25 Things to Do in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

I’m glad to know that you’re planning your vacation to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.

Since I am from Zihuatanejo, I know the best things to do in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo. Yes, the best places to visit in Zihuatanejo. I’ll tell you all about activities, tourist attractions, beaches, museums, and more.

This guide contains the best things to do in Zihuatanejo. But first something I know will help you.

Organize your trip with our guides

In my blog Zihua Magico, I’ve written detailed guides to help you plan your next trip to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.

Save these essential guides to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo that will come in handy.

Now, discover the best things to do in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo!

25 Things to Do in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

Here are the top attractions to visit in Zihuatanejo. The popular places to visit, most popular activities in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, and detailed information about attractions.

1. Relax on the La Ropa Beach

Located in the heart of Zihuatanejo Bay, Playa La Ropa (La Ropa Beach) is one of the best beaches in Mexico, and a must-visit for any traveler. One of the best things to do in Zihuatanejo.

Playa La Ropa offers a variety of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, banana boating, and parasailing. Its calm waves make it perfect for children, who love building sandcastles and playing in the waves.

The sunsets are spectacular. Playa La Ropa is a beatiful beach, with restaurants that offer romantic evenings and bohemian nights.

Many people love to find hotels in Playa La Ropa and sleep near the sea. I have a complete guide to La Ropa that will guide you through this magical place.

Esta es una de las things to see in zihuatanejo mexico.

Complete Guide: Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo: Hotels & What to Do

2. Snorkel at Las Gatas Beach

With turquoise waters, white sand, and colorful marine life, Playa Las Gatas (Las Gatas Beach) is one of the most peaceful and beautiful beaches in Zihuatanejo.

At this beach, you can swim, snorkel, and dive. It is ideal for children to swim in, thanks to a breakwater that prevents strong waves from entering.

Enjoy the local cuisine at many of the restaurants you’ll find along the beach.

Getting to Playa Las Gatas is very easy. Take a boat from the main pier and you’ll be at the beach in about 15 minutes.

Complete Guide: Playa Las Gatas, Zihuatanejo

3. Enjoy the Serenity of La Madera Beach

The picturesque Playa La Madera (La Madera Beach) is located of Zihuatanejo Bay, just a short walk from the Zihuatanejo Downtown. This small beach has calm and consistent waves. It’s common to see children playing on the shore.

In this area, you’ll find accommodations with stunning views, restaurants serving delicious dishes, and a boardwalk that connects to the Playa Principal (Main Beach).

Playa La Madera is a beautiful beach that is worth visiting.

4. Eat at Playa Principal (Main Beach)

Looking for a unique dining experience in the heart of Zihuatanejo? Then head to Playa Principal and savor the delicious flavors of local cuisine at one of the beachfront restaurants.

You will enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay while savoring the flavors of the region, Mexican cuisine, and fresh seafood. The place comes alive at sunset and becomes romantic in the evening.

5. Stroll along Paseo del Pescador

The Paseo del Pescador is a renovated boardwalk that connects Playa Principal and Playa La Madera. Explore the most emblematic of Zihuatanejo along this walk.

Along the way, you will find the main pier, the Cancha Municipal (where local sporting events are held), restaurants by the sea, benches to relax, and places to capture panoramic views of the bay, sunsets, and more.

The Paseo del Pescador is a 1.7-kilometer-long boardwalk that offers stunning views of the Zihuatanejo bay. It is one of my favorite places in Zihuatanejo, and I always recommend it.

6. Have fun on “Domingos Culturales"

"Domingos Culturales” (Sunday Culturales) are a tradition in this magical town and one of the free things to do in Zihuatanejo. They feature a variety of performances, including dance, music, and singing, to entertain visitors from all over the world.

This family-friendly show, which is two hours long and starts at 8 pm, is held every Sunday at the Cancha Municipal (Municipal Basketball Court).

Visitors to “La Cancha” will find a wide variety of local food, desserts, tacos, drinks, and more, all prepared with love.

This is the best place to get to know the local culture and enjoy Mexican food! One of the top things to do in Zihuatanejo.

