By Vincent Runyon
Perched on the coast of the Mexican mainland, just southeast of Baja California, Mazatlan is one of the top tourist destinations in all of
Mexico. Its location makes it a magnet for anyone with an interest in water sports, golf, or even just relaxing in the sun. The Carnaval is one of the biggest in the world, calling people from all over Latin America to the city. With a history stretching back over four hundred years, Mazatlan is also one of the oldest places in North America. It goes without saying that finding something to do in a place like this is by no means a difficult proposition.
Golfing
With its tropical setting, Mazatlan has become an ideal place for some great golf courses for people of all financial situations. For those who don't want to spend more than twenty dollars for nine holes, there's Club Campestre, which is one of the oldest courses in all of Mexico. Beyond that, there's the Lee Trevino-designed El Cid Country Club. This 27-hole course lies in the heart of the city and is a golfing haven. It includes all the amenities of a country club, with caddies and lessons to be hired. Beyond all of this, it holds biannual tournaments that attract amateurs from around North America and the world. The most well-regarded course in the area is the Estrella del Mar resort. The course was designed by prolific designer Robert Jones III and lies along a 3.5-mile stretch of ocean in a gated community. It is consistently rated among the best courses in all of the country.
Aqua Sports Center
Plenty of tourists come to the coast in order to jump in the ocean; the Mazatlan Aqua Sports Center gives anyone a multitude of options to achieve this goal. Scuba diving is offered among the three islands near the city. For those who aren't certified, they take those people on beginner courses in order to still get the experience. Beyond that, there are jet-skis, kayaks and small two-person sailboats. The more adventurous out there may choose to ride the banana boat, a giant inflatable banana dragged by a speedboat, or decide to take to the air and go parasailing. It also has a fleet of amphibious vehicles that take people on tours of the islands nearby. Of course, there is also other standard resort fare such as surfing and snorkeling, too. Any of these make for a fine day in the water.
Pacifico Brewery
This Mexican Pilsner-style beer was created at the beginning of the 20th century by a group of German immigrants. The name, Pacifico, was taken from the location of the "cerveceria," as Mazatlan is on the shore of the Pacific Ocean. This beer has since become one of Mexico's most famous brands. Tours of the brewery are routinely some of the most popular attractions in the city. Independent tour guides give a history of the city as they lead patrons to the brewery. The tour of the brewery itself ends with a few sips of the beer from the tasting room, which has an incredible view.
About the Author:
Vincent Runyon is a writer working out of Portland, Ore. His work has been featured in "The Oregon Voice" and "Portland Monthly." Runyon received two bachelor's degrees from the University of Oregon. His greatest passions are traveling to new and different places and enjoying a good basketball game. Usually the two are mutually exclusive.
