Zihuatanejo, Mexico Cruise Port Guide
Nestled along Mexico's Pacific Riviera, Zihuatanejo offers cruise passengers a charming escape defined by authentic Mexican culture, calm waters, and scenic coastal landscapes.
Major lines such as Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line frequently include this historic fishing village on their Mexican Riviera itineraries.
Visitors are drawn to its relaxed atmosphere, golden beaches, and friendly local vibe, making it a standout destination for relaxation and cultural immersion.
In This Guide
- Key Zihuatanejo Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Local SIM Card
- Visiting Zihuatanejo Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Zihuatanejo Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in Mexico
- Monthly Pricing
Key Zihuatanejo Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
A stroll along El Malecon, also known as the Paseo del Pescador, leads travelers along the waterfront past bustling fish markets, artisan stalls, and oceanfront dining.
Sun-seekers can head to Playa Las Gatas, a serene beach protected by a sunken coral reef, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
For scenic views across the region, taking a boat ride across Bahia de Zihuatanejo provides stunning vistas of the surrounding coastal cliffs and lush hillsides.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Just 5 miles north of town lies Ixtapa, a purpose-built resort area featuring high-rise luxury hotels, world-class golf courses, and broad sandy beaches accessible in roughly 15 minutes by taxi.
Nature enthusiasts often venture to Ixtapa Island, located about 30 minutes away via taxi and short water taxi ride, famous for its clear waters and water sports.
The nearby archaeological site of Xihuacan sits approximately 45 minutes south, offering history buffs a look into pre-Columbian pyramids and artifacts.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Port Location
Zihuatanejo is a tender port where cruise ships anchor out in the protected waters of Bahia de Zihuatanejo.
Tender boats drop passengers off directly at Muelle de Pasajeros, located right in the heart of downtown.
Because the pier lands right in downtown, passengers can easily step off the tender and explore markets, shops, and restaurants on foot without needing shuttle services.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Local Currency
The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), though US Dollars are widely accepted in shops, taxis, and tourist restaurants.
Credit cards are commonly accepted at larger establishments, but cash is necessary for local craft markets and smaller beach vendors.
ATMs and currency exchange facilities are easily found near the downtown tender pier, with exchange rates typically around 17 to 20 pesos per US dollar.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Safety Considerations
The downtown waterfront and main tourist areas in Zihuatanejo are generally safe and welcoming for independent exploration.
Visitors should exercise standard travel precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and staying within well-traveled tourist zones during daylight hours.
Using official taxis or arranged shore excursions is recommended when traveling to outlying sites outside the central bay area.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Weather & Climate
Zihuatanejo enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically averaging between 75°F and 88°F (24°C to 31°C).
The primary cruise season coincides with the dry period from November through April, featuring bright sunshine, low humidity, and pleasant sea breezes.
Passengers should pack lightweight cotton clothing, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and plenty of sun protection.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Getting Around
Taxis are readily available right at the tender pier and offer regulated, affordable fares to nearby beaches and Ixtapa.
Local minibuses, known as combis, provide an inexpensive way to travel around town and to nearby resort areas.
Water taxis operate regularly from the pier, offering quick transport across the bay to spots like Playa Las Gatas or enjoying a scenic coastal boat tour.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Shopping
Shopping in Zihuatanejo is centered around the downtown streets and vibrant artisanal markets near the pier.
Popular local items include hand-painted ceramics, silver jewelry, traditional Mexican textiles, hammocks, and locally produced mezcal.
Bargaining is accepted and expected at street markets, while prices in established boutiques and stores are fixed.
Last updated on October 28, 2026
Shore Excursions & Tours
Private Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo City Tour
Explore the highlights of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, including high-end neighborhoods, the La Playa wildlife reserve, and a local farmer's market, on this private half-day tour. Travel in a luxury vehicle with a local guide who provides undivided attention while showing you the area's best restaurants and various vista points.
City and Country Side Tour with Luis
This six-hour City and Country Side Tour includes visits to a farmers market, local residential areas, the town square, and a lookout point over Zihuatanejo Bay. The journey continues into the countryside to visit a tropical fruit plantation and a rural community that manufactures clay tiles and bricks, followed by lunch in Barra Potosi.
