Suspended for a moment in midair, cliff divers drop, then slide gracefully into the foaming Mazatlan surf. Even for visitors with vertigo, a stay in this city promises plenty of highs, from sun-toasted beach days to cultural sights and busy nights. Located partway down Mexico's west coast, Mazatlan is just across the Sea of Cortez from the Baja Peninsula. Ferry service connects Mazatlan to La Paz on Baja, while road trippers headed south will find the city a pleasant break from endless stretches of blacktop.

Sand dusts the shores along Mazatlan, and no better way to wash the beach out of your sun block then with a day trip to one of the islands nearby for some snorkeling. Hop a boat over to Isla de Pajaros or Islad de Chivos for a bit of towel gazing minus the crowds.

Mazatlan, apart from snorkeling opportunities and cliff divers, is a favorite with anglers. Charter a day of sport fishing with one of the local operators and bait your hook for marlin, swordfish, tuna and the occasional castaway.

Evening shadows lengthen the lines of the cathedral and lights come on around the central plazas. Relax over regional cuisine and a west coast sunset after a day on the water.

Mazatlan is about 650 miles (1042 KM) from Mexico City and 1150 miles (1806 KM) south of Tijuana.