The hotels in downtown Mazatlán are generally older and less expensive than those along the beachfront heading north. Room rates rise farther north from downtown. The major areas to stay are the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), Playa Norte (North Beach), Nuevo Mazatlán (New Mazatlán), Playa Olas Altas, and the downtown seafront.
The Zona Dorada & North
The Zona Dorada is an elegant arc of gold sand linked by a palm-lined boulevard and bordered by the most deluxe hotels and elaborate beach houses. A bonus is the sunset view. Many hotels along this beach cut their prices from May through September.
Playa Norte
The waterfront between downtown and the Zona Dorada is Mazatlán's original tourist hotel zone. Moderately priced hotels and motels line the street across from the beach. From May to September, many hotels cut their prices.
Downtown Seafront/Playa Olas Altas
The old section of Mazatlán spreads around a picturesque beach a short walk from downtown. Movie stars of the 1950s and 1960s came here for sun and surf, and the hotels where they stayed are still here. A few seafront restaurants also remain.
Nuevo Mazatlán (New Mazatlán)
New Mazatlán stretches out north of the marina and is the city's newest development area. In addition to Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay, a Crowne Plaza and an all-inclusive RIU resort have opened in this area. It's about a half-hour drive to the city center from here.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
