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Zihuatanejo Travel Guide: Reviews, photos, & videos
Towards the end of the modern day classic film The Shawshank Redemption, Tim Robbins informs Morgan Freeman that his life dream is to own a small hotel on the beach in Zihuatanejo – to which Morgan Freeman famously responds “Zi…what?” It’s a funny moment, but at the end of the film – when these two characters do finally meet up on the beach of this flawless coastal Mexican city, the simple image of two best friends embracing on the white sandy shores as the azure waters laps against their legs is profoundly moving. So if Hollywood has caught on to Zihuatanejo – pronounced CEE-WAT-tin- AY-ho – shouldn’t it be crawling with tourists? Surprisingly no! Located along the breezy Pacific Coast of Mexico in the state of Guerrero, Zihuatanejo maintains a laid back and relaxed vibe perfect for a family vacation, honey moon or a simple retreat from life’s daily stresses.
The main attraction for those who visit Zihuatanejo is obviously the beach. Most visitors find solace in the sheltered Zihuatanejo Bay that features a protected swimming area and some of the best scenery on the island. There are also several other prime beach spots in the area including Playa La Ropa (which means “Beach of the Clothes” – named after a shipwreck that dumped large amounts of Chinese Silk into the waters) and Playa Las Gatas (Beach of the She-Cats – named after harmless sharks called “she-cats” due to their whiskers). Golf is another incredibly popular activity in this lush region with courses like Palma Real – designed by the famed Robert Trent Jones – and La Marina taking advantage of the Zihuatanejo’s lush landscape for some of the best golf in the country. Those who enjoy scuba diving, surfing or sport fishing will be sure to find ample opportunities to do so in Zihuatanejo’s lovely waters, but it’s also highly encouraged to spend the days lounging on the beach – umbrella drink in hand. And for those who might like to see the surrounding areas, 25 minutes north of the region lies the golden sanded beach of Playa Troncones. But honestly, why leave? I mean if Zihuatanejo is the first spot Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman go after being in prison for half their life, shouldn’t that mean something?
