Zihuatanejo Bay
A charming Mexican coastal gem known for its laid-back vibe, stunning bay, and authentic fishing town atmosphere. Less touristy than its neighbors, it...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Zihuatanejo Bay
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Mexican coastal gem known for its laid-back vibe, stunning bay, and authentic fishing town atmosphere. Less touristy than its neighbors, it offers beautiful beaches and vibrant local culture.
"This little town/city is literally my favorite spot in all of Mexico! It’s got this 'sleepy fishing town' vibe."
🌅 Catch Epic Sunsets
The bay offers breathtaking sunset views. Find a spot at Partenón or a beachfront restaurant for the best experience.
🚤 Boat to Las Gatas
Take a water taxi from the pier to Playa Las Gatas for snorkeling and a unique underwater Christ statue.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zihuatanejo Bay Views
Various viewpoints around the bay
Panoramic vistas of the sparkling bay, especially stunning at sunset. Perfect for photos and soaking in the coastal beauty.
Playa La Ropa
Southern end of Zihuatanejo Bay
A long, picturesque beach known for its calm waters, palapa restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Playa Las Gatas
Accessible by boat from Zihuatanejo pier
Famous for its calm, clear waters and underwater Christ statue. Great for snorkeling and enjoying a relaxed beach day.
Partenón Zihuatanejo
Hillside overlooking the bay
Offers incredible bay views, art, and refreshing drinks. A unique spot for photos and enjoying the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Laid-Back Vibe
Best Beaches & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch Epic Sunsets
The bay offers breathtaking sunset views. Find a spot at Partenón or a beachfront restaurant for the best experience.
🚤 Boat to Las Gatas
Take a water taxi from the pier to Playa Las Gatas for snorkeling and a unique underwater Christ statue.
🐠 Dolphin & Whale Watching
Keep an eye out for dolphins in the bay! Whale watching tours are also available seasonally.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, browsing local crafts and enjoying the sea breeze.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch Epic Sunsets
The bay offers breathtaking sunset views. Find a spot at Partenón or a beachfront restaurant for the best experience.
🚤 Boat to Las Gatas
Take a water taxi from the pier to Playa Las Gatas for snorkeling and a unique underwater Christ statue.
🐠 Dolphin & Whale Watching
Keep an eye out for dolphins in the bay! Whale watching tours are also available seasonally.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, browsing local crafts and enjoying the sea breeze.
💰 Day Pass at Thompson
Consider a day pass at Thompson beach club for a luxurious experience with food and drink credit. Use code ZANKA10!
🚗 Ixtapa Proximity
Ixtapa's beaches are a short 20-30 minute taxi ride away, offering a different vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zihuatanejo Bay is cherished for its authentic 'sleepy fishing town' vibe, friendly locals, and beautiful, less crowded beaches. Visitors rave about the delicious and affordable seafood, stunning sunsets, and the relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite Mexican coastal escape. Some find the town can get busy during peak seasons, and occasional mentions of rising prices due to tourism are noted.
"This little town/city is literally my favorite spot in all of Mexico! It’s got this “sleepy fishing town” vibe with quaint flea markets scattered around near the docks and beaches. People are very friendly and the Ixtapa beaches are just a 20-30 min cab ride away."
Matt Moskowitz
"Zihuatanejo is one of our favorite places in Mexico! If you have the opportunity to see it from a high elevation (our spot was the Amuleto Resort), do it!"
Doris Rogge
"Wonderful place from where the boats leave to go to the “Playa Los gatos” and “Playa la ropa”. My wife and I walked across the 2 beaches one way enjoying the amazing landscape and we had a snorkelling tour with a local guide. The food is delicious and not so expensive. I recommend this place 100% !"
Jacopo D'Amico
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors fly into Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH). From the airport, you can take a taxi or pre-booked shuttle to Zihuatanejo Bay, which is about a 20-30 minute drive.
The main town and waterfront area are very walkable. For beaches like La Ropa or Las Gatas, you might use local taxis or water taxis.
Taxis are readily available and affordable for getting around town and to nearby beaches. Water taxis are essential for reaching Playa Las Gatas.
Yes, you can drive to Zihuatanejo. Parking can be a bit challenging in the town center, especially during peak times.
Local buses and colectivos (shared vans) operate on some routes, but taxis are generally more convenient for tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to most Zihuatanejo Bay beaches is free. However, some beach clubs or resorts may charge for day passes or amenities.
Partenón Zihuatanejo is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Admission fees may apply, with student discounts available.
Boat tours to places like Playa Las Gatas usually have a fee for the boat ride itself, and then you can enjoy the beach.
Yes, booking tours for activities like ATV rides or snorkeling trips in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons.
Day passes can vary, but at places like Thompson, they might be around $1,000-$1,500 MXN, often redeemable for food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire bay offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Viewpoints like Partenón and the hillsides offer panoramic shots. 
Yes, you might spot dolphins from shore or on boat tours. Always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Some private establishments might have their own policies.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing the bay's scenery.
Consider the underwater Christ statue at Playa Las Gatas or the colorful streets and markets for vibrant shots. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Fresh seafood is a must-try! Look for local restaurants serving grilled fish, ceviche, and shrimp dishes.
Many beachfront restaurants along Playa La Ropa and the main town offer delicious and fresh seafood options.
Yes, you can find delicious and budget-friendly meals at local eateries and markets away from the main tourist strips.
Try 'pescado a la talla' (grilled fish), 'tostadas de mariscos' (seafood tostadas), and fresh tropical fruits.
While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests with vegetable-based dishes or salads. It's best to ask.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many beachfront restaurants offer kid-friendly menus. Consider staying in an apartment or villa with amenities like a shared pool, which can be a great option for families. Boat trips to Playa Las Gatas are also a hit with kids, offering a chance to see fish while snorkeling in protected waters. The overall vibe of Zihuatanejo is less hectic than larger resorts, allowing families to enjoy their time without feeling overwhelmed.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize local taxis for transportation and consider walking whenever possible. Many of the best experiences, like enjoying the beaches and sunsets, are free! Look for deals on day passes at beach clubs, as some offer discounts with codes or by showing videos.
couples
+1Consider a private boat tour for a more intimate experience, perhaps to a secluded cove or for dolphin watching. The charming town, with its local markets and fresh seafood restaurants, provides a perfect backdrop for romantic strolls and shared meals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Zihuatanejo's Beaches
For a more secluded snorkeling adventure, take a water taxi to Playa Las Gatas. This beach is protected by a coral reef, creating incredibly calm and clear waters, ideal for spotting marine life. It's also home to an underwater statue of Christ, adding a unique element to the snorkeling experience.
Playa La Madera offers a more local feel and is a great spot for watching the sunset. While it might not be as developed as La Ropa, it provides beautiful views of the bay and a quieter ambiance.
Wildlife Encounters in the Bay
During the winter months, the waters off the coast become a migratory path for whales, making Zihuatanejo a potential spot for whale watching excursions. Always choose reputable tour operators who prioritize the well-being of the animals.
While less common, there have been occasional sightings of crocodiles in nearby estuaries or mangrove areas, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in less developed coastal zones.
The Charm of Zihuatanejo Town
Stroll through the colorful streets, browse the quaint flea markets for local crafts and souvenirs, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. The town offers a more authentic Mexican experience compared to larger resort towns.
For a unique perspective and a refreshing drink with a view, visit Partenón Zihuatanejo, a spot known for its art, ambiance, and spectacular panoramic views of the bay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit