Cruises from Mazatlan

Mazatlan is located on the west coast of Mexico, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Gulf of California. This tourist dreamland is 674miles northwest of Mexico City and is the country’s largest Pacific port. It is just 20miles south of the unforgettable cliffs of the Tropic of Cancer, which are situated on the peninsula. The resort, known as the Golden Zone, is world famous and tourism along with fishing are the staples of Mazatlan’s economy. The town has one of the largest shrimp and tuna fishing fleets in the world.

Summers are very hot and humid, especially July through September, so the best time to visit is during the winter months, between November and May. The coolest period is January through March, when daytime temperatures average from the high 70’s F to low 80’s F and nights are in the low 60’s F.

Mazatlan’s yacht harbour has become a favourite destination for the rich and famous. The most enticing features of the area are the glorious beaches, some of the best sport fishing in the world and the growing number of golf courses.

Because many people have yet to discover this hideaway, the tremendous selection of accommodation and the range of activities, many of the resorts are less expensive than other Mexican destinations. New first class hotels and premier restaurants are opening all the time. The centre of Mazatlan, known as Zona Dorada or Golden Zone, is where most of the tourist hotels and fancier restaurants are located.

Some of the must see attractions in the town include Mazatlan Cathedral, dating back to 1855 and the Plaza Republica, which is downtown’s central gathering place. If you visit the Central Market or Mercado, located behind the cathedral, remember that bargaining is encouraged. Here you will find everything from sides of beef to those special souvenirs you are looking for. The old town also holds such treasures as the Museo de Arqueologia, the Art Museum at Casa de la Cultura and the sidewalk cafes of Plazuela Machado.

There are several beach activities to choose from, though many visitors will be happy just swimming, sunbathing and people watching. The Playa Gaviotas and Playa Sabalo have the best facilities, including parasailing, kayaking around the offshore islands or snorkelling. You can also rent jet skis or go bird watching in the mangrove swamp.

Just a short taxi ride or ten minute walk from downtown, people gather to watch the daring divers at Divers Point. They are usually happy to put on a performance of their death defying skills whenever an audience gathers to watch.

There are the normal sedan and golf cart style taxis available, which are a great way to get around, but be aware that they do charge per person. Your best bet is to make sure you negotiate the fare before you get in the cab. Most of the major car rental agencies are represented in the old town, but the only one at the pier is National.