The cliff divers
Leaping with the waves.
Adam Jones — CC BY 4.0 · El Nuevo Doge — CC0 · Adam Jones — CC BY 4.0 · DogeGamer2015MZT — CC0
One of the longest seafront promenades in the world, running about eight and a half kilometres along Mazatlán's Pacific coast between the old lighthouse in the south and the hotel zone in the north, past rocky cliffs, beaches, monuments and historic buildings. Its best-known stop is the cliff divers' platform at Olas Altas, where local divers leap from a high rock into shallow, churning water, timed exactly with the waves, for tips from onlookers. Near the southern end, El Faro lighthouse stands on a hill, one of the world's highest natural lighthouses, which visitors climb on foot for a wide view. People ride the promenade in «pulmonías», small open taxis like golf carts that were invented in Mazatlán and became one of its symbols. The old town near the southern end has squares, a historic theatre and restaurants. The best time for the promenade is sunset, when the sun sinks into the ocean. The sea is open here, with strong waves in places, so swim only at sheltered beaches. Some governments warn against travel to Sinaloa state outside Mazatlán, so arriving by air is best; check your government's current advice.
Leaping with the waves.
Views from the hill.
Open-air taxis.
Mazatlán's Pacific shore, Sinaloa state, from the lighthouse in the south to the hotel zone
A small open-air taxi like a golf cart, invented in Mazatlán and now one of its symbols. Agree the fare before you ride.