7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Mazatlan

Mazatlan, known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," is a vibrant city that offers digital nomads a unique blend of urban life and beach relaxation. While the city itself is full of attractions, sometimes a weekend getaway can provide a refreshing change of pace. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, the surrounding areas of Mazatlan have something for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or just a quiet spot to unwind, these seven destinations offer perfect escapes for those living the digital nomad lifestyle in Mazatlan.

Copala

Nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains, Copala is a charming colonial town that offers a step back in time. This picturesque village is known for its cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and the warmth of its people. Visitors can explore the historic Church of San José, wander through the town's quaint streets, and enjoy traditional Sinaloan cuisine at local eateries. The town's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Copala is by car or by taking a guided tour from Mazatlan, which is about a 2-hour drive.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous banana cream pie at Daniel's Restaurant in the town square, a local favorite.

Where to Stay: For a cozy stay, consider the Posada del Miner, which offers a rustic charm and friendly service.

Where to Eat: Apart from Daniel's Restaurant, you can also enjoy a meal at the smaller local eateries that serve authentic Mexican dishes.

Concordia

Another colonial gem, Concordia is a small town with a rich history in furniture making and pottery. The town's main square is dominated by the impressive San Sebastián Church, and visitors can watch artisans at work in their workshops. The town is also known for its mango orchards, and depending on the season, you might be able to enjoy some of the freshest mangoes around.

How to Get There: Concordia is an easy 45-minute drive from Mazatlan, making it a convenient day trip or weekend destination.

Travel Tip: Visit the local furniture and pottery shops to find unique handcrafted items to take home as souvenirs or gifts.

Where to Stay: While Concordia has limited accommodation options, staying in nearby Mazatlan and visiting as a day trip is a popular choice.

Where to Eat: Try the local eateries around the main square for traditional dishes, especially the savory carne asada.

El Quelite

El Quelite is a traditional Mexican village that offers a colorful glimpse into rural life. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and its role in preserving the ancient game of Ulama, El Quelite is a cultural haven. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets, visit the local bakery for some pan de mujer, and watch a game of Ulama if they're lucky.

How to Get There: Located just 40 minutes from Mazatlan by car, El Quelite is an accessible destination for a quick getaway.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the El Quelite Bakery for their famous bread and pastries, a treat not to be missed.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in El Quelite, but the nearby city of Mazatlan offers a range of options.

Where to Eat: El Mesón de los Laureanos is a must-visit restaurant in El Quelite, known for its traditional Sinaloan dishes and charming atmosphere.

La Noria

La Noria is a small town with a big reputation for its leatherwork and blue agave plantations. Visitors can tour the local leather workshops and purchase handcrafted goods, or visit the Los Osuna distillery to learn about the process of making blue agave spirits. The town's peaceful environment is perfect for those looking to enjoy a slower pace of life.

How to Get There: A drive to La Noria from Mazatlan takes about an hour, and the scenic route is part of the experience.

Travel Tip: Take a tour of the Los Osuna distillery to taste their artisanal blue agave spirit and learn about its production.

Where to Stay: Stay in Mazatlan for a wider selection of hotels and visit La Noria as part of a day trip.

Where to Eat: Dining options in La Noria are limited, but local food stalls offer delicious tacos and quesadillas.

Teacapán

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Teacapán is a tranquil fishing village located at the southern end of the Escuinapa municipality. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in nature, with opportunities for bird watching, kayaking, and exploring the vast mangrove estuaries. The town's laid-back vibe is perfect for digital nomads looking to disconnect and recharge.

How to Get There: Teacapán is about a 2.5-hour drive from Mazatlan, with the journey itself offering beautiful views of the Mexican countryside.

Travel Tip: Visit the Agua Verde Spa, a natural hot spring located nearby, for a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in Teacapán are modest, but the Hotel La Paloma offers a comfortable stay with beachfront views.

Where to Eat: Seafood is the star in Teacapán, so try one of the local restaurants for fresh catches of the day, such as shrimp and fish.

Cosalá

Cosalá is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) that boasts a rich mining history and stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and visiting the Vado Hondo water park. The colonial architecture and museums provide a cultural feast for visitors.

How to Get There: The drive to Cosalá from Mazatlan takes approximately 2 hours, with the route winding through scenic mountain landscapes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Ecoparque Cabañas San Isidro for zip-lining and other adventure activities.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Casa de los Patios offers a charming stay with a spa and traditional Mexican decor.

Where to Eat: Enjoy regional cuisine at one of the local restaurants, such as El Mesón de los Lauranos, which serves up traditional dishes in a historic setting.

Las Labradas Petroglyphs

For a truly unique experience, visit the Las Labradas Petroglyphs, an ancient archaeological site located on the beachfront. This open-air museum features hundreds of rock carvings made by indigenous peoples thousands of years ago. It's a place of historical significance and natural beauty, where you can also enjoy the beach and the nearby nature reserve.

How to Get There: The site is about an hour and a half drive north of Mazatlan, and it's recommended to go with a guided tour for a more informative experience.

Travel Tip: Bring your camera and capture the stunning contrast between the ancient petroglyphs and the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

Where to Stay: Most visitors choose to stay in Mazatlan and visit Las Labradas as a day trip due to the limited accommodation options in the immediate area.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, or stop by one of the seafood restaurants in the nearby town of Barras de Piaxtla for a fresh meal.