Playa Las Gatas - Swim, Snorkel and Surf
Tucked along the southern tip of Zihuatanejo Bay, Playa Las Gatas is a peaceful beach retreat known for its clear waters, coral reef, and relaxed island vibe. Just 20 minutes from Pacific Vacation’s Villa Bahía and Villa Encantada, it’s accessible only by boat or a scenic coastal hike — making it one of Zihuatanejo’s most charming and secluded destinations. With excellent snorkeling, fresh seafood restaurants, and a mellow reef wave for intermediate surfers, Playa Las Gatas offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Getting There - is ALL the fun
From Pacific Vacation’s villas, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the pier at Playa La Ropa, where small water taxis depart regularly for Playa Las Gatas. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately 50–70 MXN per person round-trip. For those who prefer to stay on land, a rocky coastal path leads from Playa La Ropa to Las Gatas, offering beautiful views of the bay. Because there are no cars on this beach, it maintains a quiet, untouched atmosphere — ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beachside lunches.
Eat | Drink | Relax
All restaurants at Playa Las Gatas offer tables right on the sand with fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and friendly beach service:
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Otilia’s Restaurant Bar – Famous for grilled lobster, shrimp cocktails, and piña coladas served in pineapples.
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Arcadia Restaurant Bar – Known for garlic fish, ceviche, and warm family hospitality.
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Casa Nayito – A relaxed escape for couples with delicious octopus and calm beach seating.
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La Sirena Gata – A colorful, lively spot for margaritas and live music before the evening boat rides back.
Things to Do at Playa Las Gatas
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Snorkel the Reef Wall – Spot parrotfish and the underwater statue of Jesus.
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Kayak & Paddleboard – Rent equipment directly from beach vendors.
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Massage Palapas – Enjoy a seaside massage under palm-frond shade.
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Local Shopping – Browse handmade jewelry and woven bags crafted by local artisans.
Surfing at Playa Las Gatas
Located at the southernmost tip of Zihuatanejo Bay, Playa Las Gatas is more protected than the open-coast beaches around Ixtapa, giving it a unique reef break that’s perfect for casual sessions. A natural coral and rock reef creates a mellow right-hand wave that wraps into the bay and breaks over a rocky bottom, best at mid- to high tide. It’s not consistent year-round, but when the conditions line up, surfers are rewarded with smooth, waist-to-shoulder-high walls in a scenic, tropical setting.
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Best for: Intermediate surfers
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Wave type: Reef break
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Board type: Mid-length or funboard
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Vibe: Relaxed mix of locals and visiting families
Because the reef also protects the bay, surfers can paddle out easily and snorkel between sets—something few surf spots can claim.
Swim & Snorkel Conditions
Protected by the reef, the inner bay at Las Gatas remains calm, clear, and family-friendly. Water visibility often reaches 20–30 feet, perfect for snorkeling among schools of tropical fish and coral heads close to shore.
Featured Video: Aerial View of Playa Las Gatas
Experience the beauty of Las Gatas from above. Our exclusive drone video captures the turquoise waters, coral reef, and relaxed shoreline that make this beach so special. Watch the full video below to preview your next beach day at Pacific Vacation.
Pacific Vacation Travel Tip
Start your day early — take the 10-minute walk to the La Ropa pier, enjoy a short boat ride to Las Gatas, and settle in for a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Have lunch at Otilia’s or Arcadia, then return to Playa La Ropa for sunset cocktails at Bistro del Mar overlooking the bay.
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