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If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Zihuatanejo.
Escape to the jewel of the Pacific and soak in the breathtaking beauty of Zihuatanejo’s pristine beaches, savor the seafood delights of its world-class restaurants, and groove to the rhythm of its vibrant nightlife.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Zihuatanejo:
1. Playa La Ropa
A stunning beach located in the tourist destination of Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and soft sands of Playa La Ropa while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and palm trees.
The beach offers various water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Watching the beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean from one of the beachside restaurants while sipping on a margarita.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and secure your spot on the beach. Also, don’t forget to bring cash as some of the vendors and restaurants do not accept cards.
2. Playa Las Gatas
A popular and picturesque beach in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, known for its clear waters and diverse marine life.
What to see or do: Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities at Playa Las Gatas, thanks to its calm waters and abundance of fish and other sea creatures.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Don’t miss: Be sure to explore the surrounding coral reefs, where you can swim alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and even giant manta rays.
The beach is also home to several restaurants and beach clubs that offer fresh seafood dishes, refreshing drinks, and relaxing beachfront lounges.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting Playa Las Gatas early in the morning or on a weekday. You can also take a water taxi from Zihuatanejo’s main beach, Playa la Ropa, for a scenic and affordable ride.
And if you’re traveling with kids, be sure to bring snorkeling gear or rent it on-site, as this is a wonderful place for novice or experienced snorkelers alike.
3. Isla Ixtapa
Isla Ixtapa is a small island located off the coast of Zihuatanejo, Mexico. The island has stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and is surrounded by lush greenery.
What to see or do: Visit one of the island’s beautiful beaches, like Playa Coral or Playa Varadero. Snorkel or scuba dive to discover the colorful marine life.
Take a kayak tour around the island to explore its rugged coastline. Go on a fishing trip to catch your own dinner.
Don’t miss: A hike to the top of the island’s Mirador de Ixtapa viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding coastline.
Insider travel tips: The island is only accessible by boat, so plan transportation accordingly. For a more secluded experience, visit during the week when there are fewer tourists.
Be sure to try some of the fresh seafood dishes at the local restaurants.
4. Playa Linda
Playa Linda is a stunning beach located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand.
What to see or do: Visitors can indulge in a variety of beach activities such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking.
One can also take a walk along the stretch of the beach, admire the breathtaking sunset, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the turtle release, which takes place every year in November. During this time, thousands of baby turtles are released into the ocean.
It is a beautiful experience to watch them make their way into the water.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to take a dip, be cautious of the strong currents.
5. Mercado de Artesanías
Mercado de Artesanías is a vibrant marketplace in Zihuatanejo that features a variety of artisanal products.
What to see or do: Visitors to Mercado de Artesanías can wander through the colorful stalls and shop for unique mementos, including handcrafted pottery, embroidered textiles, woven baskets, and jewelry.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the local snacks sold by the many food vendors at the market.
Insider travel tips: – Bargaining is common at the market, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
6. Playa Contramar
Playa Contramar is a beautiful beach located in the charming fishing town of Zihuatanejo, on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: This picturesque beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The clear turquoise waters invite visitors to discover the vibrant marine life that inhabits the area.
You can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a delicious seafood meal in one of the beachfront palapas. The traditional Mexican cuisine is simply amazing, particularly the ceviche and the fresh catches of the day.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, visit the beach during weekdays, as it tends to get crowded on weekends.
Also, don’t forget to bring your own towels, sunscreen, and an umbrella for shade, as there aren’t many to rent on the beach.
Finally, be mindful of the strong currents and waves that can make swimming difficult in some areas.
7. Xihuacan Museum and Archeological Site
Xihuacan Museum and Archeological Site is a historic wonder located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico. The site dates back to 500 BC and showcases the remarkable engineering and archeological skills of ancient indigenous cultures.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the numerous ruins, such as pyramids, plazas and ball courts, all crafted with intricate stonework.
The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that gives insights into the life and culture of the indigenous people.
Don’t miss: The main pyramid stands out as the most significant structure that overlooks the entire site. It’s an absolute beauty and should not be missed.
Visitors are welcome to climb it, but be advised, it’s a bit of a steep climb.
Insider travel tips: There is no shade or cover available at the site, so it’s recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.
Tour guides are available for exploring the site, and they offer valuable information on the history and culture of the area.
It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
8. Paseo de Pescador
A scenic boardwalk along the shoreline in the town of Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the views of the bay and watching fishermen bring in their catches. The boardwalk is dotted with restaurants and bars where you can stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
There are also several small shops selling arts and crafts.
