Things to do in Ixtapa

Activities, attractions and tours

Boat at Playa las Gatas in Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico.; Shutterstock ID 144512618
Boat at Playa las Gatas in Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico.; Shutterstock ID 144512618
El Palmar Beach which includes general coastal views, a luxury hotel or resort and a sandy beach
360 Aerial view of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo beach, Costa Grande of Guerrero. Coastal landscape with hotels and crystal clear sea. Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico.
A picture of La Ropa beach at Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, mexico - 2 may 2023
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Top places to visit

1. El Palmar Beach

Ixtapa’s famous El Palmar Beach is a picture-perfect mix of seemingly endless yellow sand, clear blue water and luxury resorts. Head to El Palmar Beach to play on the sand, skim across the waves on a Jet Ski or enjoy a massage from a trained masseuse. If the crowds on the beach become too much, escape to the condos, resorts and restaurants that line the sand.
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El Palmar Beach featuring a sunset, a beach and general coastal views

2. Linda Beach

Playa Linda is a picturesque slice of Mexico’s southern coast. From the moment you arrive at this coconut palm-lined beach, you’ll be swept away by its allure. Young local families play in the sand, old men drink beer under the straw canopies of beach huts and white horses gallop in the shallow water. Cycle along the waterfront trail, visit the crocodile pit to see reptiles or board the local ferry to reach Ixtapa Island.
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Linda Beach which includes landscape views and a sandy beach

3. Marina Ixtapa

Visit Marina Ixtapa and spend some time admiring the mix of catamarans, sailboats and yachts. Stroll around the wooden boardwalks and watch as boats arrive via an estuary of sparkling turquoise water. Enjoy views of the surrounding green hills and check out the modern lighthouse. Marina Ixtapa probably won’t take up too much of your time but it’s a good starting point for discovering Ixtapa’s natural and sporting attractions.
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Marina Ixtapa showing a marina and a sunset

4. Ixtapa Island

Venture to Ixtapa Island, off Mexico’s majestic south coast, for a day of snorkeling, kayaking and sightseeing. With its sheltered bays and coves, the island is a popular place for those seeking a quieter beach experience. Join a guided boat tour or rent a panga, a small motorized boat and make your way to the island. Follow scenic hiking trails, swim with dolphins and snorkel in clear waters.
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Ixtapa Island showing a beach

5. Quieta Beach

Quieta Beach is a tranquil, sun-drenched cove with scenic views of Ixtapa Island and gentle surf. As its name suggest, it attracts a quieter crowd than the beaches surrounding it. Head to Quieta Beach to eat local seafood on the beach, relax with a massage and enjoy some of the safest swimming conditions in the Ixtapa area.
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Quieta Beach featuring a sandy beach, sailing and general coastal views

What to do in Ixtapa

Popular places to visit

Havana beaches

Varadero Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Varadero Beach during your travels in Ixtapa? Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.

Varadero Beach
El Palmar Beach which includes a sunset, a luxury hotel or resort and a beach

El Palmar Beach

Swim, Jet Ski and dance barefoot at one of the most popular beaches in Ixtapa, which was once the site of a mango and coconut plantation.

El Palmar Beach
Linda Beach showing general coastal views and a sandy beach as well as a couple

Linda Beach

This beach is a favorite among locals and is the perfect spot to take long walks, watch beautiful sunsets and relax with a cold beer.

Linda Beach
Marina Ixtapa showing a marina and a sunset

Marina Ixtapa

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This laidback marina filled with luxury water craft is a gateway to the beaches, golf courses and islands of Ixtapa.

Marina Ixtapa
Ixtapa Island showing a beach

Ixtapa Island

Take a boat to this small tropical island to experience peace and quiet, enjoy sweeping coastal views and take scenic hikes.

Ixtapa Island
Quieta Beach featuring a sandy beach, sailing and general coastal views

Quieta Beach

Head to this quiet stretch of coast for a family-friendly day on the beach. Try local delicacies, swim in the shallow water and enjoy a relaxing massage.

Quieta Beach

Coral Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Coral Beach during your travels in Ixtapa? Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.

Coral Beach

Cocodrilario

Explore the great outdoors at Cocodrilario and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to Ixtapa. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Cocodrilario

Magic World Aquatic Park

Bring the children to Magic World Aquatic Park and enjoy some excitement at this theme park in Ixtapa. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area.

Magic World Aquatic Park

Areas of Ixtapa

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Villas Alondras

When in Villas Alondras, you can plan a visit to El Palmar Beach and Marina Ixtapa, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Villas Alondras

Frequently asked questions

Is Ixtapa worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are loads of great things to do in Ixtapa. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of unmissable sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Ixtapa?
After you've visited major attractions like La Ropa Beach and Varadero Beach, spend some time exploring Ixtapa's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ixtapa?
The top tourist attraction in Ixtapa is La Ropa Beach, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Ixtapa?
Three days in Ixtapa is more than enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many travellers book for four days on average. La Ropa Beach, Varadero Beach and Las Gatas Beach are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Ixtapa - Zihuatanejo.
Is Ixtapa a walkable city?
That depends on what you want to do and see in Ixtapa. Several key sights, like El Palmar Beach and Quieta Beach, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Ixtapa's best neighbourhoods, Almacen is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while Lázaro Cárdenas is 5 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Ixtapa with kids?
If you're looking for attractions and activities for all the family, have a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Ixtapa with kids.

What to do in Ixtapa for adults?
Fisherman's Walk is one of the best things to do in Ixtapa. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Ixtapa?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Ixtapa is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. La Ropa Beach is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.