El Mirador is a vantage point where you can see fantastic views over the town of Mazatlán and the Pacific Ocean. It stands atop a hill and contains an eponymous restaurant with seating overlooking the excellent view. Walk with family and friends to the top of this small mountain for a panoramic vista.

The peak of the hill contains a charming terrace from which to view the town. Admire the light red tiles, white columns and light yellow and brown walls that make up the small terrace. Take photos of the cityscape and try to pick out your favorite attractions. Note the abundance of green vegetation and the scenic hills in the distance.

Lay down a blanket between the trees for a picnic and enjoy the cool breeze at the summit of the hill. Dine on seafood at the elegant restaurant and get a table by the window for the best views of the sparkling ocean. A set of three white rocks jut out from the surface of the water, adding a rugged quality to this coastal view. Enjoy a meal of ceviche, shrimp pâté, fish tacos and other local specialties in this romantic restaurant.

Use the external staircases to reach the restaurant from the base of the cliff. Stay for sunset, when the sky turns crimson over the water and the white rocks turn to black silhouettes against the brooding horizon. At night, electric lights illuminate parts of the adjacent hill.

Note that the observatory is also known as Lookout Mountain. It is free to reach this viewpoint, which remains open at all times.

El Mirador is on the peninsula that juts out from the southwestern part of Mazatlán in western Mexico. Arrive at the nearby ferry terminal and walk north for a few minutes to get here. Take a taxi up to the hilltop viewpoint. See nearby sights, such as the Monument to Pedro Infante, the Museum of Pedro Infante and the María del Mar Parish Church.