Playa Carey (Isla Ixtapa) - Image 1
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Playa Carey Isla Ixtapa

4.9
·10 reviews·, Mexico

A tranquil, semi-virgin nudist beach on Isla Ixtapa, known for its natural beauty and as a haven for sea snails and turtle nesting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June - August

Turtle nesting season

CrowdMedium
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Playa Carey (Isla Ixtapa) - Image 1

Playa Carey Isla Ixtapa

Best Time

June - August

Turtle nesting season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil, semi-virgin nudist beach on Isla Ixtapa, known for its natural beauty and as a haven for sea snails and turtle nesting.

4.9
(10 reviews)

"A pristine beach, very beautiful for relaxing and gazing at the sea."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Sun Protection

The sun is intense! Pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and consider bringing your own umbrella for shade .

Footwear for Rocks

Swimming can be tricky due to rocks and corals. Water shoes are recommended for exploring the shoreline safely .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hawksbill Turtle Nesting

Hawksbill Turtle Nesting

Playa Coral

Witness the incredible sight of hawksbill turtles nesting and hatching during their season. A truly special natural event.

Tranquil Natural Beauty

Tranquil Natural Beauty

Playa Carey

A pristine, semi-virgin beach perfect for nature lovers seeking peace and quiet. Enjoy the sea and unique marine life.

The Cup of the Sun

The Cup of the Sun

Near Careyes

Discover this monumental, lesser-known artwork set against the Pacific. An awe-inspiring sight for the adventurous.

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Planning Your Visit

Turtle Nesting Season

Visit during nesting season (June onwards) to witness hawksbill turtles at Playa Coral. It's a protected area, so observe respectfully from a distance. Conservation efforts are ongoing.Instagram+1

Nudist Beach Awareness

Playa Carey is a designated nudist beach, established in 1970. While not strictly enforced for all visitors, be prepared for an adult-oriented, semi-virgin environment. Respect is key.Reddit

Best Times

When
June - August
Why
Turtle nesting season
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Quieter, better for wildlife
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🤍🤌🏻 amamos careyes en esta cuenta , ig casita el pescador!! #careyes
@dealbadenisse
54.2K likes • 370.2K views

Bring Sun Protection

The sun is intense! Pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and consider bringing your own umbrella for shade.Reddit

Footwear for Rocks

Swimming can be tricky due to rocks and corals. Water shoes are recommended for exploring the shoreline safely.Reddit

Careyes Jalisco #jalisco #jalisco❤️🇲🇽🥰😍 #mexico #mexico🇲🇽 #méxico #pueblo #pueblomagico #pueblosmagicos #playa #lujo #luxury #caro #vacaciones #vacations #viralvideos #travel #guadalajara #parejas #hospedaje #airbnb #fyp
@iamjupiter7
29.2K likes • 656.2K views
🐢🌊 #Zihuatanejo | A partir del mes de junio comenzará el arribo de tortuga carey a la Isla de Ixtapa, específicamente en Playa Coral, una de las zonas más importantes del Pacífico mexicano para la reproducción de esta especie en peligro de extinción. 📲https://acortar.link/IcdHyG
meganoticias_ixtapa
9 likes • 319 views

Respect Nudist Culture

Playa Carey is a nudist beach. Be respectful of others' choices and privacy. It's an adult-oriented space.Reddit

Pack Snacks & Water

There are no facilities like lounge chairs or food vendors directly on Playa Carey. Bring your own provisions.Reddit

Eclosion del nido #15 de tortuga carey de 132 huevos se liberaron 122 crías en playa Carey de la Isla Ixtapa, Gro. ✨️🌊🐢✨️ Esto gracias a la ardua labor que realiza Don Nacho Maciel desde hace más de 10 años!!! ✨️🙌🏼🐢✨️ Estas actividades se realizan con el apoyo de Grupo Tortuguero de las Californias The Turtleman Foundation SEE Turtles Ecología Zihuatanejo
tortugueros.gro
10 likes • 306 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Sun Protection

The sun is intense! Pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and consider bringing your own umbrella for shade.Reddit

Footwear for Rocks

Swimming can be tricky due to rocks and corals. Water shoes are recommended for exploring the shoreline safely.Reddit

Respect Nudist Culture

Playa Carey is a nudist beach. Be respectful of others' choices and privacy. It's an adult-oriented space.Reddit

Pack Snacks & Water

There are no facilities like lounge chairs or food vendors directly on Playa Carey. Bring your own provisions.Reddit

Explore Other Beaches

Isla Ixtapa has four beaches. If Carey isn't your vibe, explore Varadero, Coral, or Cuachalalate for different experiences.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(10 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Playa Carey is praised for its pristine, tranquil, and natural beauty, offering a relaxing escape. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to observe marine life and the semi-virgin environment. However, it's noted that swimming is difficult due to rocks and corals, and the beach is a designated nudist area with no facilities.

"Nice views. Relaxing place. But swimming not possible there due to rocks and corrals."

Milos Pridal

"A pristine beach, very beautiful for relaxing and gazing at the sea. You can see several species of sea snails on the shore. Swimming is not allowed on this part of the island, and there are no lounge chairs, but it's highly recommended if you enjoy nature and tranquility. Bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat."

Gaby Polar

"Always keep in mind that it is a declared nudist beach since 1970, which is an exclusive beach for adults (relatively) since it is a total right to be naked without distinction, and it is a semi-virgin beach on the island."

kevin gardel

What People Like

Pristine natural beauty
Relaxing and tranquil atmosphere
Observing sea snails

What People Dislike

Difficult swimming conditions
No facilities available
Nudist beach designation

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Isla Ixtapa, you'll need to take a water taxi from the mainland, typically from the Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa waterfront. The journey is short and offers scenic views of the coast.TikTok

Playa Carey is one of the four beaches on Isla Ixtapa. After taking a water taxi to the island, you can walk to Playa Carey. It's a semi-virgin beach, so expect a more natural path.Instagram

The 'Cup of the Sun' is located in Careyes, which is a separate destination from Isla Ixtapa. Reaching it requires separate travel arrangements and is not directly accessible from Isla Ixtapa's beaches.TikTok

Public transport will get you to the Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo area, but to reach Isla Ixtapa itself, a water taxi is the only option. These are readily available from the main tourist areas.TikTok

The water taxi ride to Isla Ixtapa is typically around 10-15 minutes. The overall travel time will depend on your starting point in Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo and waiting times for the water taxi.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Playa Carey itself. You will need to pay for the water taxi to get to Isla Ixtapa, and potentially for any activities or rentals on the island.TikTok

Isla Ixtapa and its beaches are generally accessible during daylight hours. Water taxis operate on a schedule, so it's best to check their operating times before you go.

While the turtle nesting sites are protected, there are typically no direct admission fees. Donations to conservation groups like Grupo Tortuguero are appreciated.Instagram

Yes, many tour operators in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo offer day trips to Isla Ixtapa, which often include transportation and sometimes guided activities. You can also arrange your own water taxi.

Playa Carey is a designated nudist beach, so be aware of this aspect. Otherwise, the main restriction is respecting the natural environment and any conservation efforts for turtles.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Swimming at Playa Carey is generally not recommended due to rocks and corals. It's more of a place for relaxing and enjoying the views rather than swimming.Reddit

Playa Carey is best for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying nature. You might see sea snails on the shore. Snorkeling is possible on other beaches of Isla Ixtapa.Instagram

No, Playa Carey is a semi-virgin beach with no facilities. You won't find restrooms, lounge chairs, or food vendors, so come prepared.Reddit

Given it's a nudist beach and not ideal for swimming, it might be less suitable for families with young children. Other beaches on Isla Ixtapa might offer a more family-friendly experience.Reddit

You can observe various species of sea snails along the shore. During nesting season, you might be lucky enough to see signs of turtle activity.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, Playa Carey is a natural beach with no restaurants or food services. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks.Reddit

There are palapa restaurants on other beaches of Isla Ixtapa, such as Playa Varadero, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes. These are a short walk from Playa Carey.Instagram

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended as there are no vendors on Playa Carey. Pack a picnic to enjoy the serene surroundings.Reddit

The restaurants on other parts of Isla Ixtapa typically serve fresh seafood, Mexican specialties, and refreshing drinks like coconuts and margaritas.

Options might be limited, but many restaurants can prepare vegetable-based dishes upon request. It's best to ask the staff directly.

📸 📸 Photography

Playa Carey offers beautiful natural scenery, including the coastline, sea snails, and potentially turtle tracks during nesting season. The 'Cup of the Sun' in Careyes is also a unique photographic subject.TikTok

Given that Playa Carey is a nudist beach, it's crucial to be extremely respectful. Avoid taking photos of other visitors without their explicit consent. Focus on landscapes and nature.Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning.

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of privacy, especially on a nudist beach. It's generally best to avoid drone use here.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach views. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens might be useful. Waterproof protection is always a good idea near the ocean.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Playa Carey on Isla Ixtapa might not be the ideal choice for families with very young children. Its designation as a nudist beach and the rocky, coral-filled waters making swimming difficult mean it's more suited for adults seeking tranquility.Reddit

However, Isla Ixtapa as a whole offers other options. Beaches like Playa Varadero or Playa Coral are generally more family-friendly, with calmer waters and more space for children to play. You can also find palapa restaurants on other parts of the island for convenient meals.Instagram Consider visiting these other beaches for a more traditional family beach day, and perhaps a brief, respectful visit to Playa Carey if your children are older and understand the environment.

💰 Budget Travelers

Playa Carey itself is free to access once you reach Isla Ixtapa. The main cost will be the water taxi from the mainland, which is usually quite affordable.TikTok Since there are no facilities or vendors on Playa Carey, you save money by packing your own food and drinks.Reddit

While the broader 'Careyes' region is known for luxury,TikTok Isla Ixtapa offers a more accessible experience. By opting for water taxis and bringing your own provisions, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Playa Carey without significant expense. It's a great option for travelers looking for a beautiful, natural beach experience on a budget.

🧘 Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts

Playa Carey is an excellent destination for solo travelers and those who appreciate nature and tranquility. Its semi-virgin status and lack of commercial amenities create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection and enjoying the natural surroundings.Reddit

As a nudist beach, it offers a unique environment for those comfortable with it, allowing for a more uninhibited connection with nature. The opportunity to observe sea snails and the potential to witness turtle nesting (during season) adds to its appeal for nature lovers. Remember to pack essentials, as you'll be self-sufficient, which can be empowering for a solo traveler.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Hawksbill Turtle Conservation

Isla Ixtapa, particularly Playa Coral, is a vital nesting ground for the endangered hawksbill turtle. From June onwards, these magnificent creatures make their way to the shores to lay their eggs.Instagram Conservation efforts, led by dedicated individuals like Don Nacho Maciel, work tirelessly to protect these nests and ensure the successful hatching of hatchlings.Instagram Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a profound experience, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

Visitors interested in observing this can do so respectfully during the nesting season. It's important to follow guidelines provided by local conservationists to avoid disturbing the turtles or their nests. The release of hatchlings is a particularly moving event, showcasing the culmination of these conservation efforts.Instagram Remember that these are wild animals in a protected habitat, and observing them from a safe distance is paramount.

While Playa Carey itself is not the primary nesting site, the entire island plays a role in the marine life of the region. Understanding and supporting these conservation initiatives adds a deeper layer to your visit, highlighting the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats for future generations.

Understanding Playa Carey's Unique Status

Playa Carey holds a unique distinction as a designated nudist beach since 1970. This means it's an adult-oriented space where the freedom to be nude is recognized.Reddit While not everyone visiting may choose to participate, it's essential for all visitors to be aware of and respect this aspect of the beach's culture. The atmosphere is generally described as tranquil and focused on nature, with visitors appreciating the natural beauty and serenity.

This semi-virgin status means you won't find the typical amenities like lounge chairs, umbrellas, or food vendors directly on Playa Carey. Visitors are encouraged to bring everything they need for their stay, including plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks.Reddit The lack of commercialization contributes to its pristine, natural feel, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet escape and a connection with nature.

For those who are comfortable with or seeking out a nudist environment, Playa Carey offers a peaceful and accepting atmosphere. For others, understanding this designation beforehand ensures a more comfortable and informed visit. It's a place where the emphasis is on natural beauty and personal freedom, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

Exploring the 'Cup of the Sun' and Careyes

While Playa Carey is on Isla Ixtapa, the mention of 'Careyes' in social media often refers to the exclusive coastal region of Careyes, Jalisco, known for its luxury villas and unique architecture.TikTok+1 A standout feature in this area is the 'Cup of the Sun' (Copa del Sol), a monumental artwork set against the Pacific Ocean.TikTok This striking structure is a testament to the region's artistic and architectural flair, offering a dramatic visual experience.

Reaching the 'Cup of the Sun' involves a journey to the Careyes area, which is distinct from Isla Ixtapa. It's often highlighted as a hidden gem, requiring a bit of an adventure to find.TikTok The experience of seeing this large-scale art installation in such a dramatic natural setting is what draws visitors and creators alike. It represents a different facet of the Mexican coast, one that blends art, luxury, and breathtaking landscapes.

If you're interested in visiting the 'Cup of the Sun,' plan it as a separate excursion or part of a broader trip exploring the Costa Careyes. It offers a stark contrast to the more natural and relaxed vibe of Isla Ixtapa's beaches, showcasing the diverse beauty and offerings of Mexico's Pacific coast.

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