Isolated 'Cat Beach' is named – depending on whose story you believe – either after the whiskered nurse sharks that once inhabited its waters, or for the wildcats that lurked in the jungles onshore. It’s a protected beach, crowded with sunbeds and restaurants. It’s good for snorkeling (there’s some coral) and as a swimming spot for children, but beware of sea urchins. Beach shacks and restaurants rent out snorkeling gear for around M$150 per day. Boats depart frequently from Zihuatanejo's pier.
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Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
Playa La Ropa
0.75 MILES
The gorgeous white-sand expanse of Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach) was named after a Spanish galleon that was wrecked and had its cargo of silks washed…
Isla Ixtapa
7.88 MILES
Ixtapa's finest attraction is a popular island. The turquoise waters are crystal-clear, calm (particularly on the main Playa Varadero) and good for…
Nearby Zihuatanejo attractions
1. Playa La Ropa
0.75 MILES
The gorgeous white-sand expanse of Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach) was named after a Spanish galleon that was wrecked and had its cargo of silks washed…
2. Playa Municipal
1.25 MILES
In front of downtown, this is Zihua's least appealing beach for bathing, since the water could be cleaner. But the water is calm and without strong…
3. Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande
1.29 MILES
This small museum houses six rooms with exhibits on the history, archaeology and culture of the Guerrero coast. It displays feature jewelry, stone tools,…
4. Playa Madera
1.29 MILES
Shallow-watered Playa Madera is good for swimming. It's a pleasant five-minute walk east from downtown along a concrete walkway (popular with young…
5. Playa Manzanillo
1.9 MILES
This secluded white-sand beach near Playa Larga offers the best snorkeling in the area. It's reachable by boat from Zihuatanejo.
6. Playa Larga
3.19 MILES
About 12km south of Zihuatanejo, just before the airport, Playa Larga has big surf, beachfront restaurants and horseback riding. This is where Andy…
7. Playa El Palmar
4.62 MILES
Ixtapa's longest (2.5km) and broadest stretch of blond sand is overrun by parasailing and jet-skiing concessions. The sea takes on an aquamarine sheen in…
8. Playa Escolleras
5.26 MILES
Playa Escolleras, at the western end of Playa El Palmar near the entrance to the marina, has a decent break and attracts surfers.