Known as the Pearl of the Pacific, Mazatlán was once the favored resort of film stars like John Wayne and Gary Cooper, before it suffered a dip in fortunes in the 1970s and 80s when an influx of package tourists somewhat diluted its charm.

Thankfully, the recent restoration of Mazatlán's historic core, with its 'tropical Neoclassical' architecture and an influx of creative types, has restored its allure. Visitors can enjoy a number of refurbished museums and theaters or just chill out on the 12.5 miles of sandy beaches.

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