Spring Break in Mazatlan, Mexico

Mazatlan, Mexico has lots of sun, sand, and sea.  You will find parties on the shore and everywhere else.  Does this sound like Spring Break?  It better be, especially if you're in Mazatlan, Mexico.  This place features 15 miles of sun-drenched land that is appropriately located just under the arms of the Tropic of Cancer.  This is a land of sunny beginnings because this is where summer comes to visit and stays.  No wonder people call it the 'Pearl of the Pacific.'

Mazatlan is a Nahuatl name that means 'land of the deer' and is popular enough to receive over 1 million guests who frolic on its golden beaches every year.  You'll find most of them in the Golden Zone while the more laid back and adventurous types visit old towns, churches, markets and plazas found in the southern end.

The beaches of Mazatlan

And what's Spring Break without the beach?  Mazatlan has plenty of beaches, not just on the main land but also on the off shore islands.  For the main action, head for the beaches found in the Zona Dorada, the aforementioned 'Golden Zone'.  This is where beaches are lined with hotels, inns, eateries and the more familiar banks and travel agencies in case you want to replenish your cash or move your flight schedule. 

Beaches change sceneries abruptly here, so if you prefer different views, go to Playas Camaron and the Gaviotas up north.  Playa Camaron is as thrilling and unpredictable as Playas Gaviotas is as smooth and lovely.  The lazy sands extend to Playa Sabalo where if you go north about one mile, you'll find the famous Hotel Camino Real.

If you are looking for some adventure, check out the locals and the action in Olas Altas, a narrow beach with lots of swimming and water activities.  Go boogie boarding and body surfing, although be warned: the beach waves are not for the faint of heart.  Waves tend to break abruptly so you better be a strong swimmer.  You'll also need to bring your own gear because there's very little to rent.

Going on boat tours

The sea in Mazatlan is lovely and begs to be explored.  Go on tour boats for a cruise around the harbor and some islands.  The cruise allows you to view the lighthouse and islands such as Islas Chivos, Venados and Pajaros.  You can also join the island tours, dropping by Isla Venados for some beach time, hiking and a taste of hearty Mexican fare.

Exploring Mazatlan

If you're tired of the beach, take a break and explore the localities.  Many local hotels offer guided tours, but you can also take this chance to be more adventurous.  Take a local bus and see the sights.  The routes run towards the downtown plaza and through to Zona Dorada in the north.  Don’t worry about spending too much because bus fares are cheap – most trips cost only $0.50 one way.

If you prefer, take the open-air pumonias, Mazatlan's version of the taxi.  It seats three passengers at most, but you'll love the adventure of getting around for just under $2.  You'll have to check the price though, and make sure you agree on the amount before you use the taxi service.  If you don’t mind spending more, go for the more familiar taxis.

What to see

Other than its famous beaches, Mazatlan also offers lots of sights and hidden treasures.  Go on a day trip and visit the countryside around Mazatlan not just for their history but also for their crafts and wildlife.  Arrange tours for Copala and Concordia, two twin towns that feature colonial style houses at the foot of the Sierra Madres or go to Teacapan and Rosario. 

If you prefer to see the old part of Mazatlan, the center features the double-spired Catedral Basilica de la Purisima Concepcion.  This church, begun in 1856 but completed in 1899, stands on the site of a lagoon, where an Indian temple used to stand nearby.  The city is under the guidance of the Virgen de la Purisima Conception, the patron saint.  The church architecture is reminiscent of gothic designs while the main altar is exuberant in its baroque stylings.

Of course, at night you will find amazing nightlife, where you and your friends can party and enjoy spring break.  If you are looking for a great beach, and fun spring break, Mazatlan, Mexico is a great place to visit.