What to do in Mazatlán

Activities, attractions and tours

Mazatlan featuring a sandy beach and rugged coastline as well as a family
Mazatlan showing landscape views, rugged coastline and a city
Mazatlan showing modern architecture, a luxury hotel or resort and rugged coastline
Mazatlan showing a sunset, a beach and a coastal town
Mazatlan showing a square or plaza, religious elements and heritage architecture

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.


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What to do in Mazatlán


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Mazatlán

Zona Dorada featuring a sandy beach, mountains and general coastal views

Zona Dorada

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

Island hopping, wildlife spotting, beaches and nightclubs are among the biggest draws to Mazatlán's lively and eclectic district of fun and entertainment.

Zona Dorada
Mazatlan showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and a sunset

Centro Historico

If you're spending some time in Centro Historico, Plaza Machado and Olas Altas Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Centro Historico
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El Cid

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

El Cid
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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 Witches Beach.

Marina Mazatlan
Olas Altas Beach featuring a sunset, street scenes and a gorge or canyon

Downtown Mazatlan

Downtown Mazatlan is a destination visitors seek out for its 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 neighbourhood.

Downtown Mazatlan
Mazatlan which includes a sandy beach and waves

Cerritos

While visiting Cerritos, you might make a stop by sights like Mazagua Aquatic Park and Witches Beach.

Cerritos

 

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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 kms (3 miles) away from downtown, while El Encanto is 5 kms (3 miles) 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 holidaying 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.