Zihuatanejo: Unwinding in Paradise

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Trevor Stevenson
Curated By

Trevor Stevenson

  • Mexico

  • Beaches

  • Food & Wine

  • Entertainment

  • Romantic

  • Bucket List

Boats on the water with a forest-covered hill in the distance
Curator’s statement

Zihuatanejo's magic lies in its small-town charm. Relaxing on pristine beaches like playa la Ropa, savoring delicious seafood, tacos, ceviche and soaking up the warm sunshine. It's the perfect place to swim, unwind and indulge. The people, the music, the culture all shines in this small beach town.

The Fora Difference

Book with Trevor to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Zihuatanejo

Unlock perks by contacting Trevor to book your trip.

Things to do in Zihuatanejo

A sunset over an outside swimming pool surrounded by silhouettes of palm trees
  1. Head to the Marina downtown and take a panga boat to Las gatas beach. Enjoy a day of beach bars, snorkeling and swimming. It's best to go around 9-10 am to get the best seats on the beach.

  2. Relax at the spa at The Thompson hotel for a massage and facial. The 90-minute Swedish massage is one of the best.

  3. Sunset catamaran on the Picante with food, drinks, music and wonderful sunsets.

  4. Walk the Malecón boardwalk and check out the local artisan shops great for souvenirs.

  5. Take the short drive to the neighboring town of Ixtapa, with great food, entertainment and even a casino.

  6. Parasailing in the bay to get an aerial view of the Zihuatanejo bay, town and beaches. There are multiple vendors on the beach.

  7. Take a whale-watching boat tour during the season where they play in the bay (December through April).

  8. Take a day trip to go fishing. Zihuatanejo is a fishing village, so there are plenty of fish in the sea.

  9. Pickle-ball at the new courts at La Cocina pickleball. Great way to start the morning. Adrian, the owner, is super helpful and supplies your gear.

Advisor - Trevor Stevenson

A note from Trevor

Take the ferry boats to Isla Ixtapa about a 30 minute drive from zihuatanejo. 3 amazing beaches on 1 island with restaurants snorkeling and shops. Best snorkeling in the area and nicest sand

Places to eat & drink in Zihuatanejo

Chopped seafood in a bowl on a plate next to fritters.
  1. La Perla - Causal beachside dining with Mexican cuisine and seafood. Good for lunch and dinner. The shrimp tacos were amazing

  2. La Gaviota - Great dinner spot for beautiful sunset views with amazing seafood. Try the ceviche, it’s to die for.

  3. Umma Cafe - Small cafe with local coffee. A great place to stop for coffee before the beach.

  4. Triton - Beachside Mexican dining with great mango margaritas.

  5. Restaurantes Mexicanos Any- Right in the heart of downtown, authentic Mexican food with handmade tortillas and amazing, bright and beautiful decor.

  6. Hao at the Thompson Hotel - We had breakfast here every morning. From the chilaquiles to avocado toast, all was made to perfection. Their dinner service also offers a few themed nights like paella and taco night. A little more pricey than most others, but well worth it.

  7. Restauant Garrobos - The grilled fish here for lunch is amazing. If you go out fishing and bring your catch, their chef will also cook it up for you.

  8. Pizza Locas - Wood-fired amazing pizza. We had the Hawai'ian pizza and it was great.

Advisor - Trevor Stevenson

Travel Advisor

Trevor Stevenson

Get in touch with Trevor

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can expect a response from Trevor within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Mexico. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Lisa Roah's guide, 5 Night Coastal Getaway to Zihuatanejo, Mexico.

We use cookies to enhance the user experience. Read our Privacy Policy here.