Explore on your own rating

Walkable historic center and a long malecón with plenty of cheap, fun transport.

Where ships dock

  • Mazatlán cruise terminal (south end of town, near Old Mazatlán)

Getting to town

Old Mazatlán is about a 15–20 minute walk from the terminal. The Golden Zone (hotel strip) is farther north.

Pulmonías (open-air taxis) and aurigas negotiate fares. Sources report about 50–100 pesos to Old Mazatlán and 150–250 pesos to the Golden Zone. City buses are about 10–15 pesos.

Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.

Top sights nearby

  • Old Mazatlán, Plaza Machado and the cathedral
  • El Faro lighthouse hike
  • The Malecón and cliff divers
  • Golden Zone

Beaches

  • Olas Altas (near Old Town)
  • Playa Gaviotas / Golden Zone beaches

Safety & tips

  • Agree pulmonía fares before getting in.
  • El Faro is a steep climb; go early.
  • Bring pesos for small purchases.

Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.

⏰ Back to the ship on time

From the Golden Zone allow 20–30 minutes back. Be back 30–45 minutes before all-aboard.

Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.

Tours in Mazatlán Placeholder for tour partner links.

📚 Sources