What to do in Mazatlán

Activities, attractions and tours

A beach with rocky shoreline, ocean waves, and a city skyline in the background.
A coastal city with rocky cliffs, a beach, and densely packed buildings.
A white building with arched windows and green roofs near the ocean.
A beach at sunset with palm trees, ocean waves, and a distant mountain.
A historic cathedral with two tall spires and a large tree in the foreground.

Mazatlán Attractions

Mazatlan is Mexico's Pacific Pearl and is one of the top tourist cities on the west coast. Mazatlan has many beaches and local fun spots for a vacation and when you travel here, you'll be welcomed to a coastal city where you can kick back and enjoy your time relaxing. There are countless things to do in Mazatlan and many places to note on the map, but here are a few, which may catch your eye.

One of the best places to start your Mazatlan activities is at the Plaza Machado. This plaza is lined with palm trees, cafes, and courtyards, with an iron gazebo in the middle of the plaza serving as a center stage for street performers and other shows. This place is a good location to take a walk or dine in the evening after a day of touring the city.

A must see in Mazatlan is the Angela Peralta Theater, a beautiful and lively performance center where you will be treated to excellent performances and fancy seating. Put the Huana Coa Canopy Adventure on your list of Mazatlan tours, which features a zip line through the woods and the hills of the Sinaloa area. One of the chief attractions in Mazatlan is the Mazatlan Cathedral, one of Mexico's most magnificent churches. Included in the cathedral are 28 stained glass windows and a pipe organ built by Aristide Cavaille-Coll, one of the best organ builders of all time.

Other Mazatlan excursions might include scuba diving in some of the reefs off the coast of the city, surfing, or parasailing. Or you may be interested in an afternoon of golf at the Club de Golf Campestre, one of Mazatlan's top golf clubs. Whether you're in the mood to go on long sightseeing trips, or just spend a day at one of Mazatlan's beaches or spas, you can book your visit here by searching Expedia.com and scheduling the dates you wish to visit.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Olas Altas Beach

Olas Altas Beach is one of Mazatlán’s most well-known beaches. The place buzzes with activity, particularly when the weather is warm and dry. Sit on the sand and observe surfers tackle the waves or rent a board and join them out in the water.
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A coastal cityscape with a beach, palm trees, and a prominent hotel building.

2. Plaza Machado

Home to French- and Spanish-influenced architecture, Plaza Machado is one of Mazatlán’s most eye-catching squares and the social centerpiece of Mazatlán’s Old Town. Come here to admire antique buildings, dine at stylish cafés and see local musicians perform.
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A plaza with palm trees, benches, and a building with arched windows.

3. Playa Brujas

Enjoy the soft sand, rock formations, coconut trees and clear water that make Playa Brujas one of the most picturesque beaches in Mazatlán. It is also one of the emptiest and is located a short distance away from the resort town's popular tourist beaches.
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A beach with waves, a rocky hill, and palm trees.

4. El Mirador

El Mirador is a vantage point where you can see fantastic views over the town of Mazatlán and the Pacific Ocean. It stands atop a hill and contains an eponymous restaurant with seating overlooking the excellent view. Walk with family and friends to the top of this small mountain for a panoramic vista.
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A coastal road with a beach, rocky cliffs, and a building with a red roof.

5. El Faro Lighthouse

El Faro Lighthouse is an emblematic landmark of Mazatlán that offers unobstructed city and coastal vistas. The 19th-century tower stands atop the Cerro del Creston, which at 523 feet (159 meters) above high tide, is one of the highest points in Mazatlán. Hike to the summit of the hill and look out over the city’s beaches, harbor, islands and Old Town.
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A coastal cityscape at dusk with a prominent hill, buildings, and a clear view of the ocean.

What to do in Mazatlán


Stay near popular Mazatlán attractions

Where to stay in Mazatlán

Find the best Mazatlán areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Mazatlán
Learn more about Mazatlán

Zona Dorada

Travelers to Zona Dorada praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Punta Camaron Beach and Sea Shell City Museum.

Centro Historico

While visiting Centro Historico, you might make a stop by sights like Plaza Machado and Olas Altas Beach.

Marina Mazatlan

You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Marina Mazatlan. You might want to make time for a stop at Cerritos Beach or Galerias Mazatlan.

El Cid

Beaches and restaurants are notable features of El Cid. You might consider a stop by El Cid Country Club Golf Course while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Downtown Mazatlan

Downtown Mazatlan is a destination visitors seek out for is beaches, abundant dining options, and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Plaza Machado or Olas Altas Beach while you're exploring the neighborhood.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Mazatlán

Frequently asked questions

Is Mazatlán worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Mazatlán is explore The Mazatlan Malecón. Check this major sight off your agenda, then experience more of this area's fishing and coastal beaches.
How do I spend a day in Mazatlán?
Once you've visited major attractions like The Mazatlan Malecón and Olas Altas Beach, spend some time enjoying the food and retail options in Mazatlán.
What is the top tourist attraction in Mazatlán?
The top tourist attraction in Mazatlán is The Mazatlan Malecón, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Mazatlán?
Three days in Mazatlán is plenty of time to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many guests spend three days on average. The Mazatlan Malecón, Olas Altas Beach and Cerritos Beach are among the top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Concordia.
Is Mazatlán a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to see and do in Mazatlán. Several key attractions, including The Mazatlan Malecón and Mazagua, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Mazatlán's neighbourhoods, Zona Dorada is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while El Encanto is 5 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Mazatlán with kids?
Deciding what to do in Mazatlán with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're vacationing with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Mazatlán for adults?
From fantastic food and cultural hotspots to outdoor activities and unique experiences, there are loads of great things to do in Mazatlán for adults.
Are there free things to do in Mazatlán?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Mazatlán is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without reaching into your pocket. The Mazatlan Malecón is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.

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