Cruise Diva Goes Ashore on the
Mexican Riviera
Sights to see & things to do
Mazatlán, Mexico
The largest of Mexico’s Pacific ports of call is located 20 miles below the Tropic of Cancer on a peninsula surrounded by cliffs and beaches. Mazatlán relies heavily on fishing and tourism and the resorts of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) are world famous.
Diversions
Don’t even think of renting a car here—the roads are poor and parking nearly nonexistent in town. Taxis, some looking like overgrown golf carts, meet all cruise ships and are very inexpensive. Negotiate your rate before you get in. Tours to such sites as the Fisherman’s Monument, 31st of March Fort, Continuity of Life Monument, and other monuments and fountains can easily be arranged once you leave the ship.
Heading downtown, the area around the central market is full of small boutiques and souvenir shops. The market itself is worth strolling though. Nearby is the architecturally eclectic cathedral and Plaza Revolution, a good spot for people watching. Soak up the atmosphere of the area called Viejo Mazatlán (Old Mazatlán), which encompasses about twenty blocks of restored neo-classical buildings.
When hunger or thirst hit, there’s a lot of action at Señor Frog’s.
Shopping
For shopping with the locals, the central market is colorful and amusing; however serious shoppers head for the Golden Zone. A fairly small area, it’s the place to concentrate your energy for slightly nicer trinkets and sportswear. The selection is poor in all but a few more upscale craft and jewelry emporiums so don’t look for many bargains.
Beaches
Savvy beach goers also make tracks for the Golden Zone. Most beaches are good for swimming and those along Playa Gaviotas and Playa Sábalo have the best facilities.
Parasailing is a daredevil activity widely offered along the Golden Zone beaches and jet skis are also available for rent. Snorkeling visibility may not be optimum here and renting a mask is often a waste of money.
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