Things To Do
in Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo sits on Mexico's Pacific coast where a traditional fishing village meets a laid-back beach town. Its twin-assets are the working harbor and the palm-fringed bays of Playa La Ropa and Playa Las Gatas, connected by a scenic promenade. The town exudes a relaxed vibe, colorful markets, and fresh seafood grills along the waterfront.
Visitors enjoy boat trips, sunsets, and easy access to nearby coves and nature trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zihuatanejo and check into your beachfront accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along La Ropa beach, feeling the soft sands between your toes and the warm sun kissing your skin. Grab a refreshing coconut drink from a local vendor to start your vacation on a relaxing note.
After soaking up the sun, enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the oceanfront restaurants, savoring fresh ceviche and grilled fish. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or swimming in the azure waters, where the gentle waves create a paradise for relaxation. For the more adventurous, consider trying paddleboarding or kayaking along the coast.
As the sun sets, marvel at the stunning colors painting the sky while you enjoy dinner at a local taqueria. Embrace the lively atmosphere of Zihuatanejo’s beachfront as you sip on a margarita and listen to the sound of waves lapping against the shore. End the evening with a peaceful walk under the stars, taking in the charm of this coastal town.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. Visit the art galleries around town to appreciate the vibrant local craftsmanship and meet the artists behind the work. Spend some time exploring the Zihuatanejo market, where you can find handicrafts and fresh produce.
After a morning of culture, indulge in lunch at a charming restaurant in the town square, sampling regional delicacies. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Museo Arqueológico to learn about the area's rich history and archaeological finds. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, observing local life and stopping for ice cream along the way.
For dinner, treat yourself to a dining experience at a high-end restaurant with views of the bay. Savor a gourmet meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients as you watch the sunset over the ocean. Wrap up your night by attending a local cultural event or live music performance in town for an authentic experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Local souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and fishing heritage
- Relaxed, friendly local vibe
- Excellent seafood and fresh produce
- Good value for accommodation and meals
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger resort towns
- Some areas can be crowded with day-trippers
- Occasional taxi delays and traffic near peak times
- Smaller choice of upscale dining compared to Ixtapa
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Qué recomienda?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Zihuatanejo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse with dramatic coastlines, perfect at sunrise for sweeping seascapes.
Coastal views of Las Gatas Bay, ideal for golden hour photography with boats and palm trees.
Colorful boats, market stalls and local life along the waterfront.
Vibrant stalls with peppers, textiles and fish; dynamic street photography opportunities.
Silhouetted palm trees and calm sea, a classic beachscape.
Food in Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated with chiles and spices, a Guerrero classic often prepared at beachside grills.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro and chilies.
A hearty hominy soup from Guerrero with pork and toppings.
Crispy tortillas topped with shrimp, octopus or mixed seafood and bright salsas.
Spicy lime and chili marinated shrimp with cucumber and onion.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful stalls offering seafood, produce, prepared foods and regional snacks.
Casual beachfront vendors serving ceviche, tostadas and grilled fish with sea breeze views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a friendly hug/kiss on the cheek among friends; greet with a warm 'hola'.
Casual but neat clothing in town; beachwear is fine at beaches but not in town streets.
Polite bargaining at markets is common, but always be respectful and smile.
Safety
Tipping in Zihuatanejo
Ensure a smooth experience
15-20% at restaurants if service charge isn’t included; porters and tour guides appreciate a tip.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take cards; small vendors and markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
High humidity and warm days with frequent afternoon showers; bring lightweight clothing, sun protection and a light rain jacket; occasional tropical storms possible.
Pleasant, dry season with sunny days and cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Milder crowds and comfortable temperatures with occasional warm rain; great for avoiding peak season.
Zihuatanejo at Night
Hiking in Zihuatanejo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hillside offering panoramic views over Zihuatanejo Bay; a relatively easy hike with a rewarding sunset view.
A scenic coastal trail connecting the town to quieter beaches with jungle and sea views.
Airports
How to reach Zihuatanejo by plane.
Primary gateway to Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa with regular domestic and limited international flights; easy taxi or shuttle to town.
Major international hub; many travelers fly here then take a domestic flight to ZIH; serves as a wide connection option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding residents maintaining traditional crafts and seafood-based livelihoods.
Parents, couples and retirees drawn to beaches and a relaxed pace.
Busy weekends and holidays bring regional travelers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on nearby beaches with gentle to moderate waves; surf schools operate seasonally.
Deep-sea fishing charters are common, targeting marlin, dorado and tuna.
Mild currents and rocky reefs around Las Gatas and La Ropa provide good snorkeling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zihuatanejo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most markets offer fresh produce and vegetarian staples; look for beans, rice, quesadillas and veggie options at casual eateries; ask for no mayo or fish stock in sauces.