Mazatlán

Derived from a Nahuatl word meaning “place of the deer,” Mazatlán is today a city with over 400,000 inhabitants and a thriving tourism industry. A tremendous draw for sport fishing, this Pacific coast city has the second largest fleet of fishing boats in Mexico. Approximately eight hours south of the U.S. border, Mazatlán hosts a large expatriate community as the northern cold drives retirees south in search of a mild winter.

Principle attractions are the miles of beaches, popular golf courses, and booming nightlife. Every year, hordes of college students on spring holiday descend upon the city and literally take control of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), notorious for its rowdy atmosphere. In contrast to the five-star hotels and modern restaurants of the Zona Dorada is the Centro Histórico, or Historic Center, which retains its traditional Mexican flavor. Here travelers can stroll down shaded streets and shop in the busy markets of the zócalo or find a quaint restaurant miles from the golden arches.

Mazatlán is famed for hosting Mexico’s most popular pre-Lenten carnival, or Mardi Gras festival (one week before Ash Wednesday). Alleged to be the third largest carnival after Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans, festivities include the election of a queen, colorful parades, and balls.

There has been only one indication of seawater pollution since 2004 at the Playa Los Pinos, but concerned tourists might want to check the current status with local authorities. See Mexico Beach Water Advisory for more information.