Visiting Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: The Complete Guide

Are you planning to visit the stunning Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo? Look no further! In this post, our friend Megan will tell us all about traveling to this mostly underrated Mexican beach destination, including what to do and practical tips.

Megan visited Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo a few of years ago and spent five weeks in Zihuatanejo exploring the surrounding area. Naturally, she fell in love with the people, beaches, and food there.

She loved the laid-back lifestyle, the cheap, delicious fish shacks and spectacular scuba diving, among others, and she’s going to share all about it in this post.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo was first brought to everyone’s attention by the famous Hollywood blockbuster Shawshank Redemption.

If you’ve seen the movie, you may remember the line, “Zihuatanejo. It’s a little place in Mexico on the Pacific Ocean. Do you know what the Mexicans say about the Pacific? They say it has no memory.”

Ixtapa-Zihuatanenjo is certainly worth daydreaming over and may also be the perfect escape. But there’s so much more to this region of Mexico.

Let’s talk about everything you need to know about Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo.

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Where Is Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Located?

📍 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Map

👉🏽 How Far Is Zihuatanejo From Ixtapa?

Zihuatanejo is approximately 6.5km (4 miles) from Ixtapa. These are two small fishing villages that share an airport and coastline.

You can easily travel between the two towns by car, bus, or taxi. It takes approximately 20 minutes to travel between the two villages.

What Is the Difference Between Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo?

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo (often called Zihua) are two distinct towns on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.

Ixtapa is a purpose-built resort zone created by Fonatur, the same government agency behind Cancun, while Zihuatanejo is the original fishing town 10 minutes down the coast. Ixtapa is where the big hotels, the golf course, and the marina are.

Zihuatanejo is where you find the restaurants, the markets, the pier, and everyday Mexican life. Most travelers stay in one and visit the other, since a taxi between them costs less than 200 pesos and local buses run all day.

While they are close to one another and have a lot in common, they also have completely different personalities.

Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa are known for their beautiful white sand beaches and friendly atmosphere. But that’s about where the similarities end.

Ixtapa is more of a luxurious resort destination, with a coastline lined with stunning beach resorts and high-end amenities.

Zihua, on the other hand, has retained more of an authentic, local Mexican vibe.

It’s a big fishing community with excellent seafood, quiet cobblestone streets, lively markets, and fewer vacation crowds.

How Safe Is Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo?

Day to day, the tourist areas of Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa feel calm: people walk the Paseo del Pescador at night, cruise ships call in the bay, and direct flights arrive from the US all winter.

But you should know the official position before you book. As of 2026, the US State Department has the entire state of Guerrero under its highest advisory, Level 4: Do Not Travel, due to crime, and it specifically names the tourist areas of Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa. US government employees are not allowed to travel anywhere in the state.

What does that mean in practice? The violence behind the advisory is overwhelmingly tied to organized crime disputes, not attacks on tourists, and the hotel zones have a heavy security presence.

Thousands of American and Canadian visitors, including a large snowbird community, spend every winter here without incident. That said, this is not a place for shortcuts: stay in the tourist areas, use registered taxis or hotel transport at night, avoid driving highways after dark, and skip any involvement with drugs. Read the current advisory yourself before you go and make your own call.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has grown in popularity as a safe and welcoming substitution for Acapulco, which has had severe crime problems recently.

Acapulco and Ixtapa-Zihua are both in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, which is known for having relatively high crime rates.

Fortunately, Ixtapa and Zihua have stayed out of the limelight and still report low levels of crimes for locals and tourists.

Things to Do in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

1. Relax at the Beaches

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is right on the Pacific Coast, with incredible beaches with turquoise waters, warm weather year-round, and few crowds.

So, for obvious reasons, one of the best things to do in Zihuatanejo Ixtapa is enjoy some beaches.

Here are some of the most popular beaches in the area:

🌊 Playa Principal: This is the main beach right in downtown Zihuatanejo. It’s small but easy to access and has plenty of restaurant options. 

🌊 Playa Madera: This beach is next to Playa Principal in downtown Zihua. It’s not the most beautiful beach, but it’s great for families or those staying nearby.

🌊 Playa La Ropa: This beach is outside downtown Zihua and can be easily reached on foot, by taxi, or by local bus. It’s known as a nicer, more upscale beach with beautiful water and long stretches of sand.

