Zihuatanejo all inclusive is a beautiful beach destination that has great hotels, mercados, restaurants and beautiful beaches. During your stay check out the local talent that takes place in the town plaza every Sunday night.
Just a hop, skip and jump away from each other on the Pacific coast of Mexico, Ixtapa offers modern luxury and all-inclusive resorts while sleepy fishing village Zihuatanejo keeps its irresistible small-town feel.
1. Xihuacan Museum and Archaeological Site
The Xihuacan Museum and Archaeological Site may not be as massive as Mexico City’s famous Teotihuacan or Chichen Itza, but it’s still an impressive archaeological site. Tours include a walk around the excavation area and access to the onsite museum. Small-group and private tours are available, with some including lunch.
Zihuatanejo’s natural bay protects the beachfront from big waves, making for a calm ocean with miles of soft white sand. It also shelters outstanding seafood restaurants that are among the best things to do in Zihuatanejo.
A stroll along the bay is one of the top activities in Zihuatanejo, especially at sunset. A visit to a local fish market is also a must, where you can sample dozens of types of freshly caught seafood. Brush up on your Spanish before visiting Zihuatanejo, as most locals don’t speak much English. You can use apps like Duolingo to practice ahead of time.
2. Downtown Zihuatanejo
As a laid back alternative to the glitzy Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo is all about the beach. Its protected bay is lined with beautiful beaches, and its coast is pocketed with magical inlets and coves.
Zihuatanejo is a great choice for culturally-minded travelers who want to experience “real” Mexico without being far from the conveniences of a big city like Acapulco. It’s also ideal for families because it has a more relaxed atmosphere than other Mexican resort towns.
Downtown Zihuatanejo has charming streets, a lively local market, and a variety of restaurants. One of the best things to do is take a stroll down the Paseo del Pescador, or Fisherman’s Walk, at sunset.
You can also explore the quieter neighborhood of La Madera, which has nice hotels and great seaside dining. It’s a good idea to rent a car in Zihuatanejo, especially if you plan on visiting Playa la Ropa and Playa los Gatos. It’s worth the extra expense to have access to these secluded beaches that are a short drive from downtown.
3. La Ropa Beach
Zihuatanejo’s La Ropa Beach has a laid-back vibe that makes it a popular spot for families. Visitors can enjoy the warm waters and white sand beaches, while also checking out the local mercados and dining on fresh seafood.
Located on the western edge of Guerrero State, Zihuatanejo is a quaint beach town that still retains its roots as an active fishing village. It’s a place where the locals are welcoming to tourists, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and follow general Mexico travel safety tips.
The Hotel Catalina Beach Resort was one of the first hotels to pop up on Playa La Ropa, and it continues to offer guests a relaxing stay with its lovely infinity pool and beachside palapas. Rooms at this hotel are spread out across several different levels, so there is ample open space to unwind in the sun or by the water. The hotel’s Sunset Bar can get busy during the evening, but offers some of the best panoramic views in the area.
4. La Madera Beach
Located close to the beach, this all-inclusive property is a short drive from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport and provides a full-service spa, 5 restaurants, and an outdoor pool. It also offers free perks like self parking and WiFi in public areas. The hotel is also equipped with a children’s club, mini golf, and a spa.
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, check out the Pacifica Grand Zihuatanejo Resort & Spa, which is just outside Downtown. It has a swanky restaurant that’s perfect for a romantic meal before watching the sunset over the bay.
Locals in Zihuatanejo are friendly and welcoming, but it’s still best to follow general travel safety measures when visiting any part of Mexico. You’ll see a lot of children, and you may hear locals call each other zanca or zancas, which loosely translates to “dude” or “bro”. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and always use caution when walking alone in the city center.
