Playa Contramar
A secluded pebble beach in Zihuatanejo known for its clear, calm waters, abundant marine life, and stunning sunrise/sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere
Playa Contramar
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded pebble beach in Zihuatanejo known for its clear, calm waters, abundant marine life, and stunning sunrise/sunset views.
"Amazing and quiet place where you can relax because it doesn't get as populated as the other beaches."
👟 Water Shoes Essential
The pebble beach can be tough on bare feet. Pack water shoes for comfort and easy exploration.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your snorkel to discover the abundant fish near the ruins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pebble Beach Serenity
The main stretch of Playa Contramar
Unique pebble shore with clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and observing marine life.
Underwater Exploration
Near the ruins in the bay
Crystal clear water teeming with fish, offering excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Sunrise and Sunset Views
Overlooking the bay
Breathtaking vistas at dawn and dusk, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pebble Beach Vibe
Discover a Quieter Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Water Shoes Essential
The pebble beach can be tough on bare feet. Pack water shoes for comfort and easy exploration.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your snorkel to discover the abundant fish near the ruins.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
There's little shade, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must.
🚶♀️ Rugged Trail Access
Be prepared for a short, rugged walk down to the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Water Shoes Essential
The pebble beach can be tough on bare feet. Pack water shoes for comfort and easy exploration.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your snorkel to discover the abundant fish near the ruins.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
There's little shade, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must.
🚶♀️ Rugged Trail Access
Be prepared for a short, rugged walk down to the beach.
🚫 No Vendors Here
Enjoy a peaceful experience with no vendors, just pure relaxation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Contramar is lauded for its unique pebble beach, tranquil atmosphere, and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors appreciate its secluded nature and lack of vendors, offering a peaceful escape. However, some note the rugged access trail and the impact of nearby development on the natural beauty.
"Fun cobble stone beach with gentle waves and beautiful scenery. Unfortunately the owners of the adjacent Villa Luna Kuku have destroyed the natural beauty of half the beach with an ugly stone patio. 🤦"
William Quast
"Amazing and quiet place where you can relax because it doesn't get as populated as the other beaches because of its location being almost hidden."
Matt E.M.
"It's a bit of a walk down a rugged trail. Small horse shoe bay with crystal clear water with lots of fish to see in the ruins"
Mike Broadway
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Contramar is a bit of a hidden gem. From Zihuatanejo, you can often access it via a paddle from La Ropa beach. Alternatively, there's a rugged trail that leads down to the beach, so be prepared for a short hike.
Some visitors mention it's almost hidden, adding to its secluded charm.
It's not as straightforward as some other beaches. Its location is somewhat hidden, which contributes to its quiet atmosphere. Look for access points near La Ropa beach or follow local advice for the trail.
Direct driving access is limited due to its secluded nature. The primary access is often by foot or paddle from nearby beaches.
For a day trip, consider combining it with a visit to La Ropa beach and paddling over, or be prepared for the walk down the trail. Arriving earlier in the day ensures you can enjoy the tranquility.
Public transport typically gets you to the general Zihuatanejo area, but the final approach to Playa Contramar is usually on foot or by water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa Contramar is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty for free.
As a natural beach, there are no official opening or closing hours. It's accessible during daylight hours, with sunrise and sunset offering particularly beautiful views.
No booking is necessary. Playa Contramar is a natural beach, and you can visit spontaneously. Its less-populated nature means you likely won't need to worry about capacity.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions beyond respecting the natural environment. However, be aware of strong currents or high waves, especially during certain seasons.
Yes, it's a great spot for a quick visit to enjoy the unique pebble beach and clear waters. However, many visitors find it so relaxing they wish they had more time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Playa Contramar is characterized by its unique pebble beach, not sand. The water is clear and the waves are generally gentle, making it great for swimming.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity. The clear, calm waters are inviting, though it's always wise to be aware of any currents.
One of the appeals of Playa Contramar is its lack of vendors and restaurants, offering a truly relaxing and natural experience.
Besides swimming and relaxing, it's a fantastic spot for snorkeling due to the clear water and abundant fish. Enjoying the sunrise and sunset is also a must.
While the pebble beach might be a bit challenging for very young children, the calm waters are good for supervised swimming. The unique geology can also be interesting for kids.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique pebble formations, crystal-clear water, and the stunning sunrise/sunset views offer incredible photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Many visitors rave about the breathtaking vistas during sunrise and sunset, making it a prime spot for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay and coastline. If you plan on snorkeling, an underwater camera or waterproof housing is recommended.
The entire bay offers scenic views. Exploring the rocky areas can provide interesting foreground elements for your shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local ordinances before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no vendors or restaurants, packing snacks and drinks is a good idea for a family outing. The beach's quieter nature means families can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the crowds often found at more developed beaches. The rugged trail access might be a slight challenge with very young children, so consider this when planning your visit.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Bring a good book, your snorkel gear to explore the underwater life, or simply find a comfortable spot to watch the sunrise or sunset. The beach's quiet charm allows for a truly rejuvenating experience, making it a favorite for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Consider visiting during the golden hours for the most dramatic lighting. The absence of crowds also means you can compose your shots without interference. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the bay and perhaps an underwater camera for those snorkeling moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Playa Contramar
The surrounding area also boasts interesting geology, with rocky outcrops and formations that add to the visual appeal. These rocky areas, particularly near the ruins, are known to be hotspots for marine life, making them ideal for snorkeling.
Visitors often find the pebble texture to be a novel and enjoyable aspect of their visit, though it does make walking barefoot less comfortable. This is why water shoes are highly recommended for anyone planning to explore the beach thoroughly.
Experiencing Tranquility at Playa Contramar
Its somewhat hidden location means it doesn't typically get as crowded as other nearby beaches. This allows visitors to truly relax, soak in the natural beauty, and enjoy the gentle sounds of the waves without the usual beach bustle.
For those looking to disconnect and find a moment of calm, Playa Contramar is an ideal destination. Whether you're enjoying a quiet swim, reading a book, or simply watching the waves, the peaceful ambiance is a major draw.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling at Playa Contramar
The pebble composition of the beach contributes to the water's clarity, providing good visibility for observing marine life. It's a fantastic opportunity to get up close with the local underwater ecosystem without needing to venture far from shore.
While there aren't extensive coral reefs, the natural rock formations and the presence of fish create an engaging snorkeling experience. Bringing your own snorkel gear is highly recommended to make the most of this natural aquarium.
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