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Where to Stay in Mazatlan

Where to Stay in Mazatlan

Mazatlan Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Spectrum

  • Hostels

    Found mainly in Centro Histórico, these offer budget-friendly dormitory beds and some private rooms. They suit solo travelers and backpackers.

  • Guesthouses / Boutique Hotels

    Renovated colonial buildings in Centro Histórico function as charming guesthouses. They give a personalized, intimate stay, often with unique decor.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    International chains and independent establishments populate the Zona Dorada and Malecon. These properties often include comfortable rooms and pools.

  • Luxury Resorts

    Large, beachfront luxury resorts dominate Zona Dorada and Nuevo Mazatlán. They feature extensive amenities, multiple pools, and fine dining.

Unique Stays & Rentals

  • Local Architecture

    Many hotels in Centro Histórico integrate the city's historic colonial architecture, presenting a distinct sense of place.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo list options from single rooms to entire apartments or houses. These suit families, groups, or extended stays.

  • Homestay

    Formal homestay programs are less common.

  • Camping

    Formal campgrounds directly within Mazatlán city are few. Some RV parks accommodate visitors mainly north of the main tourist zones.

Neighborhood Guide

Mazatlán divides into distinct neighborhoods, each with a different character and ambiance for visitors.

Zona Dorada Golden Zone

Advantages
  • Modern amenities.
  • Wide range of dining and entertainment.
  • Direct access to popular beaches.
  • Transport availability.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially at night.
  • Less "authentic" feel.
  • Higher prices.
  • Safety: Very safe with high tourist traffic.

Centro Histórico Old Mazatlán

Advantages
  • Culturally rich, authentic atmosphere.
  • Beautifully restored colonial buildings.
  • Art galleries, intimate plazas, local shops.
  • Home to major historical attractions.
Considerations
  • Less direct beach access.
  • Fewer large resorts.
  • Accommodation leans towards boutique hotels.
  • Safety: Generally safe day and evening.

Malecon Avenida del Mar

Advantages
  • Continuous ocean views.
  • Suits walks, runs, or cycling.
  • Central location with good value hotels.
  • Direct access to public beaches.
Considerations
  • Consistent road traffic noise.
  • Some areas can be busy.
  • Safety: Well-lit and generally safe.
  • Links all major city areas.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Zona Dorada:

Can be loud at night due to bars, nightclubs, and general tourist activity. Nuevo Mazatlán, located north of Zona Dorada, is the quietest area, focusing on a relaxed resort ambiance.

Centro Histórico & Malecon:

Centro Histórico is generally quieter and more peaceful, though Plazuela Machado hosts live music. The Malecon experiences traffic noise from Avenida del Mar, especially during peak hours.

Booking Strategies

Booking strategies secure your preferred accommodation and potentially save money.

Advance Booking

  • High Season (Late Dec - April): Book 3-6 months ahead for best selection, especially for popular hotels and beachfront properties.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, Oct-Nov): Book 1-2 months ahead for selection and prices.
  • Low Season (July-Sept): Good deals and availability often found weeks or days before arrival.
  • Last-minute options become limited and expensive during high season.

Trusted Platforms

Policies and Fluctuations

Negotiation Customs:
  • For smaller guesthouses, a slight possibility might exist for negotiating walk-in rates during low season.
  • This is not common at larger hotels.
  • Polite inquiries for better rates on multiple nights occasionally succeed.
Deposit and Cancellation Policies:
  • Policies vary significantly by property and booking platform.
  • Review deposit requirements and cancellation terms thoroughly before confirming.
  • Non-refundable rates may offer lower prices but no flexibility.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Season:

Prices for accommodation are significantly higher, especially around major holidays and Carnival.

Low Season:

Considerably lower rates appear during summer and early fall.

Shoulder Seasons:

These months offer a middle ground for pricing.

Accommodation Recommendations

Specific accommodation recommendations for different budget levels and traveler types in Mazatlán.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Hostal La Casona

Basic, clean dorms/private rooms, communal areas, central for Old Town.

  • Neighborhood: Centro Histórico
  • Price Range: 300 - 600 MXN/night
Hotel Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán

Beachfront, multiple pools, suites with kitchenettes, good for families or longer stays.

  • Neighborhood: Zona Dorada
  • Price Range: 1,500 - 2,500 MXN/night

Luxury & Family Options

Casa Lucila Hotel Boutique

Elegant luxury boutique hotel, oceanfront, infinity pool, personalized service, historic charm.

  • Neighborhood: Centro Histórico
  • Price Range: 2,500 - 4,000 MXN/night
El Cid Marina Beach Hotel

Marina access, water park, kids' club, numerous activities, range of dining options.

  • Neighborhood: Zona Dorada
  • Price Range: 2,500 - 4,000 MXN/night

Solo & Value Stays

  • Hostels in Centro Histórico

    Social atmosphere, walking distance to sights, meeting other travelers comes easily. Price Range: 300 - 600 MXN/night.

  • Hotel Sands Las Huertas

    Simple, value-focused, often with a small pool, near beach and transport. Price Range: 500 - 800 MXN/night.

  • Condos/Apartments

    Self-catering, more space, experience local living, suitable for extended visits. Neighborhood: Zona Dorada/Centro Histórico. Price Range: Varies greatly.

  • Hotel La Siesta

    Iconic, beachfront, popular restaurant, lively ambiance, central for exploring. Neighborhood: Malecon (near Old Town). Price Range: 1,000 - 2,000 MXN/night.

Secluded & Cultural Retreats

  • Hotel Belmar

    Historic hotel with colonial charm, ocean views, near Old Town attractions and Malecon. Neighborhood: Centro Histórico (Malecon). Price Range: 800 - 1,500 MXN/night.

  • Estrella del Mar Resort

    Secluded golf resort, pristine private beach, high-end amenities, great for relaxation away from city bustle. Neighborhood: South of Airport. Price Range: 4,000+ MXN/night.

  • Riu Emerald Bay

    Large all-inclusive resort, multiple pools, varied dining, family-friendly activities, direct beach access. Neighborhood: Nuevo Mazatlán. Price Range: 3,000+ MXN/night.

  • Historic Character

    Many properties within Old Town reflect Mazatlán's rich past, offering a distinct sense of place.

Featured Stays by Type

All-Inclusive Resorts

Often large, beachfront properties with multiple pools, dining venues, and activities included in the price. They are popular for families and those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free vacation.

  • Riu Emerald Bay
  • El Cid Marina Beach Hotel
Boutique Hotels & Guesthouses

Found mainly in Centro Histórico, these offer intimate settings, personalized service, and unique charm within renovated historic buildings.

  • Casa Lucila Hotel Boutique
  • Hostal La Casona
  • Hotel Belmar

General Accommodation Types

Hotels & Motels

Range from budget-friendly roadside motels to comfortable mid-range hotels across the city.

Condos & Apartments

Privately owned units available for rent, featuring kitchen facilities and more living space, ideal for longer visits.

Resorts & All-Inclusives

Typically large complexes, often beachfront, with multiple pools, restaurants, and entertainment programs.