Playa Carey Isla Ixtapa
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
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Turtle nesting season
Playa Carey Isla Ixtapa
Best Time
Turtle nesting season

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.
"A pristine beach, very beautiful for relaxing and gazing at the sea."
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 .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
Near Careyes
Discover this monumental, lesser-known artwork set against the Pacific. An awe-inspiring sight for the adventurous.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Nesting Season
Nudist Beach Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Respect Nudist Culture
Playa Carey is a nudist beach. Be respectful of others' choices and privacy. It's an adult-oriented space.
Pack Snacks & Water
There are no facilities like lounge chairs or food vendors directly on Playa Carey. Bring your own provisions.
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.
Footwear for Rocks
Swimming can be tricky due to rocks and corals. Water shoes are recommended for exploring the shoreline safely.
Respect Nudist Culture
Playa Carey is a nudist beach. Be respectful of others' choices and privacy. It's an adult-oriented space.
Pack Snacks & Water
There are no facilities like lounge chairs or food vendors directly on Playa Carey. Bring your own provisions.
Explore Other Beaches
Isla Ixtapa has four beaches. If Carey isn't your vibe, explore Varadero, Coral, or Cuachalalate for different experiences.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
No, Playa Carey is a semi-virgin beach with no facilities. You won't find restrooms, lounge chairs, or food vendors, so come prepared.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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. 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
While the broader 'Careyes' region is known for luxury, 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
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
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. 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
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. 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
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. 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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