MileHacker Logo
Famous Landmarks in Ixtapa

Famous Landmarks in Ixtapa

Ixtapa Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

Playa El Palmar (Ixtapa) fronts the Ixtapa Hotel Zone. Marina Ixtapa features yachts, shops, and restaurants, a departure point for charters. Isla Ixtapa has coves with clear waters for snorkeling and beachfront palapa restaurants.

Zihuatanejo Malecon, a boardwalk, features restaurants and shops with bay views. Playa La Ropa, a beautiful beach, offers calm, swimmable waters. Zihuatanejo Municipal Market is a bustling local market for fresh goods.

Visitor Information

  • Beaches: Open access, no fees apply.
  • Isla Ixtapa: Access by small boat from Playa Linda (5-10 USD round trip). Snorkeling gear rentals available on the island.
  • Marina Ixtapa, Malecon, Market: Open access during daylight. The market typically operates from early morning until late afternoon.
  • Insider Tip: Visit Isla Ixtapa early for fewer crowds. Malecon is best for photos at sunrise/sunset. Playa La Ropa offers spectacular sunset views.

Attraction Details

Ixtapa Highlights

  • Playa El Palmar: Main beach, resort activities hub.
  • Marina Ixtapa: Modern complex, shops, restaurants, charters.
  • Isla Ixtapa: Small island, calm waters, snorkeling coves.
  • Playa Linda: Departure point for Isla Ixtapa.
  • Beachfront Restaurants: On Isla Ixtapa, serving fresh seafood.
  • Cocodrilario: Crocodile sanctuary at Playa Linda.

Zihuatanejo Highlights

  • Malecon: Charming boardwalk, bay views.
  • Playa La Ropa: Beautiful, swimmable, beachfront dining.
  • Playa Madera: Quieter, between downtown and La Ropa.
  • Municipal Market: Bustling local market.

Less crowded times: Weekdays, especially mornings, are generally less crowded than weekends. Explore side streets and hills for panoramic views.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande (Zihuatanejo): Small, informative museum on the Malecon. Showcases pre-Hispanic artifacts from the Costa Grande region, focusing on local history.
  • Art Galleries: Several small art galleries and artisan shops exist in downtown Zihuatanejo, especially near the Malecon, featuring local and regional artists.
  • Casa de la Cultura (Zihuatanejo): Occasionally hosts local art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural performances.
  • Special Exhibits: Programs are generally small-scale and locally focused. Inquire upon arrival for current offerings.

Historical Context

  • Archaeological Sites:

    No major, excavated archaeological ruins are open to the public directly in Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo. The museum displays artifacts.

  • Historical Districts:

    Downtown Zihuatanejo is the most historically significant area, retaining traditional fishing village charm with older buildings and a central plaza.

  • Religious Sites:

    Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish) is the main church in Zihuatanejo, a simple but charming structure.

  • Memorials:

    Limited specific memorial sites for tourists.

  • Industrial Heritage:

    Not relevant to the tourism focus.

Natural Attractions

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo feature beautiful natural landscapes.

Natural Features

  • Parks & Gardens:

    Ixtapa Cycle Path (Ciclovía): Winds through a natural reserve area, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna. A linear park experience.

  • Scenic Viewpoints:

    Mirador de la Noria (Zihuatanejo): Offers panoramic views of Zihuatanejo Bay. Cerro del Vigía: Provides higher views of Zihuatanejo.

  • Beaches & Waterways:

    Ixtapa Beaches: Playa El Palmar (main resort beach), Playa Linda. Zihuatanejo Beaches: Playa La Ropa (calm, popular), Playa Madera (smaller, quieter), Playa Las Gatas (sheltered, good snorkeling).

  • Wildlife Viewing Areas:

    Cocodrilario (Crocodile Sanctuary) at Playa Linda: Observe crocodiles and iguanas in their natural habitat. Birdwatching: Lagoon systems (e.g., Barra de Potosí) excel for migratory species.

  • Whale Watching:

    Humpback whales are common in the bay from mid-December to late March. Tours are available from the Zihuatanejo pier or Marina Ixtapa.

  • Lagoon Systems:

    Laguna de Ixtapa (behind the Hotel Zone): A natural lagoon, home to various bird species. Barra de Potosí Lagoon: A significant wetland south of Zihuatanejo, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.

Parks & Viewpoints

Ixtapa Cycle Path offers natural reserve glimpses. Mirador de la Noria and Cerro del Vigía present panoramic bay views.

Wildlife Viewing

Cocodrilario at Playa Linda features crocodiles. Lagoons are great for birdwatching. Whale watching tours are available in season.

Beaches & Waterways

Enjoy Playa El Palmar, La Ropa, Madera, and Las Gatas. Laguna de Ixtapa and Barra de Potosí Lagoon are ideal for birdwatching and kayaking.

Beach Experiences

The Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo coastline features diverse beaches, each offering an unique experience for relaxation, swimming, and exploration.

  • Playa El Palmar (Ixtapa): Main resort beach, wide and sandy, the central hub for Ixtapa's beach activities.
  • Playa La Ropa (Zihuatanejo): Sheltered bay, calm, swimmable waters, popular for its relaxed atmosphere and beachfront dining.
  • Playa Las Gatas (Zihuatanejo): Sheltered, good for snorkeling due to a natural breakwater, accessible by water taxi.

