Why is Mazatlan known as the Pearl of the Pacific?

Mazatlan is one of the most recognized tourist ports nationwide, and this is because in recent years it has increased both in infrastructure and tourism. For many years, Mazatlan has also been known as the Pearl of the Pacific. The question here is why is it known by this name? Here are some of the reasons why Mazatlan was given this title.

Why is Mazatlan the Pearl of the Pacific? This name is given to coastal cities of the Pacific Ocean. It is used to refer to the port capacity and landfall site for ships. This was before the opening of the Panama Canal.

Mazatlan has beautiful beaches that are visited by thousands of tourists from all over the world, 21 km (13 mi) of the boardwalk (being the second longest in the world), a lighthouse (cataloged as the highest natural lighthouse in the world), magical sunsets, and a historic center that make it a worthy creditor of this name.

In addition to Mazatlan, there are other cities that have been called the Pearls of the Pacific, such as Ensenada De Todos Los Santos (Mexico), Acapulco (Mexico), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Tumaco (Colombia), Guayaquil (Ecuador), Chimbote Bay (Peru), Callao (Peru), and Valdivia (Chile).

It's time to hit the beaches of Mazatlan

The tourist bay of Mazatlan is one of the most outstanding destinations in the Mexican Republic. Only the region in 2021 was ranked as the third most touristy beach site, receiving 777,834 tourists, equivalent to 16% of the total tourist rate (according to data from the Council for Economic Development of Sinaloa).

If you think you can only enjoy the beach in Mazatlan, here are two other great options because, in addition to this attraction, the artistic scene and historical and cultural richness of the city make it one of the best bets for you to organize that year-end trip you've been waiting for.

Camarón Beach

Mazatlan's golden zone is the city's largest hotel and tourist area, and on the shores of this part of the city is Camaron Beach. It is ideal for water sports, renting an experience to free fall from a parachute, or if you are looking to get away from the city, you can rent a shuttle to take you to the Isla de Venados (Deer Island). In addition to being able to enjoy the tourist and restaurant offerings found in the Golden zone.

Stone Island Beach

This is the largest of the three beaches that house the coastal city, with a length of 10 kilometers. If you are one of those who like to take long walks along the beach while the sunset is in the background, this beach is for you. Its landscapes are spectacular because on one hand you can observe the coconut fields, and on the other hand you have the immensity of the Pacific Ocean, while on the northern part of the beach you can go to the restaurants and water activities area.

Olas Altas Beach

And in case the other two options haven't convinced you, this is one of the favorite beaches for tourists since it is located right in the historic center of the city of Mazatlan. Olas Altas beach was the first beach in the city. It has been the entrance to the old port since the birth of the city. It is famous for the celebration of Carnivals and the Olas Altas Festival, which have been held since the middle of the 19th century.

Likewise, in this area are the most representative monuments of the capital of Sinaloa, such as El Venadito, Ferrusquilla, La Mujer Mazatleca, Ferrusquilla, the shields of Sinaloa and Mazatlan, and the famous statue of Pedro Infante.

This area is also the first section of El Malecon (boardwalk), which is one of the most popular points of interest for visitors, and due to the large size of the waves, thousands of national and foreign surfers have their sights set on the water monster that lies at the foot of Mazatlan.

In addition to the extensive and cool beaches, there are several tourist attractions to visit while staying in this Sinaloa state city.

Places for sightseeing in Mazatlan

Other than the extensive and fresh beaches, there are several tourist attractions to visit while staying in the city:

The Boardwalk

This more than 21 kilometers (13 miles) extension makes it one of the longest boardwalks in the world, which runs from the Historic Center to the northern part of the port. In its 9 sections, you will be able to observe the large hotel buildings, as well as typical restaurants of the city, and stores, and if it wasn't obvious, you will be able to cross the different beaches of Mazatlan and stop at the one of your preference.

The Lighthouse

It was in 1892 that the engineer from Sinaloa, José Natividad González, designed, projected, and ordered the construction of El Faro (The Lighthouse) in the Cerro del Crestón. It is one of the highest natural lighthouses in the world with a height of 157 meters above sea level, and it is formed by a series of cliffs. After an arduous 30-minute climb, you will be able to see the bay of Mazatlan, Sinaloa, in its maximum splendor.

The Cathedral

You can visit it in the center of the city, and it is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. Its architecture is striking in its neo-Gothic accent and some neoclassical influences. It stands out for its splendid towers and great design that contrast with the surroundings. Inside, you can see the chandeliers and the atrium, where Christ the King and Juan Diego statues greet visitors.

Mazatlan Aquarium

Its 34 saltwater and 17 freshwater tanks make it one of the most complete in Latin America. Here you can observe marine and freshwater specimens in its 52 tanks, in its sea museum, auditorium, botanical garden, and in live shows that show the original habitat of each species. You can't miss the Tiburonarium. Here you can observe and learn about the different species of these sharks.

So now you know, that Mazatlan is one of the most complete options for any kind of tourist. Aside from the great natural and touristic offer, its gastronomy and its multiple points of interest and activities are a change from the typical vacation spots one is used to.