Deer Island (Isla de los Venados)
Mazatlán's best snorkeling in an ecological reserve—pristine waters and a hiking trail with no facilities
Overview
Deer Island (Isla de los Venados) is an ecological reserve offering Mazatlán's best snorkeling and a true "deserted island" experience. Unlike Stone Island's palapa restaurants, Deer Island has no facilities whatsoever—you bring everything and leave with everything. **Getting there:** Two main options exist. Panga boats (small motorboats) depart from the beach near El Cid resort for about $12 USD round trip, taking 15-20 minutes. Catamaran tours cost around $87 USD and include lunch, snorkeling equipment, and beverages—better value if you don't have your own gear. **The island:** The ecological reserve protects rocky coastline and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. A 1.2-mile (2 km) hiking trail crosses the island to a viewpoint overlooking Mazatlán and the Pacific. The beaches are small but uncrowded. Wildlife includes iguanas, birds, and marine life visible while snorkeling. **What to bring:** Everything. There are no restaurants, no bathrooms, no rentals, no shade structures beyond natural vegetation. Pack water, food, snorkeling gear, sunscreen, towels, and trash bags. This is wilderness, not a beach club. **Why go:** For those seeking pristine waters and genuine solitude over convenience. The snorkeling rivals anything in the region, and the lack of development means you'll share the island with nature, not vendors.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day to full day
240 MXN
Panga boat ~$12 USD round trip. Catamaran tour ~$87 USD with lunch and gear. No entrance fee to island itself.
November-May for calmest seas and best visibility. Morning departures recommended. Avoid during rough weather or high surf. Check sea conditions before booking.
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