Experience a laid-back day at Mazatlan’s Gaviana Resort with this full-day pass, priced at $59.50 per person. This tour offers easy pickup and drop-off right at your cruise terminal, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy some genuine downtime by the ocean. For six hours, you can lounge on the sand, swim in the pool, soak in the hot tub, or get active on a kayak — all with lunch and beverages included. It’s a straightforward, relaxing option perfect for those looking to spend a leisurely day soaking up the sights and sounds of Mazatlan’s Golden Zone.
What we appreciate about this excursion is the convenience of transportation—the air-conditioned minivan makes the trip from cruise ship to resort smooth and comfortable, especially after a long morning of travel. Plus, the resort’s amenities deliver a solid mix of relaxation and fun, whether you’re sunbathing on the beach or enjoying the pool. The inclusion of lunch and two drinks helps keep the day simple and enjoyable.
However, a word of caution: some reviews have flagged overbooking issues and confusion about the meeting instructions, which can be frustrating if you’re not prepared. Also, the limited hours at the resort mean you’ll want to arrive early to maximize your time.
This experience is best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, safe way to enjoy Mazatlan’s coastal vibe without the hassle of navigating on their own. If you enjoy relaxing in the sun, indulging in good food and drinks, and prefer an organized, all-in-one setup, this tour could be a good fit.
Key Points

- Convenient transportation with pickup and drop-off directly from the cruise terminal.
- Full-day access to Gaviana Resort’s amenities, including beach, pool, hot tub, and water activities.
- Inclusive lunch and two beverages make it easy to relax without extra costs.
- Short, structured schedule of around 6 hours provides a flexible but manageable experience.
- Potential for booking issues and overcapacity, so arrive early and confirm details.
- Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and a hassle-free way to enjoy Mazatlan’s beachfront.
In-Depth Review of the Mazatlan Beach Front Resort Day Pass

While in Mazatlan, here are other experiences we've covered
What Is Included and How It Works
This full-day excursion is designed to give cruise passengers a simple way to enjoy Mazatlan’s famed Golden Zone beachfront without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. For $59.50, you get round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, access to Gaviana Resort’s facilities, a tasty lunch, and two drinks—which can be a refreshing cocktail or bottled water.
The process is straightforward: after docking, you’ll meet your guide at the cruise terminal, board the van, and head to Gaviana Resort, located right in Mazatlan’s bustling Golden Zone shopping and beach area. The ride takes approximately 25 minutes, providing a brief window to enjoy views of Mazatlan’s vibrant coastline along the way.
What to Expect at Gaviana Resort
Once you arrive, you’ll have roughly four hours to enjoy everything the resort has to offer. This includes lounging on the sandy beach, cooling off in the pool, relaxing in the hot tub, or getting active with kayaking—a fun water activity that many travelers find adds a splash of excitement to the day.
The lunch menu isn’t a buffet but offers a sit-down meal featuring fresh seafood—something many reviews praise as tasty and satisfying. The included two beverages offer a chance to unwind, whether with a cold beer, cocktail, or bottled water.
Authentic Experiences and Genuine Feedback
One guest raved, “Great beach and pool. The food at the restaurant was very good and the kids loved getting the drinks,” highlighting the resort’s family-friendly appeal and quality. Another reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable guide, Carlos, who made the ride memorable and smooth, adding a personal touch to the excursion.
However, not all reviews paint a perfect picture. Several travelers expressed frustration over overbooking and confusing instructions, with some mentioning they were taken to a different resort than advertised. One noted, “We finally found Mazatlan Van Tours, but overbooking meant not enough seats,” and another added, “We were dropped off at a different hotel, and the manager didn’t even know about the tour.” These hiccups emphasize the importance of arriving early and clarifying details if you have specific expectations.
Transportation and Timing
The transportation is generally reliable, with air-conditioned vans making the short trip comfortable. Yet, some travelers noted issues with seating, especially during busy times, so if you’re traveling with a larger group or with children, it’s worth confirming seat availability beforehand.
