The name of Mazatlan comes, etymologically speaking, from the Nahuatl language: 'Mazatl', which means 'place of deer'. It is located in the south part of the State of Sinaloa, less than half a degree from the Tropic of Cancer. Mazatlan is the northern-most of the main resorts on Mexican Riviera, and is also one of the busiest commercial shipping ports on the Pacific. Mazatlan is the shrimp capital of the world with over 40,000 tones of shrimp shipped and processed from here every year. Mazatlan is one of the young Mexican party towns of the Pacific coast, but it is also one of the most economic of Mexico's resorts, balancing convenience and comfort with economy and good value.
Angela Peralta Theater
The foremost cultural venue of the city is also a beautiful architectural jewel, built late in the 19th century. Many plays, shows, opera productions and even sporting events have been performed inside this theater with a capacity for up to 850 people. The theater lay abandoned for quite some time until the City Council remodeled it and gave it its current facade, and it is now one of the most active and attractive cultural centers in the city.
Stunning Beaches
There are plenty of good beaches for relaxing, sunbathing and swimming on in Mazatlan. Mazatlan has an excellent assortment of beaches - some for surfing, others for swimming. Because some of the beaches face the open Pacific, the waves are strong, big and pounding - no good for swimming - so take extreme care with those!
Island Hopping
Three islands dot Mazatlan's horizon: Isla de Pajaros, Isla de Venados, and Isla de los Lobos. Each has its own personality. Venado (deer) and Lobos (wolf) are quiet and undisturbed, perfect for water sports. Pajaros ("birds") is popular for birdwatching. Hundreds of species nest on the island. Regular amphibian service departs throughout the day from the beach area in front of El Cid Resort and from other locations. Round trips cost about $8 US. per person.
Stone Island
The Stone Island is one of the well known highlights in Mazatlan. Since it is located away from the hustle and bustle of the Golden Zone, the island is an excellent place to enjoy beautiful, quiet beaches and spend a relaxing day. You will also find on the island a variety of food stands serving incredibly fresh seafood, and you can also participate in several leisure activities such as horseback riding and water sports. Everything you need to spend a fantastic day out is waiting for you in this paradise located south of Mazatlan!
The Aquarium and Botanical Gardens
See over 50 fresh and saltwater tanks with sharks, eels, seahorses, lobsters, and over 250 exotic species from around the world. Interesting sea museum, a trained seal show and an auditorium with films about sea life make this a perfect things to do in Mazatlan activity.
The Immaculate Conception's Cathedral
Facing the Plaza de la Revolucion is Mazatlan's beautiful Catedral de la Purisma Concepcion. The construction began in 1875 and was finished in 1899 and was dedicated, in 1937, to Mary's Immaculate Conception. It is considered the most beautiful cathedral in the northwest of Mexico, featuring magnificent sculptures in its atrium. The Cathedral has a remarkable blend of styles, including Gothic in the facade and the interior decor having mainly a Baroque and neoclassical feel. When you visit the cathedral you will be surprised at its many works of art, which include not only magnificent sculptures but also inspiring paintings.
Plazuela Machado
Just a few blocks from the cathedral is the Plazuela Machado located at Avenues Constitucion and Carnaval. Named for Juan Nepomuceno Machado who donated the land, this small park is also built around a gazebo. Beautiful flora set off the surrounding colonial buildings which are now home to many flavorful cafes. It is by far the most charming place in Mazatlan to chat over a beer or a cup of coffee or begin an exciting night out.
