You’ll Love These 15 Tours & Things To Do In Ixtapa

Ixtapa is a destination that offers more than just beautiful beaches. Its variety of tours and activities cater to a wide range of interests, whether you’re looking for a hassle-free start to your trip, an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine, or exciting outdoor adventures.

Personally, I love the private transfers because they take the stress out of arrival, and the snorkeling tours because of the colorful marine life.

Plus, the cooking classes provide a genuine local experience that turns your trip into a culinary journey. Whatever your style, Ixtapa has something to keep your days full and memorable.

Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the types of tours on offer, including private transportation, cultural excursions, water sports, and family-friendly outings. Each experience is detailed to help you decide which is best suited for your trip, budget, and interests.

1. Private Transportation from the Zihuatanejo Airport to your hotel in Ixtapa

Starting your trip in Ixtapa without the hassle of crowded shuttles or taxis is a huge plus. This private transfer ensures a smooth, comfortable ride from the Zihuatanejo airport directly to your hotel. With a driver waiting with your name on a sign, you avoid long lines and save valuable time.

The vehicle is air-conditioned and clean, and drivers often share local insights about the area during your 30-40 minute ride.

This service is highly rated, with a 5.0/5 score from 83 reviews, and costs just $89.22 per group (up to 9). It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience and a stress-free start. Reviewers mention courteous drivers and the comfort of private vans, making this a great choice for families or groups arriving together.

Bottom Line: An excellent, reliable way to begin your trip, especially if you want to skip airport queues and get straight to relaxing at your hotel.

2. Mexican Cooking Class in Zihuatanejo de Azueta

For those who love food and want to learn authentic Mexican recipes, this cooking class offers a hands-on experience led by a local chef. Over about four hours, you’ll explore regional flavors and learn how to prepare dishes like tamales, enchiladas, and chiles rellenos. The hosts, Carlos and Elsa, share family secrets and take pride in teaching traditional techniques.

Guests rave about the personal touch and the chance to visit the local market with Carlos, where you can see a bustling maze of fresh produce, herbs, and spices. The class ends with a communal meal featuring your culinary creations. At $110 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers genuine insight into Mexican cuisine and culture.

Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want a memorable, authentic cooking experience and the chance to recreate regional dishes back home.

3. Photographic Session in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

Capture your trip with a professional photo shoot led by local photographers. For around $300.84, your group (up to 15 people) gets a 30-minute session and professionally edited photos that showcase the stunning beach landscapes. Unlike generic photo services, the company edits all images to highlight the natural beauty of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting high-quality souvenirs of their trip. Not only do you get great photos, but you also support the local economy by booking with a local business. The relaxed sessions and professional touch make it an easy way to get memorable shots.

Bottom Line: A worthwhile splurge if you want beautiful, professionally edited photos that capture your special moments against Ixtapa’s scenic backdrop.

4. Ixtapa: Las Gatas Beach Adventure

A visit to Playa Las Gatas combines natural beauty with fun activities. This tour includes transportation—via a short van ride followed by a water taxi—to the quiet, protected bay. Once there, you can walk along the beach, snorkel, or just relax in the sun.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided sightseeing and free time on one of Ixtapa’s most beautiful beaches. The 5.5-hour experience includes a guided tour and free time for swimming, snorkeling, or enjoying local food. It costs $30 per person, making it an affordable way to enjoy both adventure and relaxation.

Reviewers highlight the easy logistics and the stunning scenery. This tour is best for travelers wanting a quick, scenic beach break with the option to snorkel among colorful fish.

Bottom Line: Perfect for beach lovers seeking a flexible day with beautiful views and light adventure.

5. Ixtapa: Petatlán and Coconut Museum

Spend a day exploring Petatlán, a charming town known for its gold and silver markets. This six-hour guided tour includes transportation from your hotel, a visit to the coconut museum, and a walk through the local market. It provides a glimpse of authentic local life and craftsmanship.

Ideal for travelers interested in local culture and handicrafts, this tour offers insight into the region’s artisanal traditions. It’s a relaxed day that combines shopping, cultural learning, and scenic drives, all for $80 per person. The tour is especially suited for those wanting a cultural experience outside the busy beaches.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded cultural excursion that combines shopping, local crafts, and regional scenery.

6. Ixtapa: Snorkeling Tour to Ixtapa Island

Uncover the underwater wonderland surrounding Ixtapa Island with this snorkeling tour. The trip includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and access to vibrant coral reefs. You’ll get to see an array of marine life, from colorful fish to sea turtles. The 5-hour tour concludes with a seafood meal on the island.

This tour offers great value at $90 per person, especially for travelers eager to explore marine environments. The reviews emphasize the quality of snorkeling gear and the beauty of the reef. It’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and keen on marine life.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for snorkelers wanting an up-close look at Pacific Ocean marine life in a relaxed setting.

7. Hermosa Isla de Ixtapa

Visit Hermosa Island, famed for its crystal-clear waters and beaches. This all-inclusive tour lasts around 5 hours and includes visits to the Cocodrilario e Iguanario (crocodile and iguana sanctuary) and a delicious local fish restaurant.

Perfect for families or those interested in wildlife and local cuisine, this trip merges nature with leisure. Reviewers praise the quality of the food and the attentive service. The all-inclusive aspect ensures you can relax without worrying about extra costs.

