Divers Point (Punta de Clavadistas) is one of the most famous landmarks in Mazatlán and the setting for one of the city’s must-see events. Watch brave and experienced cliff divers put on a jaw-dropping show by plunging into the water from a stone platform overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The tradition of diving here is said to have begun in the 1960s after a local man accepted a bet from his friend. Join the crowds that line up along the sea wall and marvel as the divers leap off a 45-foot (14-meter) high perch. Look down to see them land in a pool of water studded with dangerous rocks. Notice how the divers time their jumps with the arrival of an incoming wave to take advantage of the slightly deeper water. The diver then surfaces to a rapturous round of applause.
Have your camera ready to take shots of this courageous and daring spectacle. The divers occasionally perform after sunset, holding torches so that onlookers can see them more clearly.
Dives usually start after midday and continue into the evening. The divers often wait for a crowd of tourists to gather before taking the leap so be prepared to hang around for a while. While it is technically free to watch, tips are welcome many of the divers live off the money they earn for risking their lives.
Divers Point is about a 15-minute walk from the heart of Mazatlán’s Old Town, just north of Olas Altas Beach. While you’re here, explore the other attractions on Mazatlán’s Malecón, a 13-mile (21-kilometer) long esplanade that runs around the city’s coastline. The Malecón passes beaches and monuments and is lined with bars, restaurants and shops.
Walk south along the Malecón to reach the popular surf spot Olas Altas Beach. Look for the bronze Mazatleca Woman Monument and Pedro Infante Monument, a tribute to an acclaimed Mexican actor. Stroll north from Divers Point to get to Playa Norte, a vast, curving beach ideal for water sports.