7. Visit the Zihuatanejo Artisans’ Market

”The Artisans’ Market is located on Calle 5 de Mayo (5th Avenue) in downtown Zihuatanejo. Here at the market, you’ll discover a wide range of Zihuatanejo souvenirs, including T-shirts, mugs, keychains, bags, toys, and a wide variety of crafts to suit all tastes. It’s one of the must-visit.

In addition to the Artisan Market, this street is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The street also takes you to the Paseo del Pescador (Fisherman’s Walk) on Playa Principal.

8. Wander Around Downtown

In downtown Zihuatanejo, you can find markets, craft shops, boutiques, silver shops, art stores, and countless local businesses. The city center is not very large, but it’s packed with various shopping options.

One of the things to see in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, is wandering around downtown.

Walking through downtown Zihuatanejo is an excellent way to experience the local culture.

9. Visit the Archaeological Museum

Visiting the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande is a great way to learn about the history of Zihuatanejo. The museum displays items used by ancient inhabitants of the region. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm and admission costs $10 MXN (less than 1 USD).

10. Explore Downtown Ixtapa and its plazas

What to Do in Ixtapa? Ixtapa is completely different from the traditional and small-town atmosphere of Zihuatanejo. In Ixtapa, you will find large buildings, shops, markets, restaurants, and beaches that will make for a pleasant experience on your upcoming vacation.

As you approach Ixtapa on the highway, you’ll come across a vibrant marketplace filled with hand painted unique pieces. Also, there are mugs, fruit bowls, clothing, necklaces, beauty accessories, and other handmade items.

In Downtown Ixtapa, you can always find something to eat: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re looking for pizza, burgers, and tacos, this is a great place to go. Explore one of its many interconnected plazas. As you can see, there are many things to see in Ixtapa, México.

11. Spend a day at Ixtapa Island

Would like to relax in a paradise island? Well, visit the Ixtapa Island, just a short boat ride from Playa Linda, about 10 minutes from the Downtown Ixtapa. For many it is one of the best things to do around Zihuatanejo.

To reach Isla Ixtapa, head over to the pier in Playa Linda, where you can catch a water taxi to one of the island’s three beautiful beaches. Each beach has its own unique charm and offers a variety of restaurants. Playa Coral, in particular, is a fantastic spot for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

Complete Guide: Ixtapa Island: The Perfect Day Trip to Isla Ixtapa

12. Rest in Playa Linda

Playa Linda is one of the most popular beaches in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo. Here’s the pier where visitors can catch a boat to Ixtapa Island. You’ll find plenty of restaurants on the beachfront. You can also bring your own umbrella, food, and drinks.

The high waves of this beach attract surfers looking for the best waves to practice their sport. There are also other water activities you can do, such as playing beach sports, walking, or simply swimming. Supervise your children closely while swimming or playing in the waves, as currents can be strong and unpredictable.

13. Meet the Crocodile Reserve at Playa

The Crocodile Reserve sits right at the entrance of Playa Linda, Ixtapa. It’s a great place to see these amazing creatures up close in their natural habitat. Best part? It’s totally free! Just remember to stay within the visitor area and avoid getting too close. Never attempt to touch or feed the wildlife. Always show respect for these wild animals.

14. Enjoy Water Activities at El Palmar Beach

With its 2.5 kilometers of golden sand along Ixtapa, Playa El Palmar is the largest beach in Ixtapa. Many of the all-inclusive hotels in Ixtapa are situated right on Playa El Palmar.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, play a game of volleyball, or catch a spectacular sunset, Playa El Palmar has something for everyone. Enjoy water activities, try parasailing, or join turtle releases. During the summer, there are often outdoor concerts, so you’ll have a great time.

There are two access points to the beach, one next to the Barceló hotel and other is right after the Posada Real hotel. Playa El Palmar is certified as a clean beach by the international organization Blue Flag. The waves are medium-high, so be careful when entering this open ocean beach.

15. Whale Watching

From late December to March, around 20,000 humpback whales migrate to this coastal area. Why not take a tour to see the whales? It’s one of the most fun things to do in zihuatanejo

Beside whales there is much more to see: dolphins, stingrays, sea turtles, and wild bird. These tours, guided by a marine biologist, track the whales so you can see them in all their splendor.

