Things To Do
in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo is a beautiful resort destination located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and surfing.
The area also boasts a vibrant culinary scene with delicious seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Playa La Ropa. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local beachfront café.
Relax under a palapa with a good book while sipping on a cold beverage. Explore the local shops and art galleries in Zihuatanejo.
Dine at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. Take a romantic stroll along the beach to end your day.
Join a guided hiking tour to the nearby Sierra Madre mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline from above.
Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Go zip-lining for an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective of the area.
Return to town and unwind at a local bar with live music. Sample some traditional mezcal to wrap up your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and warm weather year-round
- Rich cultural heritage with local markets and festivals
- Variety of outdoor activities including water sports and hiking
- Affordable accommodations and dining options
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
- Tourist crowds in peak season can be overwhelming
- Limited public transport options may require renting a car
- Some areas may be less developed, lacking certain amenities
- Hot and humid weather during the summer can be uncomfortable
- Possible safety concerns in certain regions of Mexico
Best Activities in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the sun and surf at the beautiful beaches of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles.
Explore the vibrant marine life by snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters, particularly around Isla Ixtapa.
Take a hike in this scenic national park, where you can see diverse flora and fauna, including breathtaking views of the coastline.
Try your hand at various water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding, available at local rental shops.
Join a fishing charter to experience deep-sea fishing, where you can catch marlin, sailfish, and other species.
Take a boat tour during the whale migration season to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Play a round of golf at one of the world-class golf courses, surrounded by stunning scenery and ocean views.
Explore the local culture with tours that include visits to traditional markets, art galleries, and historical sites in Zihuatanejo.
Experience a romantic sunset cruise along the coast, enjoying the picturesque views and the vibrant colors of the sky.
Enjoy a guided horseback ride along the beach or through scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning sunsets and beautiful coastline, La Ropa Beach offers panoramic views of the ocean, making it a perfect location for photography.
A short boat ride from the main beach, Ixtapa Island boasts scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush landscapes, ideal for capturing nature shots.
The marina presents a picturesque setting with luxury yachts against a backdrop of the lush tropical hills, offering unique photo opportunities.
This lookout point provides breathtaking panoramic views of both Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, especially at sunrise or sunset, perfect for landscape photography.
Famous for its clear waters and coral reefs, Playa Las Gatas is ideal for underwater photography and capturing the beauty of marine life.
The bay offers a stunning view of the town and the surrounding hills, making it a magnificent spot for sunset photography and scenic shots.
This landmark features sweeping views of Ixtapa and the ocean, providing opportunities for dramatic landscape and seascape photos.
A quieter beach known for its beauty and tranquility, perfect for capturing serene beach scenes and sunsets.
A picturesque bay that offers a vibrant setting for photos, featuring colorful fishing boats and stunning coastlines.
With its impressive cliffs and rock formations, Las Palmas provides unique views and opportunities to capture dramatic coastal scenery.
Food in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a spicy chili and vinegar-based sauce, typically served with rice and salad. Don't miss this dish at Elvira's Restaurant for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onion, cilantro, and chili. Enjoy this refreshing dish at La Gula Sea Food & Drinks by the beach.
Thick tortillas topped with refried beans, meat, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Sample delectable sopes at La Casa Vieja for a true taste of Mexico.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ixtapa Zihuatanejo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local food scene. Try the freshly prepared ceviche and grilled seafood from the various stalls.
Visit this street food stand for a taste of traditional tamales filled with an array of savory and sweet fillings. Make sure to try their mole tamales.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, personal space may be perceived differently than in some other cultures. It's important to be mindful of the distance you maintain while conversing, especially with strangers. A good rule of thumb is to observe the local norms in your interactions.
When meeting someone, it's customary to greet them with a friendly 'Hola' and a handshake. Make an effort to use polite forms such as 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you). This shows respect for the local culture and fosters good relationships.
While the coastal region is generally laid-back, it's important to dress appropriately when visiting local markets, churches, or dining in more formal restaurants. Swimwear should be reserved for beaches and pool areas, while casual yet modest attire is recommended for other settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides. A typical tip ranges from 10% to 15% of the bill, depending on the level of service received. For exceptional service, tipping can be higher. It is also common to leave small change for bellboys and housekeeping.
Payment practices in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo vary between establishments. Many restaurants and shops accept major credit cards, but it is advisable to carry cash (Mexican pesos) for small vendors and markets. ATMs are widely available, and it is common for tourists to use them for convenience. However, some places may offer discounts for cash payments to avoid credit card processing fees.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo due to pleasant temperatures and less humidity. Expect sunny days, comfortable nights, and vibrant beach activities. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local festivals.
Spring sees warm temperatures, though not as crowded as winter. It’s a great time for water sports like snorkeling and diving, as well as enjoying the local flora in full bloom. April is particularly popular due to spring break, so expect more tourists.
Summer brings higher temperatures and increased humidity, along with occasional rain showers, especially in late summer. It's a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists. Expect hot and humid days, but also opportunities for water-related activities and reduced accommodation prices.
Fall can be rainy, especially in September, but early fall has fewer visitors. October marks the end of the rainy season, and by November, the weather starts to clear up. Expect lower prices and a more relaxed atmosphere. This is a good time for off-season deals and enjoying nature.
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo at Night
Hiking in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike that offers stunning views of Ixtapa and the surrounding coastline, leading to a viewpoint shaped like an elephant.
While primarily a beach destination, the trails leading to and from Playa Las Gatas offer beautiful coastal views and opportunities for hiking.
This national park features various trails through lush vegetation and wildlife, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
A walking path on Isla Ixtapa that allows hikers to explore the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of the island.
An adventurous hike that takes you to a hilltop with panoramic views of Zihuatanejo Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ixtapa Zihuatanejo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ixtapa Zihuatanejo by plane.
The nearest airport serving the Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo area, offering international flights mainly to the United States and Canada.
Located in Puerto Vallarta, this international airport is approximately 185 kilometers from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo and serves numerous international destinations.
Located in Culiacán, this airport is about 320 kilometers from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo and offers various domestic and some international flights.
Located in Aguascalientes, approximately 450 kilometers from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, serving regional and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group, consisting of local citizens and families who have lived in the region for generations.
A significant group, primarily from the United States, Canada, and Europe, visiting for leisure and vacation purposes.
Foreign residents who live in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo for extended periods, often retirees or remote workers.
Small groups of indigenous peoples who may still reside in the surrounding areas, maintaining their traditional lifestyles.
Individuals who migrate to the area temporarily to work in the tourism and hospitality industry during peak seasons.
The Soul of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Discover the essence of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo is known for its beautiful beaches and favorable waves, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
The area is famous for sport fishing, with opportunities to catch species such as marlin, tuna, and dorado, attracting fishing enthusiasts from around the world.
Ixtapa features several golf courses that offer stunning ocean views and challenging holes, appealing to both amateur and professional golfers.
With its sunny beaches, beach volleyball is a popular sport among locals and tourists, often played in informal settings along the coastline.
The coastal waters surrounding Ixtapa Zihuatanejo are rich in marine life, making scuba diving a popular activity for underwater exploration.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent in the local cuisine, many restaurants provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as grilled nopales (cactus), enfrijoladas, and vegetable-stuffed tamales.
Several establishments in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo offer gluten-free alternatives, including corn-based tortillas, tacos dorados (flautas), and fresh fruit with chili powder.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo with these cultural adventures.
