Wait. You mean when you think of jetting off to Mexico for a little R&R, Mazatlán isn’t on top of your list? Whelp. That needs to change. Here’s why this coastal town is known as the Pearl of the Pacific and why you have some adventuring to do.
Historical charm & new heights.
Take your time wandering the cobbled streets of old Mazatlán and get ready for the buzz of El Mercado Municipal. Over 250 vendors nestle into this quaint market, so you can peruse rainbows of fresh fruit, beautiful textiles, and pretty much anything else you can think of. From there, check out the swoon-worthy architecture of Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. And if you want a bird’s-eye view of the port town (trust us, you do), hike up to El Faro Lighthouse at the peak of Cerro del Creston. Fun fact: Ever noticed the mountain in the logo of Pacifico beer? Yep. That’s the Cerro del Creston. Cheers.
Savory seafood.
Mazatlán’s coastal coordinates mean the seafood is absolutely on fire. And by that, we mean crazy fresh, and deliciously prepped. If you love ceviche, look out for aguachiles—a Mexican dish that originated on the Sinaloa coast. Fresh shrimp are marinated in lime juice with spicy chilies and other mouthwatering spices until it packs just the right kick in the pants. For less challenging treats, fresh caught lobster and baked oysters are always on the menu. And if you’ve never had smoked marlin, you’re missing out. But that’s why you’re going to try everything at least once, right?
Come for El Carnival.
Remember that one party you threw once that was perfect and everybody showed up and people even danced? Yeah, so Mazatlán has been throwing a party like that for more than a hundred years. And usually one million people show up. El Carnival in Mazatlán revs up in early February and is the third largest worldwide—a sure-fire way to dance the night away. Pack your party pants, people.
Baseball on deck.
Who says you can’t enjoy an evening at the ballpark after a day at the beach? In 2016, the Venados de Mazatlán won the Mexican Pacific League Championship and their second Caribbean Series. Which is to say they play some pretty dang good ball. Plus, Teodoro Mariscal Stadium’s downtown location keeps adventure close at hand. Before the game, wow the kids with the sea lion show at the Mazatlán Aquarium, or play a round at Marina Mazatlán Golf Course.
Mexico: A world of its own.
