How to Spend THREE DAYS in Mazatlán, Mexico: 3-Day Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Mazatlán? You’re in for a mix of sunshine, culture, and seriously good food.

We love Mazatlán for how effortlessly it blends historic plazas with long beach days and a laid-back coastal rhythm. One minute you’re wandering colorful streets in Centro, the next you’re watching waves crash along the Malecón or sitting down to a seafood feast with your feet practically in the sand. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, explore a little deeper, and still sneak in some adventure along the way.

To help you make the most of it, we’ve put together the perfect 3-day Mazatlán itinerary that balances guided tours, local favorites, and plenty of time to explore at your own pace. From Segways and local tastings to beach time and oceanfront sunsets, this plan covers the highlights without feeling rushed. Let’s dive in!

Itinerary Overview

This itinerary is designed to make your three days in Mazatlán feel easy and well-paced. Because the city stretches for miles along the Malecón, we’ve centered most activities in Centro Histórico and Olas Altas, where sights, restaurants, and beaches are close together. That way, you’re not constantly hopping across town or losing time to long transfers.

Centro itself is very walkable, but between the heat and the city’s long layout, you’ll naturally mix walking with short rides. Pulmonías, the city’s iconic open-air taxis, are a fun way to cruise along the Malecón, while aurigas (the red truck-style taxis) are often cheaper for longer hops. For air-conditioning, late nights, or airport trips, taxis, Uber, and DiDi are all easy to use. Once you’ve got the transportation basics down, everything else falls into place.

Here’s a quick breakdown of each day and what to expect:

Day 1: Start with coffee by the Malecón, then explore Mazatlán’s historic center on a guided Segway tour covering the cathedral, Plazuela Machado, and the famous cliff divers. Spend the afternoon wandering Centro at your own pace before enjoying dinner and live music around the plaza.

Day 2: Fuel up before choosing between a village and tequila tour through La Noria and El Quelite or an adrenaline-filled zipline adventure with a mezcal tasting. Wind down with beach time, oceanfront seafood, and a sunset stroll along the Malecón.

Day 3: Begin the day at a local bakery café, then head out on an off-road ATV adventure through agave fields, jungle paths, and along the beach. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace before finishing your trip with dinner in Centro and an oceanfront nightcap.

Day 1

Breakfast – Looney Bean Coffee

This is hands-down the easiest, no-stress way to start day one. Looney Bean Coffee sits right on Paseo Olas Altas along the waterfront, basically steps from Hotel Belmar, which also happens to be the meeting point for your Segway tour. Translation—no taxis, no rushing, no morning chaos.

They roast their coffee in-house, so the caffeine situation is very solid, and they also do full-sized breakfast plates if you want something more filling, plus pastries and baked goods if you’re keeping it light. Breakfast is served late enough that you don’t have to set an alarm or eat in a panic, which we love on vacation.

If the weather’s cooperating, grab an outdoor table so you can sip your coffee with Malecón views and watch the city slowly wake up. Aim to arrive around 8–9 am, which gives you plenty of buffer time before the 10 am Segway tour without feeling rushed.

Morning – Zip around Mazatlán on a Segway

If you’re looking for the best way to get your bearings in Mazatlán without exhausting yourself on Day 1, this Segway tour is such a fun place to start. You get a front-row look at the city’s history, architecture, and waterfront energy while gliding through it all, instead of power-walking in the heat. It’s equal parts sightseeing and storytelling, and it covers way more ground than a typical walking tour ever could.

Logistics-wise, it’s refreshingly easy. The tour starts at 10 am from a central spot between Hotel Belmar and Looney Bean Coffee and lasts about 2 hours, finishing up just in time for lunch.

After a quick safety briefing and a few minutes getting comfortable on the Segway, you’ll roll through Centro Histórico and along the Malecón, hitting all the must-see spots. Highlights include Plazuela Machado, the Cathedral Basilica, Olas Altas, and the famous cliff divers at Punta de Clavadistas. Watching the divers leap off the rocks and time their jumps with the incoming waves is one of those classic Mazatlán moments that never gets old. 

We loved how personal this tour felt—group sizes are kept small, which makes it easy to ask questions, pause for photos, and actually connect with your guide. You’ll hear how Mazatlán has evolved over the past couple of centuries, plus a few details you’d probably miss exploring solo.

It’s relaxed, informative, and genuinely fun, and you’ll walk away feeling confident navigating the city. Before booking, it’s worth scrolling through the five-star reviews here to see just how consistently this experience delivers.

This tour fills up fast—secure your spot here so you don’t miss out!

