Founded in 1531 Mazatlán known as “The Pacific Pearl” is rich in Traditions, History, Art, and Culture. Located on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula at the confluence of the Sea of Cortes and the Pacific Ocean.
Mazatlán itself was not developed by the Spanish or the Indians. Instead, a group of enterprising German immigrants developed the port facilities in the 1820’s to import agricultural equipment. Once they got started, heavy international trade quickly followed.
In the 1950’s, Mazatlán came into its own as a popular tourist destination for the Hollywood stars drawn to sports fishing, glorious winter climate and cosmopolitan air. As the city aged and newer Mexican destinations Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Cabo – grew, Mazatlán tourist status slipped.
The city began to become more blue-collar. A push to encourage tourism in the 1980’s began to breathe life back into the crumbling old town, and a new cycle began.
This booming town and its surrounding areas are graced with warm waters and a calm climate all year round. Mazatlán is a working town that does not rely too much on tourism. Mazatlán houses many factories such as Marino Coffee Factory, Mexico’s largest shrimp fleet industry, Pacifico Brewery, Bimbo Factory, and many more…
Traveling to Mazatlán engages all the senses from great music, open air concerts, exquisite flavors of our cuisine – especially the seafood – unsurpassed anywhere in all of Mexico. Mazatlán draws visitors from around the world.
These sophisticated travelers visit annually to play on the beaches in front of the Golden Zone and Nuevo Mazatlán hotels – knowing that they are just min. away from the Downtown Centro Historic District that has a very European feel to it.
In the historical district you will find things like The Cathedral “Basilica de la inmaculada concepcion”, The Plaza Machado for dining, and exquisite atmosphere, The Angela Peralta Theater, Museums, Art Galleries, and much more.
Here are a few things we love about Mazatlán:
Carnival – Every February Mazatlán is the home of the 3rd largest Carnival celebration! A tradition since the late 1800’s, it has grown through the years and brings pre-Hispanic themes mixed with tropical atmosphere every year to the streets of the area.
Fishing – With Mazatlán’s abundance of Marlin and Sailfish, it’s location between two of the best destinations for deep sea and sport fishing. Mazatlán would only naturally be an amazing experience for any experienced or inexperienced fisherman!
History – There are many historical spots to visit here in Mazatlán and many stories to be told. Most tourists don’t realize that the town was once taken over by the US Army during the Mexican-American War.
Food – The seafood here is always a good choice including of course all kinds of shrimp dishes and fish recipes. You are sure to tantalize your taste buds with all Mazatlán’s exquisite flavors or cuisine.
Golf – There are 4 golf courses here in Mazatlán. El Cid (3 Nine Hole Courses Marina, Moro and Castilla), Marina Golf Course, Compestre, and Estrella del Mar feature 18 holes. Enough reason to try a round on either one or even all of them.
Baseball- If you are visiting from October – December don’t miss one of the “Vendados” baseball games. (Mazatlán’s famous local baseball team)
Football / Soccer – Check out Mazatlán’s NEW football team “Mazatlán FC, and our amazing NEW stadium. Whoo-hoo!
Basketball – There is a professional Basketball team in Mazatlán called the Venados. They play in the Pacific Coast Basketball Circuit (Circuito de Baloncesto de la Costa del Pacífico) which is a small league which plays from April to mid-June with playoffs following. The Venados play in the Lobo Dome at the University of Durango Mazatlán Campus(on Av. Rafael Buelna past Sharp’s Hospital).
Originally, the basketball team was called the Nauticos, but were purchased by the owners of the Mazatlán Venados Baseball team after the 2018 season. From then on they were called the Venados. The Mazatlán Nauticos were the champions of the league in 2016!
World Class Aquarium -The Mazatlán Aquarium with an approximate area of one hectare (10,000 meters squared) and a capacity of over 50 ponds is one of the largest in Latin America. It displays many different and interesting exhibits and features our famous seal show.
Activities – Mazatlán has everything once can expect from a beach resort, waves, sand, and plenty of sun. It’s a place where one can relax or enjoy the action. There is always something going on in Mazatlán. Wave runners, parasailing, and horseback riding are available at all the beaches. Other options include mountain biking, ATV’s, Zipline, Tequila Tours, Brewery Tours, Hiking, Kayaking, Sailing, and much more
Contact our concierge service to make any arrangements you need.