I just spent a week around Mazatlán and wanted something low-key with nature and not too touristy, and I’m so glad I explored a few places outside the city. Mazatlán itself has a lot to offer (great seafood, long beaches, nice walks along the Malecón), but if you’ve got a week, I’d definitely recommend checking out a few nearby spots for a more peaceful vibe.
One place I loved was Isla de la Piedra (Stone Island). It is super easy to get to, just a short boat ride from Mazatlán (like 10 minutes), but it feels like a totally different world! Quiet beaches, coconut trees everywhere, and not many people. I rented a chair under a palapa, ate fresh ceviche, and just watched the waves. You can do horseback riding on the beach or kayak through the mangroves if you're up for it. I just went for the day, but I met a couple who stayed overnight in a small eco-hotel and really loved it.
Another great spot is El Quelite, a small village about 40 minutes inland. It’s got cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a really relaxed feel. I went for lunch (the birria there is amazing) and ended up spending most of the day just wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere. It’s not super “nature” focused, but definitely peaceful and worth the trip.
If you want something even quieter and more off the radar, Teacapán is a tiny fishing village about 2.5 to 3 hours south. Almost no tourists, huge empty beaches, and a ton of birds in the estuaries. I took a little boat tour through the mangroves and saw herons, pelicans, and even a turtle. It’s the kind of place where time really slows down. I stayed overnight in a simple beachfront guesthouse and watched the sunset with a cold beer. Perfect for unplugging.
There are also some mountain towns like Copala and Concordia that are worth a visit. I did a day trip to Copala and loved the old church, the views, and the quiet vibe. It’s a nice change of scenery if you want to get away from the beach for a bit.
If I had to plan the week again, I’d probably do:
- 2 or 3 days in Mazatlán itself (especially the old town)
- A day trip to El Quelite
- A day or overnight at Isla de la Piedra
- Then 2 nights in Teacapán
It was a really relaxing mix of beach time, nature, and little towns. Let me know if you want any specific recommendations for where to stay or eat. I kept it simple but found some great spots.
