Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a beautiful city located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is known for its crystal-clear ocean, white-sand beaches and festive nightlife. It is an ideal destination for vacationers and travelers alike, offering something for everyone.

Mazatlan is known for its lively nightlife. It has many bars, nightclubs and restaurants that stay open late into the night. There are also numerous theatres and carnivals that offer fun and entertainment for all ages. The city has a variety of beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and laying by the waves. There are many shopping places and boutiques that offer a wide array of souvenirs, including silver jewelry, pottery, and embroidered goods.

The climate in Mazatlan is mild all year round. The city has a beautiful coastline and plenty of sunshine throughout the day. This makes it a great place to visit any time of year. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there is never a shortage of things to do. Mazatlan is a great place to explore, and there are many places that are off the beaten path that are worth exploring.

Pulmonia

In a Pulmonia

Malecon (Hill over my left shoulder is the one we hiked in the morning to get to the lighthouse.)

Part way up El Faro hill

Colorful Houses on Angel Flores St.

Mazatlan Cathedral

Our Day in Mazatlan Itinerary

Walk/Hike to Mirador de Cristal/El Faro Lighthouse
El Faro is located at the southern tip of the city, very close to the cruise port! ‘Faro’ means ‘lighthouse’ in English and this picturesque hill has the world’s highest natural lighthouse perched atop its peak. The lighthouse was first built in 1879 and is still in operation to this day, sitting 500 ft above sea level. Also at the top of El Faro is the new glass floor bridge that extends out from the side of the hill, almost as if it was floating above the sea.  We ended up taking a Pulmonia to the lighthouse from the cruise port and paid $3 (splitting the $6 ride with another couple).  If we were just the 2 of us in the Pulmonia, he would have charged us $5.  The walk up the hill is paved with concrete half way, then stairs (330-ish) the last half.  Give yourself some time and bring lots of water.

Mazatlan Cathedral
The Mazatlán Cathedral (formally known as The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) is a gorgeous Baroque-Revival style Church in the middle of downtown’s ‘Centro’ area.  
 
Plaza Machado
A more famous and popular plaza in town is Plaza Machado, the social hub of Mazatlán.  In this quaint yet bustling courtyard you’ll find tourists and locals alike, along with many treasured restaurants, shops, vendors and countless events. While many of the activities, events and live music happen after the sun has set, you will still love the energizing vibe around the plaza in the day.  We grabbed a couple of margaritas and guacamole and chips here as we took a break from walking. 

Colorful Houses
On Angel Flores street between Plaza Hidalgo and the Malecon.  Beautifully painted houses... some were for sale if you've got $800k USD!

Carpa Olivera - Salt Water Pool at the ocean
On the Malecon, just as you walk past the colorful houses on Angel Flores St. Unfortunately, this was not open, as of January 2023.  We actually carried around our swimsuits and towels all day, looking forward to ending out day here.  However, the walk dow to the Malecon to the cliff divers is still lovely with a few statues here and there.

Cliff Divers
​On the Malecon, 300m north of the Carpa Olivera pool. 
Check out the short video below - part way through is a shot of the cliff diver!

Total walk above is 5.6km (3.5 miles) from the cruise port to the lighthouse, then into town to all of these stops.  Plus the walk up the hill to the lighthouse.  Definitely take a Pulmonia back to the cruise port!  Save your legs for the next stop!  The Pulmonia fare from the cliff divers location to the cruise port was $7.