We ventured to Zihuantanejo for our honeymoon for the first week of June and I have to say it was the perfect destination for relaxing. Chris had been wanting to visit because it is known for being a sleepy surfing beach town which if you know us we prefer to explore smaller towns. We also learned that we went during a low season as their busy season is from October to April when they get their American and Canadian tourist and July to August they get the local tourism from Mexicans who are on summer break. We personally enjoyed this as it didn’t feel overcrowded or busy but I will say that because of this some small local businesses we would stumble upon would be closed when we were there since it was off season but it was very few- still wanted to note.
About Zihuantanejo
Nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo is a charming fishing village that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and relaxing vibes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind, Zihuatanejo has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top things to do while visiting this picturesque paradise and also a few thing we did that we recommend when you visit.
1. Relax on the Beaches
Zihuatanejo boasts several beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm. Here are some must-visit spots:
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Playa La Ropa: Known for its soft, white sand and calm waters, Playa La Ropa is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. You can rent paddleboards or kayaks, or just relax under a palapa with a refreshing drink.
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Playa Las Gatas: Accessible by boat or a scenic walk from Playa La Ropa, Playa Las Gatas is a secluded beach ideal for snorkeling. The coral reef close to the shore is home to a variety of colorful marine life.
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Playa Madera: A favorite among locals and visitors, Playa Madera is a great spot for swimming and enjoying beautiful sunsets. There are plenty of beachfront restaurants where you can savor local seafood dishes.
We stayed at the Thompson hotel which is located on La Ropa and we did a day trip to Las Gats which was a lot of fun. From both I would say the beach where our hotel was located was pretty calm and not many people were on it making it very relaxing.
2. Find Local Fruit
One thing we learned was that there are local coconut farms and a lot of fresh fruit in the summer time. We also checked out the Coconut museum in town but always recommend Mexico’s fruit if you’re there in the peak of the season. We ate fresh fruit every morning and it was incredible!
3. Explore the Town Center
Take a leisurely stroll through El Centro, Zihuatanejo’s downtown area, where you’ll find a mix of traditional Mexican architecture, vibrant markets, and charming shops. The Mercado Municipal is a must-visit for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and authentic local cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to try some tacos al pastor or tamales.
*Photo above taken at the Thompson
4. Snorkeling and Diving
Zihuatanejo’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Several local operators offer tours to popular spots like Manzanillo Bay and the nearby Ixtapa Island. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll be amazed by the underwater beauty.
5. Fishing Excursions
Known for its rich fishing grounds, Zihuatanejo offers excellent opportunities for sport fishing. Book a fishing charter and try your luck catching sailfish, marlin, or dorado. Many local captains are happy to share their knowledge and provide an unforgettable experience on the open sea. We did a private excursion which included snorkeling, fishing and taking some of our catch to a local restaurant in which it was cooked up for us and them we paid for the cooking fee.
6. Take a Surfing Lesson
This was on Chris’s bucket list and we are fortunate that the hotel we were staying at helped us organize this with a local. For this we were picked up and taken to different beach where the waves good in the early morning, Chris surfed and we where home by lunch time.
7. Visit the Coconut Museum
The Museum of Coconuts is a small and delightful attraction run by a local family. It provides an intriguing look at the significance of coconuts in the region’s culture and economy. With informative exhibits and engaging displays, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for this versatile fruit. It is a little outside of the town so you will need to take public transit or get a taxi.
8. Indulge in Local Cuisine
Zihuatanejo is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide array of culinary delights. Be sure to try ceviche, pescado a la talla (grilled fish with chili sauce), and pozole (a traditional soup). There are plenty of beachfront restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view, as well as hidden gems in the town offering authentic Mexican flavors. Our all time Favorite dish that we discovered was called tiritas, which is ceviche but the fish is cut into little strips and can be slightly stretched, it truly was very refreshing to eat almost every day! Our favorite spot for these is El Manglar and they have iguana just chilling at the restaurant off to the side, very fun to see.
We also enjoyed eating at ESPUMA for their great views.
9. Take a Day Trip to Ixtapa
Just a short drive from Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa offers a more modern and upscale experience. Spend a day exploring the luxury resorts, playing golf, or visiting the Ixtapa Ecological Park. The contrast between Zihuatanejo’s traditional charm and Ixtapa’s modern amenities provides a well-rounded experience.
10. Day Pass at Thompson Hotel
We have nothing but good things to say about our stay at the Thompson. They have 2 restaurants, a pool with service and palapas with service as well. While we were here we learned that if you aren’t staying at the hotel you can buy a day pass to use their amenities.
Other ideas:
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Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande
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Experience the Nightlife
*NOTE: One thing we figured out very quickly is that it is good to have cash on hand as some local restaurants might not take card (always ask before ordering) and you will need it at the markets and as tips if you are doing excursions or taking taxis around town.
Zihuatanejo is a destination with an authentic charm and diverse attractions. Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, exploring cultural sites, or indulging in local cuisine, this coastal gem offers a memorable experience that will leave you longing to return. Embrace the relaxed pace, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create unforgettable memories in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero.
