One day in Zihuatanejo, an authentic gem on Mexico's Costa Grande

Read about tips for a quick trip to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico a pueblo mágico in one of Mexico's most authentic resort towns. 

Situated in the northern coastline of the state of Guerrero, Zihuatanejo or "Zihua" for short, is much lesser known than Acapulco, but today it reigns supreme for safety and tourism since Acapulco has had many problems in the last few decades. With an easy and accessible airport, a lovely climate year around, and amazing waves all up and down the coastline, you can probably figure out why I really love the Zihuatanejo area.  

If you’re a backpacker, I definitely recommend visiting Zihuatanejo (a small, walkable colonial center) and not so much Ixtapa, its next door neighbor that is mostly beach resorts.

GETTING HERE

Probably part of the charm of this area is that it’s hard to get to. Potentially the closest place on your itinerary would be Morelia Michoacan, and that state is also less visited. That being said, Zihuatanejo is just a short flight or overnight bus from major cities in Mexico like Guadalajara or CDMX. The road is not the safest, so I would only go for the second option if you are confident on public transit and speak Spanish.

THINGS TO DO

See the centro. Plan a few hours to roam around the colonial center of the city, about 4 city blocks that are full of markets, commerce, and pretty orange walkways that make this feel like an authentic place.

If you are looking for affordable local cuisine, grab a quesadilla, taco, or ceviche at the main mercado.

If you want to get some souvenirs or buy a pretty artisanal blouse or jewelrey, explore the artisan market. 

Cool off at a restaurant or café just a couple blocks from the beach in this colonial quarter, which also comes alive at night! Most weekend evenings, there is some kind of cultural programming or local concert in the amphitheater that’s on the beach, it is definitely the place to be! I watched the high school’s compete in a dance competition and it was a super authentic way to experience the area.

Soon, you can visit the archaeological museum which should be full of amazing history and pieces from the Mesoamerican and Afromexican populations that reside here, but in 2024 it was still under construction.

Thanksgiving meal with my mom!

Stroll the malecon all the way to Playa La Ropa and the Parthenon.

This walking path has sculptures, tidepools, and pretty views of the bay, as well as being lined by beachfront restaurants when you want to stop for a drink or snack.

Playa Las Gatas:

This is one of the most popular excursions for daytrippers to Zihuatanejo, as it is a beautiful secluded beach that can only be accessed by boat for 100 pesos, about $5 USD! While I have not yet been, it is one of the top things to do in the city.

Go for a bike ride.

With dozens of kilometers of paved bike lanes spanning from Zihuatanejo to next door Ixtapa, this is probably one of the best ways to see the area and take in the natural beauty and hills that surround the cityscape. Visit a local bike shop to see options for a day rental.

WHERE TO STAY

I suggest booking something affordable on Airbnb or using Booking.com. I stayed in a cheap room a few blocks from the beach for about 30 USD a night but the A/C was broken and I almost passed out, so not recommending that lol...

DAYTRIPS NEARBY

Visit a surf town.

Troncones and La Saladita have the most infrastructure, but there are even more hidden beaches between the Guerrero coastline and state of Michoacan. depending on how much you look.

Go see the crocodiles.

Playa Linda in Ixtapa is known for surfing and for crocs! Choose whichever of those things you prefer to see (or avoid, if you don't want to see haha).

Take a boat out to Isla Ixtapa.

You can hire a boat at the municipal dock to visit this island and see other beautiful views of the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo area.

IN SUM

Zihuatanejo is a beautiful place that is small enough to feel like a pueblo but large enough to have just about everything you need. The safety concerns in the area definitely keep it from being the most touristic part of Mexico so keep that in mind as you plan your trip!

If you have any more tips or suggestions in the area, feel free to leave a comment. Buen viaje!