Mazatlán in 1 Day for Families - Guided visit to Mazatlán Cathedral & nearby open market
In Collaboration with Maciel Tour Guide. Updated on January 31, 2026.
A relaxed, family‑focused version of the Mazatlán Sightseeing and Beach All Inclusive tour. See the historic cathedral and market, watch the cliff divers, then enjoy a catamaran ride and a full beach lunch with open bar on Isla de la Piedra. Includes two family‑friendly beach activities (choose from banana boat, boogie board, horseback or carriage rides). Stroller/pram accessible where noted.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Maciel Tour Guide, inspired by the tour Mazatlan Sightseeing and Beach All Inclusive. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided visit to Mazatlán Cathedral & nearby open market
- View the local cliff divers at El Faro area
- Catamaran ride and beach lunch with open bar on Isla de la Piedra
- Two included beach activities for kids and adults
Itinerary
Day 1
Full‑day guided tour combining Old Town Mazatlán highlights with a catamaran trip to Isla de la Piedra for lunch, open bar and two family beach activities.
Meeting & pickup — Cruise terminal or hotel
Meet your guide and join the air‑conditioned vehicle. Pickup is arranged from the cruise terminal or your hotel in central Mazatlán.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small backpack with kids' snacks and a spare change of clothes — the beach activities can get wet.
- If you arrive by cruise ship, ask the guide for the exact pier pickup spot; they will monitor ship arrival and meet you at the Terminal de Cruceros.
- Stroller note: the vehicle and pier areas are stroller‑friendly; fold the stroller briefly during transfers if asked to maximize space.
Old Town: Cathedral Basílica & Plaza
Short guided walk around the Catedral Basílica de la Inmaculada Concepción and Plaza República — admire the architecture and learn family‑friendly stories about Mazatlán's history.
Tips from local experts:
- The plaza has shaded benches — great for a quick rest and a photo with the kids in front of the cathedral.
- There are public restrooms nearby (ask your guide) — ideal for families before heading to the market.
- Keep valuables in one zipped bag; the area is busy with street vendors so hold hands with young children.
Mercado Pino Suárez — Local open market
Explore the nearby open market where local crafts, fresh fruit and snacks are available — time for souvenir browsing and a family snack if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for fresh cut fruit stalls (a healthy, kid‑friendly snack) and bottled water vendors — great between activities.
- Many stalls accept cash only; bring small bills and coins for snacks and souvenirs.
- If you have a stroller, navigate the main aisles; some side alleys are narrow — your guide can lead the easiest route.
Cliff divers viewpoint & seaside promenade (El Faro area)
Visit the El Faro / cliff‑diver viewpoint to watch intrepid divers and browse local artisans selling small souvenirs — a short, exciting stop for older kids.
Tips from local experts:
- This viewpoint can be windy — bring a light jacket for toddlers and secure hats to avoid them blowing away.
- You’ll stand behind a railing for safety; keep little ones close near edges and avoid the rocks below.
- There are local artisans here with inexpensive keepsakes — set a small souvenir budget with children beforehand.
Transfer to Marina Mazatlán — Embark catamaran
Short drive to the marina where you'll board a family‑friendly catamaran for the 20–40 minute ride to Isla de la Piedra (Stone Island).
Tips from local experts:
- Sea‑sickness tip: bring motion‑sickness bands or small tablets if anyone is prone to nausea — the guide can advise timing.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for the boat ride; shaded seating is available onboard but limited in peak sunshine.
- Children should wear non‑slip shoes while boarding; the crew will assist families with small children.
Catamaran ride to Isla de la Piedra (Isla de la Piedra)
Relaxing family catamaran ride along the coast with onboard commentary. Enjoy ocean views and watch for dolphins if lucky.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the shaded benches if you have small children — those areas are cooler and safer for little ones.
- Bring a light towel and a small dry bag for your phone and valuables — splashes can happen when disembarking.
- Ask the crew for kid‑friendly mocktails or juice from the open bar; they’ll usually accommodate children’s tastes.
Beach lunch (included) at Isla de la Piedra — family seating
Beachfront meal at a local restaurant on Isla de la Piedra: Mexican favorites, seafood and kids' options. Lunch and open bar for adults are included.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a shaded table near the sand — easier to watch kids while they munch and play nearby.
- Ask for child portions or simple tacos and grilled chicken for picky eaters; the staff are used to families and are accommodating.
- There are usually restroom and changing facilities at the restaurant; confirm with your guide if you need help finding them.
Two included beach activities (family picks) — e.g., banana boat + horseback or boogie board
Choose two kid‑friendly activities arranged by your guide: banana boat ride, boogie boarding, horseback on the beach, or a short carriage ride. Activities are paced for families.
Tips from local experts:
- For horseback rides, choose smaller horses and ask for helmets for children; beach sand can be uneven so staff will match riders to ability.
- Banana boats suit children ages ~6+ with an adult riding along — younger kids may prefer boogie boards or supervised beach play.
- Keep sunscreen handy and reapply after water activities; your guide can point out shaded rest areas between activities.
Return catamaran to Marina Mazatlán & short transfer back
Board the return catamaran to the marina and transfer back to your hotel or cruise terminal; drop‑off service included.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear a light cover‑up for the return trip — the breeze can feel cool after sun and water play.
- Confirm the exact drop‑off point with your guide before leaving the boat so little ones are ready and organized.
- If anyone naps on the ride back, keep a small bag accessible with necessary items (diapers, water, wipes) so you don’t need to rummage through luggage at dropoff.
Drop‑off at your hotel or cruise terminal
End of the guided tour: return to your hotel or the cruise pier. The guide will confirm any final assistance needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Check with your guide about tipping local activity providers (boat crew, horse handlers) if you were happy with the service.
- If your family needs an afternoon nap or pool time, most hotels offer early check‑in/late pool access — ask reception.
- Save the guide’s contact number (if provided) for any follow‑up questions or quick local tips during your stay.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Culture, Shopping, Attraction, Experience, Meal, Outdoor |