Popularly known as Ixtapa, this town is located in the Mexican state of Guerrero. Once a coconut plantation area it has developed as a prime tourist destination on the pacific coast. This laid-back town is surrounded by nature, hidden among tall palm trees and a splendid ecosystem. Here are seven outdoor activities to explore.
Paseo del Pescador
This Fisherman’s Walk is a paved pathway that starts at the main beach and goes towards Madera beach. On this Path with a beautiful sea view, you will find craft stores and restaurants that offer fine dining, buzzing with activity from locals and visitors. Also, nearby you will see boats arriving at the coast, where fishermen show their catch. You can walk right up to the sea, enjoy the sounds of the waves and watch the lights fade in and out up the hillsides. This newly renovated Path goes directly past the main square, which comes alive in the evenings with dancing, street food, and live music.
Go Diving
Zihuatanejo is the perfect place for beginner divers due to the serene current over the coral, coves, and around the cliffs. The waters are easy to navigate, especially for those who are not experienced divers. The best months are from November to May, and the water temperature stays around 80 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. Winter is the peak season where you will also be able to spot turtles, manta rays, dolphins, whales, and many other amazing marine creatures. If this is your first time diving, it’s the perfect place to visit and obtain certifications.
Whale Watching
Zihuatanejo sits on the Pacific Coast, which is world-renowned for its humpback whale sightings. These magnificent creatures make their way down from the colder Canadian waters to give birth in the warmer waters off the coast of Mexico. Located directly in the migration line means that you can spot humpback whales for several months out of the year. The months from December to March are when you’ll be able to go on a whale-watching expedition. Several eco-friendly tour companies offer excursions on private charters with tour guides.
Relax on its Beaches
Many beautiful beaches line the bay and surrounding coves near the sleepy fishing village in this coastal area. The Main beach or Playa Principal, also known as the Municipal beach, is located directly in the Malecon. It is a lovely place where you’ll also find many restaurants, making it the perfect spot for watching the sunset. You can visit and take a swim on other beaches, such as El Palmar, Linda, Coral, Quieta, and Vista Hermosa. At the end of the Malecon, you’ll discover Playa Madera, a calm stretch of beach, especially at night when you can see the lights of Zihuatanejo twinkling up the hill.
Ride the Bike Path
If you enjoy nature, then you have to ride a bike on the Ixtapa Bike Path. Along this path, you will find a variety of flora and fauna where you can observe parakeets, woodpeckers, herons, parrots, cardinals, and many more. This tour is very relaxing and wonderful as you will ride a bike under the large treetops that are so large that they create tunnels and where you’ll be able to hear the sounds of nature that surrounds you. The Path is divided into two large sections of more than 7 miles. Without a doubt, you will enjoy this ride through nature surrounded by trees, wonderful animals, and beautiful landscapes.
Golfing
If you like to golf, you will have fun in one of the best golf courses on the Pacific coast in Ixtapa. One of the best golf courses is Marina Ixtapa Nautica Golf Club, an 18-hole course designed by Robert Von Hagge. Opened in 1994, the Marina Ixtapa Nautical Golf Club has been frequented by tourists on a luxury travel adventure. As the largest marina in Mexico, this golf course has two courses at opposite ends of the Ixtapa hotel strip and is renowned for its exceptional caddy service. The terrain covers 136 acres, with extensive sand traps and water obstacles protecting 14 of the 18 holes. No wonder Golf Digest magazine has rated it as one of the best in Mexico.
Snorkeling in Ixtapa Island
Ixtapa Island is a small island near Zihuatanejo. It’s an ecological reserve located north of Ixtapa, 10 minutes from the hotel area, at Linda Beach, where you would have to travel by boat to reach the Island. Ixtapa Island was founded in 1967 by a fisherman responsible for taking care of the land after 1975 when tourism began to arrive. It has four beaches characterized by a fairly quiet swell, ideal places to snorkel, ride jet skis, and kayak.
You will always find outdoor activities in Ixtapa, especially if you’re looking for a hassle-free, all-inclusive beach getaway. Keep Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo in mind next time you’re planning a quick escape to Mexico.
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