🌊 Playa Larga: This beach is right off the main exit leading into Zihua. It’s less crowded than the downtown beaches and offers picturesque views of the Pacific beyond.

There are a few other beaches and some you can only reach by boat. So, if you plan to spend a day (or a few days) relaxing on the warm sands, there are plenty of options.

2. Stroll at Paseo del Pescador

Paseo del Pescador, or Fishermen’s Walk in English, is a beautiful boardwalk along the Pacific Ocean.

The boardwalk stretches through all of Zihua and follows the curve of the bay.

The boardwalk also takes you through the main beaches in downtown Zihua, a few restaurants, and bars.

You’ll likely find fishermen along the boardwalk and fitness classes off to the side in the mornings and evenings.

This is a great place to stroll through while in Zihua. Not only does it lead to all the beaches, but it has beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding town.

3. Biking at Ixtapa Bike Path

The bike path is one of the must-do Ixtapa activities.

Ixtapa is one of the few towns in Mexico with a well-traveled, safe, and maintained bike path.

The 9.5km (6 mile) bike path from the town of Ixtapa near the marina to Playa Linda.

You’ll pass through the jungle and stumble across regional wildlife, like alligators, iguanas, and coatis.

There are several places to rent a bike near the start of the bike path, including one shop right next to the marina.

This is a must-do for any nature enthusiasts, as the views along the stretch are beautiful, and you’ll likely encounter some unique wildlife.

At the end of the ride, stop in and grab some drinks at one of the local bars and restaurants.

4. Golf at Marina Ixtapa Nautica Golf Club

Club de Golf Marina Ixtapa is an 18-hole golf course in central Ixtapa, near Marina Ixtapa.

The golf course is perfect for all skill levels but leans on the more challenging side. This is one of the best Ixtapa Mexico things to do for golf enthusiasts.

The course contains an inlet of salt water, with water on 14 of 18 holes here. If you lose your ball in the water, don’t go after it.

There are a lot of crocodiles in this region, and you never know where one might be resting.

There’s not much shade on the course, either. So, try to go earlier in the day and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

It’s a very scenic course, with plenty of greenery and beautiful water views. If you’re into gold, this is the perfect way to spend a morning in Ixtapa.

5. Discover the Ruins at Xihuacan

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Xihuacan (pronounced she-wah-cahn) is an ancient Mayan ceremonial center and the only ruins in Zihuatanejo.

It’s unique because archeologists believe it was used by three cultures: the Tomiles, the Cuitatecos, and the Tepoztecas.

And there are remnants found from multiple other cultures. It’s possible Mayans traveled from all around Mesoamerican to gather here.

The ruins are only 40 minutes from Zihuatanejo, but getting there on your own is a bit complicated.

Unless you have a rental car, a guided tour from Zihua or Ixtapa is the easiest way to explore Xihuacan.

This Xihuacan Culture and Archaeology Tour picks up and arranges transportation from Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo.

The tour includes a local guide, lunch by a beautiful lagoon, and an entrance and guide through the museum.

6. Snorkeling in Ixtapa Island

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Ixtapa Island is a small island off Mexico’s Pacific Coast, near Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, and is a must-do for things to do in Ixtapa Mexico.

While no cars or roads are on the island, some restaurant options exist. One of the island’s specialties is pescado a las brasas, or grilled fresh fish, over a wood-fired stove.

The beaches on Ixtapa Island are the best in the state, with crystal clear waters and plenty of lively fish.

You can get to Ixtapa Island from Zihuatanejo with a quick water taxi. However, you can also hop on a guided tour to reach all the best spots on the island.

This guided snorkel tour to Ixtapa Island takes you to three beaches and the best snorkel spots. Snorkel equipment is even included.

7. Go Diving

Snorkeling in Ixtapa is excellent around Zihua, so it should be no surprise that scuba diving is even better.

When most people think of diving in Mexico, they think of places like Isla de Cozumel or Cabo. But Zihua has sites to rival them all.

There are a few excellent diving sites in Zihua. One of the best is known as “Solitary Rock.”

This singular rock goes 30m (100 feet) below sea level and is just teaming with colorful fish and other marine life.

