If you’re heading to Mazatlan and considering a day trip to Stone Island, you’ll find plenty of options to relax, indulge, and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The Stone Island Beach Getaway promises a laid-back experience with a splash of adventure—think beach activities, scenic boat rides, and good food—all wrapped into a roughly six-hour package. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on the detailed info and reviews, we can help you decide if this is the right fit for your Mazatlan plans.
What makes this tour appealing? First, the included boat ride to the island offers a chance to see Mazatlan’s coastline from the water, which is a genuine highlight. Second, the variety of beach activities—from horseback riding to banana boat rides—gives you options to make your day more action-packed or super chill. However, a potential drawback is that some travelers find the facilities on the beach a bit tired, and certain activities are short-lived, which might leave those looking for a full hour of fun a bit disappointed. If you’re after a flexible, relaxed day with some good eats and drinks, this excursion is worth considering.
This tour tends to suit travelers who appreciate a mix of sightseeing, casual beach time, and light adventure, especially if you’re on a cruise or short stay in Mazatlan. It’s ideal for those who want to keep it simple and enjoy a bit of everything without a hefty price tag.
Key Points
- Scenic boat ride to Stone Island offers a fresh perspective of Mazatlan’s coastline.
- Two beach activities included—giving you options for fun or relaxation.
- All-inclusive meal and unlimited drinks help you unwind without extra costs.
- Pickup and drop-off make logistics easier, especially if you’re on a cruise.
- Group size is limited to a maximum of 15, maintaining a more personal vibe.
- Some reviews mention facilities that could use a refresh, and activity durations are brief.
What to Expect from the Tour
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Starting Point and Transport
Your adventure begins with a pickup at your hotel or cruise terminal—a hassle-free way to start your day. The tour keeps things simple with hotel or port transfers, which means you won’t have to worry about navigating Mazatlan’s streets or figuring out public transport.
Once picked up, your guide will give you a quick tour of Old Mazatlan, sharing highlights like the Spanish Fort and some stunning viewpoints of the city. This adds a touch of local flavor before you head out to the island. A notable feature of this tour is the boat ride around the lighthouse, giving you a scenic view of natural caves and the rugged coast—an ideal way to get your first glimpse of the island’s surroundings.
The Island: Stone Island (Isla de las Piedras)
Arriving on Stone Island, you’re on a pretty private stretch of beach with enough space to relax or get active. The beach is described as clean and comfy, with some shade options, though one review pointed out limited lounge chairs and that the facilities need some sprucing up. Still, the overall vibe appears friendly and laid-back, perfect if you want to kick back or enjoy some light beach fun.
Activities and Beach Fun
The tour’s real draw is the choice of two beach activities. From the reviews, typical options include horseback riding, banana boats, boogie boarding, or horse cart rides. Participants generally find these experiences enjoyable, though activity durations tend to be on the shorter side—around 10-15 minutes. For example, some reviewers mention that the horseback ride is quick, but still fun. Others love the banana boat rides, calling them “a blast,” especially kids and families.
Food and Drinks
Included in the package is a lunch featuring crowd-pleasers like breaded shrimp, quesadillas, beef burritos, plus rice, beans, and vegetables. Vegetarian options are available, which is a nice touch. Several reviews praise the food as good, with one mentioning the drinks as “great” and the open bar as a highlight. The drinks are unlimited, including tropical favorites like coco-loco, making this a relaxing element of the day.
Additional Highlights
- The open bar is accessible throughout the day, with many reviewers raving about the variety and quality of drinks.
- The scenic boat ride near the lighthouse offers a nice break from beach lounging, plus the chance to see caves and coastal scenery.
- Some reviews mention live music or local entertainment, adding a festive feel to the experience.
Insights from Travelers’ Reviews
Although many travelers enjoyed their day, you’ll also find a few honest critiques that are worth noting. For instance, some reviews mention limited lounge chair seating, making it tricky to relax comfortably, especially during busy times. Others found the activities short in duration, which might leave those craving more active fun feeling a bit underwhelmed.
A handful of reviews point out facility issues, noting that the beach and surrounding areas could use some repairs or cleaning. One traveler expressed disappointment, saying, “the place was disgusting,” though others appreciated the friendly staff trying to make the best of it.
Transport logistics seem to be generally smooth, but a few reviews mention poor communication about the meeting points or times—so it’s worth being attentive on the day of the tour.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed day with good food and drinks, scenic boat rides, and a handful of beach activities, then this tour likely fits the bill. It’s best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and chill time without spending too much. The small-group format makes it more intimate, and the activities are flexible—so you can be as laid-back or energetic as you like.
Who Might Be Disappointed?
Those expecting a long, extensive horseback ride or hours of activities should be aware that the experiences tend to be brief. Facilities and comfort might also be a concern if you’re particular about amenities. Plus, if you’re looking for a luxurious beach experience, this might not meet your expectations, as some reviews suggest the area needs some TLC.
Practical Details & Considerations
Duration and Timing
The tour lasts about six hours, starting around 9:00 AM. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or port and return after a relaxing day at the beach. With activities, meals, and some sightseeing included, this schedule offers a nice chunk of time for a memorable day.
Cost and Value
At $75 per person, the tour offers decent value considering the included boat ride, two beach activities, lunch, and unlimited drinks. For those on a cruise or short stay, it’s a convenient way to see and experience a slice of Mazatlan without risking extra costs for food or entertainment.
Accessibility
One reviewer mentioned that facilities and beach access might not be suitable for disabled travelers, especially those using walkers. Be prepared if accessibility is a concern.
Booking & Cancellation
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, giving some peace of mind. It’s available daily, so you can plan with flexibility.
Final Thoughts
The Stone Island Beach Getaway is an approachable, affordable option for a fun day in Mazatlan. It balances scenic sightseeing, casual beach time, and light adventure, with enough flexibility to tailor your experience. The inclusion of a boat ride, delicious food, and free-flowing drinks makes it a good value—especially if you’re looking to relax without logistics headaches.
While the facilities and activity durations might not satisfy everyone, many travelers find the overall experience enjoyable and worth the price. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a smaller, more personal tour and want to enjoy Mazatlan’s coastal beauty without over-committing.
If you’re after a straightforward, friendly day with some fun in the sun—this could be a solid pick. Just keep expectations realistic about the facilities and activity length, and you’ll likely come away with good memories.
Stone Island Beach Getaway
“We chose the 15 minute horse back ride through the streets and got to see inside the town. Our 2nd excursion was having a boogie board, was a fun…”
FAQ
Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel or port pickup, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.
What activities are included?
You can choose two beach activities such as horseback riding, banana boats, or boogie boarding. They are generally short but fun experiences.
Is lunch provided?
Yes, your meal includes options like breaded shrimp, quesadillas, or beef burritos with rice and beans. Vegetarian options are also available.
Are drinks unlimited?
Absolutely, there’s an open bar with unlimited drinks, including tropical favorites like coco-loco.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, children can enjoy beach activities and lunch, but parents should note activity durations are brief.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately six hours, from pickup to return, including sightseeing, activities, and relaxation time.
Is the beach comfortable for relaxing?
Most reviews say yes, though some mention limited lounge chairs and facilities that could use some fixing.
In the end, the Stone Island Beach Getaway can be a lovely way to enjoy Mazatlan’s coast if you want a mix of scenic views, casual fun, and good company. Just be clear about what you’re expecting—if brief activities and a lively beach scene appeal to you, this tour ticks those boxes nicely.
