Mazatlan, one of the most important ports on the Pacific coast, is located in the southern region of the state of Sinaloa, 212 km (131 mi) southeast of state capital Culiacan. The climate is warm with an average year-round temperature of 25º C (77º F). Known as the Pearl of the Pacific because of its beautiful beaches and its abundant marine life, it has become an important site for international fishing tournaments such as the Bisbee?s Billfish Classic. This destination combines traditional architecture in its Historic Center, known as Old Mazatlan, with modern hotels and restaurants in the Zona Dorada, a 10 km (6 mi) strip with beautiful beaches such as Playa Norte, Playa Gaviotas and Playa Venados. These areas are ideal for surfing, diving and sailfish or marlin fishing. In Old Mazatlan, you can visit la Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepcion (The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception) and walk down beautiful streets lined with 19th-century constructions.
For boating enthusiasts, Mazatlan has two marinas that offer docking and maintenance service for all kinds of boats.
Mazatlan is a world famous sportfishing destination due to the wide variety of fish that inhabit its waters offshore, such as snapper, bass and sierra. If you head farther out, you can catch blue, black and striped marlin, as well as sailfish. These days, sailfish are particularly hard to find; the season begins in March. The port of Mazatlan also hosts the Bisbee’s Billfish Classic fishing tournament. In addition, you’ll find plenty of boats that you can hire out for a sportfishing trip.
Zona Dorada - Located north of Mazatlan. This tourist strip lined with beaches stretches several kilometers. Thanks to the abundant marine life found off the coast, it’s the ideal place to organize a sportfishing trip.
Viejo Mazatlan - Located south of Mazatlan. In this part of the city you can rent boats and find all the necessary services for fishing outings. The Bisbee’s Billfish Classic is held at the Creston.