Complete Guide: Whale Watching in Zihuatanejo

16. Troncones Romantic Getaway

Troncones is a tropical paradise for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure. Its waves attract surfers from the community.

Just 20 minutes from Ixtapa, it’s the perfect place for honeymoons and romantic trips. There are luxury accommodations, bungalows, summer houses, and restaurants. I’m sure you won’t regret visiting

Complete Guide: Playa Troncones

17. Surf in La Saladita Beach

If you’re a nature lover and a surf enthusiast, Playa Saladita is the perfect paradise for your vacation. This is one of the things to do near Zihuatanejo.

This coastal paradise, known for its magnificent tropical beach and softly crashing waves, is a surfer’s heaven, both beginners and experienced. You’ll find local guides who are willing to help you learn to catch and ride the waves.

Besides surfing, you can go for long walks on the beach, swim in the refreshing waters, and relax under the warm tropical sun. Playa Saladita is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and recharge your batteries in a laid-back and authentic setting. It’s only about 30 minutes from Ixtapa by car.

18. Horseback Ride at Playa Larga

As the name implies, this is a large beach that borders its neighboring Playa Blanca. Both beaches are located on the same bay, which is about 19 kilomet

Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, swimming, and sunbathing. Treat your taste buds to fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes in one of the many beachfront restaurants.

Advice: This is a beach with high waves and strong currents, so ask if it’s a good time to swim before going in the water.

19. Let yourself be enchanted by Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a popular destination for travelers seeking a private and relaxing beach experience. The beach is conveniently located just minutes from the airport, making it a great choice for those with tight schedules.

Playa Blanca offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and activities to cater to all taste. Additionally, the sunsets at Playa Blanca are among the best in the area, the perfect way to conclude an amazing day.

20. Dive in the Morros in Barra de Potosí

Barra de Potosí is a place full of life and lush tropical vegetation. Its atmosphere of fishing village and the traditional food is a unique experience.

Venture on a kayak tour through its lagoons and mangroves. You can also practice volleyball, beach soccer, horseback riding or take a boat tour to see wildlife.

21. Discover the Soledad de Maciel Archaeological Zone

Visit the Archeological Zone Soledad, also known to locals as “La Chole”. Here you will get a fascinating glimpse of the region’s pre-Hispanic past. This site formerly called Xihuacan, the capital of the Costa Grande de Guerrero, was inhabited 25 centuries ago by several indigenous peoples and perhaps as important as Teotihuacán, according to the INAI.

The museum is open from 9 am to 6 pm, and admission is a donation. This place is located about 20 minutes from Zihuatanejo.

22. Discover the Papanoa Bays

Papanoa Bays has a group of beautiful beaches. From Puerto Vicente with its natural pool to Cayaquitos, it’s a perfect hideaway that invites you to relax while watching the seagulls. Explore and discover this coastal corner of Mexico!

Where to stay in Zihuatanejo?

La Casa que canta, a small luxury hotel

Thompson Zihuatanejo: 5-star resort. Private beach, infinity pool, gourmet restaurant. Stylish rooms with balcony and WiFi. Renovated with mid-century style. Perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations or events.

Playa La Ropa

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.

Playa La Madera

Zihuatanejo Hotel Irma

Hotel Irma is a 4-star hotel perched on a cliff in La Madera, just steps away from the beach, restaurants, shops, and downtown Zihuatanejo. It features rooms with Mediterranean decor, a restaurant serving Mexican cuisine, and additional amenities to enhance your stay.

Playa La Madera

Pie de Playa la Ropa

Pie de Playa la Ropa, located just steps from La Ropa Beach in Zihuatanejo, offers air-conditioned rooms for a comfortable stay. Situated within a 15-minute walk from La Madera Beach and 1.3 miles from Principal Beach, the hotel features family rooms.

Playa La Ropa

Thompson Zihuatanejo, a Beach Restort

Playa La Ropa

Hotel Villas Emma

Hotel Villas Ema in Zihuatanejo, just 2 minutes from La Ropa Beach, offers accommodation with a pool, free parking, and wifi. Rooms feature private bathrooms, TV, and air conditioning, some with ocean views and balconies. Close to Playa La Madera and Playa Principal.

Playa La Ropa