Lunch – El Presidio Cocina de México

After the Segway tour wraps up, this is exactly the kind of place you want to land for lunch. El Presidio is right in the heart of Centro Histórico, and it feels like a little oasis after a sunny morning out exploring. You’d never guess it from the street, but once you step inside, it opens up into a beautiful open-air courtyard filled with greenery and water features that instantly cool the whole vibe down.

The food here leans creative, chef-driven Mexican, so it’s a great step up from casual tacos without feeling stuffy or over-the-top. The menu changes seasonally, but you’ll usually find elevated takes on classic Mexican flavors, fresh seafood, and beautifully plated dishes that still feel comforting and approachable. 

Even though it feels tucked away, El Presidio is no secret! It’s popular with both locals and visitors, so booking ahead is a smart move, especially if you’re arriving around peak lunch hours. After a morning on the move, this is the perfect reset before easing into a slower afternoon wandering through Centro.

Afternoon – Keep it easy in Centro

After a guided morning and a proper lunch, this is when we like to slow things way down and let Old Town do what it does best. Centro is compact, walkable, and full of little pockets that are perfect for wandering without a plan. You can stay almost entirely on foot, popping inside whenever you need shade or a snack, then finish the afternoon by the water when the heat finally eases up.

Here are a few easy ways to fill the afternoon—pick one or mix and match depending on your energy:

• Pop into the Catedral Basilica for a quick reset – Sitting right in the historic heart of the city, the Catedral Basilica is a peaceful pause from the street noise. Even if it’s closed by the time you pass through (it usually closes around 1 pm), it’s still worth stopping to admire the twin yellow towers and ornate details from the outside as you wander through Centro.

• Snack your way through Mercado Pino Suárez – If you want something that feels local fast, head here. This long-running market has been around since the early 1900s, with colorful stalls, sizzling griddles, and the smell of fresh tortillas in the air, making it an easy place to grab a quick bite and feel everyday Mazatlán in action.

• Go on a photoshoot in Plazuela Machado – The streets surrounding Plazuela Machado are some of the prettiest in the city and incredibly photogenic. Colorful facades, small galleries, and shady corners make it ideal for slow wandering, snapping photos, and spontaneous coffee or iced drink stops.

• Take a stroll along the Malecon – Late afternoon is prime time for walking the waterfront as the light softens and the ocean breeze kicks in. The Olas Altas stretch is especially nice, with waves crashing below the seawall, pastel buildings along the edge, and plenty of spots to slow down and take it all in.

Dinner – Tótem

Tótem is a great choice when you’re ready to transition from sightseeing mode into a proper night out, without jumping straight into anything too formal. Located in Centro, it has a slightly trendier feel than a casual taco spot, but it’s still relaxed enough that you can show up sandy-haired from the day, grab a table, and settle in without a second thought.

The menu is where Tótem really shines. They describe their concept as comfort food, specialty coffee, and an original drinks menu, which makes it an easy crowd-pleaser. You’ll find options that go beyond just seafood or classic Mexican dishes, so it works well if everyone at the table wants something a little different.

If the weather’s nice, try to snag a seat on the terrace, which is especially enjoyable in the evening when the temperatures cool off, and Centro starts to buzz. It’s a good idea to make a reservation here if you can, especially on weekends or if you’re hoping for outdoor seating.

Evening – Let Centro do the entertaining

After dinner, this is the perfect window to enjoy Mazatlán’s nightlife without fully committing to a big night out. Centro comes alive in the evening, but it still feels relaxed and easy, so we’d head back toward the historic core and choose one or two stops based on your energy.

A classic option is revisiting Plazuela Machado, which is known for its lively evening atmosphere. The square is surrounded by bars and restaurants, and it’s common to find live music drifting through the plaza. Pedro y Lola is a great place to settle in for a drink, especially if you’re into live blues, jazz, or Latin music. They’re open every day but Mondays, and even if you don’t stay long, it’s worth popping by just to soak up the energy.

If you’re in the mood for something more cultural, check what’s on at the Teatro Ángela Peralta. The historic theater often hosts concerts, performances, and events in the evening, and it’s a beautiful space to experience Mazatlán’s arts scene. You can easily pair a show with a stroll around the plaza afterward, when the lights are on, and the streets feel especially atmospheric.

It’s an easy, flexible way to wrap up your first day—lively if you want it, low-key if you don’t.

