Stone Island (Isla de la Piedra)
Relaxed peninsula beach escape with horseback riding and beachfront palapas—just a 5-minute water taxi from Mazatlán
Overview
Stone Island (Isla de la Piedra) is actually a peninsula, not an island, but the 5-minute water taxi ride from Playa Sur makes it feel like an escape from Mazatlán's busier tourist zones. This is where locals go for long sandy beaches, horseback riding along the shore, and lazy afternoons under beachfront palapas without the Golden Zone crowds. **The experience:** Take the water taxi ($2 USD round trip) from the Playa Sur embarcadero. The boat deposits you at a small dock where beach restaurants compete for your attention. Pick any palapa restaurant—buy food and drinks for free chair and umbrella access. The beach stretches for kilometers, far quieter than Mazatlán's main beaches. **Activities:** Horseback riding along the beach is the signature activity (negotiate prices, typically 200-400 pesos for 30-60 minutes). Swimming is good, though waves can be stronger than the bay beaches. Some palapas offer kayak rentals. The coconut plantations behind the beach make for interesting walks. **Why go:** Stone Island delivers the "deserted beach" feeling that Mazatlán's developed zones can't match, yet remains just minutes from the city. Perfect for a half-day escape when the Golden Zone feels too crowded or touristy.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day
40 MXN
Water taxi approximately $2 USD round trip. Beach access is free. Food/drink purchase expected for palapa seating.
Year-round, but best November-April during dry season. Weekdays are quieter. Avoid during rough seas. Morning departure recommended to maximize beach time.
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