Faro Mazatlan (Mazatlan Lighthouse), Mazatlan (must see)

The Mazatlán Lighthouse sits atop Creston Hill on what was once Creston Island, making it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1879 to guide ships approaching the port, the lighthouse initially used a simple gas lamp, replacing earlier torch signals. Over time, it underwent several technological upgrades-from oil and kerosene lamps to a rotating lamp in 1905, and eventually to an electric lamp in 1933. The lighthouse, though only seven meters tall, is renowned for being located 157 meters above sea level, giving it the distinction-albeit contested-of being the highest natural lighthouse in the world.

Aside from its maritime function, the Mazatlán Lighthouse has evolved into a major tourist attraction. In recent years, it became the centerpiece of the Mazatlán Lighthouse Natural Park, which includes a thrilling new feature: a cantilevered metal and glass viewing platform. Positioned just west of the lighthouse, this platform allows visitors to stand on a transparent floor and gaze directly down at the Pacific Ocean, giving the sensation of floating above dramatic cliffs and coastlines. The panoramic views stretch across the bay, islands, and surrounding landscape, offering a unique and exhilarating experience.

The lighthouse remains an important symbol of Mazatlán and is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and tourists. The climb to the summit rewards visitors with sweeping views of the city and sea, and the site's marine radar system and high-powered lamp still serve maritime traffic today, with a range of up to 55 kilometers (30 nautical miles). Despite debates from historians regarding taller natural lighthouse sites around the Atlantic, the Mazatlán Lighthouse continues to hold a special place in local identity-blending history, engineering, and natural beauty into one unforgettable location.