Overview
Visitors to Mazatlan are in for a treat. The city sits on a prime location right on the Mexican Gold Coast, where the stretches of palm-lined beaches provide the ideal venue for viewing perfect sunsets. The city itself is rich in history. Mazatlan’s name means the place of the deer in Nahuatl language, and was founded in 1531 by a group of Spaniards and Indian settlers. At present, the city is home to almost half a million residents. With this number, it is easy to see why Mazatlan is the second largest city in Mexico. In 2007, Mazatlan was considered as one of the 13 man-made wonders of Mexico.
Things to Do
Mazatlan offers visitors many exciting activities to do and many sites to see. Luxury hotels and resorts are located in the city, offering the ultimate pampering experience. Also, this booming “beach town” provides the perfect venue for fishing and other water sports. With over ten miles of beaches, visitors can have their fill of days basking under the sun or enjoying a swim in the warm, azure waters off Malecon. Strolling around the city can give visitors an idea of Mazatlan’s rich cultural heritage in the form of monuments, old buildings, and other historical landmarks. For those who have a taste for adventure or appreciating the beauty of nature, Mazatlan offers facilities and venues for hiking and day excursions, too.
Best Hotel Accommodations
Mazatlan offers many selections for hotels that are right within one’s budget and preferences. Best Western on Avenida Olas Altas is close to the beach and just a few minutes’ walk from the downtown area. The rooms at the hotel have great views. Marina El Cid offers classy accommodations on Avenida Camaron Sabalo, with a full-service marina, a 27-hole golf course, and free shuttle service, among other amenities and services. Holiday Inn, meanwhile, offers state-of-the-art facilities in its property situated on Playa Sabalos and services catered to the specific needs of its guests. Book your Mazatlan Hotels with Reservations.com.
Tourist Attractions
In Mazatlan, there are many things that are worth checking out. For swimming, sunbathing, and other water sports, there are different places to go to, depending on one’s preferences. The first place to try is Zona Dorada. Playa Olas Altas, meanwhile, is popular with those who are into surfing. Every Sundays and during most holidays from December to April there are bullfights held at Plaza Monumental. The place is also the venue for rodeos during the summer months. The Acuano Mazatlan hosts seal shows and numerous exhibits featuring aquatic animals. At present, the aquarium center holds 50 aquariums and more than 200 species of fish. Another event to look forward to is the Carnival, which is celebrated40 days before Easter, along with the rest of the world.
Shopping
If you are looking for the right souvenir of a wonderful vacation in Mazatlan, there are many great places to shop throughout the city. The Mega (or formerly known as La Gran Plaza and Commercial Mexicana) is one of the most popular shopping haven in the city. The Mega features numerous small boutique-style stores and several restaurants featuring local and international cuisine.