Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Snorkeling Sites

Snorkeling is fun, easy to learn and does not require a license or heavy special equipment. There are a number of beautiful places to snorkel in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. The top two favorites are Isla Ixtapa and Playa Las Gatas.

Isla Ixtapa or Ixtapa Island is just a two short taxi rides from the hotel zone, the first by land to Playa Linda and the second by water from the pier to the Island. The four white sand beaches on the island are filled with small restaurants and snorkel equipment is available for rent in many of them.

Playa Las Gatas in Zihuatanejo is accessible by boat from the main pier downtown or via a rocky walking path from Playa la Ropa. The beach is protected from waves by a prehispanic man made reef which, according to legend, was built by a Tarascan King so his princess daughters would have a safe place to swim. The beach is dotted by seafood restaurants and has masks, fins and snorkels for rent.

Another favorite for snorkelers is Playa Manzanillo. Manzanillo Beach is reached by boat around the southern point of Zihuatanejo Bay. Take an afternoon sailing and snorkel trip aboard the Picante Catamaran to enjoy the tropical fish swimming through the coral off this beautiful white sand beach