Second Port of Call Mazatlan

Our second port is Mazatlan. Many people comment that there is not much to see in Mazatlan because they only view the city from the cruise ship. The ships dock in a working industrial port and if you stay on board you miss a city filled with old world charm and 21st century resorts. There are several hidden corners of Mazatlan but lets start with the ones that stand out.

Outside the cruise terminal you will find pulmonias. These are open air cabs that can be hired for about $5 per person. The name pulmonia comes from the belief that riding in the open air can cause pneumonia. The pulmonia can take you on a 5 minute ride to Plaza Republica in the heart of the old town. It is also only a 15 minute walk (I have walked from there back to the ship).

A lovely plaza with a gazebo surrounded by vendors and shoe shiners. It is quaint and a very enjoyable place to hang out for awhile. Next to the plaza you will find the Cathedral of the Immaculate Concepcion. A very beautiful church. Not far way there is the Mercado with merchants selling everything from t-shirts to pigs heads. It is a very interesting place that gives the flavor of the local enviroment.

A 5 minute stroll back towards the cruise ship along Benito Juarez is the Plaza Machado. It is an artist colony surrounded by galleries, cafes and a restored theatre that houses an art insitute. It is a great place to stop for lunch and a cerveza.

After experiencing the old town grab a pulmonia and head out to Zona Dorado (Golden Zone). There you will find resorts, high end shopping and jewelry stores. Also, you will find the infamous Senor Frogs. Worth seeing at least once. We enjoy hanging out at the Las Flores resort directly across the street from the jewelry stores. The beach is lovely with a view of Stone Island. You are also welcome to use their pool and beach chairs. This is an excellent place for lunch and the staff is very friendly and attentive.

Mazatlan is also home to a bird sanctuary and some great nature hikes. Outside the city there are charming villages in the Sierra Madres if one is inclined to take a day trip. Mazatlan is also home of the Pacifico Brewery and a sports fisherman's paradise. Since time is limited a second, third or fourth visit is recommended.