✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
There are great many things to do in Mexico, and so are in Ixtapa.
Nestled between the lush Sierra Madre Mountains and the gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean, Ixtapa beckons with sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and an endless array of activities that will leave you breathless in the best possible way.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ixtapa:
1. Playa El Palmar
Playa El Palmar is a beautiful beach located in the resort town of Ixtapa, situated on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: This beach offers a great spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy some beach activities. You can rent umbrellas, loungers, and jet skis or even take banana boat rides.
You could also head to one of the beachside bars and restaurants and grab a refreshing drink or tasty seafood.
Don’t miss: A long stroll or jog along the beach in the early morning or late evening, that will give you a picturesque view of the beach and the sea.
Insider travel tips: Avoid visiting the beach on weekends if you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
2. Delfiniti Ixtapa
Delfiniti Ixtapa is a dolphin sanctuary and interactive experience located in Ixtapa, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can participate in a variety of activities including swimming with dolphins, feeding and touching them, and even receiving a kiss from a dolphin.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the dolphins perform impressive tricks and stunts during the daily shows.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance to ensure availability as the experience is popular among tourists.
3. Marina Ixtapa
A marina located in Ixtapa, Mexico that caters to both recreational and fishing boats.
What to see or do: Enjoy a walk along the dock and admire the stunning yachts and fishing boats. Go on a fishing excursion or rent a boat to explore the waters.
Indulge in delicious seafood dishes at the marina’s restaurants.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunsets from the marina. They are not to be missed!
Insider travel tips: Visit the marina in the morning when the fishermen are returning with their catch for the day. The fresh fish on display is a sight to behold.
Make sure to sample the local specialties, such as ceviche and fish tacos.
Also, if you’re traveling during peak season, be sure to book your boat rental or fishing excursion in advance to avoid disappointment.
4. Playa Quieta
Playa Quieta is a small, secluded beach located in the resort town of Ixtapa, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the clear blue waters, and take leisurely walks along the soft sandy shore.
The beach is also ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Isla Ixtapa, a small island that is home to a variety of exotic wildlife and natural wonders.
Take a boat tour to see dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat, or go snorkeling to get an up-close look at the vibrant coral reefs.
Insider travel tips: Playa Quieta is a quieter alternative to the more crowded beaches in the area, making it perfect for those looking for a more peaceful vacation spot.
5. Isla Ixtapa
Isla Ixtapa is a small island off the coast of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo in Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches and aquatic activities.
What to see or do: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving adventures in the clear blue waters of the Pacific. Take a tour of the island or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline.
Relax on the sandy beaches or go fishing for your dinner.
Don’t miss: The stunning Playa Coral, which is popular for its coral reef and diverse marine life. Stroll through the colorful mercado (market) for souvenirs and traditional Mexican food.
Insider travel tips: Pack plenty of sunscreen and bring a waterproof camera to capture your island experiences. Tours around the island can vary in price, so don’t be afraid to negotiate with vendors.
If you’re in the mood for adventure, take a guided hike up to the Mirador (lookout) for breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
6. Ciclopista de Ixtapa
Ciclopista de Ixtapa is a bike path that winds through the beautiful beaches and lush greenery of Ixtapa, Mexico.
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic ride along the coast and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The cool breeze and peaceful surroundings make for a tranquil biking experience.
You can also stop and take a dip in the ocean or relax on the beach along the way.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to catch a beautiful sunset over the ocean from the bike path. It’s truly a breathtaking sight.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense during the day. The path can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so try to go during the week if possible.
Bicycles can be rented from various companies in Ixtapa, but be sure to check the condition and quality of the bikes before renting.
7. Parque Aventura Ixtapa
An eco-friendly adventure park located in Ixtapa, Mexico that offers a wide range of thrilling activities amidst the lush tropical forest.
What to see or do: – Experience the adrenaline rush as you glide through the air on the park’s zip line course, which boasts 6 different lines of varying lengths and heights.
Don’t miss: – The Tarzan Swing, where you can channel your inner jungle adventurer and swing across the forest on a rope.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor activities.
8. Cocodrilario de Ixtapa
Cocodrilario de Ixtapa is a crocodile sanctuary located in Ixtapa, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe various species of crocodiles in their natural habitat. The sanctuary offers guided tours that provide information on the species, conservation efforts, and the ecology of the area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the feeding times, where visitors can witness the crocodiles in action. There is also a small museum on site that showcases the history and culture of the region.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen and insect repellent. It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.
Keep a safe distance from the crocodiles and follow all safety instructions given by the guides.
