Islands

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Lonely Planet review

Resembling breaching whales in silhouette, the three photogenic land masses jutting from the sea are Mazatlán's signature islands. With secluded beaches and limpid waters ideal for snorkeling - and great multitudes of seals and marine birds - they provide an ideal day trip destination. On the left is Isla de Chivos (Island of Goats); on the right is Isla de Pájaros (Island of Birds), and in the center is Isla de Venados (Deer Island), which is the most visited of the three.

The islands are part of a wildlife refuge designated to help protect the marine fauna and birds they harbour. The most popular option for visiting the islands is the five-hour Deer Island Tour to Isla de Venados departing at Tuesday to Sunday from the marina at El Cid Mega Resort. The price includes activities and a (frankly, meager) lunch. These trips are often booked to capacity, and at last visit proffered sub-par snorkeling equipment.

If you desire a more reflective, low impact exploration of the island, consider the excellent kayak tour led by Sendero México. A short boat ride will drop you off on Isla de Venados, from where you'll spend most of the day kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and sun worshipping. The bilingual guides are pleased to share their wildlife knowledge and sea kayaking expertise.