There are tons of great wildlife here. You’ll have a chance to see some sea turtles, seahorses, starfish, and even whales during the right season.

Many of the dive shops in town offer certification courses. If you’re already certified, you’re good to go and enjoy the experience.

8. Whale Watching

The humpback whale season in Guerrero, Mexico, is from December to April, and the best time to see whales is from January to March.

You’ll have to take an organized boat tour to see the whales, as they don’t come too close to shore.

But it’s worth the time and money if you’re interested in getting up close and personal with these majestic beings.

Most whale-watching tours leave early in the morning and drive around until you spot a whale. Some tours even combine whale watching with a quick snorkeling trip.

9. Attend the Zihuatanejo Sailfest (Every February)

Every February, cruising sailboats from all over the Pacific gather in the bay for Sailfest, a volunteer-run charity festival that has been raising money for local schools since 2002. The program includes a sail parade across the bay, benefit concerts, races, and the chance to buy a spot on a participating boat for the parade, with the fee going to the cause.

The 2026 edition ran February 15 to 28, and the festival returns every February, so check the official Sailfest site for exact dates if your trip lands early in the year. Book accommodation well ahead for those two weeks: the town fills with returning snowbirds and sailing crews.

10. Go on a Private City Tour

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A private city tour should be one of the first things you do upon landing in Ixtapa-Zihuantenjo because it gives you a unique look into the history and all the best sites and attractions for tourists.

Most city tours are organized by a local who knows all the hidden gems in town. They’ll guide you around, so you don’t have to worry about navigation or safety.

This is an excellent private city tour of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. The guide takes you to the best spots in each town.

Some spots include the crocodile reserve outside of Ixtapa, the viewpoint at “Mirador” and “Cerro del Vigia” with panoramic views of the region, and the pier and marketplace in Zihuatanejo.

11. Watch a Turtle Release

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Turtles come onto the beach at Playa Blanca to lay eggs. A local sanctuary collects these eggs, helps them hatch, and ensures they cross the beach upon hatching.

This is the best turtle release experience near Playa Blanca. You are in charge of releasing one baby turtle, and you can watch it enter the ocean.

Doing these activities with a reputable tour company or guide is important, as you don’t want to encourage malpractice with these incredible sea creatures.

12. Swim at Playa La Ropa

Playa La Ropa is Zihuatanejo’s main swimming beach and the one to pick if you only have time for one. It is a long curve of soft sand on the calm side of the bay, with water gentle enough for kids, beach restaurants that rent chairs for the price of lunch, and parasailing and jet ski operators at the north end. The name means “the clothes beach”: a Spanish galleon coming from the Philippines wrecked offshore centuries ago and its cargo of silks washed up here.

From Zihuatanejo centro it is a 20 to 25 minute walk over the hill along the scenic road, or a short taxi ride. Go early if you want a palapa in high season, since the beach clubs fill up by late morning from December through April.

13. Take the Boat Taxi to Playa Las Gatas

Playa Las Gatas sits at the far tip of the bay, and the fun starts with getting there: water taxis leave from the main Zihuatanejo pier from 8 am to 6 pm, take about 10 minutes to cross, and cost around 150 pesos round trip as of 2026. Keep your ticket stub for the ride back.

A rock reef breaks the swell, so the water inside is flat and clear, which makes this the easiest snorkeling spot in the area. You can rent gear on the beach. A row of seafood restaurants lines the sand, and in high season some ask for a minimum consumption to use their chairs, so check before you sit down. Prices here run higher than in town, which is fair enough given everything arrives by boat. The beach takes its name from the whiskered nurse sharks that once lived inside the reef.

14. Surf and Spot Crocodiles at Playa Linda

Playa Linda, a few kilometers north of the Ixtapa hotel zone, packs three different activities into one stop. The beach itself gets the most consistent beginner waves in the area, and local instructors give surf lessons right on the sand. Next to the pier, a mangrove estuary is home to a resident population of crocodiles that you can watch, at a safe distance, from the walkway above. It is a strange sight the first time: full-size crocodiles sunning themselves a two-minute walk from families on the beach.

The Playa Linda pier is also where the boats to Isla Ixtapa depart, so it pairs naturally with a snorkeling day on the island.

