MAZATLAN
Mazatlan, one
of the most important ports on the
Pacific coast, is located in the southern region of the state of
Sinaloa, 212 km (131 mi) southeast of state capital
Culiacan. The climate is warm with an
average year-round temperature of 25º C (77º F). Known as the Pearl
of the Pacific because of its beautiful beaches and its abundant
marine life, it has become an important site for international
fishing tournaments such as the Bisbee’s Billfish Classic. This
destination combines traditional architecture in its Historic
Center, known as Old Mazatlan, with
modern hotels and restaurants in the Zona Dorada, a 10 km (6 mi)
strip with beautiful beaches such as Playa Norte, Playa Gaviotas and
Playa Venados. These areas are ideal for surfing, diving and
sailfish or marlin fishing. In Old Mazatlan,
you can visit la Catedral de la Inmaculada
Concepcion (The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception) and walk
down beautiful streets lined with 19th-century
constructions.
Here you’ll
also find natural treasures such as el
Cerro del Creston, where you can do ecotourism outings and go rock
climbing. At Creston’s peak you’ll find a lighthouse, which is the
world’s second tallest (only the one at the Rock of Gibraltar is
taller). You’ll also find fantastic golf courses with ocean views.
For boating enthusiasts, Mazatlan has
two marinas that offer docking and maintenance service for all kinds
of boats. Among the cultural and sports events that you can enjoy in
the port town are: The Jesus Arnoldo Millan
International Golf Tournament, the Grand International Tennis
Tournament, the Mazatlan Cultural
Festival, the Sinaloa Arts Festival and the world famous
Mazatlan Carnival, a weeklong
celebration that takes place in February. During this event, floats
pass by the main avenues and plazas. What’s more, you can dance in
the streets to the beat of drums into the wee hours of the morning.
