Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Island of Ixtapa Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to escape the busy beaches and explore a quieter side of Mexico’s Pacific coast, this Ixtapa Island day trip might just be what you need. Offered by ECO IXZI TRAVEL and boasting a near-perfect rating of 4.9, this experience promises a slice of island serenity, complete with calm waters, lush scenery, and a delicious meal. While it doesn’t include snorkeling gear, it’s still an attractive option for travelers wanting a straightforward, relaxing day in nature.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: the peaceful atmosphere of the island and the chance to savor authentic local cuisine with a view. It’s a great way to unwind without the crowds and get a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty. That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re eager to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own gear — equipment isn’t supplied. This tour suits travelers who enjoy gentle waters, scenic sights, and laid-back experiences, especially those with a moderate budget looking for good value.

Key Points

• Relaxing natural reserve: Perfect for those wanting a break from crowded beaches.
• Calm bay swimming: Enjoy the protected waters ideal for a splash or wading.
• Snorkeling opportunity: Bring your gear for a peek beneath the surface.
• Authentic meal: Savor a tasty lunch with a drink, often praised for its quality.
• Short but sweet: Six-hour trip that balances activity and leisure.
• Family friendly: Suitable for most ages except very young children under 3.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

The Ixtapa Island day trip is engineered for travelers seeking a straightforward, relaxing outing with nature and good food at the forefront. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa, the journey begins with a scenic boat ride that sets the tone for the day. The boat itself is typically comfortable, and the trip across the bay offers your first glimpses of the lush vegetation and vibrant coastline.

Once you arrive on the island, the atmosphere shifts to one of peacefulness. The island’s natural reserve status means that the flora and fauna are protected, creating a lush backdrop for your activities. The small bay in front of the island is a noticeable highlight — its calm waters are perfect for a refreshing swim or just relaxing in the sun. The fact that the bay is protected from strong ocean currents means you can enjoy a safe, leisurely splash.

Many reviewers mention how the island’s tranquility makes it a perfect escape. One wrote, “The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the bay made this a highlight of our trip,” which echoes the general sentiment. The lush greenery and quiet surroundings make it easy to unwind, whether you want to lounge on the sand or take a stroll through the tropical vegetation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $52 per person, this tour offers a solid package, including land and sea transportation, a guided tour, and a lunch with a drink. The inclusion of food and drink provides good value, especially considering the quality of the meal, which gets positive remarks from past travelers. The guide, bilingual in English and Spanish, helps ensure you get the most out of the experience, explaining the natural surroundings and answering questions.

However, snorkeling gear isn’t included. If you’re eager to explore the underwater world, you’ll need to bring your own equipment — a small inconvenience but worth noting if snorkeling is a priority. The tour lasts about 6 hours, a duration that balances enough time on the island with comfortable travel logistics.

The Highlights and Activities

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific. While gear isn’t supplied, many find the bay’s calmness inviting enough for a simple float or wade. For those who do bring their own snorkeling gear, it’s an opportunity to see the marine life close up, although the tour itself doesn’t include guided snorkeling or equipment rental.

The lunch is another major plus. Past reviews describe it as delicious, often accompanied by a refreshing drink. The meal typically features local flavors, providing an authentic taste of the region. Many travelers appreciate that the meal is served in a natural setting, often with views of the bay or lush surroundings, making it feel more like a genuine escape rather than a hurried stop.

The Practicalities

Getting to the island involves a boat ride that’s relatively quick and scenic. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not for children under 3 years old, given the boat ride and activity nature. Group sizes tend to be moderate, allowing for intimacy and personalized attention from guides.

Timing-wise, you’ll want to check available starting times — most are scheduled to maximize daylight hours and weather conditions. The entire trip spans about 6 hours, so it’s a good option for a half-day adventure that won’t take over your whole schedule.

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What Past Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the stunning views and the delicious food as standout features. One reviewer praised the “beautiful scenery and peaceful environment,” while another remarked that the lunch was a highlight, with “tasty local dishes and a refreshing drink.” Some travelers mention that the calm waters are ideal for families or those who prefer a relaxed pace over energetic activities.

However, a few note that snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so if that’s a must-have activity, plan to bring your own equipment. Others comment on the overall value, saying that the cost is reasonable considering the transportation, guide service, and meal.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This Ixtapa Island day trip is perfect for travelers who want a mellow, scenic escape that emphasizes natural beauty and good food rather than adrenaline or adventure. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy gentle water activities and tranquil surroundings. Active snorkelers eager to explore marine life will need to bring their own gear, but casual swimmers and sunbathers will find plenty to love.

It’s also a good choice for those on a budget, as the price provides a generous package of transportation, guide, and a quality meal. If your idea of a perfect day involves relaxing on the beach, taking in lush scenery, and enjoying authentic regional flavors, this tour deserves your consideration.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Island of Ixtapa Day Trip with Lunch offers a relaxing, scenic peek into the region’s natural beauty. For just over fifty dollars, you get transportation, a guided experience, and a satisfying meal, all in a setting that emphasizes peace and simplicity. It’s an excellent way to break from beach crowds and enjoy some tranquil moments in nature’s lap.

While the lack of snorkeling gear might be a downside for some, the calm bay waters and lush surroundings more than compensate. The trip’s balance of gentle activities and authentic food makes it a great value, especially for those seeking a laid-back day away from busy tourist spots.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize scenery, relaxation, and local flavors over high-energy activities. If you’re traveling with family or simply want a peaceful retreat in a natural reserve, this experience fits the bill nicely.

FAQ

Is snorkeling gear included?
No, snorkeling gear isn’t included. If you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own equipment.

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, activities, and lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, mainly because of boat rides and activity level.

What is the price?
The tour costs $52 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and lunch with a drink.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and your own snorkeling gear if you want to snorkel.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Whether you’re after picture-perfect views, a relaxing swim, or a tasty regional meal, this Ixtapa Island trip offers a straightforward, enjoyable slice of what the region has to offer. It’s a no-fuss choice that promises a peaceful day in a natural setting, making it an appealing option for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: