Things To Do
in Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo is a charming fishing village located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, water sports, and explore the local markets.
With its picturesque scenery and welcoming locals, Zihuatanejo is a popular destination for travelers looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Mexico.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Mexican dishes. Take a leisurely stroll along Playa La Ropa to soak in the beautiful ocean views.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, sipping cocktails from nearby beach bars. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the stunning coastline.
Enjoy a romantic dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties. As the sun sets, take a walk along the beach and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Start your day by visiting Playa Las Gatas, accessible by a short boat ride. Snorkel to discover vibrant marine life just off the beach.
Head to Playa Madera for lunch at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy water activities such as jet skiing or parasailing. Take the afternoon to relax and soak up the sun.
As evening falls, explore the local markets for souvenirs. Finish your day with dinner and live music at a popular local spot.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning scenery
- Warm climate year-round
- Rich local culture and history
- Relaxed, laid-back atmosphere
- Variety of water activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing
- Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood
- Welcoming and friendly locals
- Affordable cost of living compared to many tourist destinations
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Infrastructure can be less developed in some areas
- Hurricane season may pose risks
- Public transportation options can be limited
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- Potential for tourist crowds during peak seasons
- Crime and safety concerns in certain areas
Best Activities in Zihuatanejo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater world at this beautiful beach known for its crystal-clear waters and variety of marine life.
Enjoy deep-sea fishing trips with local charters, offering the opportunity to catch a variety of game fish including marlin, sailfish, and tuna.
Embark on hiking adventures through the lush jungles and scenic landscapes of the Sierra Madre Mountains, offering stunning views and wildlife sightings.
Experience the waves at this popular beach, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers, with surfboard rentals and lessons available.
Take boat tours to the nearby Isla Ixtapa, offering opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zihuatanejo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zihuatanejo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful panoramic views of the bay and is a great spot for sunset photos.
Provides stunning panoramic views of Zihuatanejo Bay and the surrounding area.
Features clear waters and a scenic landscape, providing great photo opportunities.
Food in Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a spicy adobo sauce, typically served with rice, beans, and tortillas. A must-try dish that can be found at El Arrayán or La Casa Vieja.
Must-Try!
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. The best place to sample this delicacy is at the Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market) in Zihuatanejo.
A flavorful seafood soup typically featuring shrimp, fish, octopus, and other fresh catches of the day. Look for this delectable dish at El Espuma de Mar or El Manglar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zihuatanejo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find street food stalls offering traditional Mexican snacks like tamales, elotes, and aguas frescas.
This bustling market is a treasure trove of authentic street food experiences, from tacos and tostadas to regional specialties like pozole and tlayudas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zihuatanejo, it is important to show respect for elders, addressing them with the proper titles and being courteous and polite in their presence.
Mexicans, including those in Zihuatanejo, value personal space and tend to stand closer to others when conversing compared to many Western cultures. However, it is important to be aware and respectful of others' personal boundaries.
Greetings are an important aspect of Mexican culture. It is customary to greet others with a handshake or a light hug, and it is polite to use titles such as 'Señor' (Mr.) and 'Señora' (Mrs.) when addressing people, especially those older than you.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zihuatanejo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zihuatanejo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zihuatanejo, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for other services. A 10-15% tip is generally expected for good service, although it's advisable to check if a service charge is already included in the bill.
In Zihuatanejo, cash is widely accepted, particularly in smaller establishments. However, larger hotels and restaurants may also accept credit cards. It's always helpful to carry a mix of cash and cards, especially when venturing to more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zihuatanejo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Zihuatanejo is during the dry season when you can expect warm, sunny weather with pleasant temperatures. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
During the rainy season, Zihuatanejo experiences hot and humid weather with frequent afternoon showers. The landscape is lush and green, and you can find better deals on accommodations. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Zihuatanejo at Night
Hiking in Zihuatanejo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along La Ropa Beach with stunning ocean views and access to secluded areas.
A beautiful hiking trail on Ixtapa Island, offering lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
A hiking path leading up to a viewpoint with panoramic views of Zihuatanejo Bay and the surrounding landscape.
A less-traveled hike that takes you to remote beaches and offers opportunities to see wildlife and unique coastal scenery.
A more challenging hiking area within the Sierra Madre mountains, featuring diverse flora and fauna, ideal for adventurous hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zihuatanejo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zihuatanejo by plane.
The primary airport serving the Zihuatanejo area, offering domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 188 miles south of Zihuatanejo, this airport serves Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo with numerous international flights.
Located in Acapulco, about 190 miles northeast of Zihuatanejo, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 200 miles northwest of Zihuatanejo, this airport serves the Manzanillo area with some international and regional flights.
Situated about 230 miles north of Zihuatanejo, this is one of the busiest international airports on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population consists of Mexican nationals, primarily of mestizo heritage, with strong cultural ties to indigenous roots.
Zihuatanejo is a popular tourist destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors, particularly from the United States and Canada.
A growing community of expatriates from North America and Europe who have settled in Zihuatanejo, drawn by its climate and lifestyle.
Smaller populations of indigenous groups, including the Nahua and Purepecha, who retain elements of their cultural heritage.
The Soul of Zihuatanejo
Discover the essence of Zihuatanejo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Zihuatanejo is known for its beautiful beaches and surf spots, making surfing a popular activity among locals and tourists alike.
Sport fishing is a significant part of the culture in Zihuatanejo, with many tournaments held throughout the year, attracting fishing enthusiasts.
With its sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a popular recreational activity for both locals and visitors.
Soccer is widely played and followed in Zihuatanejo, with local teams and schools participating in leagues and tournaments.
The warm waters and scenic beaches make swimming a favored pastime among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zihuatanejo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Zihuatanejo offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options such as grilled cactus tacos, enfrijoladas, and tropical fruit salads.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options like ceviche, grilled meats, and fresh fruit at various eateries in Zihuatanejo.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Zihuatanejo with these cultural adventures.
