There is plenty to do in Mazatlan, whether you're a native or tourist. Besides walking, jogging, or biking along the "malecon" (seafront promenade) and beholding the stunning views of the Pacific ocean, hanging out at the beach is a given. There are miles of uninterrupted, clean, wide sandy beaches to stroll on, and jumping into the water is always delicious (even in the wintertime, the water is not too cold). Mazatlan beaches also offer sailing, water skiing, and para-sailing (these activities are particularly done in Mazatlan's Golden Zone where all the big hotels are). You'll see musicians and vendors trolling the beaches and surfers catching waves. Depending on the time of year the beaches will be packed with people or there'll be activities and performances happening along the beachfront. Mazatlan is also well known for excellent deep sea fishing. Fishing is an important industry in Mazatlan and is responsible for Mazatlan being one of the largest exporters of shrimp in the world.
But there is more to Mazatlan than beaches and fishing. Take a walk around old town Mazatlan. Hang out at the quaint plazas or step into one of the cafes for a delicious bite to eat or a refreshing drink. Visit the bustling "mercado" (marketplace) to experience a more traditional approach to Mexican commerce, and maybe pick up a souvenir or two. The area immediately surrounding the "mercado" has many stores to visit if you're looking to shop. The cathedral is a landmark that you can't miss.
Its beautiful facade, with tall yellow towers and exquisite design and detail, is a sight that will prompt you to just stare at it for minutes on end, trying to take in every detail. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive and is a good place to meditate when there is no mass.
Other daytime activities in Mazatlan include golfing at some excellent courses, including the Estrella Del Mar resort golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Mazatlan has several museums, an aquarium, many jewelry and artisan craft shops that are museums in and of themselves, and getting around Mazatlan can be great fun riding one of the "pulmonias" - open-air taxis similar to golf carts that will take you anywhere in the city (for a fare, of course).
Mazatlan offers anyone an incredible nightlife. If a stroll along the "malecon" during a warm, tranquil night, or dinner at one of the many restaurants or street-side food carts is not enough, then the clubs in Mazatlan will guarantee a great time for those seeking a more lively atmosphere. Fiestaland, a collection of clubs located at the beginning of the Golden Zone, lights up at night to offer dancing, live music, and dining. There are various clubs and restaurants throughout the Golden Zone that offer dancing and live music, and many of the hotels offer the same. Even Plaza Machado in old town Mazatlan offers a lively - yet more subdued - atmosphere with street-side dining and live musicians. The Angela Peralta theater in Plaza Machado presents many musical and theatrical performances throughout the year. Anything you can think of - bowling, pool, dancing, theater - is available in Mazatlan.
But, it is the beaches of Mazatlan that are a real gem.
Pictures can never replace actually being there. Mazatlan is growing tremendously and is preparing to accommodate more tourists besides a growing population. Many new hotels are being built along a stretch of beachfront north of the the Golden Zone. Things are getting even more exciting in Mazatlan. If you're looking for a vacation spot, Mazatlan is definitely worth going to. You will feel at home, probably won't want to leave, and if you do leave, you'll want to come back to Mazatlan again!
-Moises
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