Day 2

Breakfast – Dolce Mami

Dolce Mami is a great day two breakfast stop, especially since today’s plans are a bit more tour-focused. This is the kind of place where you can keep things quick and easy without sacrificing good coffee. Swing by for a solid espresso, grab a pastry, or add a light breakfast plate if you want something more filling before heading out for the morning.

If Dolce Mami isn’t convenient for where you’re staying, no stress—grabbing a coffee and pastry from a bakery near your hotel works just as well. The goal this morning is simple: fuel up, keep it light, and save your appetite (and energy) for the rest of the day.

Morning – Option 1: Spend the day chasing small-town charm

If you’re curious about life beyond the Malecón and want a deeper look at Mazatlán’s roots, this half-day village and tequila tour is a fantastic option. It’s the easy win if you want culture, countryside scenery, and tastings all in one, trading city sights for cobblestone streets, small-town traditions, and agave fields.

The tour starts at 9 am and runs for about 6 hours, with hotel or cruise pickup included, which keeps the whole experience feeling relaxed from the start. First, you’ll head inland to villages like La Noria, La Vinata, and El Quelite, stopping at a blue agave plantation to learn how tequila is made. You’ll see both historic and modern equipment used in production and enjoy a tequila tasting from the producer (just note that entrance to the tequila factory itself isn’t included).

One of our favorite parts was wandering through La Noria, a village tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. This is where you really feel the slower pace of rural life, with locals making leather goods, sandals, belts, and other handicrafts right in front of you. There’s also time to explore the village church perched on the hill above town.

The tour wraps up around 3 pm, and there’s an option to upgrade and include lunch at a traditional local restaurant, or you can purchase lunch separately on the day. Either way, you’ll return to Mazatlán with plenty of time to unwind and a much deeper appreciation for the region beyond the coast.

Reserve this village and tequila tasting tour here!

Option 2: Fly through the jungle canopy on a zipline

If you want something more active today, this beginner-friendly zipline tour flips the script and goes all-in on adrenaline first, mezcal second. It’s a great pick if you’re craving movement, fresh air, and a little thrill instead of village wandering.

You’ll head out to Huana Coa Adventure Park, where the focus is on getting you up into the treetops. The course includes multiple ziplines, platforms, a suspension-style bridge, and a short nature walk, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscape as you fly through the canopy.

After you’ve had your fill of ziplines, the tour winds down with a visit to a local mezcal (and tequila) distillery located on the same grounds. Here, you’ll learn how mezcal is made from start to finish and enjoy a tasting—a pretty great reward after an active morning.

Logistics-wise, this tour runs for about 3 to 4 hours, and hotel transfers are included, which keeps things easy. The exact start time isn’t set, so you’ll arrange your morning pickup directly with the provider after booking. It’s designed to fit neatly into the first half of the day, leaving your afternoon free to relax.

Between the ziplines and the mezcal tasting, it’s no surprise this tour earns such strong five-star reviews from travelers looking for something active and fun. It’s an easy way to pack a lot of excitement into one morning and still have the rest of the day to slow things back down.

If you’re up for an adventure—book this zipline tour here!

Afternoon – Slow the pace down with some beach time

After a big tour-filled morning, we like to treat the afternoon as a choose-your-own beach reset. Mazatlán’s coastline stretches for miles, and the vibe can change a lot depending on where you go, so it’s easy to match the beach to your mood. Whether you want something lively, spacious, or low-key, there’s a stretch of sand that fits.

Here are a few of our favorite options to wind things down:

• Playa Olas Altas – This is our top pick for this time slot simply because it’s right on your doorstep. You can finish your tour, freshen up, and be on the sand in no time, then roll straight into a Malecón stroll as the light starts to soften. You’ll already be familiar with this beach from Day 1, which makes it an easy, no-brainer option.

• Playa Norte – If you want a little more breathing room than Olas Altas, Playa Norte is a great alternative. It’s still close enough to Centro that it doesn’t feel like an expedition, and it’s ideal if you’re in the mood for a longer beach walk or a calmer stretch of sand.

• Playa Los Pinitos – This is a favorite with locals and families, thanks to its smaller size and easy access. It tends to feel more relaxed and low-key than the long hotel-zone beaches, making it a nice spot to unwind without too much noise or activity.

No matter which one you choose, the goal is simple—slow down, soak up the sun, and reset before heading into the evening.

Dinner – El Muchacho Alegre

If seafood is high on your Mazatlán must-eat list, El Muchacho Alegre is the spot for you. It sits right on the water along Paseo Claussen, so you get that classic oceanfront setting without having to trek all the way out to Zona Dorada. After a beachy afternoon, it’s an easy transition into dinner with a view.

