The protected waters around Zihuatanejo offer several notable snorkeling spots for both beginners and experienced swimmers.
Las Gatas Beach Tour stands out with its calm, clear bay and abundant marine life, making it perfect for families.
The Ixtapa Island experience combines convenient kayaking with vibrant coral reefs, while the unique Horseback and Snorkel combo tour delivers great value by blending two popular activities.
Our favorite: the Las Gatas Beach excursion, thanks to its sheltered waters and reliable fish sightings.
Let’s look at our top-rated snorkeling tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach Snorkeling and Kayaking Tour offers a comprehensive snorkeling experience in a protected bay with additional activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- The Ixtapa Zihuatanejo: Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour combines a scenic boat ride, kayaking, and snorkeling at Las Gatas Beach, culminating in a delicious lunch on Ixtapa Island.
- The Zihuatanejo: Snorkeling Trip to Ixtapa Island With Lunch package includes transportation, boat ride, snorkeling equipment, and seafood lunch, though concerns have been raised about it being a “tourist trap.”
- The Ixtapa: Horseback Riding & Snorkeling Tour offers a unique combination of horseback riding along the beach and snorkeling on Ixtapa Island, with additional wildlife observation and a scenic boat ride.
- The small group size and personalized attention of the Ixtapa: Horseback Riding & Snorkeling Tour are highlights, ensuring a more intimate and tailored snorkeling experience.
Ixtapa: Horseback Riding & Snorkeling
For those seeking an adventure-filled day in Ixtapa, the Horseback Riding & Snorkeling tour offers a unique blend of land and water activities. Priced at $97.68 per person, this 5.5-hour excursion takes participants on a 45-minute horseback ride along the beach, followed by a 10-minute boat ride to Ixtapa Island for snorkeling.
With a small group size limited to 5 participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the live English and Spanish-speaking guide.
The tour includes A/C transportation, a delicious lunch, and two drinks while you take in the scenic views. An added bonus is a brief stop to observe crocodiles and iguanas in their natural habitat.
According to a recent 5-star review, the drivers were punctual and informative, and the guides were helpful throughout the experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an excellent choice for an unforgettable day in Ixtapa.
Read our full review: Ixtapa: Horseback Riding & Snorkeling Review
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Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach Snorkeling and Kayaking Tour
Those seeking a tranquil escape and aquatic adventures can embark on the Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach Snorkeling and Kayaking Tour.
This 5-hour excursion, priced at €85.46 per person, allows a maximum of 10 participants to explore the natural beauty of Las Gatas Beach. After a boat ride, visitors can choose to relax in shaded hammocks or engage in activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the protected bay.
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and an air-conditioned vehicle. Participants should bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and snacks. The experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers. Smoking is also not allowed.
Along with the aquatic adventures, the tour offers cultural insights, allowing guests to learn about the regional culture and traditions.
The secluded beach hideaway, nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains and along Zihuatanejo bay, provides a scenic backdrop for this memorable experience.
Read our full review: Zihuatanejo: Las Gatas Beach Snorkeling and Kayaking Tour Review
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Ixtapa Zihuatanejo: Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
Travelers seeking aquatic adventures in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo can embark on the exhilarating Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour.
The 4-hour activity offers a chance to explore the crystal-clear waters of Ixtapa Island and discover vibrant marine life at Las Gatas Beach.
After a 20-minute air-conditioned van ride from Zihuatanejo and a 10-minute boat ride, participants can kayak for an hour in the calm waters surrounding Ixtapa Island.
The tour then moves to the renowned Las Gatas Beach, where snorkelers can enjoy the excellent visibility and observe a variety of fish.
All necessary equipment, including fins, masks, and life jackets, is provided, along with a snorkeling instructor.
The experience culminates with a delicious lunch at a rustic restaurant on Ixtapa Island.
Priced at €69.03 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 5 participants and offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Ixtapa Zihuatanejo: Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour Review
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Zihuatanejo: Snorkeling Trip to Ixtapa Island With Lunch
Adventurers can embark on a captivating snorkeling excursion to Ixtapa Island, nestled just off the coast of Zihuatanejo. The 4.5-hour tour promises a glimpse of the island’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. For $36.74 per person, the package includes transportation, a boat ride to the island, full snorkeling equipment, a seafood lunch with two drinks, and a knowledgeable tour guide.
However, the tour’s overall rating of 1/5 based on a single review suggests room for improvement. Complaints about the experience being a “tourist trap” and charges for drink substitutions raise concerns.
The tour guide’s safety instructions for snorkeling and swimming may not have fully addressed participants’ needs. While the trip offers access to the island’s restaurant facilities and optional water sports, the snorkeling experience itself seems to have fallen short of expectations.
Potential travelers should weigh these factors carefully before booking this snorkeling adventure to Ixtapa Island.
Read our full review: Zihuatanejo: Snorkeling Trip to Ixtapa Island With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times of Year for Snorkeling in Zihuatanejo?
The best times for snorkeling in Zihuatanejo are during the dry season, from November to May. The calm waters and clear visibility make this the ideal period to explore the marine life and coral reefs in the area.
How Much Does Snorkeling Gear Typically Cost to Rent in the Area?
Snorkeling gear rentals in Zihuatanejo typically cost between $10 and $20 per day. Prices may vary depending on the quality of the equipment and the specific rental location. Many tour operators and local businesses offer snorkeling gear for visitors to explore the area’s vibrant marine life.
Are There Any Restrictions or Regulations for Snorkeling in Zihuatanejo?
There are some regulations for snorkeling in Zihuatanejo. Visitors must obtain permits and follow safety guidelines set by local authorities. Certain areas may have restrictions or be off-limits to protect the marine environment. It’s best to check with tour operators for the latest information.
What Are the Most Common Marine Life Sightings During Zihuatanejo Snorkeling?
Snorkelers commonly spot colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, sting rays, and sea turtles in Zihuatanejo’s clear waters. The marine life is diverse and vibrant, offering an immersive underwater experience for visitors exploring the region’s snorkeling sites.
Are There Any Sustainable Snorkeling Practices Recommended in Zihuatanejo?
Sustainable snorkeling practices in Zihuatanejo include not touching or standing on coral, respecting marine life, and following local guidelines. Snorkelers should also use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the environment. These responsible behaviors help maintain the health of the underwater ecosystem.
Recap
Zihuatanejo offers a variety of exceptional snorkeling experiences. Visitors can explore the vibrant marine life of Las Gatas Beach, venture to Ixtapa Island, or combine snorkeling with kayaking and horseback riding. With its clear waters and diverse underwater ecosystems, this picturesque destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast provides travelers with unforgettable opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the sea.