The timing is well-structured but somewhat limited—about four hours at the resort. This gives enough time to enjoy the amenities without feeling rushed, but it’s advisable to arrive promptly to maximize your stay.
Who Will Love This Tour
This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers who want a relaxed, no-fuss day in Mazatlan. It suits travelers who value convenience, included amenities, and a safe, organized environment. If you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer a set schedule with everything taken care of, this is a great option.
On the flip side, if you’re a more adventurous traveler looking for extensive sightseeing or local cultural experiences, this might feel a bit limiting. Also, be prepared for the possibility of overbooking or logistical mix-ups—not uncommon in popular spots.
Final Thoughts
This Day Pass at Mazatlan Beach Front Resort offers a practical, comfortable way to enjoy the city’s sun and surf, especially if you’re looking to chill out without the fuss of planning. The full-day access, combined with delicious seafood lunch and drinks, makes it a good value for a relaxing beach day.
While the experience has its quirks—mainly around logistics and capacity—it remains a solid choice for those prioritizing convenience and a safe, organized environment. The friendly guides, beautiful setting, and tasty food are definite highlights, giving you a taste of Mazatlan’s coastal charm.
Perfectly suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone craving a break from busy city tours, this outing provides a straightforward way to soak up the sun and enjoy some well-earned leisure time in Mexico.
FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in the price, and you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned minivan from the cruise terminal to Gaviana Resort.
How long do I get at the resort?
You’ll have approximately 4 hours to enjoy the beach, pool, hot tub, and water activities like kayaking.
What’s included in the lunch?
The lunch is a sit-down seafood meal (not buffet), and it’s included in the price along with two beverages—which can be alcoholic or bottled water.
Can I bring more drinks or food?
Additional drinks or food beyond what’s included are typically on the customer, and some reviews mention that the gift shop doesn’t accept credit cards, so plan accordingly.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids loved the pool and drinks, and the resort’s amenities are family-friendly. Just verify seat availability if traveling with a larger group.
What if the weather is bad?
This tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll get a full refund or an alternative date.
This day pass offers a straightforward way to enjoy Mazatlan’s beaches comfortably and safely, with enough flexibility to relax or get active. Just be mindful of the logistics and arrive early to make the most of your day by the sea.
More Lunch Experiences in Mazatlan
- ATV & Temazcal combo with lunch and Mezcal tour
- Mazatlán: Beach & Jungle ATV Tour w/ Lunch & Tequila Tasting
- Mezcal Food Tasting Tour with Lunch Included
- Fruit Garden and Mezcal Tasting Tour with Lunch Included
- Mazatlan Shore Excursion: Small Group Highlights Tour with Lunch
- Jungle and beach ATV tour + lunch + tequila tasting
More Tour Reviews in Mazatlan
- Guided tour of the art galleries of the Historic Center
- ATV & Temazcal combo with lunch and Mezcal tour
- Mazatlan: Pino Suarez Market Walking Tour with Tastings
- Mazatlán: Beach & Jungle ATV Tour w/ Lunch & Tequila Tasting
- COMBO Zip lines and ATV´s at Hacienda Los Osuna
- Beach Activities and All Inclusive Tour
More Mazatlan experiences we've covered
- Guided tour of the art galleries of the Historic Center
- ATV & Temazcal combo with lunch and Mezcal tour
- Mazatlan: Pino Suarez Market Walking Tour with Tastings
- Mazatlán: Beach & Jungle ATV Tour w/ Lunch & Tequila Tasting
- COMBO Zip lines and ATV´s at Hacienda Los Osuna
- Beach Activities and All Inclusive Tour
- Mazatlan City Tour by Traditional Open Air Vehicle Pulmonia
- Sierra Madre Villages Half-Day Cultural Tour
- Mazatlán: Private Guided Taco Tasting & Local Highlights
- ATV and Horseback riding Combo Tour from Mazatlán
- Agave Distilled Factory and Salsa Combo Tour Private Vehicle
- Night tour in lungonia along the boardwalk
