Things To Do
in Cihuatlán
Cihuatlán is a coastal municipality in southern Jalisco where the Pacific surf meets rainforest and mangroves. The area feels deliberately low-key, with small fishing villages, calm beaches, and a laid-back pace that invites long sunsets and slow exploration. Local life centers on seafood, crafts, and welcoming hospitality, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of coastal Mexican culture.
As a base for day trips along the Costa Sur, Cihuatlán offers nature, culture, and coastal scenery without the crowds of bigger resorts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Plaza Principal, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby eatery, savoring dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. Don't forget to enjoy a fresh cup of locally grown coffee as you watch the town come alive.
In the afternoon, stroll through the charming streets of Cihuatlán, stopping at local artisan shops for unique souvenirs. Visit the Church of San Miguel Arcángel, a historical landmark that showcases beautiful religious art and architecture. As you explore, take time to chat with locals to learn about their culture and traditions.
As the sun sets, head to a local taquería to indulge in authentic Mexican tacos filled with freshly prepared ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the tranquil sounds of the ocean waves. End your evening at a cozy bar where you can sip on mezcal or a refreshing michelada while enjoying live music.
Start your day at the picturesque Playa de Oro, where soft sands and gentle waves await you. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline and spot colorful marine life just below the surface. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean, experiencing the invigorating warmth of the sun on your skin.
After a morning of water sports, treat yourself to a beachfront lunch at a local seafood restaurant, sampling dishes like ceviche or grilled fish. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun or reading a book under the shade of a palm tree. If you're feeling adventurous, consider joining a snorkeling excursion to discover the underwater beauty of the nearby coral reefs.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beach bonfire with friends or fellow travelers, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Watch the breathtaking sunset as it casts vibrant colors across the sky, creating a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Cap off your evening with a stroll along the shore, enjoying the cool ocean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal experience without heavy tourist crowds
- Fresh seafood, welcoming locals, and easy day trips to nearby towns
- Limited English-speaking services outside of larger towns
- Smaller infrastructure in some areas may mean slower connections or fewer amenities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Sin carne" - Without meat
Places to Visit in Cihuatlán
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm waves and fishing boats—ideal for silhouettes and long-exposure water shots.
Dense mangroves, reflection pools, and bird life offer atmospheric nature photography opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk.
Colorful colonial facade, clock tower, and daily life activity provide a charming snapshot of local culture.
Rugged coastlines and dramatic ocean horizons from elevated vantage points—perfect for panoramic shots.
Food in Cihuatlán
Cihuatlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole fish split open and grilled with a chili-garlic paste; served with lime, onions, and salsa. A seaside favorite found at many beachfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Fresh mixed seafood cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes; best enjoyed with tostadas or crackers at local stalls.
Grilled lobster with simple seasonings that let the sweetness of the seafood shine; commonly offered at coastal restaurants.
Crab-topped tostadas with avocado, onions, and lime—perfect as a crunchy, fresh beach snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh seafood, produce, tortillas, salsas, and ready-to-eat street foods from morning until afternoon.
Open-air stalls around the town square where you can sample fried snacks, tacos al pastor, aguas frescas, and fruit cups while mingling with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a cordial 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a handshake or light kiss on the cheek is common among friends. Be respectful in religious sites and remove hats indoors.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children or in private settings; avoid taking photos of sensitive moments without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Cihuatlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is common if service is not included. In bars or street stalls, small tips for good service are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, especially at markets and small eateries. Credit/debit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels; some rural vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers; risk of tropical systems. Pack lightweight clothing, sun protection, and a light rain layer; mornings are best for outdoor activities.
Pleasant shoulder season with less rain than summer; generally good for hiking and beach days, though occasional showers may occur.
Warm days and cooler evenings; comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities; whale watching season begins along the coast in nearby waters.
Warm and relatively dry; great for outdoor exploration and short excursions to nearby towns; expect buzzing wildlife and blooming coastal flora.
Cihuatlán at Night
Hiking in Cihuatlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along coastal ridges with ocean views, suitable for a half-day hike and photography stops.
Forested hillside trail with local flora and occasional waterfalls; moderate difficulty.
A waterfall-focused loop near the region; best with a local guide for safety and route finding.
Airports
How to reach Cihuatlán by plane.
Major gateway to the region with regular domestic and some international flights; convenient for travelers coming from many parts of North America.
Regional airport with several domestic routes and some international connections; useful for southern coastal access.
Smaller airport serving domestic routes; serves as another option for travelers heading toward central coastal areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo communities with strong fishing and farming traditions; welcoming to visitors and preserving regional crafts and cuisine.
Some seasonal visitors and expatriates attracted by the coast, contributing to local tourism and service sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local informal games and pick-up matches are common in town squares and beaches.
Coastal towns offer beginner-friendly waves and local surf spots; suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Both recreational and sport fishing options; local charters and community groups operate along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cihuatlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Find mineral-rich bean dishes, rice and vegetable plates, salads, fruit cups, and quesadillas with cheese; request no chiles or carne-based stock, and ask for oil or butter rather than lard.