Mazatlán
The Pearl of the Pacific: miles of seaside boardwalk for sunset walks, a lively historic center and Sinaloa seafood straight from the boat.
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Mazatlán hotels at today's rates
Prices refresh for 3 nights and 2 adults in the Golden Zone, Olas Altas and Nuevo Mazatlán.
What to see in Mazatlán
Between the lighthouse and the Golden Zone, the port mixes beaches, history and neighborhood life best enjoyed on foot or by pulmonía.
- Nov–MayDry season, the most pleasant time
- Feb–MarCarnival, just before Ash Wednesday
- ≈20 kmOf seaside boardwalk end to end
- ≈1 h 40Flight from Mexico City
Mazatlán in pictures
Sunsets on the malecón, open Pacific beaches and the plazas of the old port.
- Sunset on the malecón · Valeria Mendívil Hull (CC0)
- A gray morning on the Pacific · Eli Duke (CC BY-SA 2.0)
- Beach and boardwalk in the old port · Wonderlane (CC0)
- The malecón and its islands · DogeGamer2015MZT2 (CC0)
- A plaza in the Historic Center · DogeGamer2015MZT (CC0)
- Endless sand on Stone Island · Gzzz (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mazatlán FAQs
Seasons, Carnival, where to stay and how to get around the port.
When is the best time to visit Mazatlán?
November to May is dry and mild, with sunny days and cool evenings; in winter the water can feel brisk. July to October is hot and humid, with rain and Pacific hurricane season. Holy Week, Carnival and summer are the busiest times.
When is Mazatlán's Carnival?
It takes place in February or March, in the days before Ash Wednesday, so the dates shift every year. It's one of Mexico's oldest and biggest carnivals, with parades along the malecón, the crowning of the queens, concerts and the Naval Combat fireworks show. Book your hotel well in advance.
Which airport do I fly into, and how long to my hotel?
Mazatlán International Airport (MZT), southeast of the city. Downtown and the Golden Zone are about 25–35 minutes away by taxi or authorized transport. Flights from Mexico City take roughly 1 hour 40 minutes. You can also drive in on the Durango–Mazatlán highway or take the ferry from La Paz, Baja California Sur.
Which part of Mazatlán should I stay in?
The Golden Zone has beachfront hotels, bars and restaurants. Olas Altas and the Historic Center offer boutique hotels in restored mansions and the best neighborhood feel. Nuevo Mazatlán and the Marina area farther north have large, quiet resorts that work well for families.
How do I get around Mazatlán?
Pulmonías, the open-air taxis unique to the port, are the most fun way to ride the malecón; agree on the fare before you get in. There are also regular taxis, city buses and ride-hailing apps. You can walk or bike the malecón between downtown and the Golden Zone.
What local food should I try in Mazatlán?
Shrimp aguachile, pescado zarandeado (butterflied grilled fish), ceviche, tacos gobernador and callos de hacha (pen-shell scallops). Away from the sea, try Sinaloa-style chilorio. It all tastes better with banda or tambora music playing.
Is the hike up to El Faro worth it?
Yes, if you enjoy a climb. The lighthouse sits atop Cerro del Crestón, about 157 meters above the sea, and the stepped trail takes 30–45 minutes. The view takes in the whole port. Go early or near sunset to avoid the heat, and bring water.
How do I get to Stone Island?
By water taxi from the landing near the lighthouse; the crossing takes about 5 minutes. On the other side there's a long beach with palapas serving seafood, a good escape from the hotel zone. Check the time of the last boat back.
How many days do I need in Mazatlán?
Four nights let you walk the malecón and the Historic Center, climb El Faro, spend a day on Stone Island and go fishing or out on a sunset boat. During Carnival, add a couple more days.
Keep your Mazatlán hotel and flights on your phone and check your booking while you stroll the malecón.