15. Visit the Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande

At the east end of the Paseo del Pescador, the small Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande covers the pre-Hispanic history of this stretch of coast, from the first settlements to the arrival of the Spanish, across a handful of rooms of pottery, tools, and maps. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes, entry costs just a few dollars [VERIFY current fee and opening days], and it slots perfectly at the end of a pier walk. Do not expect a big production: it is a modest local museum, but it gives context to names like Xihuacan that you will see elsewhere in this guide.

16. Shop the Mercado Municipal and the Artisans Market

Zihuatanejo’s Mercado Municipal is where the town actually shops: produce, fish straight off the boats, and cooked-food stalls where a full breakfast costs less than a resort coffee. Go in the morning when everything is fresh and the fish section is in full swing. For souvenirs, the artisans market in centro, a few blocks from the beach, has dozens of stalls selling hammocks, silver from Taxco, embroidered clothing, and woodwork. Walk the whole market before you buy anything, since several stalls carry the same pieces and prices drop noticeably away from the entrance.

17: Go Sportfishing or Book a Sunset Sail

Zihuatanejo is one of Mexico’s best-known sportfishing towns, with sailfish, mahi mahi, and tuna caught offshore year-round and an international sailfish tournament held every year. Charters leave from the main pier at dawn; half-day trips are easy to arrange a day or two ahead, either directly at the pier or through your hotel. If fishing is not your thing, the same bay does sunset very well: catamaran and sailboat cruises leave in the late afternoon and put you on the water for the best light of the day.

How to Get to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

The best way to get there is to catch some flights to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Mexico, to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport.

The international airport is about 15 minutes south of Zihuatanejo and 25 minutes south of Ixtapa.

Currently, nine major airlines fly out of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, including all the major airlines like Aeromexico, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Volaris.

You can also take a bus to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo from Acapulco. The bus is about 5 hours each way and runs regularly.

Getting Around Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

🚌 Bus

Local buses run along the main road between Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa all day, roughly every 10 to 15 minutes, and the fare is under 20 pesos. They are slow but reliable, and the route between the two towns is simple enough that you do not need any Spanish to use them

The buses frequently run between the two and even stop at many of the main beaches along the way.

In Ixtapa, you can catch a bus from the main boulevard, where many hotels are located. In Zihua, you can hop on one of the buses from Avenue Morelos.

Peseras are vans that go to suburban areas and nearby towns outside Zihua and Ixtapa. The peseras have a colored strip with the name of the bus route on the outside of the van.

🚕 Taxi

Taxis are the easiest way to move around. As of 2026, expect to pay roughly 55 to 180 pesos ($3 to $10 USD) depending on the route, with the Ixtapa to Zihuatanejo hop at the top of that range. From the airport, official taxis charge around 200 to 300 pesos to Zihuatanejo for up to four passengers. There is no Uber here, so agree on the fare before you get in.

🚙 Car

If you have your car, you’ll have no problems driving around these parts.

There are only a few main roads leading in and out of Zihua and Ixtapa, and there is rarely any traffic.

There’s also plenty of parking in downtown regions, at hotels, or other destinations you’re going to.

The streets are generally safe. You’ll likely see many police and the National Guard driving around and patrolling.

Is It Better to Stay In Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo?

Stay in Zihuatanejo if you want to walk to restaurants, markets, and the beach and feel like you are in a real Mexican town. Stay in Ixtapa if you want a resort with a pool, a swimmable beach at your door, and everything handled for you. Zihuatanejo suits independent travelers and longer stays, Ixtapa suits families and one-week vacations. I break down specific properties for both towns in my guide to the best hotels in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo for every budget.

🏨 Where to Stay in Ixtapa

If you’ve decided to go with the resort vibe of Ixtapa, here are a few different Ixtapa Zihuatanejo hotels for every budget:

🛏 Budget: Casa Loma Flamingos Ixtapa is a great value and features a private pool and a beautiful garden.

🛏 Mid-range: Las Brisas Ixtapa is a beautiful hotel with a large infinity pool overlooking the water.

🛏 Luxury: Barceló Ixtapa is the best of the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo all-inclusive resorts with great amenities and beautiful views.

