Escape to Stone Island: Mazatlán’s Best-Kept Secret

When you're staying at any of Mazatlán’s Pueblo Bonito resorts, the golden beaches and vibrant streets may tempt you to stay put, but just across the water is a hidden gem that’s well worth exploring. Tranquil and scenic Stone Island, or “Isla de la Piedra,” offers a day of off-the-beaten-path adventure with the laid-back beauty that’s emblematic of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Despite its name, Stone Island is actually a peninsula, bordered by palm groves and soft sands that stretch for miles. The short journey to get there is half the fun. Simply hop on a ferry from the marina or a water taxi from Mazatlán’s port, and you’ll be at your destination in just minutes. It’s a brief trip, but the shift in scenery feels grand. Gone are the high-rise hotels and bustling scene at the malecón. Instead, you’ll find a quiet, rustic rhythm that instantly compels you to kick off your already casual footwear and linger in place.

Though it’s not widely known to the outside world, locals love Stone Island because of its relaxed vibe and authentic atmosphere. The serene beaches, lined with thatched-roof palapas and family-run restaurants, make it the perfect place to enjoy a frosty drink, fresh-caught ceviche, and a nice hammock. The warm, shallow waters are ideal for swimming or wading, which is especially great for people with mobility constraints, families with younger children, and those who simply want to chill and chat while surrounded by tranquil waves. When the ocean is something you’d rather admire than brave, take a stroll along the shore, collecting shells and soaking in the unspoiled surroundings instead of the surf. If you do need a little more action, ATV tours, banana boat rides, and horseback adventures are just a vendor transaction away, right from the beach.

Stone Island’s dining is equally unfussy but wonderfully flavorful. Most restaurants specialize in fresh seafood—think shrimp skewers, whole snapper, or fish tacos served right off the grill—and icy cervezas served with a lime and a smile. Pull up a chair, bury your toes into the sand, and indulge in a meal that tastes like vacation.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or just a few hours checking out what’s just beyond your resort, Stone Island makes for an easy addition to your Pueblo Bonito escape. Your concierge can assist with ferry details, arrange transportation to the port, and even help you prepare a beach-ready picnic.

It’s the kind of place where time slows down, the air feels softer, and the ocean somehow sparkles a little brighter. And best of all, it’s just across the bay from everything you already love about Mazatlán.

Ready to explore more of Mazatlán’s coastal magic? Book your next stay with us, and make sure to ask your Pueblo Bonito concierge for help with planning a visit to Stone Island, where you’ll discover one of the area’s most enduring treasures.