Paddling to Playa Las Gatas: Kayak and Snorkel the Zihuatanejo Seawall
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to paddle for 45 minutes each way and comfortable swimming/snorkeling for up to an hour
Overview
Paddle from La Ropa to Las Gatas and drop a mask into some of the Bay of Zihuatanejo’s calmest water. This five-hour guided tour pairs easy sea kayaking with reef-side snorkeling, lunch on the sand and local stories from guides who grew up on the bay.
Paddling to Playa Las Gatas: Kayak and Snorkel the Zihuatanejo Seawall
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You push off from La Ropa Beach just as the bay wakes—boats yawl gently, the guide counts heads and the paddle bites into water that smells of salt and warm rock. The shoreline slides by in low, sun-baked cliffs and coconut palms; the town’s colorful roofs hunch behind them like a village caught mid-conversation. For the next forty-five minutes the kayak becomes your pace-setter: steady strokes, the occasional cry of a pelican, the sea wall drawing nearer like a low, living reef that promises a different kind of world below the surface.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Morning calm
Book the earliest pickup available—winds pick up after midday, making paddling and snorkeling choppier.
Respect the reef
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral or disturbing marine life to protect the seawall habitat.
Pack light and secure it
Only bring essentials in a small dry bag; non-waterproof phones and cameras should stay on shore unless in waterproof housings.
Know the limits
There’s a 220 lb weight guideline and basic swimming ability is required—if in doubt, ask the operator about tandem kayak options.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sergeant major and angelfish
- Hermit crabs and occasional sea urchins
History
Zihuatanejo developed from a small fishing port; its bay and sheltering reefs have supported local fisheries and small-scale trade for generations.
Conservation
The seawall reef is sensitive—use reef-safe products, avoid standing on coral, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Zihuatanejo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky entries and slippery seawall landings.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the coral—apply before arrival and reapply after water time.
summer specific
Small dry bag
Keeps keys, cash and a light towel dry during the paddle.
Mask or snorkel (optional personal)
Personal masks often fit better than rental gear and improve your snorkel experience.