9. Playa Linda
A picturesque beach located in the resort city of Ixtapa, Mexico.
What to see or do: Relax on the soft, white sand or swim in the crystal-clear waters. Playa Linda is a popular spot for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
You can also take a boat tour to nearby islands.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the best places in Ixtapa to watch the sun go down.
Insider travel tips: Playa Linda can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. For a quieter experience, visit in the morning or early afternoon.
Bring sunscreen, as there is very little shade on the beach. Be cautious when swimming, as the waves can be rough at times.
10. Crocodile Bay
Crocodile Bay is a nature reserve located near Ixtapa, Mexico, dedicated to protecting and studying crocodiles and other wildlife.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve to see crocodiles in their natural habitat. The tour also includes a visit to the bird sanctuary, a butterfly garden, and a turtle nesting beach.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the chance to see the baby crocodiles during the hatching season. Witnessing the adorable creatures emerging from their eggs is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen for the tour. Make sure to book your tour in advance, as space is limited.
Don’t forget your camera, as there will be plenty of beautiful wildlife to capture.
11. Playa Las Gatas
Playa Las Gatas is a secluded beach located in Ixtapa, a resort town on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: Playa Las Gatas is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun. The clear turquoise waters are great for spotting an abundance of marine life including colorful fish, starfish, and sea turtles.
Visitors can also rent equipment such as snorkels, fins, and kayaks from local operators.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the surrounding cliffs and caves for some fantastic photo opportunities. Also, don’t miss the delicious seafood served at the beachfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: The beach can only be accessed by boat or by a short walk along a rocky slope, so wear appropriate footwear.
Additionally, the beach can get quite crowded during peak season (December to April), so it’s best to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot.
Finally, be aware that the waves can get quite strong, so be cautious when swimming.
12. Xihuacan Museum and Archeological Site
Xihuacan Museum and Archaeological site is a pre-Hispanic city located just outside Ixtapa, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient city with several restored buildings including a palace, temples and marketplaces. The museum houses artifacts discovered during the excavations and offers insights into the daily life of the ancient city’s inhabitants.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the impressive aqueduct system and the beautifully preserved stucco relief sculptures on the palace walls.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring sunscreen and water as the site can get quite hot during the day. Also, consider hiring a knowledgeable guide for a more in-depth experience and understanding of the ruins and their history.
13. Variedades El Palmar
A local market in Ixtapa that sells fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
What to see or do: Wander around the market and browse through the various stalls selling fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish. You can also find handmade crafts and souvenirs such as woven baskets, pottery, and embroidered clothing.
Don’t miss: Sampling some of the fresh local produce. The fruits and vegetables are known for their delicious taste and vibrant colors.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring cash as most vendors do not accept credit cards. Bargaining is also common practice, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
If you plan on buying produce, try to go early in the day when the selection is at its best.
14. Magic World Aquapark
Magic World Aquapark is a thrilling water theme park located in Ixtapa, Mexico, which offers a variety of water rides, pools, and attractions.
What to see or do: Experience the heart-pumping adrenaline rush at the Kamikaze, where you will slide down a 90 feet high slide, race on the Multislide, and surf the waves in the Wave Pool.
For the little ones, there is a colorful Kid’s Park with mini-slides, water playgrounds, and a shallow pool. Take a leisurely inter-tube ride through the Lazy River, or relax in the Jacuzzi.
Don’t miss: The park’s signature ride, the Tornado, is a must-try for thrill-seekers.
It is a giant funnel-shaped slide that catapults riders back and forth, swirling them around before dropping them into a splash pool.
Insider travel tips: The park can get crowded, so it’s best to arrive early in the day before the crowds build up. You can bring your own food and drinks to the park (excluding glass containers and alcohol).
Remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate swimwear. Magic World Aquapark also offers a shuttle service from major hotels in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo.
15. El Refugio de Potosi Wildlife Sanctuary
El Refugio de Potosi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected natural area in Ixtapa that offers a chance to witness a wide range of animal and plant species in their natural habitat.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours through the sanctuary to spot exotic birds, deer, jaguars, and other wildlife. The sanctuary also has multiple hiking trails to explore, offering stunning views of the ocean and lush vegetation.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the sanctuary is the chance to spot the Pacific humpback whales that migrate seasonally to the coasts of the area.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommendable to bring comfortable shoes, lightweight and light-colored clothes for sun protection, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery and colorful wildlife.
Also, be sure to bring insect repellent and drink plenty of water, especially during the hotter months.