Ixtapa Island Day Trip: Lunch & Beach Fun Review

Picture this: clear, turquoise waters, maybe some gentle waves lapping at the shore, and the sun warming your skin. A day trip to Ixtapa Island sounds like a perfect escape, right? Ixtapa Island, or Isla Ixtapa, happens to be this petite gem just a quick boat ride away from Zihuatanejo, Mexico, and it’s super famous for its postcard-worthy beaches and super chill vibe. We’re checking out what you should probably anticipate from your “Ixtapa Island Day Trip with Lunch,” from actually getting there to soaking up the sun and maybe the tasty food that usually comes with the package.

What to Expect From Your Ixtapa Island Adventure

If you’re thinking of setting out on one of these day trips, just keep in mind that they typically include transportation to and from Zihuatanejo (or sometimes even Ixtapa), a boat ride over to the island, and lunch at one of the local restaurants. Like your actual experience can differ a little bit depending on the tour company, but in general, that, is what you might just anticipate: you will get picked up from your lodging and taken to the dock to catch a boat. It’s typically rather quick— between five and ten minutes. The ride over to Ixtapa Island takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and it could be somewhat exciting, very, very depending on the surf!

Once you reach the island, which by the way has only four beaches total, you are basically free to spend the day the way you like, like you. Playa Varadero will have you, too it’s almost drawn by its water sports. Playa Cuachalalate (also known as Coral Beach) is more or less amazing for snorkeling, while Playa Carey offers that super quiet, more private feel. Playa Linda, near where you hop on the boat to get to the island, offers great beach access and spots where you could see crocs. You’ll generally meet up with your tour group for lunch at a specified time. I’ll go into the lunch situation later on.

The Beaches of Ixtapa Island: Which One is Right for You?

Ixtapa Island happens to be compact, yes it does, but each of its four beaches has its own character, or personality, I suppose you could say. Here’s a short breakdown:

Playa Varadero: You are definitely seeing some action here. This spot usually has quite a bit of water activity gear, just like jet skis, banana boats, and parasailing. That, is where you go if you want activity, you know? The surf here has been typically rough so if you’re in search of calm water, try another location on Ixtapa Island.
Playa Cuachalalate (Coral Beach): More or less referred to as Coral Beach, this one, as a matter of fact, tends to be a haven for snorkelers. The coral reefs are somewhat close to the coast, just a little providing the opportunity to check out colorful fish and marine life. I want you to rent some gear if you did not happen to bring any.
Playa Carey: If you wish to escape the crowds and get away for a minute, this small beach usually offers that nice, quiet environment. It is actually accessible by water taxi or by a trail. In the event that you would rather just relax with the peaceful sounds around you, this one’s perfect for it.
Playa Linda: Close to the Ixtapa Island ferry area, it makes beach access pretty simple, yes it does. Keep in mind that the current can get pretty tough at times.

Snorkeling at Coral Beach: An Underwater Adventure

Now, I can not stress how much the snorkeling at Coral Beach makes the Ixtapa Island day trip worth your while. The water may be so clear that you will have good visibility, and that, too it’s almost shallow coral reefs offer a good environment to observe a lot of tropical fish. So, when you are brand new to snorkeling or a veteran, this will usually provide a memorable experience, actually. Make sure you just bring your own snorkeling gear to avoid rental fees or lines.

Lunch on Ixtapa Island: What to Expect

Your day trip generally covers lunch, and that, you see, is typically served at one of the local beachfront restaurants. So, what might you anticipate? A lot of these packages generally involve a preset menu— typically you get a handful of choices. Think fish, chicken, or beef served with rice, beans, and possibly a basic salad, which could be described as no-frills. In general, the quality is reasonable, in fact good, I would venture, rather than excellent. Now, I’ve heard people say that the included drinks are not usually included in some tour packages. It’s usually sodas, water, or a local beer, but it is definitely, worth double-checking if you can get free refills, as a matter of fact.

On Ixtapa Island, like your food is basically simple but satisfying after a long day at the beach. Fresh seafood that is simply prepared, it’s arguably the standard, and usually you’re consuming it with a killer view. Keep in mind that the atmosphere, more or less laid-back and casual, is where you can have lunch literally right on the beach with the sand between your toes, like we do.