Baby Sea Turtle Releasing Sightseeing Tour with Luis de la Maza
During this 3.5-hour tour, learn about the life cycle, characteristics, incubation times, and survival rates of the various sea turtles that visit this part of Mexico. Discover the difficulties these creatures face from the moment they are born and run to the ocean until they return to the beach years later to lay eggs.
Las Gatas Beach Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
This approximately 5-hour tour to Las Gatas Beach includes transportation, a professional guide, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and lunch. The beach's sea wall makes it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, while the laid-back atmosphere is perfect for relaxing with a cold drink.
Hiking in the Tiger Cave
Embark on a guided hiking adventure to La Cueva del Tigre, a hidden natural treasure in Zihuatanejo featuring rugged landscapes and scenic trails through tropical vegetation. This experience is designed for nature lovers to enjoy breathtaking views and a deeper connection to nature.
Xihuacan Culture and Archaeology Tour
Departing from Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa in a luxury van, this tour explores the Xihuacan archaeological site, a Pre-Columbian ceremonial center uniquely constructed from bricks and modeling clay. Take a guided tour of the Cuitlateca vestiges to learn about the ethnic group that advanced the art of pottery.
Zihuatanejo Food -Tasting and Walking Tour (Not for vegetarian)
Experience a three-hour walking tour and food tasting that offers local insight into Mexican culture and history through its unique cuisine. A local guide leads you on a gastronomical adventure through downtown Zihuatanejo, visiting six different food tasting locations and off-the-beaten-path restaurants.
Turtle Release Playa Blanca
Witness the natural process of sea turtles laying eggs at night and learn how a qualified team protects them in a sanctuary. After a briefing, you will be given a freshly hatched baby turtle to release on the beach and cheer on as it runs to the sea.
Horseback Riding Playa Larga
Starting at a family-run ranch next to Playa Larga Beach, this horseback ride travels through a coconut orchard and past a small lagoon before finishing along the beach. This tour combines ranch and beach experiences, with guides present to help capture photos of your best moments.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Enjoy a morning horseback ride on friendly, well-trained horses through coconut plantations, mangrove trees, and Playa Larga, the longest beach in the area. The beautiful ride features ocean breezes and scenic views of the waves, lagoon, vegetation, and mountain range.
Snorkeling Tour in Ixtapa Island
Visit a beautiful island featuring three beaches, including Coral Beach for snorkeling among live coral and colorful fish, and Playa Varadero for tranquil swimming. Relax under a palm-roofed restaurant and enjoy a menu featuring fresh seafood, shellfish, chicken, and beef dishes.
Archaeological Site Tour in Zihuatanejo
This archaeological journey visits Xihuacan, also known as "La Chole," a site near Zihuatanejo occupied for over 3,000 years by cultures with ties to the Olmec and Teotihuaca. The tour includes observations of the Mesoamerican ruins and concludes with a delicious lunch.
Country Side tour
This tour offers an opportunity to learn about regional lifestyles and the use of natural resources like coconut and clay. See how locals manufacture bricks and roofing tiles for their homes and use coconut husks as fuel for clay stoves and wood bread ovens.
Snorkel Tour in Las Gatas Water Break
Spend a pleasant day snorkeling at Las Gatas Beach, a main Zihuatanejo attraction known for its calm waters and an 18-foot underwater statue of Jesus. The tour offers a tropical atmosphere with friendly people and is especially quiet during weekdays when there are few tourists.
Local SIM Card
GigSky eSIMs let you get data both on the ship and while in port. Their Cruise + Americas & Caribbean plan and Cruise + World plan both cover Zihuatanejo as well as supported cruise ships. Choose the data allowance and duration that suit your trip, with a 7-day Cruise + Americas & Caribbean plan starting at only $19.99 USD for 1 GB.
Visiting Zihuatanejo Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Zihuatanejo Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
No ships scheduled in port today.
Other Cruise Ports in Mexico
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Zihuatanejo
Cruises visiting Zihuatanejo during the the peak season of summer are more expensive than the the low season of winter. Overall Zihuatanejo is moderately expensive as a port of call. Check out the illustration below for the average cost per day by month.