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the main tourist areas to discover local favorites.

Tranquil Coastal Villages

Discover peaceful spots away from the main resort areas, offering unique insights into local life and natural beauty.

Villages to Explore

  • Barra de Potosí: A tranquil fishing village south of Zihuatanejo, known for its lagoon system (kayaking, birdwatching) and rustic seafood restaurants.
  • Troncones & Majahua: North of Ixtapa, these relaxed, bohemian beach towns are popular with surfers and those seeking a quieter, natural experience.
  • La Saladita: Near Troncones, gaining recognition as a top longboard surfing destination for its long, mellow left-hand wave.

Authentic Local Experiences

Engage with the community and discover less-traveled spots for a cultural connection.

Connect with the Culture

  • Local Markets in Zihuatanejo: Interact with vendors and observe daily life away from tourist crowds.
  • Viewpoints: The Mirador de la Noria or Cerro del Vigían offer unique photo opportunities with panoramic vistas of Zihuatanejo Bay.
  • Zihuatanejo Pier at Sunset: Offers an iconic view of fishing boats silhouetted against the setting sun.

Natural Wonders

Explore the region's parks and natural reserves for tranquil moments and wildlife observation.

Green Spaces

  • Ixtapa Cycle Path: Winds through a natural reserve, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna.
  • Mirador de la Noria & Cerro del Vigía: Viewpoints with panoramic views of Zihuatanejo Bay and the town below.
  • Cocodrilario: Sanctuary at Playa Linda for observing crocodiles and iguanas in their natural habitat.
  • Birdwatching: Excellent in the Barra de Potosí lagoon system for migratory species during winter months.

Local Craft Scene

Discover unique, locally made crafts that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the region, perfect for gifts or keepsakes.

Artisan Finds

  • Hand-painted pottery: Distinctive designs and colors.
  • Wooden carvings: Often from Olinalá, showing local artistry.
  • Silver jewelry: Unique local designs and craftsmanship.

Practical Shopping Advice

Bargaining & Ethical Shopping

  • Bargaining is common in markets. Do so respectfully and with a friendly demeanor for the best experience.
  • Support local artisans and businesses directly to ensure your money benefits the community.
  • Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species, like sea turtle shells or coral, as these are illegal.

Shipping & Customs

  • Shipping: You can ship large purchases via international couriers like DHL or FedEx, with offices available in Zihuatanejo.
  • Customs: Be aware of your home country's customs regulations regarding what you can bring back (e.g., limits on alcohol, tobacco, or food items).
  • Declaration: Declaration of purchases is required upon re-entry to your home country.

Other Experiences

Explore the local culture and find unique items.

Cultural Insights

Engage with local traditions and find handmade treasures.

Artisan Crafts

  • Artisan Shops: Independent studios in Zihuatanejo offer pottery, textiles, and local art, often sold directly by the artist.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Hand-painted pottery, wooden carvings, woven textiles, silver jewelry.
  • Ethical Shopping: Support local artisans and businesses. Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species.

Foodie Finds

Discover local flavors and specialty food items to take home.

Local Delicacies

  • Local Coffee: From nearby Guerrero coffee regions, offering a distinct flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Look for pure Mexican vanilla, a popular souvenir.
  • Dried Chilies: Various local chilies for culinary enthusiasts.

Market Immersion

The Zihuatanejo Municipal Market is a must-visit for an authentic local experience, offering fresh produce, meats, fish, and spices.

Market Treasures

  • Fresh Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables.
  • Seafood: Fresh catches daily.
  • Local Cheeses: Artisan varieties.

Engage with vendors and observe local life away from tourist crowds.

Beachside Fun

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Zihuatanejo's beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls.

Favorite Beaches

  • Playa La Ropa: Calm waters, excellent for swimming and beachfront dining.
  • Playa Madera: Quieter, scenic, walkable from downtown.

These beaches offer a tranquil escape with beautiful scenery.

Artisan Crafts

Discover unique, locally made crafts that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the region, perfect for gifts or keepsakes.

Crafts to Look For

  • Hand-painted pottery: Distinctive designs.
  • Wooden carvings: Often from Olinalá.
  • Silver jewelry: Unique local designs.

Support local artists by purchasing directly from their studios or markets.

Practical Shopping Advice

Bargaining

Bargaining is common in markets. Do so respectfully and with a friendly demeanor for the best experience.

Shipping

Ship large purchases via international couriers like DHL or FedEx, with offices available in Zihuatanejo.

Customs

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for what you can bring back (e.g., limits on alcohol). Declaration of purchases applies.

Ethical Shopping Reminders

Always support local artisans directly to ensure your money benefits the community. Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species, like sea turtle shells or coral, as these are illegal.
← Previous
Best Restaurants in Ixtapa
← Back to Ixtapa
Next →
Things to Do in Ixtapa

Next Up: Things to Do in Ixtapa. Activities, Experiences, Adventures

Continue to Things to Do in Ixtapa