Why Mazatlan by Dquest

Mazatlan , also known as ‘The Pacific Pearl’ is located east of the southern tip of Baja Peninsula at the confluence of the Sea of Cortes and the Pacific Ocean in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. This booming resort town and its surrounding areas are graced with warm waters and a constantly balm climate all year round.

The town features a historical old centre and a major commercial fishing port boasting Mexico's largest shrimp fleet and superb conditions for sport-fishing. Here are the ten reasons why Mazatlan is definitely worth a visit.

Top ten reasons to visit Mazatlán

History

There are many historical spots to visit in Mazatlan. Most tourists do not realize that the town was once taken over by the U.S Army during the Mexican-American War, there are many sites to be seen and many stories to be told!

Fishing

With its abundance of marlin and sailfish, its location between two of the best destinations for deep sea and sport fishing and its sport fishing fleet that seeks equality, Mazatlan would only naturally be an amazing experience for any experienced or inexperienced fisherman!

Gastronomy

The seafood here is always a good choice including of course all kind of shrimp dishes and fish recipes. Sinaloa's aguachile and the local preparation of scallops are unrivaled in Mexico. But the gastronomy contains also some different regional specialties without the treasures from the sea.

Activities

Mazatlan has everything one can expect from a beach resort, including the obvious waves, sand and plenty of sun; it's a place where one can relax or enjoy the action. Wave runners, parasailing and horseback riding are available at all the beaches, Other options include mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, scuba diving and snorkeling.

Carnaval

Every February Mazatlan is home to 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 a tropical atmosphere every year to the streets of the area!

Architecture

The Cathedral "Basilica de la inmaculada Concepcion", the Malecon, the Corvera Building or Pacific Café, the Lighthouse, the Angela Peralta Theater and the Customs Building are just a few of the examples of the fine architecture of the Mexican Pacific Pearl.

World Class Aquarium

The Mazatlan Aquarium with an approximate area of one hectare and a capacity of over 50 ponds is one of the largest in Latin America. It displays many different and interesting exhibits and features a seal show and a tropical botanical park.

Golf & Baseball

There are three golf courses in Mazatlan, two of them, El Cid and Estrella del Mar feature 18 holes. Enough reason to try a round on either one or even all of them. If you are visiting from October through December don’t miss one of the ‘Venados’ baseball games (The Venados, or deers in english, is the local baseball team).

Outdoor Attractions

To name two of them: Divers Point, a four-story platform above the ocean located between the golden zone and downtown. Divers jump from the platform frequently once the crowd draws. People take the city tour just to see this spot. Stone Island (Isla de las Piedras) with nothing but coconut trees.

Flight Connections

Although not being a very frequently used destination for tourists, Alaska, Continental and America West offer direct flights to Mazatlan International Airport, located 14 miles south of the town.