5 ways to explore Mazatlán

Published on : October 7, 2019
share

Looking for a unique destination for your next tropical getaway? With a vibrant culture, fascinating history and breathtaking landscapes, the Pacific Mexico destination of Mazatlán has something to offer every traveller. Whether you’re a culture buff, relaxation-seeker or eco-explorer, we’ve come up with five exciting ways to Vacation Better in Mazatlán this winter.

Step into local culture

With a rich colonial history dating back to the mid-1800s, Mazatlán is an ideal destination for travellers who like to immerse themselves in local culture and traditions. Visit historic sites like the Mazatlán Cathedral, a Baroque-style church that was built in 1856, and the classic Angela Peralta Theatre dating back to the 1800s where you can take in a local show. Afterwards, grab a drink at one of the patios in Plazuela Machado, Old Town Mazatlán’s central square. Explore Old Town at your own pace or take in the sights with a guide when you book a Sunwing Experiences city tour.

Where to stay: Located in the heart of Mazatlán’s Golden Zone, Playa Mazatlán Beach Hotel is the perfect spot for guests looking to explore all that this vibrant destination has to offer. The Malecón boardwalk, where you can take a sunset stroll and listen to local musicians, is just two blocks away and the resort offers Sunwing guests exclusive perks such as Spanish lessons and tequila tastings.

Explore surrounding lush islands

Lined along the Pacific Coast of Mazatlán are several breathtaking uninhabited coastal islands. Deer Island, or Isla de Venados as its known locally, is a private oasis located just off the shores of the Golden Zone with pristine golden-sand beaches, lush untouched landscapes and calm waters that are perfect for water sports. After a scenic catamaran ride along the coast, you can snorkel in the colourful coral reefs or try out a range of water sports like kayaking and banana boat rides.

Where to stay: When you’re not exploring Deer Island, you can enjoy scenic views of this island and the neighbouring Bird Island from The Local Hotels Mazatlán. This Golden Zone resort offers breathtaking coastal views from around the resort, including two spectacular infinity pools and a pristine beach. You can soak in Pacific Coast vistas from the resort buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Go whale watching off the Pacific Coast

Visiting Mazatlán between December and April? Make sure to head out on a whale watching tour for the chance to catch a glimpse of majestic humpback whales! Every year, these beautiful species make their way from Puerto Vallarta to Los Cabos where they have their calves. You’ll have a chance to spot these magnificent creatures on a whale watching expedition along Mazatlán’s coast, where you might also spot orcas, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and more.

Where to stay: Following your whale watching adventure, head back to Riu Emerald Bay for some fun in the sun! This top-rated family resort features a brand-new section with new pools, new guestrooms and a new ‘Splash Water World’ water park with exciting slides. Younger guests will have a blast as well at the RiuLand kids club with action-packed activities and an indoor playground.

Relax with a Temazcal treatment

One of the best parts of a vacation is relaxing – so why not treat yourself to an ancient Mexican Temazcal experience during your time in Mazatlán? Temazcal is a traditional Mayan sweat lodge used to purify and heal the mind, body and soul. Enjoy an exfoliating treatment and relaxing clay and mud bath before entering the Temazcal, which is heated using volcanic stones. The Shaman will guide you through this unique treatment to help releases toxins and cleanse your body. Afterwards, take a relaxing soak in a local hot springs!

Where to stay: The relaxation continues when you stay at Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort and Spa! Kick back and relax by the infinity pool with panoramic ocean views or head to the world-class spa, The Armonia Spa with a range of holistic treatments including aromatherapy, massages and facials. After a day of pampering, head to the oceanfront terrace at The Bistro to enjoy a gourmet meal with fine wines personally selected by the resort sommelier.

Sail along the shore at sunset

Mazatlán is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and one of the best ways to soak in the sun setting over the horizon is on a boat cruise. Climb on board the luxurious Kolonahe trimaran and sip on a salty margarita from the open bar as you cruise along the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean, watching as the horizon changes colours. Prefer to stay on land? The Malecón, Mazatlán’s waterfront promenade, also offers spectacular sunset views.

Where to stay: Admire the Pacific Coast sunset from the privacy of your balcony when you book an Oceanview Room at El Cid Castilla Beach, which overlooks a sparkling golden-sand beach and dramatic cliffs. During the day you can have a blast testing out the pool’s water slides or take the complimentary shuttle the El Cid Golf and Country Club nearby with golf inclusions available.