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What makes a Zihuatanejo beach the ultimate paradise? As one of our top picks for the hottest beach destinations in Mexico, this blog explores its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. We’ll let you in on this resort city’s main hotspots, thrills, and more tips for the perfect beach getaway!
A Zihuatanejo Beach: The Ultimate Paradise
The moment you step foot in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, you’ll instantly feel as though you’ve been transported into an entirely new realm of beach paradise. The salty sea breeze tingles your skin as you breathe in the fresh air, as the sound of the waves crashing against the shore creates a peaceful ambiance. The atmosphere is electric as locals and visitors wander the town’s charming streets, savoring the local cuisine and soaking up the sun.
The moment you set foot in this resort town, you’ll instantly feel at home.
Zihua, as most people called it, was a low-key beach destination in the 1970s and quite popular among celebrities like Andy Warhol, John Wayne, Liz Taylor, and Mick Jagger. Without a doubt, Zihuatanejo is one of the most perfect destinations for beach lovers and avid travelers looking to immerse themselves in exciting local cultures. It’s no wonder it has become one of the hottest beach destinations in Mexico.
Here, we’ll take you on a journey through the town’s best beaches and activities, as well as places to visit and find relaxation. We’ll share why Zihuatanejo beaches have earned its reputation as a breathtaking destination, with splendid attractions all over town, plus some basic travel guides and tips on how to get there without a hitch.
So just sit back and relax as we explore all the paradise puzzle pieces you can find in Zihuatanejo, Mexico!
How to Get to Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo’s popularity as a global beach destination means that it’s easy to get there. Visitors can choose to drive, take a bus, or fly directly to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport. Those who prefer to drive can take the scenic route from Acapulco, which takes around three to four hours. For those who opt to ride public transport, several bus companies offer regular services to Zihuatanejo from major cities such as Mexico City, Acapulco, and Guadalajara. The bus journey can take anywhere from six to 12 hours, depending on the origin and current traffic.
However, for those who want a more comfortable yet faster journey, flying directly to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport is the way to go. The airport is located just 15 minutes away from the resort town, so you can immediately enjoy the beaches and attractions as soon as you land.
The journey to Zihuatanejo is a reward in itself, with many scenic views and interesting landmarks to see along the way. As you get closer to town, you’ll start feeling the hospitality and warmth of the local community, as well as the anticipation of discovering what this beach town really has to offer.
Now that you’ve arrived in Zihuatanejo, it’s time to explore its main hotspots. The town has many beautiful beaches, but the top three that you definitely shouldn’t miss are Playa la Ropa, Playa las Gatas, and Fisherman’s Walk. Each has its own unique charm and activities that will make your stay in Zihuatanejo a truly memorable one.
Where to Go, Things to Do in Zihuatanejo
Once you’ve arrived in Zihuatanejo, the real fun begins.
The town offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. One of the best things to do in Zihuatanejo is to relax on the beach and simply soak up the sun.
Playa la Ropa
Playa la Ropa is the main Zihuatanejo beach, a one-mile stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear waters. With its mild waves, it’s perfect for swimming and water sports. Visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas or dine in any beachside restaurant serving fresh seafood and refreshing drinks.
Playa la Ropa also offers stunning views of the bay, with fishing boats and yachts dotting the horizon. Whether you’re a beach lover or just looking for a relaxing time, Playa la Ropa should be the top Zihuatanejo beach on your list of places to visit.
Playa las Gatas
Playa las Gatas, meaning “Beach of Cats,” is a must-visit beach in Zihuatanejo. Its name hails from the legend that when pirates attempted to land on the beach to steal from the local fishermen, the cats appeared and attacked the pirates, causing them to retreat. In gratitude, the locals named the beach after the cats.
Today, visitors to Playa las Gatas can still find plenty of cats lounging around the beach and nearby restaurants. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundance of marine life, this beach is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts, who can observe colorful fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays.
Aside from snorkeling, there are also several other activities to enjoy on the beach, such as sunbathing, beach volleyball, and jet skiing. Naturally, there are plenty of restaurants serving fresh seafood and drinks, making it an ideal spot for guests to relax and unwind.
Fisherman’s Walk
Another must-visit destination in this resort town is Fisherman’s Walk, also known as ‘Paseo del Pescador,’ which sits right in the heart of Zihuatanejo. Here, local fishermen sell their catch every morning, and tourists and locals alike come to marvel at their hauls.
