Barra de Potosí Zihuatanejo
A tranquil fishing village near Zihuatanejo, offering pristine beaches, a serene lagoon, and incredibly fresh seafood in a laid-back setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, pleasant temps
Barra de Potosí Zihuatanejo
Best Time
Sunny days, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil fishing village near Zihuatanejo, offering pristine beaches, a serene lagoon, and incredibly fresh seafood in a laid-back setting.
"Escape to Barra de Potosí for unspoiled beaches, delicious seafood, and a truly authentic coastal Mexican experience."
🌊 Ocean Caution
The sea can be rough; swim only in designated safe areas. Enjoy the lagoon instead!
🚤 Lagoon Adventures
Take a boat tour on the lagoon to see birds and mangroves. Highly recommended!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Beaches
Barra de Potosí coastline
Miles of unspoiled sandy shores perfect for long walks and soaking up the sun. Enjoy the tranquility.
Lagoon Boat Tours
Laguna de Barra de Potosí
Explore the serene lagoon by boat, spotting diverse birdlife and mangrove ecosystems. A peaceful adventure.
Fresh Seafood Enramadas
Beachfront restaurants
Savor incredibly fresh seafood dishes prepared in traditional open-air 'enramadas'. A true taste of the coast.
Local Fishing Culture
Fishing docks and village
Witness the daily life of local fishermen and perhaps even join a fishing trip for an authentic experience .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unspoiled Charm
Ocean Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Ocean Caution
The sea can be rough; swim only in designated safe areas. Enjoy the lagoon instead!
🚤 Lagoon Adventures
Take a boat tour on the lagoon to see birds and mangroves. Highly recommended!
🥥 Taste of Paradise
Sip fresh coconut water and enjoy delicious seafood at the beach 'enramadas'.
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun is intense. Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Ocean Caution
The sea can be rough; swim only in designated safe areas. Enjoy the lagoon instead!
🚤 Lagoon Adventures
Take a boat tour on the lagoon to see birds and mangroves. Highly recommended!
🥥 Taste of Paradise
Sip fresh coconut water and enjoy delicious seafood at the beach 'enramadas'.
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun is intense. Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
🚗 Getting Around
Rent a car for flexibility, or use local taxis. Walking is great for exploring the immediate area. :car:
🎣 Fishing Excursions
Book a fishing trip with local guides for a true Barra de Potosí experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Barra de Potosí for its unspoiled natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and delicious, incredibly fresh seafood. It's seen as a perfect escape from the crowds, offering an authentic taste of coastal Mexican life. Some find the ocean currents strong for swimming, but the lagoon provides a safe alternative for water activities.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barra de Potosí is a short drive, about 10-15 minutes, from Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIA).
You can take a taxi or rent a car. The drive is scenic and easy.While less common, local buses might run along the main highway, but a taxi or private car offers the most direct and convenient access to the beach and lagoon areas.
Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore Barra de Potosí and nearby attractions like Petatlán. Taxis are readily available for shorter trips.
The main road is generally well-maintained. However, some smaller access roads to specific enramadas or accommodations might be unpaved, especially after rain.
Barra de Potosí is located near Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, typically a 20-30 minute drive from the main Ixtapa hotel zone.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Barra de Potosí beach and the public areas is generally free. You only pay for services like boat tours, food, or accommodation.
Most enramadas are open daily from late morning until early evening, typically around 6-7 PM. It's best to check with specific establishments if you plan to dine late.
There are no specific entrance fees for the lagoon itself, but you will pay for guided boat tours or kayak rentals.
Yes, Barra de Potosí is accessible year-round. However, the dry season (November to May) offers the most pleasant weather.
Weekends and Mexican holidays can be busier. For a more tranquil experience, visit on weekdays, especially during the off-peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The ocean waves can be strong and the undertow is significant, making it unsafe for swimming for many. The lagoon offers calmer waters for activities like kayaking.
Enjoy beach relaxation, lagoon boat tours, bird watching, kayaking, fishing excursions, and savoring fresh seafood.
Yes, families can enjoy the calmer lagoon waters, beach play, and the relaxed atmosphere. Supervise children closely near the ocean.
The lagoon is a sanctuary for various bird species. You might also spot marine life during boat tours or snorkeling.
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. A waterproof bag for electronics is also useful. :sunwithface: :iphone:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The specialty is incredibly fresh seafood, often caught the same day. Look for grilled fish, shrimp, ceviche, and oysters served in beachfront 'enramadas'.
The 'enramadas' along the beach are the go-to spots. Many are run by local families and offer authentic flavors. Ask locals for their favorites!
Options might be limited as seafood is the focus. However, many places can prepare vegetable dishes or salads upon request. It's best to inquire beforehand.
Prices are generally reasonable, especially considering the freshness. Expect to pay more for elaborate seafood platters and less for simpler dishes like fish tacos.
Yes, you can often buy locally produced sea salt directly from vendors or at some of the enramadas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunsets over the ocean, the vibrant colors of the lagoon, local fishermen at work,
and the rustic charm of the enramadas.Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers magical light. Early mornings are great for capturing birdlife in the lagoon.
The entire coastline offers beautiful vistas. For lagoon shots, consider a boat tour. Elevated spots near the coast can provide panoramic views.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A waterproof camera or case is advisable if you plan water activities.
Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of people, especially the fishermen. Most are happy to oblige if asked politely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
🌿 Nature Lovers and Birdwatchers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Lagoon
Many visitors recommend taking a morning tour when the birds are most active and the light is soft for photography. The experience is often described as peaceful and rejuvenating, providing a different perspective on the coastal landscape. It's a perfect activity for those seeking a quieter, more nature-focused experience away from the main beach.
A Taste of Barra de Potosí: Seafood Delights
Beyond the main dishes, many visitors rave about the simple yet delicious sides and accompaniments. Freshly made sea salt is a local specialty you can often purchase. Pair your meal with a cold beer or a refreshing agua fresca. While seafood is king, some places may offer chicken or vegetable options if requested, though it's wise to confirm in advance.
Fishing Traditions and Off-Road Adventures
Beyond fishing, the area also attracts off-road enthusiasts. TikTok videos showcase 4x4 routes and rugged terrain, hinting at the adventurous spirit of some visitors. While the main village is tranquil, the surrounding landscape might offer opportunities for those looking for a more adrenaline-fueled exploration, though it's essential to be prepared and aware of local conditions if venturing off established paths.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit