Things to Do in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Things to Do in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Jonrawlinson: Flickr.com

Sitting in before the Pacific Ocean and within the shadows of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo bestow a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities awaiting discovery. Although these town amd beach side communities are neighbors, they could not be more different in disposition. Built as a resort destination, Ixtapa features luxurious hotels and an active nightlife while Zihuatanejo maintains old-fashioned charm of traditional Mexican culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can take in the cool ocean breezes from the Pacific Ocean while experiencing a wealth of recreational opportunities that towns offer.

Surfing Mexico's Pacific Coast

Featuring miles of shoreline, both Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo offer surfing beaches for surfers of all ability levels. Presenting a several surf camps and shops, first-time surfers can schedule a surf lesson or spend a week learning the art of wave riding. Local and traveling surfers can be found catching waves at Playa Madera and Las Gatas almost every day More secluded surf spots are located north of Zihuantanejo at Playa Linda and Troncones.

Explore Isla Ixtapa

Often referred to as "Gilligan's Island" by travelers, Isla Ixtapa is a primitive island without running water or electricity. Strictly a daytime excursion, the calm waters of this picturesque island are ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing and hiking. Adventurous explorers may enjoy a sunset hike up to Playa Carey, the most secluded beach on the island, to a small lighthouse that boasts the most panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Swimming With Dolphins

Located on the shoreline of Ixtapa, Delfiniti provides guests with an opportunity to swim with the dolphins. Offering five programs, family members of all ages can come face-to-face with the ocean's most graceful and intelligent mammals. This experience is open for visitors year-round.

Delfiniti
Lote Anexo 6B, Zona Hotelera # 1
Ixtapa - Zihuatanejo, Guerrero México, C.P. 40880
+52 (755) 553-2736

Snorkeling at Playa Las Gatas

Playa Las Gatas is one of the most secluded and rugged beaches in Zihuantanejo. Located on the south end of the Punta El Faro headland, the calm waters of Playa Las Gatas are reachable only by boat from the town pier or rock hopping along the shoreline. A popular area for snorkeling and scuba diving, the shoreline of this beach is alive with colorful fish and docile bottom dwelling nurse sharks.

Resources

Article Written By Patricia Poulin

Patricia Poulin is a freelance writer based out of the western slope of Colorado. Poulin's travels and insight have chronicled in print media resources, such as "Inside Outside" and "Breathe" magazine. She is also a regular contributor for other various publications including "USA Today." Poulin holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

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