This famous boardwalk stretches from the pier to the north end of the beach and is lined with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The boardwalk has a distinct old-world charm that visitors find irresistible. At night, it comes alive with sparkling lights, street performers, musicians, and artisans displaying their wares. You can also witness fishermen repair their nets and see the boats coming and going with their daily catch. A truly marvelous sight to behold.
Other Places to Visit in Zihuatanejo
Aside from the beaches and boardwalk, Zihuatanejo also offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions.
Here are three that you should check out when in town:
Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande
This museum showcases the ancient history of the region. It houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Costa Grande area, including pottery, figurines, and tools. It’s a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the vibrant indigenous cultures of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Mercado de Artesanías
A bustling market located in the heart of Zihuatanejo, visitors can find various handmade goods and local souvenirs in this locale, including textiles, pottery, jewelry, and more. The market is also a great place to shop for authentic Mexican handicrafts, giving you a chance to support its local artisans.
Ixtapa Island
If you’re looking for a fun day trip, consider visiting the nearby Ixtapa Island, which is just a short boat ride away. It is a small and secluded island located just off the coast of Zihuatanejo, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the busy foot traffic of the mainland. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The island is also home to several restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend a day relaxing in the sun.
Tips to Experience Zihuatanejo to the Fullest
No matter where you find yourself in this lovely Mexican town, here are some tips to remember so you can make the most of your Zihuatanejo beach and culture adventure:
- Bring sunscreen: Zihuatanejo is known for some intense sunny weather, so make sure to bring ample sunscreen to protect your skin from the harsh UV rays. It’s recommended to use products with at least SPF 30.
- Bring cash: While some establishments accept credit cards, having cash on hand is always best, especially when visiting Fisherman’s Walk or Playa las Gatas. That way, you can buy more fresh seafood from the local fishermen and souvenirs from the vendors, most of whom usually only accept cash.
- Snorkel gear: If you plan to do some snorkeling at Playa las Gatas, bring your own gear. Although some rent shops are available, it’s often better to bring your own for a more comfortable, cost-efficient, and hygienic experience.
- Check the tides: Tides can affect any beach experience, especially during high tide. Playa la Ropa is great for swimming during low tide when the water is calmer. So it’s always best to check tide schedules before visiting Playa las Gatas for the best snorkeling experience.
- Explore early: Any Zihuatanejo beach is popular for a reason. That is why it is best to head to Fisherman’s Walk earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the best sunrise views. Morning is also the best time to see the town’s fishermen bring their daily catch onto the shore.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or immerse yourself in the local culture and meet some locals, don’t forget to book your stay with Hotala for the best deals on accommodations in the area.
Where to Stay When in Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo has a wide range of accommodations to suit different lifestyles and preferences. When looking for hotels near a Zihuatanejo beach, consider using Hotala as your booking partner. Hotala offers a seamless booking experience with the best hotel deals in town.
For those looking for a luxurious getaway, the Thompson Zihuatanejo is a great option. This five-star resort with 1,000-feet of private beach. Surrounded by tropical gardens, it features an oceanfront infinity pool, gourmet dining, and spacious rooms with private balconies.
If you’re looking for more value for your money, La Casa Que Canta is a charming boutique hotel located in the town center. The hotel also features a beautiful infinity pool, stunning ocean views, and a restaurant that serves delicious Mexican cuisine.
For those who want to stay right on the beach, Hotel Irma is a great alternative. The hotel is located just a few steps away from Playa la Madera and features comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a beautiful outdoor pool.
As an UpNext travel brand, Hotala can help you find the perfect place to stay in Zihuatanejo via a data-powered, user-friendly, and reliable platform that can compare rates and reviews from multiple sources. With such a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to different interests and preferences, Hotala can help you discover the best hotels and resorts for your next awesome Zihuatanejo beach adventure.
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TLDR
Zihuatanejo is absolutely one of the hottest beach destinations in Mexico, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. At its top destinations, visitors can enjoy a range of attractions from swimming to snorkeling to exploring cultural and historical sites, and more!
The town also has a variety of accommodations to suit different lifestyles and preferences, including the Thompson Zihuatanejo, La Casa Que Canta, and Hotel Irma–all of which you can book through Hotala’s data-powered and easy-to-use platform.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun at a Zihuatanejo beach, snorkel in its crystal-clear waters, or immerse yourself in the local culture, don’t forget to book your stay with Hotala for the hottest deals on accommodations in the area.
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Featured Image Credit: Photo by Eduardo Romero on Unsplash