Is the Ixtapa Island Day Trip Worth It? Weighing the Pros and Cons

All right, the massive question is: do Ixtapa Island trips generally give a solid return on investment of some kind? Well, for the great many folks, yes, they definitely do, actually. They’re simple and provide a fast way to access the wonderful beaches surrounding Zihuatanejo. That said, let’s consider a few things:

Pros:
- Practical access to awesome beaches
- Snorkeling that will provide many sights of some beautiful wildlife
- The laid-back vibe I discussed a minute ago
- Convenience of having lunch and transportation provided for
Cons:
- Lunch is more or less average.
- Sometimes it will get a bit crowded.
- There can be salespeople trying to sell all the items
- You’re generally on someone else’s schedule when there is a specific tour booked.

Overall, for most people, an Ixtapa Island day trip typically gives value if you’re looking for an effortless way to check out multiple beautiful beaches. But If you’re the particular kind of traveler who places quality food and a serene experience at the top, this may be not a tour to spend money on. Maybe consider building a personalized excursion instead, like the type of excursion you would go on alone or with only a few people.

Tips for an Unforgettable Ixtapa Island Visit

Come prepared: Bring sunblock, a towel, swimwear, and any snorkeling gear you will probably need.
Book ahead: Primarily during peak travel periods to basically secure your spot.
Consider a private tour: A more curated adventure may be actually, quite a good decision, primarily if you would like additional adaptability.
Stay hydrated: This is pretty critical in the Mexican sun. Bring water. Buy water, I do not care just do it, please.
Bargain respectfully: Just in case you’re trying to find souvenirs. Most merchants and service personnel welcome kind haggling!

Ixtapa Island versus Zihuatanejo: Picking Your Paradise

Ixtapa is much more of a developed resort zone. That’s the idea; that is actually by planning. Zihuatanejo, nevertheless, has kept more of a feel like a traditional Mexican town. Ixtapa happens to be, so the location to go for luxurious resorts and an actually packaged holiday experience, yet Zihuatanejo has, generally, more character and authentic neighborhood appeal, yes it does.

The beaches at Ixtapa, a little known fact, have often had manicured sands and calm waters, I believe. Beaches around Zihuatanejo, yet offer a good array of scenery from calm bays perfect for swimming to more difficult surfing areas. Individuals generally prefer the tranquility and all inclusive resorts Ixtapa usually brings, while some, by the way, flock to Zihuatanejo with its actually dynamic local markets and vibrant street life. You will usually pick the spot you’re likely to depend totally on your taste as a traveler, actually.

Getting to Ixtapa Island: A Quick Guide

Making your way to Ixtapa Island might be more uncomplicated than you just think. Actually, what you’re seeing is there’s a short boat ride needed, regardless of the fact whether you begin from Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa. You could get these boats coming from Playa Linda, and usually they take off about every ten to fifteen minutes. It generally requires 10 to 15 minutes by boat. Early birds get the worm, like the ones. Arrive somewhat early to generally conquer the crowds, primarily at peak periods. So, for returning, make sure you’re fully mindful of the time the last boat goes out. Should you miss it you will probably, might, have to spring for a private water taxi, just like that.

Other Activities on Ixtapa Island: Beyond the Beach

Indeed, lazing concerning the coastline will just be your top objective, I think. The Ixtapa vicinity comes with a multitude of adventures too, though. Stand up paddleboarding, for instance, could be described as pretty well liked there; It allows the waters all over and the ocean creatures to be explored at an individual pace. Should you want something even more soothing, imagine hopping upon a kayak to discover some quieter, far-off bays. You would actually book nearly all of those actions throughout your accommodation, or there are actually many vendors just in close proximity to Playa Linda, of course. Do not leave without seeing it from almost all angles, is generally, my rule!

Booking Your Day Trip: Finding the Best Deals

Looking to book your day out? Just be sure to look for all types of deals. Actually, commence by simply considering various web based travel websites. Be on the lookout for package offers! See how tour companies are rating with comments? It’s typically more advantageous to pay extra for a highly recommended company, too it’s almost certain you will not be saddened later on. And, do ask. Concierges from the hotel and various locals may potentially usually know about exclusive discounts.

Isla Ixtapa Day Trip with Lunch FAQs

What should I bring on my day trip?

Consider your sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and money to pay for souvenirs or optional activities. Bring any snorkeling gear in the event that you would actually not rather rent.

Is Isla Ixtapa safe for tourists?

Definitely! Most areas that attract tourists is fine. Use common sense precautions; never leave valuables unattended, and avoid isolated locations after dark.

Are there restrooms and showers available on the island?

There is restrooms can be found near restaurants at many seashores, yes there is. Note that there are commonly very small charges for making use of them.

Could I buy food or drinks on Isla Ixtapa?

Several restaurants is generally spotted just around island that offers different types of foods and liquids. It truly will not be required for you to carry meals except for individuals with distinctive requirements diet plan or even dietary restrictions, I mean if that.