5 Reasons Why Mazatlán is So Special

We could go on for days listing every reason Mazatlán is so special. But we’ll attempt the impossible instead and choose our top five. That’s right, this month, we’ve homed in on the very best Mazatlán has to offer and ways you can experience all five while you’re here. From its beautiful beaches to its historic downtown, Mazatlán has an unbeatable cultural scene made even more friendly and inviting by its wonderful people and delicious seafood, not to mention its world-class accommodations. Read on for the details.

Beautiful Beaches– The destination of Mazatlán features some of the best stretches of beach in all of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Playa Gaviotas’ pristine blue water features moderate waves and lovely golden sand making it one of the most popular beaches around. In addition to swimming, its waves are perfect for diving, fishing, and boat tours. The intense blue of the water at Cerritos Beach, its gentle waves, fine sand, and beautiful sunsets, make it the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. Olas Altas is best for surfers and right in Mazatlán’s Golden Zone. Playa Los Pinos is ideal for swimming. And Playa Norte, easily one of the most popular beaches in Mazatlán, features gentle waves safe and playful enough for the youngest in the family. Of course, there are more than half a dozen other beaches to boast about, too, but that’s enough to get your feet wet.

Historic Downtown– Our Emerald Bay Resort’s own neoclassical style buildings and interior design pay humble tribute to the look and feel of Mazatlán’s Centro Histórico, or historic center, but it’s nothing like the real thing. While you’re staying with us, you really must take a stroll through the cobbled streets and beautiful turn-of-the-century buildings to feel the pulse of la corazón de la ciudad, or the heart of the city. When you’re there, you’ll notice exquisitely refurbished buildings that, once abandoned, have now become private homes, public art galleries, restaurants, shops, mezcalerías, boutique hotels, cafes, and museums. Peer at the attractive window displays through the tree-lined, sun dappled streets. 

Cultural Scene and Friendly People– Combine history with culture with a visit to Plaza Machado. The main square is framed by colorful restaurants and is anchored by the iconic Angela Peralta Theater. Note its schedule of music, dance, and theatrical performances for the month, and plan to return for a show. Time your visit right to visit Pino Suárez Mercado, a typical Mexican market selling everything from souvenir T-shirts to fresh-caught shrimp. Across the street is the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Constructed in 1856, its architecture and stained glass are worth a visit of their own. Down by the water, stroll along Mazatlán’s Malecon, a nearly five-mile-long seawall promenade that runs the length of the main bay in Mazatlán along the Avenida del Mar and around a point to the old town. Don’t feel like walking? Consider traveling the distance in a pulmonia, Mazatlán’s beloved open-air, golf-cart taxis. Guides are friendly locals who are proud to share all that’s special about Mazatlán.

Seafood– We mentioned you can find shrimp at Pino Suárez Mercado, but we should explain why that’s important; Mazatlán is the “shrimp capital of the world.” Distributing more than 40,000 tons of shrimp across the globe every year, the tasty orange crustacean is Mazatlán’s most famous export. And you’ll see evidence of it almost everywhere you go. Vendors known informally as the Mazatlán Shrimp Ladies sit in front of barrels of fresh shrimp that range in size from an inch or two to half a foot in length, all available for just a few pesos. The raw shrimp comes straight off the boat and locals will take it home to cook. But as our guests at Pueblo Bonito, you won’t have to work so hard. Come back to dine with us, and taste our chefs’ take on the local favorite and anyone of our restaurants in Mazatlán. We promise not to disappoint!

Great Resorts– As the only AAA Four-Diamond resort in Mazatlán, our very own Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay is an elegant jewel set on 20 acres overlooking the sun-splashed Pacific Ocean. Named one of “The 25 Best Resorts in Mexico" by Travel + Leisure’s in 2022, our magnificent resort features its own private beach, three swimming pools, koi ponds, lush mature gardens, a world-class spa, and, as we mentioned, graceful neoclassical architecture recalling Old Mazatlán. Located along the famous Zona Dorada, or Golden Zone of Mazatlán, Mexico, Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán lends flagship style to a spectacular beach resort experience. Also named on last year’s Travel + Leisure’s “25 Best Resorts in Mexico" list, this upscale retreat—the first in the Pueblo Bonito portfolio—is a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern pleasures. Add to that the property’s latest multi-million-dollar renovation to boast a guest experience far beyond expectation. Globally inspired cuisine at Angelo’s Gourmet Restaurant, Cilantro’s, and Los Palomas have further delighted guests with fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared according to traditional recipes by the resort’s expert chefs. 

Hungry for more? We don’t blame you. We invite you! Come see for yourself why Mazatlán is so special. And if you’ve been here before, come back to discover ever more reasons to love our sparkling city by the ocean. Reserve your stay today at Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán or Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay.