Mazatlan is known as a party city and has an exceptionally good night life. Some popular destinations include Sumbawa, Joe's Oyster, Valentino's, and Senor Frogs. The city gets crazy around American Spring Break when all of the city is flooded with American students looking for fun. Mazatlan also has a five day festival (which is purported to be one of the largest in the world) near the end of February.
Mazatlan has several prime locations where you can try out your surfing skills. The most popular spot is a beach called Playa Bruja in the Northern part of the city. The waves easily reach heights of 8-10 feet and there is almost always a vendor from whom you can rent surfboards.
It’s also the gateway to the Sea of Cortez and to the mountains of the legendary Western Sierra Madre.
Its name comes from the old Nahuatl Indian tongue, which means land of the deer. Mazatlan is distinguished for the vast diversity of activities which include sightseeing, culture, tours and sports such as fishing, golf, sailing, rural & ecological tourism, its internationally famous Carnival and much more.
The beautiful natural surroundings and rich history of Mazatlan are offered to tourists in addition to the comfort and security of a first class urban destination with convenient air, land and sea connections. Mazatlan offers modern medical facilities that include hospitals and English-speaking doctors of all specialties. Religious services for most types of faiths are available.
Despite its size, Mazatlan is still a more rural destination then many of its busier counterparts. Unlike Cancun or Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan has managed to retain much of its quiet charm. Travelers will find that Mazatlan still showcases Mexican beauty at its best with pristine beaches and wonderful local charm.