Several of the nicest beaches in the Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo area are closed to the public.
By law, all Mexican beaches are open to the public. But it is common for hotels to create artificial barriers (such as rocks or dunes).

Visitors are welcome to enjoy the following beaches:

Playa Palmar Ixtapa

Playa Palmar, a gorgeous arc of white sand, is Ixtapa's main beach.

Location: on the boundary of the Hotel Zone

Features: spectacular rock formations outlined in the sea

Swimming cautions: the surf can be rough, swim with caution, and don't swim when a red flag is posted

Playa Quieta Ixtapa

Most of Playa Quieta belongs to the Qualton Club and to Club Med Ixtapa. The portion of beach that remains was once used to launch boats bound for Isla Ixtapa. Now it is progressively being taken over by a private-sector development.

Location: facing towards Isla Ixtapa, on the mainland

Playa Linda Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

The main beach in the Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo area located away from the town is Playa Linda. It is the launching point for boats, including inexpensive water taxis, to Isla Ixtapa.

Location: about 13 km (8 mi) north of Ixtapa

Activities: gear for water sports and horses available for rental

Playa las Cuatas Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Playa las Cuatas is an attractive beach and inlet. It is being transformed into a resort complex.

Location: about 3 km (2 mi) north of Ixtapa

Playa Majahua Zihuatanejo

Playa Majahua is an isolated beach. It is being transformed into a resort complex.

Location: just west of Zihuatanejo

Playa Vista Hermosa

Playa Vista Hermosa is framed by outstanding formations of rocks.

Location: runs alongside Las Brisas Hotel and is far above the ground on the hill

Playa Las Gatas Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

See section “Las Gatas Beach” above.

All the above beaches in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are very attractive for sunbathing or walking. But their heavy surf and strong undertow requires caution when swimming here.