Saturday―Explore a New Culture

After your early-morning walk or run on the beach, settle in at your hotel's beachside restaurant. Fill up on huevos rancheros or breakfast burritos because you've got a busy day ahead. Start your exploration with a tour of the city. This will let you visit important landmarks and get an overview of the city's design and history. Especially impressive is the view from Cerro del Vigía. You can see the Zona Dorada and Old Mazatlán, plus the fishing fleet pier and Stone Island. You also get a view of the lighthouse perched atop nearby Crestón Hill, which can be seen at night for 30 nautical miles.

A number of companies offer tour packages with prices starting at $15 (Vista Tours, 011-52 [669] 986-8610 or www.vistatours.com.mx; Olé Tours, 011-52 [669] 916-6287 or www.oletours.com).

Continue your exploration of the city with a stroll along the malecón. This coastal avenue parallels the sea for 20 miles, connecting the Historic Center with the hotels in the Zona Dorada. Stop for lunch at Mariscos el Camichin, where the house specialty is Pescado Zarandeado. The fresh fish is smothered in onions, peppers, and tomatoes, then grilled. A 1-kilogram serving (2.2 pounds), which is enough for two people, costs $9.50.

Mazatlán doesn't have the bargains or the selection available in some Mexican cities, but there are some interesting shops along the malecón and in the Zona Dorada. You'll find leather goods, pottery, and some folk art, but don't miss the jewelry stores. Many, including Joyerías Pardo in the Zona Dorada, specialize in Mexican fire opals, a luscious orange stone infused with flashes of color.

Back at the hotel, sit by the ocean and rest up for the evening. You'll start out at Ernie Tomato's, where you can feast on Famous Ribs B.B.Q. or shrimp fajitas. Then dance the night away at Valentino's or one of the many discos in the Zona Dorada.

NextSunday―Fun in the Sun