🏨 Where to Stay in Zihuatanejo

If you’ve decided to go with the more laid-back Mexican town of Zihuatanejo, here are a few Ixtapa Zihuatanejo hotels for every budget:

🛌 Budget: Hotel Casa de la Palma Bed & Breakfast is a simple hotel, centrally located with a small pool and garden.

🛌 Midrange: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Zihuatanejo is located right on Playa Ropa, one of the most central beaches in the area.

🛌 Luxury: Thompson Zihuatanejo is one of the most luxurious Ixtapa Zihuatanejo resorts, with great views and a large infinity pool over the Pacific Ocean.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo?

The best time to visit Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is December to April, the dry season, when days are sunny, humidity is low, and humpback whales pass along the coast between January and March. The rainy season runs June to October with hot, humid days and afternoon storms, but it also brings the lowest hotel prices of the year. November is the sweet spot if you want dry weather before the winter crowds and prices arrive.

The Ixtapa Zihuatanejo weather is much cooler during the winter and spring months. In the summer, it gets hot, humid, and sticky. But the winter months are much more bearable and pleasant.

This is also whale season, so it’s the best time to get on a whale-watching excursion.

Tips for Traveling in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

Traveling in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is pretty easy and safe, but here are a few tips for your trip:

📌 Wear lots of sunscreen

📌 Bring plenty of water with you when you go out for the day

📌 Watch for crocodiles

📌 Avoid swimming in the ocean when the waves are up

📌 Learn a little Spanish if possible

📌 Carry pesos/cash around with you to eat at local spots

📌 Make sure to try the fresh seafood if you’re a fan of seafood

📌 Plan for a more authentic experience

📌 Stay within the tourist areas

📌 Avoid walking around late at night

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Safe to Travel to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Right Now?

Yes, right now, it is safe to travel to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.

However, Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa are in the state of Guerrero. The U.S. Department of State has a travel advisory and places Guerrero at “Level 4 – Do Not Travel”.

That being said, I always felt completely safe within Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa.

There’s a heavy police presence that aims to keep things under control in the tourist zones

Is There a Bus From Ixtapa to Zihuatanejo?

Yes, there are frequent buses between Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.

Why Is Zihuatanejo Famous?

Zihuatanejo became more widespread from the Hollywood film Shawshank Redemption.

One of the characters says, “Zihuatanejo. It’s a little place in Mexico on the Pacific Ocean. Do you know what the Mexicans say about the Pacific? They say it has no memory.”

Zihua is also famous for its incredible marine life, beautiful beaches, and authentic feel.

Is Zihuatanejo Walkable?

Zihuatanejo itself is very walkable. Everything, including beaches, markets, and restaurants, is within a 20-minute walk from everywhere.

It would be best if you stayed closer to the beach and boardwalk, as most activities and experiences are located.

Is Uber Available in Zihuatanejo?

No, Uber does not operate in Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa. Use the local taxis, which are cheap and everywhere: agree on the fare before getting in, and expect to pay 55 to 180 pesos for rides around and between the two towns.

Are There Cartels in Zihuatanejo?

Organized crime is present in Guerrero state, which is the reason for the US travel advisory. The disputes behind the statistics happen away from tourists and almost never involve them, and the hotel zones are heavily policed. It is the reality of the region, and the practical response is the same set of precautions listed in the safety section above.

What Is Ixtapa Best Known For?

Ixtapa is known for being a popular resort destination on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

There are endless miles of beautiful beaches, small islands nearby, and rows of swaying palm trees.

Is Ixtapa Close to Cancun?

No. Ixtapa is on the Pacific coast and Cancun is on the Caribbean coast, on opposite sides of the country, roughly 2,000 km apart by road. There is no practical way to combine them in one short trip except by flying, usually with a connection in Mexico City.

Are the Beaches in Ixtapa Swimmable?

Yes, the beaches in Ixtapa are swimmable. Sometimes, the currents get strong or the waves get big, so watching the conditions is a good idea.

Final Thoughts: Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo are two beautiful towns on the west coast of Mexico, right on the Pacific Ocean. While these two towns are often bundled together, they offer different experiences.

Zihua is known as a more local, authentic experience. At the same time, Ixtapa consists more of luxury resorts and caters to tourists.

However, you should explore each area, as there’s so much to do and see around this area.

Hopefully, this complete Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo guide will help you navigate your way around to see the best of Guerrero!