Playa Principal Zihuatanejo: The Ultimate Guide for 2024
Posted: January 15, 2024 by Roger
Playa Principal (Main Beach) is located in the heart of Zihuatanejo, it is the meeting place of locals and tourists. At Playa Principal you will find restaurants that offer delicious regional dishes, shops and hotels. This guide to Playa Principal in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo will teach you everything you need to know about this famous beach.
Playa Principal, Zihuatanejo
Playa Principal is the heart of Zihuatanejo. With its calm waves, deep blue waters, and soft gray sand, this magical place offers something for everyone. It’s a place to relax, enjoy nature, and connect with local culture. It’s like a window to the beauty of Zihuatanejo Bay.
The beach is very accessible, with parking, public restrooms, and restaurants. However, if you’re looking for a place to swim, I would recommend cleaner beaches, such as Playa La Ropa, Playa Las Gatas, or even Playa La Madera, which is right next to Playa Principal. I’ve written guides to those beaches, and you can check out my article on the best beaches in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
Also known as Playa de los Pescadores (Fisherman’s Beach), this is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. People come here to enjoy the sea breeze, buy fresh fish, or watch the sunset.
The main pier is located on the beach, where you can take a boat to Playa Las Gatas, one of Zihuatanejo’s most beautiful beaches. Some events are also held here, such as the International Guitar Festival and the International Sailfish Tournament.
How to get to Playa Principal?
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By car. Playa Principal is located near Downtown, just a few blocks from Benito Juárez Avenue—ideal for those arriving by car. Head to Avenida 5 de Mayo and it will take you to Calle Juan N. Álvarez. You can park your car in the public parking lot located on that street. There is also a private one near the police station, or you can leave your car on the nearby streets.
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By public transportation. Public buses won’t take you right to the beach entrance, but it’s just a short walk from Benito Juárez Avenue. Want to skip the walk? Taxis whisk you right to one of the beach entrances – Main Pier, La Cancha, or the Archaeological Museum, your pick!
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On foot. If you prefer to walk to the beach, you can do so from Downtown. Just follow the streets that lead towards the sea until you reach Juan N. Álvarez Street. The path is straightforward and will only take you a few minutes.
Things To Do at Playa Principal
Relax on the beach
I love this beach because you can enjoy the view of the bay, watch the birds, and breathe in the fresh air.
Enjoy local food
At Playa La Principal, you can find a wide variety of restaurants that offer Mexican food, fresh seafood, and international dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. If you’re looking to try local dishes, this is the perfect place. From ceviche, tiritas, and campechanas to octopus, lobster, and a variety of more sophisticated dishes.
Visit the pier
The pier is a very busy place. In the mornings, you’ll see people with happy faces ready to board boats that will take them to Playa Las Gatas, Ixtapa Island, or a nearby tour, such as whale watching. Later, people go for walks to contemplate the warm colors of the sunset. And at night, couples and families relax on the benches in the light of the streetlights. So it’s a place you must visit when you come to Playa Principal.
A tour of Zihuatanejo Bay
How about a tour of the Bay of Zihuatanejo? Well, you’ll have to go out from the pier and embark on this adventure. There are very varied tours. For example, there are tours to Playas Las Gatas to go snorkeling, kayaking, or simply spend the day at sea. Boats leave from the pier that will take you to your next great experience.
Sport fishing
Whether you’re an amateur or an expert, you can enjoy sport fishing in Zihuatanejo. Boats leave from this beach. There are even sport fishing tournaments such as the Sailfish Tournament or the Marlin Fishing International Tournament. The opening events are held at the pier.
Visit La Cancha Municipal
There are sporting and cultural events that are held on this beach. And one of the places where this happens is at La Cancha Municipal. Every Sunday, you can enjoy a dance and humor event that brings together locals and foreigners. You can also enjoy typical dishes prepared by locals that offer the best flavor of the region.
Hotels near Playa Principal, Zihuatanejo
Looking for a place to stay near Playa Principal? Check out these accommodations for every taste and budget.
Hotel Casa Sun and Moon
The Hotel Casa Sun and Moon, just 5 minutes from Las Gatas and La Ropa beaches, offers comfort and ocean views. Modern rooms feature air conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy Mexican cuisine at the beachfront restaurant or use the shared kitchen. An ideal choice for a simple and pleasant stay near the coast.
Villa Miramar
The Hotel Casa Sun and Moon, just 5 minutes from Las Gatas and La Ropa beaches, offers comfort and ocean views. Modern rooms feature air conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy Mexican cuisine at the beachfront restaurant or use the shared kitchen. An ideal choice for a simple and pleasant stay near the coast.
Complete Guide: Hotels in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
Final Recommendations
The Playa Principal is a special place in the hearts of those who live here. It’s a must-visit if you come to Zihuatanejo. Take a stroll along its renovated boardwalk and enjoy everything this fishing beach has to offer. So, now you know, it’s one of the places to visit in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
Don’t miss: Travel Guide to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo
I hope this post has been helpful for you. If you have more questions, send me a message and I might write an article about it.
Did you know?
Here are some resources to help you to organize your next trip to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
