El Centro
The old wealth of Mazatlán is in evidence today in Mazatlán “El Centro” and the large elegant houses and buildings that have survived. The old town consists of a twenty-block area basically comprising the area from the Plaza Pricipal to the Olas Altas waterfront.
Two Distinctive Zones
Mazatlán is situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, almost directly across from Cabo San Lucas at the tip of the Baja peninsula. Mazatlán sits at the base of the Sierra Madre Mountains on a peninsula that extends into the Pacific Ocean. The City is concentrated in two areas: The north is known as the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), while the south is known as El Centro (downtown) which is the historic district of the city.
The Pacific Pearl
The Pacific Pearl has a modern and progressive face: it is the second port city in Mexico because of its size, after Acapulco, and the second because of its port activity, after Veracruz. It also bears the biggest shrimp fleet in Mexico, thus acquiring its second nickname, the Shrimp Capital.
Extraordinary Combination
Mazatlán distinguishes itself from the rest of the Mexican beach destinations because of its rich history and because it is a city concerned about itself and its culture. This extraordinary combination of beautiful beaches and awesome natural attractions together with a truly preserved historical center, a variety of cultural events and the warm hospitality of its people gives Mazatlán a unique balance of colonial-like atmosphere and golden beaches. |