Ixtapa Island — Coral Reefs, Beach Dining & Island Adventures
Just a 10-minute boat ride from Playa Linda, Isla Ixtapa (Ixtapa Island) is one of the region’s most popular day-trip escapes — a tropical paradise surrounded by turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. Known for its excellent snorkeling, laid-back beach dining, and panoramic ocean views, Isla Ixtapa offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to explore coral reefs, savor fresh seafood by the shore, or spend the day sunbathing, this island is a must-see for guests staying at Pacific Vacation | StayPV.com.
Getting There
To reach Isla Ixtapa, start your journey at Playa Linda (about 25–30 minutes from Pacific Vacation). Small panga boats depart every few minutes from the pier starting at 9:00 a.m., with the last return trip around 5:00 p.m. The crossing takes roughly 10 minutes across calm waters, offering stunning views of the coastline and palm-lined beaches.
The Four Beaches of Isla Ixtapa
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Isla Ixtapa features four distinct beaches, each with its own character and activities — making it easy to spend a full day exploring.
Coral Beach Ixtapa Island
Located on the far side of the island, Coral Beach is a snorkeling paradise. The water is crystal clear, and coral reefs are home to angelfish, parrotfish, and sea urchins. Equipment rentals are available right on the beach.
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Best for: Snorkeling & swimming
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Water: Calm and transparent
Varadero Beach Ixtapa Island
Facing the mainland, Varadero is the island’s most popular beach, with gentle waves, golden sand, and a lively row of palapa restaurants serving cold coconuts, fresh fish, and cocktails.
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Best for: Families, swimming, and dining
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Vibe: Relaxed and social
Eat | Drink | Relax
Several rustic beach palapa restaurants line Playa Linda’s sand, offering fresh-caught seafood and cold drinks with ocean views:
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Restaurante El Manglar de Playa Linda – Traditional palapa restaurant serving grilled fish, garlic shrimp, and coconut cocktails right on the beach.
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Casa del Sol Playa Linda – Known for margaritas, ceviche, and ocean-view tables shaded by palms.
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Restaurante El Pargo – Local favorite for whole fried fish and cold beer steps from the surf.
Insider Tip:
Most beachfront restaurants here offer loungers and shade umbrellas for guests who order food or drinks — ideal for a full beach day with surf, lunch, and relaxation.
Swim & Surf Conditions
Playa Linda is one of the few true surf beaches in the Ixtapa–Zihuatanejo area. The waves here break over a sandy bottom and are best at mid- to high tide, offering fun, punchy beach breaks for intermediate surfers. Early mornings often bring clean, glassy conditions before the wind picks up in the afternoon.
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Best for: Intermediate surfers
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Wave type: Beach break
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Board type: Shortboard or funboard
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Vibe: Local surf community, mellow weekday mornings, busier weekends
When the swell is small, the inside section near the river mouth becomes perfect for body surfing and boogie boarding, making it a versatile beach for both beginners and surfers looking for mellow rides.
Crocodile Lagoon & Nature Walks
Behind the dunes, you’ll find La Playa Linda Crocodile Lagoon, a natural estuary teeming with crocodiles, turtles, and exotic birds. A safe wooden walkway allows visitors to observe wildlife up close, with local guides on site to share information. It’s an easy 10-minute visit and one of the most popular family-friendly attractions near Ixtapa.
Ixtapa Island Access
At the north end of Playa Linda, small boats ferry visitors to Isla Ixtapa, known for snorkeling, seafood restaurants, and calm swimming coves. The ride takes just 10 minutes, and you can choose from four beaches on the island — including one on the back side that’s ideal for snorkeling over coral reefs. Most boats operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Pacific Vacation Travel Tip
Plan to arrive early to watch the surfers, walk through the crocodile sanctuary, and take the boat to Ixtapa Island for lunch. Return in the afternoon for a drink at El Manglar and watch the sky turn pink over the Pacific — it’s one of Ixtapa’s most scenic sunsets.
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