes up with bars and clubs directly on the beach.

Getting lost in Mazatlán Old Town is a must on your trip to the city. The colourful historic quarter is wonderful to wander around with colonial buildings, monuments and statues at every turn. The pretty main square, Plaza Machado, has cafes with outdoor tables, from where you can watch street performers, live music and dancing.

The highlights of Mazatlán Old Town include the spectacular 19th-century Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the Angela Peralta Theater and Pino Suarez Market. Also, make sure you dine out in the Centro Historico, which is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, from hole in the wall cafes to modern Mexican fine dining.

Found at the Port of Mazatlán, El Faro Lighthouse is an important landmark in the city. Due to its location on top of Creston Hill, or Cerro del Creston, it’s also one of the highest lighthouses in the world. The 750m-hike to the lighthouse should only take around 30 minutes but be prepared for its steepness the many steps to climb up.

When you reach El Faro, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean. If you’re weary from the hike, relax and buy drinks from the shop at the top. Also, if you’re happy with heights, take a stroll along the glass-bottomed viewing platform, el Miradór de Cristal’ for an unbeatable photo op.

Olas Altas Beach, or High Waves Beach, is one of the most well-known beaches in Mazatlán, for both tourists and locals. As the name suggests, this is a surfers’ beach, and the choppy waves mean it’s not ideal for swimmers. 

If you want to swim at Olas Altas Beach, you can head to the Carpa Olivera ‘Alberca de Mar’ coastal public pool, which is filled with seawater but calmer than the ocean. This popular beach is situated near the southern end of the Malecon and close to the Old Town. Head to this section of the Malecon late afternoon and grab a table at one of the open-air cafés or bars, as Olas Altas Beach is a stunning spot to see the sunset. 

You’re bound to come across the picturesque Plaza Machado as you explore Mazatlán Old Town. The square has a rich history and is the focal point of ‘centro’, lined with colourful, colonial buildings and palm trees. It’s a hive of activity, with food markets and book fairs taking place here, as well as seasonal celebrations for Carnival and Day of the Dead.

Mazatlán Old Town is even more magical by moonlight and the Plaza Machado comes to life with live music, dancing and street performers. Many of the restaurants and bars lining the perimeter of the square have outside tables spilling out onto the street. Arrive early to secure a front row seat for the evening’s free entertainment.

The Golden Zone, or Zona Dorada, is the beachfront region of Mazatlán found along Avenida Camarón. The main tourist hub of the city, it’s dominated by big beach resorts and the wide sandy beaches are the main attraction to the area. Kick back on the golden sand, swim in the ocean or try any water sport under the sun, from surfing to kayaking and jet-skiing.

Beyond the beach, the Golden Zone is the best part of town to eat, drink, party and shop, particularly if you’re looking for souvenirs, jewellery or art. Make sure you take a selfie with the colourful Mazatlán sign or tuck into juicy seafood with a side of sea views at Joe’s Oyster Bar.

Built between 1856 and 1899, the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is a cultural and historical landmark in Mazatlán. Found on Plaza de la República in the Old Town, the cathedral is an essential photo op, with its impressive yellow spires set against a bright blue sky.

The architecture is spectacular, showcasing different styles, including baroque and gothic designs. Make sure you venture inside if you can and you’ll be rewarded with ornate vaulted ceilings and colourful, stained-glass windows. It’s free to visit but be aware the cathedral is still the main Catholic church for the city with regular mass services taking place throughout the week.

Part of a group of 3 islands off the coast of Mazatlán, Stone Island (Isla de las Piedras) is a popular day excursion from the city. More sheltered than the city beaches, this is a great spot to swim or snorkel in the ocean as the waves are calm and the water is warm.

You’ll find everything you need for a relaxing beach day at Stone Island with sunbeds and umbrellas available to rent, beach restaurants serving fresh seafood and activities to try, from horse riding to mangrove tours. You can arrange an organised tour to reach the island, including some activities, or head over by a water taxi, which can be taken near the cruise ship terminal.

One of the most popular things to see in Mazatlán, the Angela Peralta Theater, is a famous landmark in the city and a significant building in Mexico. The theatre dates back to the 19th century but fell into ruin and was restored and reopened in the late 1980s.

Located just off Plaza Machado, you’re likely to see the impressive building of the Angela Peralta Theater as you explore the Old Town. You can also glimpse the incredible interior by arranging an organised tour or book to see a show or performance while you’re in town. The theatre is home to a contemporary dance company and hosts ballet, orchestral concerts, live music and family-friendly productions.

Found in Mazatlán Old Town, a block away from the Cathedral, Pino Suarez Market is the main central market in city. This is where locals and savvy tourists do their food shopping as you can find the freshest local produce here, including fruit, vegetables, seafood, meats and cheeses. 

Buy food and drink to take home or sample some of the best local delicacies onsite from one of the many street food vendors at Pino Suarez Market. Make sure you check out the upper level, which is home to local restaurants, with a great view of the bustling market below. As well as food, you can find great value souvenirs, clothing and crafts if your bartering skills are up to scratch.