Welcome to Mazatlan

Surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains, Mazatlán is situated on Mexico’s northern Pacific coast in the state of Sinaloa. Visitors to Mazatlán appreciate the chance to experience a flourishing seaport, as well as authentic Mexican culture. Mazatlecos love the opportunity to share their heritage, traditions and pride in their jewel on the Mexican Gold Coast.

Mazatlán provides a wide range of options for visitors. Take a stroll around Old Mazatlán (Centro) with its colorful colonial-style architecture, stop at an outdoor café for a fresh limonada, or hike up to Cerro de Vigia (Lookout Hill) for an unforgettable view.

Just 745 miles south of the Arizona border, Mazatlán is the closest major Mexican resort to the United States. Mazatlán is an ideal, affordable vacation choice with endless possibilities: aquatic sports, kid activities, fishing, bird-watching, golf, tennis, horseback riding, fine dining, shopping and nightlife.

Come to Mazatlán and discover your passion. You’ll be here before you know it.

History

For thousands of years prior to the first Spanish arrival, the Native Americans Nahua Tribes migrated through this region they called "land of the deer" after the herds that once migrated along the beautiful countryside.

In the early 16th century, the Spaniards founded this port, which gained prominence due to the nearby gold and silver mines of Rosario, Copala and Panuco. Frequent pirate attacks stifled early development. The pirates disappeared by 1800, but legends of buried treasures in the caves along the coast still circulate today. In the 1840s, hordes of American settlers passed through Mazatlán on their way to the gold fields of California. By the end of the 19th century, Mazatlán was a thriving international seaport, leveraging its natural resources to trade with countries as far away as China and Japan.

In the 1940s, Hollywood discovered Mazatlán and visitors flocked to the Mexican Riviera. Mazatlán’s luxury accommodations and diverse vacation options continue to attract visitors from all over the world.

Past visitors will tell you that the best way to soak up its rich history is to stroll through Old Mazatlán’s winding streets and plazas, pass by its colonial mansions and visit its renowned landmarks and attractions.

Culture

You’ll know you’re in a place like no other as soon as you hear the Sinaloase music of the Tambora, the traditional band music of Mazatlán. Monuments are scattered throughout the city and dazzle visitors with a glimpse into distinct aspects of Mazatlán’s history and culture.

Mazatlán boasts year–round festivities to celebrate its rich culture and heritage. Carnaval, one of the world’s best Mardi Gras events, is held during the week before Lent. Much like the famous event in New Orleans, this traditional celebration includes parades, fireworks, art, concerts and street parties. At the end of the year, Mazatlán hosts a cultural festival featuring ballet, opera, concerts and plays held at the Teatro Angela Peralta, a striking neoclassical opera house built in 1860. Visitors also frequent the Casa de la Cultura to view visiting art and photography exhibits.

Weather

Set inside a beautiful cove in the Pacific Ocean, Mazatlán enjoys temperate, tropical weather year–round. With temperatures ranging from the mid–60s to mid–90s, Mazatlán is an ideal destination any time of year.

Flights to Mazatlan