Playa Las Gatas sits on the far side of Zihuatanejo Bay from town, a short boat ride or a longer paddle away. A low stone seawall runs along the shore and holds the surf back, so the water inside is calm, clear and easy for children, nervous swimmers and first-time snorkelers. Local legend credits a pre-Hispanic ruler with building the breakwater to make a safe pool for his family, and the beach name is tied to that story. Today the sand is lined with open-air restaurants and beach clubs where you can rent loungers, order grilled fish and watch the boats come and go. Snorkelers swim along the wall, where the guided tour also points out an underwater statue known as the King of Kings. This is the easiest full beach day on the bay, and it works as a half day or a whole one depending on how long you linger over lunch.
Why it matters
Most beaches on this coast face the open Pacific, with surf that is fine for watching and trickier for swimming. Las Gatas is the exception. The breakwater and the shape of the bay create a pool-like cove, which is why families, snorkelers and kayakers head here first. It is also a place with a story, because the legend of the seawall is part of how locals describe the bay, and you will hear it from guides and restaurant owners alike.
How to do it
The tour on offer is a guided kayak and snorkel day of about five hours with hotel pickup from Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo. You are fitted with a kayak and life jacket at Playa La Ropa, paddle across the bay with a guide and a drink break, snorkel along the seawall, eat lunch on the beach and have free time before paddling back.
Lunch is served on the sand and the choices include fish, chicken, shrimp or cheese quesadillas with rice, salad and guacamole. Minimum and maximum group sizes apply, so check them when you reserve, and bring a little cash for extra drinks.
Doing it independently
If you prefer to skip the paddle, small boats cross to Las Gatas from the Zihuatanejo town pier, and a walking path also links La Ropa with the beach. Plan to arrive in the morning, before the sun is high and the loungers fill, and leave before late afternoon if you want a calm crossing back. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water shoes for the rocky edges and a dry bag for your phone. Prices for loungers and meals vary, so agree the rate before you settle in.
What to expect
The experience
A guided kayak across Zihuatanejo Bay, snorkeling along the seawall, lunch on the sand and free beach time before paddling back.
Best time
Morning, when the bay is calmest and the sun is lower.
How long
About five hours on the guided day, or a few hours if you take a boat over independently.
Tips
Wear a swimsuit under light clothes, bring sunscreen and cash for extra drinks, and tell the guide if you are a weak swimmer.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-timers who want calm water, snorkeling and a relaxed beach lunch in one day.
- Families
- The sheltered water suits children who can swim with a life jacket, and the beach has shade and simple food.
- Couples
- A shared kayak across the bay followed by lunch on the sand is an easy, low-key day together.
- Pair with
- Playa La Ropa for the paddle start and Zihuatanejo town for a sunset dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
Is Las Gatas good for swimming?+
Yes, the seawall keeps the water inside calm, so it is one of the easiest places on the bay to swim and snorkel. Conditions can still change with the weather, so follow any flags or staff advice.
How do I get to Las Gatas?+
You can paddle from Playa La Ropa on a guided tour, take a small boat from the Zihuatanejo town pier or follow the path from La Ropa. The boat is the quickest option if you are short on time.
Is lunch included on the guided tour?+
The kayak and snorkel tour includes a beach lunch and one drink, with extra drinks paid in cash. Choices include fish, chicken, shrimp or cheese quesadillas.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
You wear a life jacket for the paddle and the snorkeling happens along the wall in shallow, calm water. Weak swimmers should tell the guide and stay close to the shore.
What is the King of Kings statue?+
It is an underwater statue that snorkelers can see along the seawall, and the guide points it out on the tour. Visibility changes from day to day.
