Zihuatanejo: Snorkeling Trip to Ixtapa Island with Lunch

If you’re looking for a half-day escape into the waters of Mexico’s Pacific coast, this snorkeling trip to Ixtapa Island from Zihuatanejo offers a lively mix of underwater adventure, scenic views, and local flavor. While some travelers have found it to be a fantastic value with knowledgeable guides and stunning sights, others have been less impressed by the snorkeling itself, so it’s worth weighing what you want out of the experience.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the inclusion of lunch and transportation, which make it a convenient, hassle-free outing. We also love the opportunity to try various water sports like kayaking and jetskiing—if you’re into more than just snorkeling. The one thing to consider is that the snorkeling experience varies, and some have found the marine life less abundant than expected. This trip suits travelers eager for a relaxed day on the water, especially those who value guided insight and a chance to enjoy fresh seafood on a beach setting.

Key Points

• All-in-one package: Includes transport, boat ride, lunch, drinks, and guided instructions.
• Flexible water activities: Snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and optional water sports at extra cost.
• Authentic experience: Guided tours focus on safety, marine life, and local scenery.
• Value for money: For $44, you get a decent mix of activities, lunch, and transportation.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers rave about guides and scenery; others find snorkeling underwhelming.
• Ideal for casual travelers: Perfect for those who want a straightforward, fun water day without overcomplication.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Day on Ixtapa Island

This tour begins with hotel pickup, often from the main lobby—an easy, stress-free start. Once onboard the air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be whisked away through scenic landscapes toward Zihuatanejo’s waterfront, where a boat awaits to ferry you across to the island. The boat ride itself offers plenty of chances to enjoy ocean views and get excited about what’s ahead.

Arrival and Guided Safety Briefing

As you step onto Ixtapa Island, your tour guide will provide safety instructions, especially focused on snorkeling. This is a good opportunity to ask questions if you’re new to water sports or nervous about the conditions. The guides are generally knowledgeable and enthusiastic, eager to share insights about the marine environment and the island.

Water Activities and Marine Encounters

Once in the water, you’ll have time to snorkel, swim, or kayak. The designated snorkeling area is reputed to have interesting marine life, with guides sometimes bringing up sea urchins and starfish for close-up views—an experience highlighted by those who enjoyed it. One review mentions Sammy, their snorkel guide, who “showed us some incredible marine life and took pictures that were definitely worth it.” However, some travelers, like one from Germany, found the snorkeling “boring even for beginners,” with few fish visible unless fed by guides.

Beach Time and Optional Water Sports

Beyond snorkeling, you can relax on the sandy beach, soak up the sun, or rent other water toys like jetskis or banana boats. While these are not included in the price, they’re readily available at the island. If you’re looking for an active, adrenaline-filled experience, be prepared to pay extra for rentals.

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Lunch and Refreshments

A highlight for many is the seafood lunch, usually featuring fresh catches and served with two drinks—water, soda, or beer. The meal is typically straightforward, satisfying, and a good value considering it’s included in the tour price. Several reviews praise the lunch as ample and tasty, making it a perfect way to refuel after splashing around. One traveler appreciated the “stunning pictures taken during snorkeling,” which they considered a worthwhile extra.

Return Journey

After about 2-3 hours on the island, the group boards the boat back to the mainland, with a return to your hotel included in the package. The timing is generally well-paced, allowing enough time to enjoy activities without feeling rushed.

The Value Proposition

At $44 per person, this tour strikes a balance between affordability and fun. The inclusion of transportation, a boat ride, lunch, and a guided experience means you’re not piecing together multiple bookings. The guides’ local knowledge and safety instructions add to the experience, especially if you’re new to snorkeling or water sports.

However, the value is somewhat dependent on your expectations around the marine life and activities. For some, the snorkeling might not be as lively as hoped, with fish sightings limited and some guides asking for extra money for photos. That said, the tour offers a good introduction to the island’s scenery and water-based activities, which many travelers find rewarding.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for families, casual water sports enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a relaxing day in the sun. It’s perfect if your goal is to enjoy scenic views, have a straightforward snorkeling experience, and indulge in fresh seafood—without the need for advanced diving skills or deep marine exploration. If you’re on a tight schedule or want a hassle-free, guided day out, this is a sensible choice.

If you’re highly experienced diver or snorkeler expecting abundant marine life, you might find the snorkeling underwhelming. Also, if you are not comfortable with guided tours or have mobility issues, check that the boat and facilities cater to your needs.

Practical Details

Transportation is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off making for a smooth start and finish. The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, a manageable length for most travelers. Group sizes tend to be small to medium, allowing for personal attention from guides, who speak English. Expect to pay extra if you want to rent gear or additional water sports equipment.

The tour operates with flexible cancellation policies—full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance—giving peace of mind. The price of $44 offers fair value, especially considering the included lunch and guided safety instructions.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling trip to Ixtapa Island provides a lively, straightforward way to enjoy the water and scenery of Mexico’s Pacific coast. It’s especially good for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience with the convenience of transportation and a tasty seafood meal. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the overall feel of the trip.

While the snorkeling might not satisfy those seeking vibrant underwater scenes or prolific marine life, the opportunity to swim, kayak, and relax on the beach makes this a well-rounded outing. For budget-conscious travelers or families seeking a fun, safe water adventure, this tour offers solid value.

In short, if your idea of a perfect day is spending time in warm waters, enjoying a scenic boat ride, and feasting on fresh seafood, you’ll find this tour hits the right note. Just keep expectations realistic about the marine life, and you’re likely to come away with good memories and some great photos.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel’s main lobby, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The overall experience lasts about 4.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the water and lunch without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, the boat to the island, a seafood lunch with two drinks, life jackets, and a guided safety instruction.

Are water sports like jetski or banana ride included?
No, these are not included but are available for rent at Ixtapa Island. Ask your guide for details and prices.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Snorkel gear is available for rent on the island; it’s not included in the tour price.

Is the snorkeling worth it?
Many travelers enjoy snorkeling, especially the guided touch-and-see experience, but some have found the marine life limited and underwhelming.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Casual water lovers, families, and those wanting a relaxed, guided day on the water with good food will appreciate this trip.

Are there age restrictions?
People over 95 are not suitable for this activity, but otherwise, it’s suitable for most ages, especially if they’re comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and cash for extra water sports rentals or souvenirs. The tour provides safety gear and basic instructions.

In the end, this tour offers a practical, friendly introduction to Ixtapa Island’s waters. It’s a fine choice for those wanting an easy, enjoyable day with plenty of scenic and culinary highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: