Mazatlan, the "pacific pearl", is a city in Sinaloa, Mexico. It is located on the pacific coast across from the southernmost part of the Baja California peninsula. It has a total population of 352,471 as of 2005 census.The word Mazatlan means "place of deer". It was founded in 1531.

Mazatlan is a fabulous and popular tourist destination, because of its beautiful palm-lined beaches with luxurious hotels and resorts. It also has several historical attractions and landmarks. It is a home to the Teatro Angela Peralta, a 19th century landmark, situated on the Plazuela Machado. The Plazuela Machado, located in Centro Histórico, is considered as the as the cultural center point of the city offers open air restaurants, pageants, public art exhibits, a weekly craft exposition and fabulous nightlife.

The city hosts one of the largest celebrations of Carnival in the world, this weeklong celebration attracts visitors from all over the world with its parades, cultural events and parties.