A short aerial video of tour of a famous landmark in Mazatlan, Mexico. This castle like structure is a group of bars and dance clubs that has been a classic for the region over the past few decades. It is a central intersection between the Golden Zone and the famous Malecon that leads to Olas Altas and Centro.

The Baluarte Bridge, officially the Baluarte Bicentennial Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge in Mexico. It is located between the municipalities of Concordia in Sinaloa and Pueblo Nuevo in Durango, along the Durango–Mazatlán highway, Mexico 40D. The bridge's central span, 520 metres (1,710 ft) long, is also the longest cable-stayed span in North America, 37 metres (121 ft) longer than that of the John James Audubon Bridge in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Less than an hour and a half from Mazatlan it's an easy day trip and the highway itself is stunning.

Stone Island (Isla Piedra) is about a 40-minute drive from anywhere in Mazatlan or a dollar ferry ride across the water from the harbor.  Although it's not really an island it is a nice afternoon adventure.  When driving over we like to cross through the palms where the coconuts for Mazatlan are harvested and drive the beach to the town.   If you prefer the beaten path there is a short .5km section of dirt road following 3 miles of nicely paved road into town.  Endless Beaches with palapas offering a variety of seafood await your arrival.

Carnival Mazatlan each February is one of the biggest in the world. it's a week long celebration where the queen is crowned and celebrated with a huge party featuring local music and famous Mexican entertainers. Combate Naval is a spectacular fireworks display where fireworks are launched from a dozen locations in Olas Altas near centro and barges positioned about a kilometer off shore simulating a famous battle that occurred in 1862.

The Mazatlan lighthouse was first built in 1879, and at the time was the highest in the world. Our lighthouse still holds onto second place today not because the structure itself is all that impressive but because of the 515 ft. hill it is perched on. The hike takes from 10-30 minutes depending on your fitness starting with a steep dirt road, then trail and finally 325 steps.

It's well worth the hike as you will find the best view in the city. The ideal time is sunrise or sunset and you find the trail scattered with both locals using the hill for their daily workout and a few tourist as well. The view is spectacular and the lighthouse is staffed with security around the clock offering water and gatorade when you reach the summit.

Use caution as the climb is fairly steep and there are some areas that could use railings near the top.

The Mazatlan Carnival has a long history with the first mention in the winter event as Carnival in 1848 and the official week long celebration being embraced in the late 1800's.  It's one of the largest in the world and each year has a different theme for the parade down the malecon along the beach.  This years theme was Alebrijes and Dragons (Alebrijes being a colorful Mexican mythical creature).   There are two parades one from Olas Altas to Valentinos traditionally on Sunday and then the route in reverse on Tuesday to end the festivities.

A favorite beach about 4 miles from the center of the Golden Zone in Mazatlan, Mexico. The road ends at Cerritos Beach and if you walk past the shops and restaurants and down the steps you will find an amazing spot. Go at low tide and off to the left is a tide pool where you can really enjoy the water. And there is plenty of fresh fish to be found.

Deer Island (Isla de Venados) is visible from just about anywhere in Mazatlan. It's the larges of the three islands off of the shores of the Golden Zone and has a lot to offer for a half-day trip. After a 5-minute motor boat ride or a 20-minute paddle on a kayak you will find yourself swimming in Caribbean like clear blue water with a unique perspective of the city. There are no services on the island so load up if you go on your own or take one of many tours that include lunch and drinks. It is also not uncommon for locals and visitors to camp overnight on the island.  Cell service from the mainland is within range with a strong signal for your peace of mind.

About three hours drive from Mazatlan is a quiet little town with a crystal blue lake.  After you pass Tepic, take the first exit from the toll road, turn left, then follow the signs through the town of Santa Maria De Oro and down the windy road that descends into the Volcano.  The lake fills the dormant volcano and the locals say the depth has never been determined.  It is designated as one of a handful of Blue Card lakes in Mexico which regulates the cleanliness of the water making it destination for all types of water sports.  The trip is a perfect one-nighter with a variety of accommodations available.  Make sure you try the pescado chicharrones and the fried bananas with ice cream at La Mata.  When you head out stop at the waterfalls which will be much more spectacular if you go following the rainy season.

About 5 hours from Mazatlan is this magic little village that was formerly a secret surf spot. The word is out and Sayulita is not such a sleepy little village anymore but nonetheless its well worth visiting. The village of around 5000 sits on Mexico’s Pacific coast and is backed by the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains. It’s known for beaches with strong surf, like the central Sayulita Beach. To the west, Los Muertos Beach is more sheltered, sandwiched between protective rocks. Galleries in Sayulita sell artworks by Huichol indigenous people. Southwest, the Marieta Islands have diverse wildlife such as humpback whales and dolphins. Most everyone speaks English and this makes for a great two night trip. If you are venturing out from Mazatlan we suggest a night in Santa Maria Del Oro, then on to Sayulita for a couple of nights and then back. The loop makes for a great adventure if you have three or more nights to spend.