BEACHES

With more than 20 km (12 mi) of coastline, Mazatlan offers gorgeous and accessible beaches to tourists. The beaches here are known for their impressive cliffs, lush vegetation and beautiful clear waters. Since the waves vary in height from beach to beach, you can do various water sports, such as swimming, parasailing, surfing and much more. For all of these recreational activities, you can rent the equipment you?ll need ? even at some of the most remote beaches.

Playa Olas Altas ? Located in Old Mazatlan in the center of the port. This picturesque beach is unique because the shore shifts depending on the time of year, creating the appearance that the rocks have changed position. In these waters you can do a wide variety of recreational activities, such as surfing and scuba diving.

Playa Norte ? This beach stretches from the edge of the city to the Zona Dorada, about 60 km (37 mi) west of downtown Mazatlan. This is one of the longest beaches in the nation with an expanse of 16 km (10 mi). At the southern end you?ll find ideal conditions for swimming.

Playa Gaviotas ? Located 60 km (37 mi) north of Mazatlan in the heart of the Zona Dorada. It has a long stretch of smooth white sand.  With its blue waters and moderate surf, this is an ideal spot for sunbathing and playing volleyball.

Playa Venados ? Located 2 km (1.2 mi) west of Mazatlan on Venados Island. At this beach surrounded by dense vegetation, the best way to arrive is by boat. Its calm waters allow you to do water sports such as swimming, sailing and snorkeling. Here you?ll also have the opportunity to see petroglyphs (drawings on rocks) left behind by ancient inhabitants of the Sinaloa coastal region.

Playa Cerritos ? Located 42 km (26 mi) northwest of Mazatlan, you?ll find it easy to arrive at this beach on public transportation. If you decide to take a swim, be careful, as you?ll come across strong waves and undertows. Playa Cerritos, which means Little Hills Beach, is surrounded by small hills, as its name suggests. The sand is dense and the beach has a moderate slope.

Playa Camaron Sabalo ? Located 65 km (40 mi) north of Mazatlan in the hotel zone. This beach with crystalline waters stretches 2 km (1.2 mi) and offers recreational activities such as parasailing and banana boat rides.

Playas de Isla de La Piedra ? Located 4 km (2.5 mi) south of the port on the other side of the channel. These are virgin beaches surrounded by coconut palms. Nearby you?ll find restaurants and food stands preparing delicious seafood.