Mazatlan has one of the longest stretches of uninterrupted beach in Mexico. Water temperature tends to stay in the 65-75 degree range year 'round. Surf is generally moderate, though care should always be taken when swimming in the open ocean.

Playa Norte: Popular with locals; lots of palapa restaurants selling fresh seafood and cool drinks; local fishermen anchor their boats here.

Playa Sabalo and Las Gaviotas: Superb beaches that make up the zona dorada resort area; lots of activity, seaside cafes, strolling vendors and sports action; great for swimming and sunbathing.

Playa Olas Altas: Meaning "high waves," this beach is popular for surfing (biggest waves in the summer).

Playa Los Cerritos: One of Mazatlan's finest, uncrowded beaches, located to the north of the hotel zone.

Head to the offshore islands, especially Deer Island. Also popular are Playa Cerritos and Connor's Point.

Parasailing, hoby cat rentals, boogie boarding, and jetskis are all available along Sabalo and Gaviotas beach.

Mazatlan has one of Mexico's best resort courses at El Cid (Larry Hughes design; 6,712 yards). This fine 18-hole, 72 par course is open only to guests of El Cid or those interested in owning a time-share. Tel. 83-33-33.

There is also the Club Campestre Mazatlan, a 9-hole course. Tel. 84-74-94.

Many resorts have excellent facilities, including the Camino Real (2 lighted courts), Torres Mazatlan (3 courts), Costa de Oro (3 courts), Los Sabalos (2 lighted courts), The Racquet Club(3 "laykold" and 3 clay courts; Pueblo Bonito guests play free here) and Club Deportivo Reforma (8 courts) .The most complete tennis center is at El Cid (13 courts). A "John Newcombe's Tennis Ranch" program is featured one week each month. In all there are over 50 courts available to visitors.

Fishing is not only a sport in Mazatlan --it's a way of life. There are 10 fleets of sport fishing vessels in operation with nearly 75 boats. The best months are March through December, though fishing is excellent all year long. Large bill fish are plentiful. Record size sailfish, black, blue and striped marlin are caught along with tuna, sea bass, dorado and grouper.

A full-day charter with equipment and guides starts at about $200. All fishing charters depart from the fishing marina in the harbor between 6:30-7:00 am, and return after 2:30 pm. It's best to reserve your boat when making your client's hotel reservation. Remember, fishing can be fully commissionable.

The Star Fleet is one of Mexico's finest. With more than 30 years experience, it is the largest fishing fleet in Mazatlan. Star Fleet clients have established several IGFA world records, including those for striped marlin and dolphin fish. Reservations: (Mexico Sportsman) 1-800-633-3085 (U.S. and Canada)

If deep sea fishing is not exactly what you are looking for, then take advantage of some of the best bass fishing Mexico has to offer. Lake Comedero and El Salto have been stocked with native black bass as well as Florida black bass. Strongly recommended is Aviles Brothers, an outfitter with intimate knowledge of the area. They can be booked by calling the Mexico Sportsman in Seattle, WA. 1-800-633-3085 (U.S. and Canada)

Many species of duck are plentiful during winter months. Pheasant, quail and dove are also abundant. The hunting season varies from year to year, but usually starts in November and continues through March. We strongly recommend making reservations for hunting trips before arriving in Mexico. Complete arrangements can be handled by calling the Mexico Sportsman in Seattle, WA. They handle arrangements in the Mazatlan area for the outfitter Aviles Brothers (highly recommended). They also handle hunting in the Culiacan and Los Mochis areas. Prices start at around $145 per day. Mexico Sportsman reservations: 1-800-633-3085 (U.S. and Canada).