Mazatlan Vacation Rentals

A popular retirement destination among Canadians, Americans, and Europeans, Mazatlan is a city of superlatives. Stay at Mazatlan vacation rentals and gear up for history, swashbuckling Latin festivals, and heaps of waterside activities.

Latin American culture and the Americas' highest lighthouse

Start at the Archaeological Museum of Mazatlan, home to artifacts from the Tahue, Pacaxee, and Totorame. Mazatlan's pulse is best felt at the nostalgic promenade, the Malecon. Experience golden sunsets at the beach bars, and stroll the Centro Historico, whose centuries-old grandeur is reflected in its plazas and cafés.

Hard to miss is Mazatlan's 19th-century Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and its resplendent interior of stained glass, gold statues, and chandeliers. For sweeping city views, hike to Mazatlan's lighthouse, El Faro – it's the highest natural lighthouse in the Americas. In fact, locals once mistook its beacon as a star!

Marine distractions for the kids

A top attraction is Mazatlan's aquarium, Acuario Mazatlan, rated the finest in Latin America. Let the kids chill out with sea lions and sharks, and get kissed by a seal. The dolphin and whale-sighting expeditions are also recommended.

Or take a day trip to the Estero del Yugo nature preserve, home to over 200 aquatic and terrestrial bird species. Back in Mazatlan, let the young ones ride the EzyRoller curve bikes on the boardwalk, one of the longest in Latin America at about 8km.

Carnival and Day of the Dead

Mazatlan's hottest annual event since 1898 has been Carnival. Expect night-long parties, parades, delicious food, and fireworks along the waterfront.

Another mention-worthy celebration is the Day of the Dead in November, when over 20,000 people – including brass bands, stilt walkers, fire dancers, and "skeletons" – take to the streets. Christmas festivities are also special, with twinkling lights, nativity scenes, and carolers making an appearance.

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