Playa Las Gatas: Zihuatanejo’s Calm Cove for Snorkelers and Seafolk
A small, sheltered cove off Zihuatanejo where calm water, easy snorkeling, and local palapas make a perfect half-day escape.
You step off the panga and the bay hushes — not a silence so much as a lowering of volume, as if the Pacific itself leans in to listen. The water here is glassy, the color of diluted emerald tea, and it curls around a curved shore where palapa roofs and fishermen’s nets punctuate the sand. Welcome to Playa Las Gatas: a small, protected cove on the edge of Zihuatanejo that feels like a secret until the sunlight finds the reef and the fish glitter like scattered coins.
Trail Wisdom
Go early for calm water
Morning hours (before 11 a.m.) usually offer the clearest snorkeling and smaller crowds.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Choose a mineral-based sunscreen to protect coral and marine life while still keeping your skin safe.
Bring water shoes
The shoreline and reef edges are rocky in places; shoes protect feet when walking in and out of the water.
Hire local boatmen
Use licensed pangas from Zihuatanejo to reach the cove — it supports the community and ensures safe transit.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Rocky point at the west end of the cove where small tide pools appear at low tide
- •Short panga runs to nearby coves for more private snorkeling spots
Wildlife
parrotfish, green sea turtles (occasional)
Conservation Note
Local operators emphasize low-impact visits; use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and support palapas that practice waste management.
Zihuatanejo started as a small fishing village; Playa Las Gatas has long been used by local fishers and has grown into a community beach that supports small-scale tourism.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calm seas, clear snorkeling, fewer rains
Challenges: late-season storms can appear, warmer afternoons
Spring (March–May) brings warm air and good visibility in the water, with a low risk of rain until late May.
summer
Best for: warm water, long beach days, low wind mornings
Challenges: higher chance of afternoon storms, hotter sun exposure
Summer is hot and humid; mornings are excellent for snorkeling but afternoon thunderstorms increase as the season progresses.
fall
Best for: quieter beaches, sunset views, fresh seafood
Challenges: greater swell some days, chance of tropical weather
Fall can be quieter as the high season winds down, but watch hurricane season windows (Aug–Oct) for weather disruptions.
winter
Best for: clear water, cooler temperatures, peak visibility
Challenges: popular with visitors so expect crowds, cooler mornings
Winter (Nov–Feb) is peak season with some of the best visibility and comfortable temperatures, though it’s busier.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Snorkel mask and snorkelEssential
A well-fitting mask makes the reef accessible and comfortable; rentals exist but fit varies.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while minimizing damage to coral and marine life.
Water shoesEssential
Protects toes on rocky entries and while exploring tide pools.
Dry bag (10L)
Keeps phone, wallet, and keys safe during the panga ride and in-shore swims.
Common Questions
How do I get to Playa Las Gatas from Zihuatanejo?
Most visitors take a 5–10 minute panga from the Zihuatanejo malecón; boats run frequently and are arranged near the town’s main beach.
Is the snorkeling good for beginners?
Yes. The cove is sheltered with shallow areas nearshore and calm water, making it ideal for new snorkelers and families.
Are there facilities or restaurants at the beach?
There are several small palapas and local eateries on the sand serving fresh seafood and drinks, but facilities are basic — bring cash.
Do I need to worry about strong currents or waves?
The reef protects the cove from most swell, but check local advice on wind and tides; avoid swimming alone if seas are rough.
Can I bring my own snorkel gear or rent on site?
Both — rentals are widely available in town and at the beach, but a personal, well-fitting mask is recommended for comfort and visibility.
Are there any entrance fees or permits?
No formal entrance fee for the beach; pay for boat rides and any equipment rentals or food purchased from palapas.
What to Pack
Mask & snorkel for quick access; reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life; water shoes for rocky entries; cash for palapas and boat fares.
Did You Know
Playa Las Gatas’ calm waters are due to a natural reef and rocky outcrops that shelter the cove, creating one of Zihuatanejo’s best conditions for safe snorkeling.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning panga to beat crowds; carry small bills for boat fares and palapas; bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat; rent or bring a mask that seals well for the best snorkeling.
Local Flavor
Eat like a local: order the day’s catch at a beachfront palapa and watch fishers mend nets; evenings on Zihuatanejo’s malecón bring live music and street food that reflect the town’s fishing-town roots.
Logistics Snapshot
Quick access: 5–10 minute panga from Zihuatanejo’s malecón; best visibility in the morning; basic palapa dining; bring cash, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes.
Sustainability Note
Choose reef-safe sunscreens, avoid stepping on or touching coral, and favor local boat operators and palapas that practice proper waste disposal to help preserve the bay’s marine life.