Bottom Line: A good choice for a mix of wildlife, good food, and beach relaxation in one afternoon.

8. Private Transfer from Ixtapa Airport (ZIH)

For a smooth start to your trip, this private transfer guarantees quick, comfortable service from the airport to your hotel. With a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews and a cost of $29.34 per person, it’s an affordable way to avoid airport chaos.

Drivers are punctual and courteous, with some sharing tips about local restaurants and activities. The service includes 60 minutes of waiting time and all costs, making it a reliable, no-fuss option.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a dependable, hassle-free arrival transfer at a fair price.

9. Private Transfer to Ixtapa Airport (ZIH)

When it’s time to leave, this private transfer from your hotel to the airport ensures a punctual and comfortable ride. For $30.77 per person, the service includes meet-and-greet, 24-hour availability, and all costs included.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking peace of mind knowing their transport is confirmed and straightforward. One reviewer notes that the driver was professional and timely, which is crucial during busy travel days.

Bottom Line: A straightforward, reliable option for departing Ixtapa without last-minute stress.

10. Las Gatas Island Beach Break: 5-Hour Tour with Lunch

Enjoy a relaxing beach day on Las Gatas Island with this 5-hour tour. It includes water taxi rides, time for swimming and snorkeling, and a delicious lunch with drinks on the beach. The white sands and coral reefs make it a favorite spot for quiet sunbathing and underwater exploration.

At $65 per person, the tour offers great value for a full day of fun and relaxation, though reviews are mixed on the value aspect. It’s best for those who want a mix of beach leisure and light adventure with a good meal.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a straightforward beach escape with some snorkeling and tasty local food.

11. Ixtapa: 7 Islands Boat Tour

Explore seven islands around Ixtapa in this 4-hour boat tour that combines sightseeing and snorkeling. The tour includes gear and guide services, making it easy to enjoy reef and marine life.

Though reviews are not provided, this tour appeals to those wanting an active outdoor day with multiple stops and plenty of chances for photos. Suitable for all ages comfortable on a boat, it’s a solid choice for island-hopping.

Bottom Line: Great for boat lovers and those eager to see multiple islands with snorkeling included.

12. Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: City Tour

This three-hour city tour covers highlights like the Crocodile Farm, Playa Linda, and Marina Ixtapa. It offers a quick but thorough overview of the area’s natural and cultural sights.

Perfect for first-time visitors, it’s priced at $52 per person and provides a good introduction to the region’s highlights. Reviewers mention the scenic walking and the pleasure of observing local wildlife.

Bottom Line: An efficient way to get your bearings and see key attractions in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.

13. Ixtapa: Discover Diver Course

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater, this Discover Diver Course is your gateway. The three-hour beginner course provides professional guidance in calm waters, with a focus on marine life and underwater landscapes.

At $136, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a memorable intro to scuba diving. Reviewers note the quality instruction and the chance to see underwater wildlife up close.

Bottom Line: For first-timers eager to try scuba in a safe setting, this course is a perfect starting point.

14. Ixtapa: Horseback Riding Tour Along Playa Larga

Experience the scenic beauty of Playa Larga on horseback. This one-hour tour takes you along the beach’s golden sands and into shallow waters, offering a relaxed yet exciting ride.

It’s a popular choice for families and couples wanting a memorable outdoor experience. For $65, it combines gentle adventure with stunning views, with many reviews praising the guides and the scenery.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a short, scenic outdoor activity that combines nature and a bit of fun.

15. Ixtapa: Marine Life Exploration

Discover the marine ecosystems around Ixtapa with this three-hour tour. You’ll see sea turtles, rocky islands, and soaring eagles, all with expert guides. The tour emphasizes observing marine and bird life in their natural environment.

While reviews are not available, this trip suits nature lovers and those interested in wildlife. It offers a different perspective from the beaches, focusing on the region’s marine biodiversity.

Bottom Line: A rewarding choice for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to see Ixtapa’s marine and bird life.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Ixtapa

When selecting your activities, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest areas. For hassle-free arrivals, the Private Transportation from the Zihuatanejo Airport to your hotel in Ixtapa offers unmatched convenience. If you love seafood and local flavors, the Mexican Cooking Class in Zihuatanejo de Azueta provides a memorable cultural experience.

For outdoor and water activities, snorkeling at Ixtapa Island (Snorkeling Tour to Ixtapa Island) or a boat tour of the 7 islands (7 Islands Boat Tour) are standouts. Families or wildlife lovers might prefer the Hermosa Island tour or Marine Life Exploration.

Booking early, especially for popular tours like snorkeling or private transfers, ensures availability and better prices.

Final Thoughts

Ixtapa’s diverse range of tours offers options for every traveler—from luxury private transfers to adventurous snorkeling and authentic culinary experiences. If you’re a first-time visitor, a city tour or private transfer makes sense.

For active travelers, snorkeling, island-hopping, or horseback riding will keep you busy. Families and those seeking relaxation will enjoy beach days and wildlife tours.

Overall, Ixtapa is easy to navigate with a variety of well-rated experiences, so pick what excites you and book early to guarantee your spot. With so many options, your trip to Ixtapa will be full of memorable moments worth reliving for years to come.