Stone Island / Isla de la Piedra

Mazatlán is famous for its beautiful beaches, so picking the best one is like choosing the perfect diamond from an array of flawless stones. The vote was very close again this year between two popular beaches: one south of town and one north, and the tally went back and forth, back and forth. Who would be the winner, we wondered in the M! offices… Finally, when all was said and done, it was Stone Island, or Isla de la Piedra, that tickled your fancy the most.

Just getting to Stone Island is an adventure – it requires a water-taxi ride ($20 pesos round-trip) across the harbor and away from modern Mexico, a true get-away. Once there, take a long, deep breath and leave all your worries behind (at least for the day!) Funky palapas line the beach and cater to both nationals and gringos alike, providing fresh-as-can-be seafood, coco frios and cold beer, without all the frills. Gentle waves lap the long stretch of sandy beach that stretches for miles to the south, and a walk or run is usually in order. The surf at Stone Island is more forgiving than elsewhere and makes it a great place for kids to play, although at times there are waves big enough to entice beginning boogie boarders.

Deserving of mention is Cerritos beach, a long ribbon of golden sand with resort and condo towers overlooking many spots. Local residents love living here, and for good reason: the sunsets are enchanting, there are no throngs of tourists or vendors, and the somewhat-wild ocean keeps those dreams stirring in your heart. Look for walk-throughs between the condos or start at Playa Bruja and stroll your way south.-BK, JB