In my last blog post I shared with you some of my favorite beaches in Ixtapa. Today I would like to share with you a selection of my favorite beaches in Zihuatanejo. Both destinations offer beautiful beaches, suitable for any kind of interest or activity you might wish to partake. I am certain that you will find your favorite!
ZIHUATANEJO BEACHES
Playa Principal (or Main beach)
Located in downtown Zihuatanejo, this beach is about 400 meters (0.25 miles) long, with many restaurants alongside it. At the pier you can take a boat to Playa Las Gatas beach, for a fishing trip, and it is where the passengers from luxury cruises arrive for a tour of our cities. From here I love to admire four other beaches located within our bay (Playa La Madera, Playa La Ropa, Playa Las Gatas and Playa Contramar).
Playa Larga (or Long Beach)
As its name suggests, Playa Larga, is the longest beach in the area with more than 3 km (1.8 miles). There are restaurants with hammocks that serve fresh seafood and perfect cocktails. I love jogging here in the morning with my dog, and taking long walks, or just relaxing and enjoying the sounds of the ocean.
Playa Blanca (or White beach)
After Playa Larga you will find Playa Blanca. Here is the renowned “Barra de Potosi” (Potosi’s river mouth), a small fishing villag, which sits on a lagoon that is rich in bird life. I love visiting for a relaxing day of taking photos at the lagoon. Read about my trip to Barra de Potosí here.
Playa La Madera (or The Wood beach)
This is the smallest beach within our bay. It is 300 meters (0.18 miles) long and has very soft waves. It is ideal for relaxing. I love to spend my time here with family and friends. Its name originates from colonial times when Spanish trading ships loaded oak, pine and mahogany at this point.
Playa La Ropa (or The Clothes Beach)
Playa La Ropa is probably the most famous and popular beach of Zihuatanejo. According to local legend, Playa La Ropa got its name when a commercial Spanish galleon, which was returning from the Orient, shipwrecked at the entrance of the bay and its cargo of fine silks and clothing washed ashore. When snorkeling, pay attention, you might find some of the remains of the galleon (I always bring my goggles!).
Playa Las Gatas (or The Cats Beach)
I love the history of this beach: The legend says that king Purépecha used to come to this beach to relax. He ordered the construction of an underwater reef, in order to eliminate any waves, so his wives could swim in calm waters and not be bothered by harmless cat sharks, which lived at the bottom of this beach many, many years ago. Because of this reef, the ocean here seems calm like a lake or a pool. It is great for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Playa Contramar
While I wouldn’t recommend this beach for lounging, it is a beautiful place to snorkel! Instead of sand, the beach is made up of surf-polished rocks and not sand. The coral and rock formations are impressive and there is even a “secret” tunnel!
Whether in Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo, there is clearly a beach for everyone. Be sure to ask your Personal Assistant for help in selecting the perfect beach for your excursion. And share photos with me on Twitter (@CapellaIxtapa) – I love to see them!
