Things to do in Ixtapa

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A calm river with a rowboat docked on the left, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.
A beach with thatched umbrellas, sun loungers, and people playing volleyball.
An aerial view of a coastal island with a beach, boats, and surrounding water.
A coastal city with a bay, boats, and mountains in the background.
A coastal cityscape with a beach, palm trees, and a mountainous backdrop.

Ixtapa Attractions

Discover the best sights in Ixtapa with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {61 fun activities in Ixtapa fun activities in Ixtapa}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can relax and focus on planning the vacation of a lifetime.

Things to do

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach Tour with Snorkeling

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach

$54
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach
Zihuatanejo Baby Sea Turtle Release Eco Adventure

Zihuatanejo Baby Sea Turtle Release Eco Adventure

$72
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Zihuatanejo Baby Sea Turtle Release Eco Adventure
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Island of Ixtapa Day Trip with Lunch

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Island of Ixtapa Day Trip with Lunch

$54
per adult
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Island of Ixtapa Day Trip with Lunch
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo: Kayak Tour at Barra de Potosí

Ixtapa Zihuatanejo: Kayak Tour at Barra de Potosí

$74
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo: Kayak Tour at Barra de Potosí
Zihuatanejo: Moonlit Dive at Las Gatas

Zihuatanejo: Moonlit Dive at Las Gatas

$105
per adult
Zihuatanejo: Moonlit Dive at Las Gatas
Snorkel and Kayak in Las Gatas Beach

Snorkel and Kayak in Las Gatas Beach

$90
per adult
Snorkel and Kayak in Las Gatas Beach
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Ixtapa must see attractions

1. El Palmar Beach

Ixtapa’s famous El Palmar Beach is a picture-perfect mix of seemingly endless yellow sand, clear blue water and luxury resorts. Head to El Palmar Beach to play on the sand, skim across the waves on a Jet Ski or enjoy a massage from a trained masseuse. If the crowds on the beach become too much, escape to the condos, resorts and restaurants that line the sand.
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A sunset over a beach with waves and distant rocky islands.

2. Linda Beach

Playa Linda is a picturesque slice of Mexico’s southern coast. From the moment you arrive at this coconut palm-lined beach, you’ll be swept away by its allure. Young local families play in the sand, old men drink beer under the straw canopies of beach huts and white horses gallop in the shallow water. Cycle along the waterfront trail, visit the crocodile pit to see reptiles or board the local ferry to reach Ixtapa Island.
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A calm beach with gentle waves, a pier extending into the water, and boats docked nearby.

3. Ixtapa Island

Venture to Ixtapa Island, off Mexico’s majestic south coast, for a day of snorkeling, kayaking and sightseeing. With its sheltered bays and coves, the island is a popular place for those seeking a quieter beach experience. Join a guided boat tour or rent a panga, a small motorized boat and make your way to the island. Follow scenic hiking trails, swim with dolphins and snorkel in clear waters.
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A beach with clear shallow waters, a sandy shore, and thatched-roof huts in the background.

4. Quieta Beach

Quieta Beach is a tranquil, sun-drenched cove with scenic views of Ixtapa Island and gentle surf. As its name suggest, it attracts a quieter crowd than the beaches surrounding it. Head to Quieta Beach to eat local seafood on the beach, relax with a massage and enjoy some of the safest swimming conditions in the Ixtapa area.
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A beach with sailboats, palm trees, and buildings in the background.

5. Marina Ixtapa

Visit Marina Ixtapa and spend some time admiring the mix of catamarans, sailboats and yachts. Stroll around the wooden boardwalks and watch as boats arrive via an estuary of sparkling turquoise water. Enjoy views of the surrounding green hills and check out the modern lighthouse. Marina Ixtapa probably won’t take up too much of your time but it’s a good starting point for discovering Ixtapa’s natural and sporting attractions.
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A marina with numerous boats docked, a lighthouse, and a sunset in the background.

What to do in Ixtapa

Free Things to Do in Ixtapa

Sightseeing on a tight budget in Ixtapa? Spend time instead of cash on terrific experiences.

Marina Ixtapa - Roam the sidewalks and appreciate the atmosphere of this popular local hangout.

El Palmar Beach - Keep a lookout for tiny shells and other ocean gems peppered along the coastline here.

Things to Do in Ixtapa with Kids

There are lots of unforgettable experiences in Ixtapa that the whole gang will enjoy. Here are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences around.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ixtapa? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Ixtapa attractions

A beach with clear turquoise water, white sand, and thatched umbrellas providing shade.

Varadero Beach

8.6/10 (284 reviews)
Varadero Beach's crystal-clear waters and pristine sands create a tranquil paradise on Ixtapa Island. Enjoy fresh seafood at shoreline restaurants while gentle waves provide perfect swimming conditions for families.
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Where to stay in Ixtapa

Find the best Ixtapa areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ixtapa
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El Palomar

If you're spending some time in El Palomar, El Palmar Beach and Delfiniti are top sights worth seeing.

Campo de Golf

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Campo de Golf and surrounding area, you can visit El Palmar Beach and Marina Ixtapa.

Contamar

While there might not be top attractions in Contamar, you can explore the larger area and discover places like El Palmar Beach and Marina Ixtapa Golf Club.

A coastal city with a bay, boats, and mountains in the background.

Marina Ixtapa

While visiting Marina Ixtapa, you might make a stop by sights like Marina Ixtapa and El Palmar Beach.

A coastal town with a marina, surrounded by hills and dense greenery.

Palma Real

When in Palma Real, you can plan a visit to El Palmar Beach and Marina Ixtapa Golf Club, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Ixtapa

A coastal city with a bay, numerous sailboats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Zihuatanejo

Frequently asked questions

Is Ixtapa worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor activities, there are many great things to do in Ixtapa. Be sure to experience the area's mix of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Ixtapa?
La Ropa Beach and El Palmar Beach are two awesome places to begin your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Ixtapa while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ixtapa?
La Ropa Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Ixtapa and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Ixtapa?
You can easily visit leading attractions like La Ropa Beach, El Palmar Beach and Linda Beach with a three-day trip to Ixtapa. On average, most travelers plan four days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Ixtapa - Zihuatanejo.
Is Ixtapa a walkable city?
Some top sights in Ixtapa, including El Palmar Beach and Quieta Beach, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 3 miles from central Ixtapa is Almacen and Lázaro Cárdenas is 3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Ixtapa with kids?
If you're looking for activities and attractions for all ages, here are some fantastic ideas for what to do in Ixtapa with kids.

What to do in Ixtapa for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor adventurer, there are loads of things to do in Ixtapa for adults including Fisherman's Walk.
Are there free things to do in Ixtapa?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Ixtapa is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without reaching for your wallet. La Ropa Beach is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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