Mazatlán / Mexico

On the western, Pacific, or also known as the Golden Coast of Mexico, lies Mazatlán in the state of Sinaloa. The city, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Pacific," has just under 450,000 inhabitants.

Mazatlán was founded in 1531 by the Spanish, but until the early 19th century, it was little more than an insignificant village. In the mid-19th century, a group of immigrants from Germany arrived in the area, and the city began to prosper as a trading port for importing equipment for nearby gold and silver mines. Between 1859 and 1873, Mazatlán was the state capital, and today it is an important fishing center and a popular tourist destination, mainly sought after for its beautiful beaches.

The historic center of Mazatlán is dotted with 19th-century buildings, including the opera diva Ángela Peralta's theater, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Church of Saint Joseph, and the old Hotel Iturbide, which today hosts an art center. The modern part of the city – Zona Dorada or the Golden Zone – is known for its modern hotels, souvenir shops, bars, and vibrant nightlife.

The shores of the 13-kilometer-long promenade (malecón), considered one of the longest in the world, are lined with the most beautiful beaches of the coast. Those who take a walk here will also enjoy towering cliffs, interesting sculptures, historic buildings, and modern hotels. At the top of Cerro del Creston, at 157 meters above sea level, stands El Faro, one of the highest lighthouses in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

In 1980, the largest aquarium in Mexico, one of the best of its kind in Latin America, was opened in Mazatlán. Visitors can view marine and freshwater animals, swim with sharks or sea turtles, or explore the adjacent botanical garden with trees from around the world. Stone Island Peninsula, known for its horseback rides and excellent snorkeling, is also a popular family destination.

About an hour's drive east of the city, in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, lie the former mining towns of Copala and Concordia with beautiful historic churches, while the church in Rosario, south of Mazatlán, is home to a stunning altar of inestimable value.

Nature lovers should not miss a visit to the nearby islands – Deer, Wolf, or Bird – where they can enjoy kayaking, hiking, bird watching, or snorkeling.

Mazatlán is the birthplace and center of the Banda sinaloense music genre, which began to develop in the 19th century and is now the most popular in all of Mexico. Every year, at the end of February and the beginning of March, the city comes alive with a vibrant carnival, whose tradition dates back to 1898.

In Mazatlán, fresh fish and seafood, coconut desserts grown south of the city, and refreshing local Pacífico beer are worth tasting. It is brewed right in the port at one of the largest Mexican breweries, and those interested can take a tour, of course, with a tasting.

Places Worth Seeing

Centro Histórico – Peek into the fascinating past of the "Pearl of the Pacific" in the historic center with beautiful colonial buildings.

El Faro – Climb to one of the highest lighthouses in the world and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Malecón – Stroll along the Pacific Ocean on the beautiful 13-kilometer-long promenade, one of the longest in the world.

Acuario Mazatlán – Don't miss a tour of the great aquarium with a botanical garden and swim with sharks, for example.

Pacífico – Join a guided tour and taste great beer from one of the largest Mexican breweries.

Copala – Visit the former mining town in the foothills of the Sierra Madre and admire the beautiful mid-18th-century church.

Jose Mapino Suarez Mercado – Shop for everything from sombreros to ceramics to fresh fish at the traditional market, where bargaining is the norm.