Why Mazatlan? 

Mazatlan offers genuine Mexican atmosphere – a value destination with laid-back seaside charm!

When to go?

Mazatlan is a “year-round” destination but the weather from November to May is extremely pleasant so this is the best time to visit.

 Where to stay?

While Mazatlan has accommodations for every taste and budget, we suggest you to stay in at least a 3-plus star hotel. Playa Mazatlan offers loads of atmosphere and good service. It is nestled among an oasis of lush gardens, waterfalls, colour bougainvillaea and graceful palms.

What to do? Where to go?

Mazatlan has one of the longest stretches of uninterrupted beach in Mexico :

Playa Norte – popular with locals; lots of palapa restaurants selling fresh seafood and cool drinks. Local fishermen anchor their boats here.

Playa Sabalo and Las Gaviotas – superb beaches that make up the zona dorada resort area. Lots of activities, seaside cafes, strolling vendors and actions. Great for swimming and sunbathing.
Playa Olas Altas (“high waves”) – popular for surfing (biggest wave in the summer) and as a nostalgic cove where Mazatlan ’s tourism industry began in the 1950’s.

Playa Los Cerritos: one of Mazatlan ’s finest uncrowded beaches, locaed to the north of the hotel zone.

Walking around Old Mazatlan is like entering a time warp and gone back to hundred years – antique Volkswagen taxis, narrow streets, old pastel-coloured buildings with wrought iron bars decorating the windows and plaques! The centre of this area is the mercado (market) which bustles with hundreds of shoppers. The surrounding area is the shopping centre of the city with restaurants and vendors on the street. One block southwest of the Mercado is the cathedral dated from 1875! Please remember to dress yourself appropriately when visiting – absolutely no flip-flops and shorts.

Island Hopping excursion – Three islands dot Mazatlan ’s horizon: Isla de Pajaros, Isla de Venados, and Isla de los Lobos. Pajaros (bird) is popular for birdwatching. Hundred of species nest on the island. Venado (deer) and Lobos (wolf) are quiet and undisturbed, perfect for water sports. Regular amphibian service departs through the day from the beach area in front of El Cid Resort and from other locations. Round trip cost about US$10 per person.

Where to eat?

It’s no surprise that Mazatlan ’s dining scene centres around seafood, shrimp in particular. Restaurants tend to be casual, serving bountiful and reasonably priced meal. Fiesta Nights are popular at many resorts, particularly the ones held at the Playa Mazatlan (one of Mexico ’s best) and El Cid. Try the Shrimp Factory if you love shrimps. Shrimp in every size served by the kilo with a choice of sauces and lime juice. Las Canoas , one of the best seafood and Mexican restaurants in Mazatlan , located on the beach – “Cooking with the heart, not with the hands” is their slogan.

Nightlife – Senor Frog’s is an extravaganza of music, zany waiters and exotic drinks.

How to get around?

To get around Mazatlan , you can always find taxis and “eco-taxis” (they are inexpensive and plentiful), or be a little adventurous and hop a pulmonia – these four-person open-air taxis are a combination carriage/golf cart. Each vehicle carries its own unique name which might give you a clue about the driver’s roadside manner. As most taxis are not metered, you may want to negotiate the price upfront before you close the door.

There is also a public bus system in Mazatlan which runs from the tourist area all the way to Centro (downtown) and Old Mazatlan. These large city buses run from 7AM – 11PM – you’ll find the drive along the oceanside boulevard wonderfully scenic. At night, we recommend travelling by taxi.

The Weather

Seasonal Highs and Lows (ºC)

Currency

Mexican Pesos (MXN) [click here to find out the latest exchange rate]

Other information you should know!

It is now recommended that Canadians travelling to Mexico should carry a valid passport and a travel card (a small paper form) that is available free from airlines and Mexican Government Tourist Offices. It is valid for six months.

Click here to check the latest passport/visa requirements.

Want to know more?!

Our Mazatlan Specialist, Jane, feels that Mazatlan is a value destination and is very similar to Puerto Vallarta – “It is a TRADITIONAL Mexican town!” said Jane. Jane will be happy to share her experience with you. Call her at (604) 273-8228 now.

To check the latest deals on Mazatlan, click here.

Disclaimer: This article is being written based on the travel experiences of our consultants. There are many sources to review in preparation of making the most of your “Mazatlan” experience. The tips are subjective and do not necessarily represent the views of travelSavingstoday.com.