Despite its famous pre-lenten Mardi Gras celebration, its world-class bill-fishing, and some of the tastiest seafood on the planet, Mazatlan is not one of Mexico’s most sought-after seaside resorts. But admirers of this bay side city of nearly 700,000 could not resist less if it is spurned by the masses. 24 kilometres of beaches stretch north and south of downtown, and hotel and restaurant prices are about half of those in Cancun or Los Cabos.

Most visitors come for the combination of sand, sun, and nighttime fun. The Zona Dorada, north of Punta Camaron, has some of Mazatlan’s most popular beaches. Crowded throughout this bustling hotels zone are shell and souvenir shops, sidewalk bars, and beachfront restaurants. Resort hotels rent water-sports equipment, and the bay has gentle breakers. Just offshore lie three islands: Isla de Pajaros, Isla de Venados, and Isla de Lobos. Of the birds, deer, and sea lions for which they are respectively named, only the first is in evidence.