The menu leans hard into what Mazatlán does best. Expect ceviches, aguachile, molcajetes, pescado zarandeado, and plenty of shrimp-forward dishes that taste extra good when you’re sitting just steps from the ocean. Portions are generous, flavors are bold, and it’s the kind of place where ordering a few dishes to share just makes sense.

Another fun bonus is the live music. Bands often play in the evening, which gives dinner a lively, festive feel without turning it into a full-on party. If you’re hoping for a calmer atmosphere and easier conversation, aim for an earlier dinner around 7:30 pm. That timing also works perfectly if you want to head back toward Centro or Plazuela Machado afterward.

This is a popular spot with both locals and visitors, so reserving a table ahead of time (you can do so on Google Maps!) is a smart move, especially if you’re dining during peak hours or on a weekend.

Evening – Take a slow walk along the Malecón

To wrap up day two, we’d keep things simple and let Mazatlán do the heavy lifting. Start around Paseo Claussen and wander toward the Olas Altas stretch, keeping the pace slow and stopping whenever something catches your eye. This is one of the best times to be on the Malecón—the light softens, the streetlights flick on, and the waterfront takes on a warm glow that feels made for evening strolls.

It’s also a great time for photos, with waves crashing just below the seawall and the mix of historic buildings and ocean views lining the route. The walk itself takes about 30–35 minutes, but it rarely feels rushed since there’s always something happening around you, from locals out for their nightly walk to musicians and street vendors along the way.

To finish the night, make a quick gelato stop to cool down. It’s the perfect low-effort treat that still feels special and makes for a natural end to the evening. Babela’s Ice Cream Shop is a popular choice. It stays open until 10 pm, and comes highly recommended—exactly what you want before heading back to rest up for another full day in Mazatlán.

Day 3

Breakfast – Panamá

Panamá is a classic Mazatlán breakfast stop and a great way to start your final day. It’s part bakery, part café, and very much a local favorite—the kind of place people pop into for a quick coffee and something sweet, then somehow end up sitting down for a full breakfast instead.

The pastry case alone is enough to slow you down, with baked goods, breads, and desserts tempting you before you even sit down. Pair that with a solid cup of coffee, or lean into a heartier breakfast plate if you’re fueling up for a more active morning ahead. The atmosphere is casual, busy in a good way, and feels very much like everyday life in Mazatlán.

Panamá opens at 7 am, which makes it an easy, flexible option whether you’re heading out early or just want to start the day without rushing.

Morning/Lunch – Go off-road on an ATV

If you want to end your Mazatlán trip with a bit of adrenaline and a lot of scenery, this ATV tour is such a fun way to do it. You’ll head out to Rancho Mr. Lionso, a traditional coastal ranch where the focus is on getting you outside and off the beaten path with plenty of dust, bumps, and big views along the way.

The ride itself is the highlight. You get a proper mix of terrain, cruising through agave fields, jungle paths, crossing small streams, and riding right along the beach. It’s fast-paced, a little wild, and impossible not to smile through, especially as the landscape keeps changing around you. Even if you’ve never driven an ATV before, the experience is approachable and well-organized.

You can choose between the 9 am or 10:30 am departure to make this day work, and the tour lasts about 3 hours. Pickup and drop-off are included, which keeps logistics easy, and the latest you’d be back is around 2 pm, depending on return time.

After the ride, you’ll refuel with a regional, home-style lunch included in the tour, served right at the ranch with views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll also enjoy a tequila tasting made from the same agave grown on-site, which ties the whole experience together nicely. It’s equal parts adventure and reward, and a great final-day experience before winding things down.

Book this ATV tour here and end your trip on a high note!

Afternoon – Your choice!

After the morning ATV adventure, this is a good time to dial things back and keep the afternoon flexible. You’ll likely be a little dusty and ready for something slower, so we like treating this part of the day as a pick-and-choose block centered around Centro. All of these options are easy to fit in without feeling rushed, and you can decide based on your energy, interests, or even the weather.

Here are a few solid ways to spend the afternoon:

• Museo de Arte de Mazatlán – If you’re craving something calm and air-conditioned, this is an easy add-on in Centro. It’s a dedicated art museum with rotating exhibits, and the building itself has a bit of history, making it a nice, low-key stop after a busy morning.

• Observatorio Mazatlán 1873 – This one is built around panoramic views from Cerro del Vigía, but it’s more than just a viewpoint. The experience includes small museums and an agave-focused area, so it feels like a full attraction rather than a quick photo stop. It’s close enough to Centro that a short taxi ride gets you there easily.