Don’t miss: The bronze statue of “El Rey” (The King), a tribute to the local fishermen. It’s the perfect photo opp.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to see the fishermen bring in their fresh catches – you might even be able to buy some from them directly.
Make sure to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes as some sections of the boardwalk can be slippery.
9. Zihuatanejo Bay
A picturesque bay located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, in the state of Guerrero.
What to see or do: You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or take a boat tour around the bay to see the beaches and islands. The clear waters provide great visibility for underwater exploration.
Don’t miss: A visit to La Ropa Beach, a long and serene beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand. Las Gatas Beach is another popular spot with great snorkeling opportunities.
Take a dip at La Perla, a natural pool surrounded by rocks. Also, an evening stroll along the Paseo del Pescador, a waterfront promenade, is a must-do activity.
Insider travel tips: Zihuatanejo’s peak season is from December to April. Avoid visiting during the rainy season (May to November).
Take a boat to Playa Larga for a day trip, it’s an isolated beach with limited facilities but mesmerizing views. Plan a fishing trip from Zihuatanejo pier to get a chance to catch sailfish, marlin, and tuna.
Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs from Mercado de Artesanias, a local market.
10. Cocodrilario de Zihuatanejo
Cocodrilario de Zihuatanejo is a crocodile sanctuary located in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area of Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness over 120 American crocodiles in their natural habitat and learn about their conservation efforts.
The sanctuary also offers guided tours of the mangrove forest, where visitors can spot a variety of birds and marine life.
Don’t miss: Be sure to experience the thrill of hand-feeding the crocodiles under close supervision of the park’s staff. The sanctuary also offers night tours for a unique perspective of the crocodiles’ nocturnal behavior.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for the tour.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April) when the water levels are low and the crocodiles are more visible.
Also, make sure to bring bug spray and sunscreen.
11. Iglesia de Santa Maria de Guadalupe
The Iglesia de Santa Maria de Guadalupe is a beautiful Catholic church located in the heart of Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture of the church, adorned with colorful stained glass windows and intricate Catholic iconography. Mass is held regularly at the church, and visitors are welcome to attend.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the stunning view of Zihuatanejo Bay offered by the church’s hilltop location.
Insider travel tips: Dress modestly if attending Mass, and be respectful of those who are there to worship. Additionally, the church is located in a bustling area of town, so be prepared for some crowds and noise.
12. Playa Quieta
Playa Quieta is a tranquil and secluded beach located north of the bustling town of Zihuatanejo.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the soft golden sand while taking in the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
The beach offers calm and clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Additionally, there are several beachside restaurants that serve delicious seafood and refreshing cocktails.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a gorgeous sunset over the ocean while sipping a margarita at one of the beachside bars.
Insider travel tips: – Playa Quieta is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or car from Zihuatanejo.
13. Museo Arqueologico de la Costa Grande
Museo Arqueologico de la Costa Grande is a small but informative museum located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
What to see or do: This museum features a wide range of artifacts from pre-Columbian times, including pottery, sculptures, and tools. Visitors can see displays covering the ancient civilizations of the region, including the Olmec, Tarascan, and Aztec people.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the exhibit on the La Chole archaeological site, an ancient settlement that was inhabited from 250 BCE to 1522 CE.
The museum also showcases pieces from the historical colonial period, including weaponry and other artifacts from the Spanish conquest era.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in the region’s rich pre-Columbian history, a visit to this museum is a must.
The entrance fee is very affordable, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours learning about the fascinating cultures that once flourished in the Costa Grande region.
14. Parque El Limon
Parque El Limon is a beautiful and serene park located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
What to see or do: The park is filled with lush greenery and tranquil ponds that are perfect for a peaceful stroll. There are also several walking trails to explore, as well as a playground for children.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the park’s impressive collection of sculptures and monuments. One of the most popular is the statue of a lemon, which the park is named after.
Insider travel tips: Bring some snacks and drinks with you to enjoy a picnic in the park. It’s also a great place to escape the heat of the day and relax in the shade.
Note that the park is closed on Mondays.
15. Playa Larga
A secluded beach located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
What to see or do: Relax and enjoy the sun, swim in the clear waters, explore the beach’s rock formations, and go snorkeling to observe its beautiful marine life.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own snacks and drinks since there are no restaurants or vendors nearby. Also, be aware that the beach can only be reached by walking through a rocky path, so wear comfortable shoes.