The longest beach on Zihuatanejo Bay, Playa la Ropa, is a tourist favorite. Some say it's getting too crowded and polluted, but still it's gorgeous and hasn't lost its charm. Efforts in the nearby town of Zihuatanejo are underway to bring sewage treatment plants up to date, clear the litter, and raise environmental awareness. Meanwhile, everyone relaxes in a vacation atmosphere of casual dining at beachside tables, kids building sand castles, pick-up soccer games and strolling guitarists.
Parasail, Kayak and Snorkel Action at La Ropa Beach
Those looking for action can go parasailing, rent kayaks and canoes for paddling over the waves, and snorkel at Los Gatos, a beach further around the curving bay. Even better snorkeling can be found at the more distant Isla Ixtapa, an island reached by boat ferry.
For light adventure and a brief education in the area's natural history, Brian Roach, of Zoe Kayak Tours, is the ideal choice. The erudite New Yorker lives in Zihua (as it's called by locals and visitors alike) part of the year. Brian guides tours by kayak into lagoons where he knows every plant and bird. He may soon be leading trips to a nature preserve, as plans are in the works to protect 50 acres where people can observe abundant wildlife.
Gregorio Lopez is a friendly, knowledgeable guide who takes visitors to other sights, such as a factory for hand-formed terra cotta tiles, a coconut plantation, and the nearby town of Petitlan, famous for its gold market. He can be reached by phone at 044-755-108-8512.
Stunning Zihuatanejo Bay Views from Cliffside and Beach Hotels
Hotels, resorts and condos cling to the steep hills behind Playa la Ropa, most with wide views over Zihuatanejo Bay. Rooms range from very expensive and luxurious (The Tides; Casa Que Canta) to small, low-key bungalows (Las Urracas, Villa Mexicana). If you have a kitchen you get the fun of grocery shopping in town, a 5-minute taxi ride away. Zihuatanejo has a U.S.-style supermarket, the Comerciale, as well as a huge covered market of stalls selling fruits, produce, meats and hundreds of other items.
Fresh market produce should be soaked in anti-bacterial solution before eating; microbiocida drops are sold in the stores. Tap water is not safe to drink, so every hotel provides bottled water. Some charge for it, some don't.
Great Mexican Seafood and Italian Dishes Served at Playa La Ropa Restaurants
Restaurants abound on Playa la Ropa, from casual taco spots to elegant cuisine. Elvira's, Paty's Miramar and La Perla all serve good Mexican food, especially seafood, at candlelit tables on the sand of Playa la Ropa. More expensive is the superb cliffside Restaurant Zi, in Club Intrawest. For a change from Mexican cookery, Il Mare is a top choice, with excellent Italian meals served at tables high above the bay. There are few evenings more romantic than dining well while watching white boats bob and a fiery sun set over the Pacific and the hills.
Marilyn McFarlane - Marilyn McFarlane is long-time freelance writer and editor with a focus on travel. She wrote a newspaper column for 9 years and has ...
