Discover the charm of Zihuatanejo, a picturesque fishing town located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. The town is full of vibrant colors, delicious cuisine, and surrounded by mesmerizing beaches. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and truly connect with nature. The community is very welcoming and their culture is deeply embedded in the town's traditions. You can stroll around the streets to admire the local artisans’ work, enjoy fresh seafood at the beach, and experience the views of the beautiful bay.
You can reach Zihuatanejo by flying into Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport which is located about 8 kilometers away from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car or arrange for a shuttle or private transfer to get to Zihuatanejo. There are also direct bus services available from major cities in Mexico.
The best time to visit Zihuatanejo is from December to April as it is the dry season. The temperature during this time is around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), which is perfect for enjoying the beaches and water activities. However, if you're looking for a quieter and more affordable experience, consider visiting from May to October during the rainy season. The weather is still warm and the landscapes are lush and green.
Zihuatanejo has a tropical climate, with the dry season from December to April and the rainy season from May to November. Temperatures range from 23 to 33 degrees Celsius (73-91 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the year. The dry season is known for its sunny days and warm nights, with occasional breezes from the sea. The rainy season is characterized by high humidity and storms, but the weather is still warm and temperatures rarely drop below 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit).
In Zihuatanejo, you can find accommodation for all budgets. A hostel bed can cost as low as $10 USD per night, while a mid-range hotel room can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 USD per night. If you want to indulge in luxury, there are many resorts and high-end hotels to choose from, with prices ranging from $200 to $600 USD per night.
The cost of food in Zihuatanejo is relatively affordable. Local restaurants offer delicious seafood dishes for around $10 USD per meal. You can also find international cuisine like Italian, Japanese, and Chinese with prices ranging from $15 to $30 USD per meal. If you're on a budget, street food and local markets can provide you a taste of local cuisine for around $5 USD per meal.
Zihuatanejo is generally considered a safe place to visit, although petty crime can occur, especially on the beaches and in crowded tourist areas. As with all travel, it is important to take precautions and avoid carrying valuables. Women travel alone without problems, and the town is LGBTQ-friendly. However, visitors should be aware of Mexico's conservative cultural attitudes towards gender and sexual orientation.
Zihuatanejo has a population of approximately 80,000 people. The town’s inhabitants are mostly of mixed ethnicity, a blend of indigenous, Spanish and African. Spanish is the official language but many locals also speak indigenous dialects. The predominant religion is Catholicism, with smaller populations of other Christian denominations and some indigenous beliefs. Women play an active role in the community, and there is increasing awareness of gender equality and women’s rights.
Zihuatanejo offers plenty of activities for tourists. You can swim and sunbathe at scenic beaches like Playa La Ropa and Playa Las Gatas, famous for their clear and calm waters, or catch a ride on a fishing boat for deep-sea fishing. You can also explore the bustling downtown for artisanal markets, art galleries, and trendy bars. For nature lovers, Sierra Madre Mountains offer jungle hikes, waterfalls, and exotic wildlife sightings. For history buffs, a visit to the museum Archaeological Zone in Soledad de Maciel provides insights into indigenous cultures.