Returning to Mazatlán after many years confirmed only a part of a diffuse childhood memory that evoked extensive beaches, an impressive port and, above all, the wonder of the sea and an unforgettable place. Much has changed since then and the change has certainly been for the better.
It continues to be the beautiful “pearl of the Pacific” and, more than that, it seems to have renewed its old shine, catching up with new activities and tourist options, without losing its traditions, its unique and very Mexican character, which is always a delight. .
Long beaches where to have fun
With soft sand, the length of its beaches make them unmistakable, as they offer unforgettable sunsets. Playa Sabalo is famous for the solar spectacle and its reflections in the water. But all of them, Las Gaviotas, Playa Norte, Venados, Los Pinos and Olas Altas offer whole days of fun for all tastes. From the tranquility of resting on the sand, enjoying refreshing drinks and tanning, to water sports for different tastes: surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, among others.
A highly recommended event that takes place on these beaches is the sand sculpture contest, which contains the beauty of art and the ephemeral. Although it started just a few years ago, it seems to have always been there and if the visitor is not there on the dates of the contest, which is usually February, in other months some people may be found practicing.
Sport fishing has become one of the most important activities, while diving is an option to admire marine species. In the southern part of the extensive North Beach you can find colorful fish, while in Tres Islas you can also see old ships.
If being a few meters underwater is not your favorite way, the port aquarium is one of the largest and best preserved in the country, with documentation, a huge variety of species and even a hospital for fish that will be returned to their natural habitat. .
Ecotourism
The new interests have led Sinaloans to offer their visitors a closer contact with nature. From mountain bike routes around the port and in places such as Cerro del Crestón, to hikes in nearby places in Tres Islas and Rancho del Venado, where there are paths of up to two hours and when passing through them you can see the species Native to the area: the mythical white-tailed deer, which hides when listening to the fainter sound, beautiful birds, some of them migratory, insects, iguanas and many other animals that have made these places protected areas for their natural wealth.
In addition to observing nature with the purpose of knowing and participating in its conservation, there are some spaces in the city where hunting is promoted in nearby hunting ranches, a popular activity in the region that is regulated.
A charming city
As one of the most important and oldest ports in the Mexican Pacific, Mazatlán has very special places with an unmistakable northern flavor and 19th century architecture. The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of them. The city's cathedral, at night its illumination makes it a spectacle that should not be missed. The Republic and Machado squares show the charm and patina of time. In one of the houses, the “casona del quelite”, you will find a variety of local crafts, which include snails and seashells, a good memory of a visit to the port.
The Historic Center has been renovated and restored. Now it is a space that offers cultural activities and options for its inhabitants and for those who visit the port: the art museum, concerts, exhibitions, theater, are just some of them. Additionally, in more recent times, the Mazatlán Cultural Festival and the Sinaloa State Festival of the Arts increasingly attract renowned artists and visitors interested in culture.
Tourism on the rise
Next to the charm of the historic center is also the hotel development of the Golden Zone, with the possibility of shopping and enjoying modernity next to the ocean. In this area of the city the nightlife, with bars and places to dance, now attracts many young people in search of fun.
And for complete rest it also now offers relaxation and treatments in exclusive spas for its visitors. After days of sun and walks, and nights of partying, relaxing with aromatherapy, yoga by the sea, massages and mud baths, they do not hurt.
The spectacular view of the port and the ocean is also worth a visit to the Mirador or Cerro del Crestón, with one of the highest lighthouses in Latin America, and if you like to admire or enjoy the boats, you can see them in the two marinas of the port. the cruise ships that arrive there, fishing boats and other vessels.
Delighting with Mazatlan dishes is another must-see. No visitor can leave without having tried a good shrimp dish or the famous zarandeado fish, and also from the region but not from the sea, a good pozole, Menudo or toasts are always good for the craving.
Ancient mysteries
The petroglyphs of the Las Piedras Labradas area are one of those mysteries that fascinate those who look at them. Carriers of forms of writing and representation long before ours and of great beauty, the stones are still found on the seashore at Venados Beach and it is thought that they were engraved more than 1,500 years ago. Their meanings are still under study. Many of these stones can be admired in the Museum of Anthropology.
Living traditions
Although not a novelty, the attraction that carnival has exerted on tourists has made it an event of increasing importance. It is currently one of the most recognized in Latin America. During the carnival season, dancing in the streets of the old city to the rhythm of the drums becomes a fun that does not end with the dawn that, on the contrary, marks its continuation. Parades, concerts, fireworks, the alleyway, the election and parade of the carnival queen, literature awards (poetry and stories) and painting, dance and children's queen, gastronomic exhibitions, make this party an attraction that goes back to XIX century, when it saw its first editions. Although at this time it is necessary to book in advance to find a good place in the port, it is worth the effort.
All these and many more surprises hides the mythical port of Mazatlán. A single visit left the doors open to many possibilities, or at least the desire, of one or more returns to try to enjoy them to the fullest.
With a wise mix of past and present, the second visit to this port did nothing more than confirm that the joy of that childhood memory was indelible and there were many reasons to continue visiting it.