• Gran Acuario Mazatlán – If you want something family-friendly or weather-proof, the aquarium is a great option. It focuses on the Sea of Cortez marine life and is one of the city’s major attractions. It’s open from 9 am to 6 pm, with last entry at 4:30 pm, and tickets run about $34 USD per person.

Dinner – El Cielo

El Cielo is a great choice for your final dinner in Mazatlán, especially if you’re looking to soak up a bit of plaza buzz on your last night. It’s set right in Centro, which makes it feel lively without being overwhelming—the kind of place where you can settle in, people-watch, and enjoy the energy around you.

Food-wise, it’s a solid last-night pick because the menu has plenty of range. You’ll find a mix of Mexican and international dishes, with lots of seafood options that feel right at home in Mazatlán, alongside heartier plates if you’re in the mood for something more filling. That flexibility makes it an easy win for groups with different cravings, especially after a full day of activity.

El Cielo stays open until 11 pm, but it’s best to arrive a little earlier if you can. Making a reservation is even a good idea, particularly on weekends or if you want to snag a good table in the plaza, and it still leaves you plenty of time to wander afterward and enjoy your final night in Centro.

Evening – Toast to your trip at the Best Western Posada Freeman

For a proper last-night toast, we’d head to the Sky Room Bar at the Best Western Posada Freeman in Olas Altas. It’s close to Centro, easy to get to after dinner, and the real draw is the oceanfront views stretching out right in front of you.

This is the kind of place that feels perfect for slowing things down and soaking it all in one last time. Grab a drink, find a spot facing the water, and watch the lights along the Malecón while the waves roll in below. It’s relaxed, unfussy, and exactly the right vibe for reflecting on the past few days.

You don’t need to stay late—even one drink here feels like a full experience. It’s a calm, scenic way to end your trip and a reminder of why Mazatlán’s coastline is such a big part of its charm.

Where to Stay in Mazatlan

Now that you’ve got your Mazatlán itinerary planned, all that’s left is choosing where to stay. For this trip, it’s best to base yourself in Centro Histórico or Olas Altas, where you’ll be close to the Malecón, restaurants, beaches, and tour pick-ups. 

Below are our favorite hotel options at every budget level, so you don’t have to sort through endless listings. Just keep in mind that availability in these areas can go fast, so if you see a room open for your dates, it’s a good idea to lock it in as soon as you can so you don’t miss out. 

Luxury – $$$

Hotel Boutique Casa Lulu is a standout stay in Mazatlán, especially if you want something stylish, intimate, and adults-only. Located near Olas Altas and Centro Histórico, it’s within easy walking distance of the Malecón, Plazuela Machado, and many of the restaurants in this itinerary. Rooms are modern and comfortable, each with air-conditioning, a private balcony, and a spacious walk-in shower. There’s also a rooftop pool with ocean views—perfect for unwinding after a day out.

Rates typically range from $100–$310 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Best Western Posada Freeman is a reliable option in Olas Altas, right by the beach and within walking distance of Centro Histórico, museums, and the Malecón. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with air-conditioning, free WiFi, and everything you need for a solid stay. A big perk here is that a daily buffet breakfast is included, plus there’s an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant. It’s an especially convenient choice if you want location and value without sacrificing comfort.

Nightly rates range from around $90 to $220 USD, depending on the season. See if your travel dates line up and book this stay here!

Budget – $

Gamma Mazatlán The Inn at Centro Histórico is a great budget-friendly choice if location is your top priority. It’s just a short walk from Olas Altas Beach and Plazuela Machado, making it an easy base for exploring Centro without relying on taxis. Rooms are simple, modern, and air-conditioned, with private bathrooms and free WiFi. There’s also an on-site restaurant and a small fitness center, which are nice bonuses at this price point.

Rooms here start at around $50–$100 USD per night. See all options and secure this affordable stay here!

Want more options? Check out all the accommodations listed for Mazatlán here and find the best base for your trip!

Renting a Car in Mexico

Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car. 

I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically. 

I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too. 

Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit. 

Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper! 

Thanks for reading!

Mazatlan is one of those destinations that still feels like a hidden gem! Its historic center is totally charming, and the beaches are top tier, with plenty of interesting day trips to balance it out. This three-day itinerary includes it all, so stick to our recommendations, and I know you’ll have a fantastic trip!

Check out the rest of our Mexico blogs before you pack your bags! We’ve been all over this beautiful country and love sharing our favorite destinations and travel tips with fellow adventurers. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next getaway – cheers!

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