{"id":67821,"date":"2023-12-07T03:06:18","date_gmt":"2023-12-07T05:06:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/?p=67821"},"modified":"2026-01-06T15:44:28","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T17:44:28","slug":"isla-ixtapa-mexico","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/isla-ixtapa-mexico\/","title":{"rendered":"Ixtapa Island: Snorkeling and Beaches on Isla Ixtapa"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Isla Ixtapa is a small island paradise off the coast of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, M\u00e9xico. There are no cars, nor hotels. Just some of the most beautiful beaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ixtapa Island beaches feature calm waves of turquoise water, mountain views, and the best snorkeling in the area. Each beach has a handful of restaurants with loungers under the shade of a palapa.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Ixtapa Island restaurants serve fresh fish, ceviche, coconut shrimp, and of course cold beer and cocktails. <em>Did I say paradise?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Inhabitants of the island include deer and rabbits. Yes, when I visited Isla Ixtapa, I saw rabbits hopping around in the sand \ud83d\ude0d And there are a few trails to walk around for beautiful ocean views and a touch of nature.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide to Ixtapa island, I detail everything you need to know including how to get to Ixtapa Island and which beach to visit. I&#8217;ve also included some Ixtapa Island tours you should book if you prefer to have everything taken care of for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"696\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-1024x696.jpg\" alt=\"On Ixtapa Island Mexico, an overview of a cove beach where the ocean water fades from dark blue to turquoise. Several people stand on the beach in front of the restaurants while others snorkel. On the left is a platform with a table and palapa for shade.\" class=\"wp-image-67781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-1024x696.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-700x476.jpg 700w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-250x170.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-768x522.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-150x102.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:16px;line-height:21px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:14px;line-height:19px;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:11px;line-height:15px;}}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-5-color has-text-color has-theme-palette-7-background-color has-background\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"><em>This article may contain affiliate links. This means if you click a link on my website and make a purchase, <em>I earn a commission at no additional cost to you<\/em>. For full information, please see my <\/em><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/affiliate-disclosure\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em>disclaimer<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;here<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id67821_042f96-29 .kb-table-of-content-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id67821_042f96-29 .kb-table-of-contents-title-wrap{padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id67821_042f96-29 .kb-table-of-contents-title{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id67821_042f96-29 .kb-table-of-content-wrap .kb-table-of-content-list{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;margin-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;}<\/style>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ixtapa Island Beaches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Waves gently roll to shore in this overall shot of Playa Varadero in Isla Ixtapa. Several people walk along the beach in front of the restaurants as two kids sit in the shallow waves. The water is a vibrant turquoise with verdant green trees on the hill behind.\" class=\"wp-image-67778\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero-667x500.jpg 667w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/isla-ixtapa-playa-varadero.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are three beaches on Isla Ixtapa:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Playa Varadero<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Playa Cuachalalate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Playa Coral.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The first two are the most calm due to their location on the backside of the island. They are also where the boats ferry visitors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Playa Varadero is the main dock to load and unload people, the boat I was on dropped a few people off at Playa Cuachalalate first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Playa Coral is also relatively calm, although it can experience bigger waves due to its position. Its rocky beach and coral reef makes it one of the best places to go snorkeling in Ixtapa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"735\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island-1024x735.jpg\" alt=\"In this overhead shot of Coral Beach, Ixtapa Island shades of dark blue water turn to turquoise in the cove which is lined with thick green trees on one end. In the shallow waters there are several people snorkeling in front of the restaurants on the beach.\" class=\"wp-image-67775\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island-1024x735.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island-697x500.jpg 697w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island-250x179.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island-768x551.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coral-beach-ixtapa-island.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>So which one should you visit?<\/strong> I chose to lounge at Playa Varadero and walk over to Playa Coral when I wanted to snorkel.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The main reason was the sun. Playa Coral faces towards the east, getting hit with the morning sun. The beach restaurants have loungers shaded under the palapas but the sun was blinding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-theme-palette-7-background-color has-background\"><strong>Tip<\/strong> &#8211; Many of the restaurants on Varadero beach have tables on Playa Coral as well. You can get from one beach to the other by walking through the restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In my opinion, Ixtapa Island has some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/beaches-zihuatanejo-ixtapa-mexico\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"67808\">best beaches in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo<\/a> and that&#8217;s why it made <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/hidden-gems-mexico\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"69808\">my list of underrated Mexico destinations<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Get to Isla Ixtapa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Water taxis take visitors to the island every day from the pier at Playa Linda on the north end of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo. To get to Isla Ixtapa, you will first need to take a taxi or combi to Playa Linda. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Palm trees line the walkway to the pier to get to Ixtapa Island, Mexico. Blue ocean water can be seen in behind the trees.\" class=\"wp-image-67789\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-188x250.jpg 188w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island-150x200.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/pier-ixtapa-island.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Then walk to the end of the pier located to the left of the beach. There you can buy a ticket for the boats that take visitors on a 10 minute ride to the island. The boats leave about every 10 minutes, or when full. Keep in mind, the last boat to return leaves Ixtapa Island at 5 pm.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{padding-top:15px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:20px;}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{box-shadow:0px 9px 20px 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);border-top:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65{position:relative;}.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65, .kt-inside-inner-col > .kadence-column67821_d9987a-65:not(.specificity){margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column67821_d9987a-65 kb-section-dir-vertical inner-column-1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id67821_25121d-3c alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column67821_84b46f-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column67821_84b46f-93\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\"><strong>Ixtapa Island Water Taxi<\/strong><br>\ud83d\udccd <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Q2s224totCWa3xTg9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Map Location<\/a><br>\u231a <strong>Hours: <\/strong>Everyday 8:30 am &#8211; 5 pm<br>\ud83d\udcb5 <strong>Cost: <\/strong>80 pesos round trip<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ixtapa Island Tours<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you prefer to have everything taken care of, you should <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Ixtapa Island Snorkel Tour\" href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/recommends\/ixtapa-island-snorkel-tour\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\"><strong>book this snorkeling tour to Ixtapa Island which includes lunch and transportation<\/strong><\/a> in an air-conditioned vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After snorkeling with your guide, you\u2019ll have free time on the island which you can spend lounging, swimming, or snorkeling. Then you\u2019ll take the boat back to the mainland to take a short guided walk around the crocodile lagoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This tour is only offered Monday &#8211; Friday, which is perfect because that&#8217;s the best time to visit to avoid the crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A view from the lounge chair under a palapa overlooking the beach on Ixtapa Island. A small boat is anchored in the cove with a green cliff in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-67804\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island-667x500.jpg 667w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/visiting-ixtapa-island.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Time to Go to Isla Ixtapa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The best time to visit Ixtapa Island is during the week. Ixtapa Zihuatanejo is a popular destination that becomes even busier on the weekends and holidays so you&#8217;ll want to avoid the busiest time if possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As far as the best time of day to visit Isla Ixtapa, I recommend arriving in the morning. This will allow you to enjoy the beach with less people and before the sun becomes intense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It will also give you the option to spend as long as you&#8217;d like on the island before the 5 pm deadline to return by boat. I enjoyed my day here so much that I stayed much longer than I expected.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col{padding-top:15px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:20px;}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col{box-shadow:0px 9px 20px 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);border-top:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e{position:relative;}.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e, .kt-inside-inner-col > .kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e:not(.specificity){margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:1.5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column67821_1e276a-4e kb-section-dir-vertical inner-column-1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id67821_168136-92 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column67821_bcc791-4c\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\"><strong>Looking for more to do in the area? <\/strong>Check out my guide about <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/things-to-do-in-zihuatanejo\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"67833\">what to do in Zihuatanejo Mexico<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Isla Ixtapa Restaurants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A shallow waves comes on shore in front of one of the Ixtapa Island restaurants whose surfboard shaped sign says Paraiso Escondido (Hidden Paradise). Along the beach are several lounge chairs shaded under the palapas.\" class=\"wp-image-67783\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants-667x500.jpg 667w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-restaurants.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>All three beaches on Isla Ixtapa are lined with restaurants that will allow you to use their loungers and tables in the shade if you purchase food and drinks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll be solicited to patronize a restaurant before you even board the boat to Isla Ixtapa. However, I recommend arriving first so that you can decide which beach you prefer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I chose Paraiso Escondido on Playa Varadero because of its location tucked into the cove and away from the dock and boat traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Six pan fried coconut shrimp lined up on a plate, one of the most popular foods to eat on Ixtapa Island. Also on the plate are small portions of rice, salad, and tortilla chips as well as a shot glass of coconut cream. The sandy beach is seen in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-67774\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-188x250.jpg 188w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food-150x200.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/coconut-shrimp-ixtapa-island-food.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>It was a good choice too! I ate some of the best coconut shrimp I\u2019ve ever had. The butterflied shrimp were bathed in coconut cream before being breaded in shredded coconut. I was surprised that the prices for many of the seafood dishes were less than what I found at the <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/best-restaurants-in-ixtapa-mexico\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"67847\">restaurants in Ixtapa<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Snorkeling Ixtapa Island<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the best snorkeling in Ixtapa can be done from the beaches on the island, specifically Playa Coral. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"In this view from the ocean, a group of people are snorkeling on Ixtapa Island. Past the top of the cresting water, only their life jackets and snorkels are in view.\" class=\"wp-image-67798\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral-250x167.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/snorkeling-ixtapa-island-playa-coral.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Although if you\u2019re less confident or have young kids, you may want to start at Playa Cuachalalate (named for <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amphipterygium_adstringens\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amphipterygium_adstringens\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">a medicinal tree<\/a>, btw). I found it slightly difficult to get back to shore at Playa Coral due to the shallow reef and waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re unsure about snorkeling on your own, you should <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Ixtapa Island Snorkel Tour\" href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/recommends\/ixtapa-island-snorkel-tour\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">book this tour to Isla Ixtapa<\/a><\/strong> which includes guided snorkeling, equipment, lunch, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"937\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico-937x1024.jpg\" alt=\"One of the resident rabbits on Ixtapa Island sits in the sand next to my table. The grey rabbit is full size with large ears.\" class=\"wp-image-67797\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico-937x1024.jpg 937w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico-457x500.jpg 457w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico-229x250.jpg 229w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico-768x840.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico-150x164.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rabbit-ixtapa-island-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 937px) 100vw, 937px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions About Visiting Ixtapa Island<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1701924052734\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Where is Ixtapa Island?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Ixtapa Island (Isla Ixtapa) is located off the coast of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo in the Pacific Ocean. It is easily accessible by boat from the mainland via the dock at Playa Linda.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1701924110271\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What is Ixtapa known for?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Ixtapa is known for its pristine beaches along the backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains. This resort destination has gained popularity for offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, including two golf courses.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1701924123863\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can you snorkel in Ixtapa?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, you can snorkel in Ixtapa. I think the best snorkeling in Ixtapa is at Playa Coral on Ixtapa Island. The crystal clear, calm waters of Isla Ixtapa are perfect for snorkeling.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1701924138967\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Ixtapa?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, it is generally safe to swim in the ocean in Ixtapa. At some beaches, you do need to be aware of the potential for an undertow. However, the waters are calm, especially on the cove beaches of Isla Ixtapa.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1701924152293\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Is the water clear in Ixtapa?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, the water in Ixtapa is generally clear. However, if you&#8217;re looking for turquoise water, you&#8217;ll want to visit the Isla Ixtapa beaches.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts About Isla Ixtapa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Isla Ixtapa feels like a paradise island far away in the Pacific Ocean. But the beautiful reality is that it\u2019s so close to Ixtapa that taking a day trip to Ixtapa Island is a must do if you\u2019re visiting the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just be aware, it might spoil you for the other beaches in the area.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Isla Ixtapa is a small island paradise off the coast of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, M\u00e9xico. There are no cars, nor hotels. Just some of the most beautiful beaches. Ixtapa Island beaches feature calm waves of turquoise water, mountain views, and the best snorkeling in the area. Each beach has a handful of restaurants with loungers under&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":67781,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"hide","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-67821","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mexico"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":3,"label":"Mexico"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ixtapa-island-mexico-1024x696.jpg",1024,696,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Julien Casanova","author_link":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/author\/julienne617\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":3,"name":"Mexico","slug":"mexico","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3,"taxonomy":"category","description":"I love spending time in Mexico! It's why I called Cozumel home for over two years. But I haven't just stayed on this beautiful Caribbean Island. During my time in Mexico, I've traveled to Central Mexico, the Yucatan, Riviera Maya, and Oaxaca.\r\n\r\nAlong the way, I create informative travel guides and travel tips for traveling to Mexico. From Mexico City to Cancun and travel destinations in between. If you're planning to travel to Mexico, these in-depth guides will help you plan your perfect Mexico vacation.","parent":0,"count":46,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":3,"category_count":46,"category_description":"I love spending time in Mexico! It's why I called Cozumel home for over two years. But I haven't just stayed on this beautiful Caribbean Island. During my time in Mexico, I've traveled to Central Mexico, the Yucatan, Riviera Maya, and Oaxaca.\r\n\r\nAlong the way, I create informative travel guides and travel tips for traveling to Mexico. From Mexico City to Cancun and travel destinations in between. If you're planning to travel to Mexico, these in-depth guides will help you plan your perfect Mexico vacation.","cat_name":"Mexico","category_nicename":"mexico","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67821","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=67821"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67821\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":70482,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67821\/revisions\/70482"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/67781"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=67821"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=67821"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=67821"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}