Mazatlan’s 12 gorgeous miles of beaches, outstanding restaurants and local culture make it one of the top all-inclusive beach vacation destinations in Mexico. Soak up the rays on a wide expanse of golden sand or explore Old Mazatlan’s 19th century buildings and markets.
Hotel Playa Mazatlan’s massive resort features tons of amenities in the heart of the Golden Zone. Its 404 rooms offer flat-screen TVs and private balconies. But poor Wi-Fi, a lackluster spa and plain decor may deter some travelers.
Rooms
Mazatlan is a beach lover’s paradise with dazzling beaches and cool blue waters. It’s also a center of sport fishing and authentic Mexican culture. Rodeos and seafood restaurants are common in town.
Located on the northern edge of the city, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort spares guests from the noisy streets and crowded beaches in Mazatlan’s Golden Zone. Its rooms offer striking vistas that guests can enjoy from their private balconies or patios.
The rooms at Hotel Riu Emerald Bay are typical of the brand: a mix of simple and dated, but with a flat-screen TV and balcony. All-you-can-drink liquor racks and all-inclusive dining make this a popular choice for families.
The hotel is a short pulmonia ride to Old Mazatlan, where you’ll find quaint markets and beautiful cathedrals. The 19th-century Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is particularly impressive with its colorful spires and Italian marble. It’s worth a visit even if you’re not Catholic.
Dining
The all-inclusive here includes a massive menu of meals at three full restaurants. There are six pools, including a kids pool and huge lagoon and there’s even a theater on the property. It’s a massive resort in Mazatlan’s Golden Zone and it’s hard to imagine that anyone will ever want to leave.
This family owned resort is a top pick for couples and families seeking affordable luxury in a beautiful oceanside setting. Rooms offer simple amenities but are comfortable with large walk-in shower stalls and generic bath products. Upgraded suites include multiple bathrooms with large soaking tubs. The resort’s kids and teens clubs are very popular among guests and it can also host wedding parties, corporate retreats and other groups. The hotel is on the northern edge of Mazatlan and many shops, services and restaurants are within a five to 10-minute walk or pulmonia ride away. One of the most popular activities here is a visit to Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, with its colorful spires and European influences.
Activities
Besides the fun of surfing and snorkeling, Mazatlan offers plenty of water-based activities. Sailing, kayaking, jet skiing and fishing are among the many options.
Alternatively, hop on a bicycle to explore the beaches and villages around Stone Island or take a guided hiking excursion in the Sierra Madre Mountains, where you can get close to local flora and fauna. Another great option is to join a whale-watching tour, when pods of humpbacks pass by the city from December to April.
To learn more about the region’s history, head to Mazatlan’s Centro Historico, a beautiful collection of 19th century architecture, markets, churches and plazas. You could also visit the towering Baroque-Revival-style Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepción, whose interior is decorated with different architectural styles. Other highlights include a trip to one of the city’s turtle sanctuaries, such as Estrella del Mar or El Verde Camacho. These places work to preserve the Olive Ridley sea turtles that lay their eggs on the city’s northern beaches.
Entertainment
During your Mazatlan all-inclusive, you’ll have plenty of choices to play, relax and dine. Hotel Riu Emerald Bay recently got a facelift that makes it a fresh new choice for visitors to the area. Its rooms, amenities and restaurants have been updated and its sprawling beachfront property is a peaceful retreat without the mega resort energy of Cancun behemoths. Its pools and palapas are shaded by mature trees, its restaurants are top notch and it’s easy to get away from it all.
Visit Old Mazatlan to explore its 19th century architecture and markets, cafes and churches. Ride a local “pulmonia” (taxi) to the city’s highest lighthouse, where you’ll enjoy stunning sunsets and fabulous photo opportunities. During the Carnival, watch as Mazatlan celebrates its roots through colorful costumes and lively parades. If baseball is your game, catch a professional match with the city’s Venados team. Vivacious theme nights and other awe-inspiring performances showcase the brightness of Mexico’s culture at Mayan Palace Mazatlan.
