Looking for your next adventure? Head south of the border to this once sleepy fishing village on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Now, Mazatlan pulsates with vibrant nightlife, gorgeous hotels, fabulous culinary offerings, and a welcoming vibe. Discover this hidden gem with its historic downtown and plenty of outdoor recreation to get your heart pumping.
Hang out at the all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan, in the Golden Zone, right on the beach. Choose one of their 250 spacious guestrooms, each with an ocean view and a patio or balcony that lets you hear the waves come crashing to the shore. The big draw is the resort’s location, where you can easily walk to shopping, bars and restaurants — or hop in a pulmonia, an open-air taxi found only in Mazatlán. Check out the party trucks with the music blaring and bring your whole gang.
What’s on your agenda today? With two swimming pools, a well-equipped Fitness Center, and lots of activities like bartending and cooking classes, the world is your oyster.
Hungry? Your biggest decision is which restaurant to pick. There are seven. For breakfast, head to the sumptuous buffet at Las Palomas with made-to-order omelets, fresh fruit, and a delicious selection of muffins and pastries. Relax at the Sunset Grill with a cool one and heaping plate of yummy nachos any time of day.
Mazatlan is known as the shrimp capital of the world, and Cilantro’s does it best. This upscale restaurant menus a variety of fresh seafood and selected beef dishes with Mexican influences. Try the Goat Cheese and Cranberry salad, along with the Skirt Steak, Charro-style. Go with the shrimp, any style, which means your way! Dine al fresco on the beach with fabulous Asian-inspired dishes at Pescados, including sushi, nigiri, sashimi, and more. Everything was made fresh with unique taste combinations to savor.
Dining at Angelo’s is like taking a trip to Italy, offering a full menu of Italian specialties like Caesar Salad, spinach ravioli, lasagna Bolognese, broccoli and parmesan risotto.
The Pueblo Bonito family of resorts also has a second resort in Mazatlán, the AAA4-star Emerald Bay Resort & Spa which offers a full service spa, additional restaurants, and lush gardens. Your key gets you access to the other resort and a complimentary shuttle takes you back and forth. It’s like enjoying two different experiences!
What to See
Hike to El Faro – The Lighthouse
El Faro, which means lighthouse in Spanish, was built in 1897 and remains the highest lighthouse in the Western hemisphere. Hike to the top, but go early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. The views are indescribable.
Observatorio 1873
Take the funicular at Observatorio 1873 for exquisite views in all directions. Learn more about the history of the city and you’ll see why the Spanish and French influences have impacted the culture and culinary traditions. Check out the main house and have a drink in the Sky Bar 360.
Then, wander through the bird sanctuary with macaws, flamingos, and birds that will perch in your hand, obviously not afraid of you. Walk along the suspended walkway, on the same level as the trees.
The Historic Center
The colonial city was established in 1531 by Spaniards and other indigenous people. Plaza Machado, which was built in 1837, remains Mazatlan’s meet and greet destination. It features fabulous restaurants, boutique shops, a gazebo, and the city’s Angela Peralta Opera House. Here, you’ll also find Casa 46, a superb restaurant with Mexican and continental influences that overlooks the square. Music emanates from some of the bars. It looks and feels like something from a movie set.
Nearby Excursions
About 30 minutes away is the charming little colonial town of El Quelite, well worth a visit. The resort can arrange this tour for you where you’ll have lunch, and time to shop for handicrafts from local vendors. Visiting El Quelite is a delightful way to get a feel for the real Mazatlán. Snap a picture by the El Quelite sign or climb to the top of the church for beautiful views of the town. El Meson de Los Laureanos is a multi-level restaurant that opens up with little corners and alcoves to enjoy homemade cheese, warm tortillas and delicious meats. Served family style, you’ll be treated to authentic Mexican recipes handed down for generations.
New Aquarium Opening
Destined to put Mazatlan on the map is their brand-new Aquarium Mazatlan, slated to open in early 2023, and bringing the city into the forefront of marine biology. As the largest aquarium in Latin America, this aquatic wonderland features interactive exhibits with sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, the most majestic creatures found in the sea of Cortez.
Make plans to visit Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan for your next vacay.
