Resembling breaching whales in silhouette, the three photogenic land masses jutting from the sea offshore of the Zona Dorada 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 (Goat Island); Isla de Pájaros (Bird Island) is on the right. Most visited is the one in the middle, Isla de Venados (Deer Island). The islands are part of a wildlife refuge designated to help protect the local birds and marine fauna.
