Villa Vera Puerto Mio Hotel

Andy' s Refuge of the Shawshank Redemption

by dragoness86

Zihuatanejo is a place you really should visit if your not looking for a tourist ridden town.
Its sister city, however, is a man made oasis where you're sure to find all the tourist activity you might want/need.
-A side note- You might be surprised to learn that in the filming of the Shawshank Redemption, it was not actually Zihuatanejo that Andy and Red went to. Movie makers used the name but actually filmed at a different location.. but you still won't be dissapointed!

Zihuatanejo

by yeah_baby

Zihuatanejo is located southwest of Mexico City in the coastline of the State of Guerrero, in the area know as "The Golden Pacific" and "Mexico's Riviera".

"market for tourists"

"catholic church"

Located in downtown Zihuatanejo and approx. 900 meters (0.5 miles) long. Beside this beach is the main Pier from were you can take a boat to Playa Las Gatas beach or for a fun day of fishing and it is where the passengers from luxury cruises arrive for a tour of the cities.

"playa las gatas beach"

A seclude beach with practically no waves due to the underwater reef constructed by ancient civilization. Ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Many water sports available. Lots of restaurant on its shores. Recommended for a whole day outing. Best way to get there is by taking the shuttle boats from the pier.

In Zihuatanejo you can do most things by walking; mostly everything is close by or just a relaxing walk away.

For longer distances, taxis or local buses are your best and most economic options. Taxis are plentiful and reliable, and fares are reasonable.

Taxis within Zihuatanejo US$1.75 to US$3.00; within Ixtapa US$2.50 to US$5.00; between Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo US$4.50 (Hotels zone - Downtown). Other places from US$5.00 and up.

Fares are fixed and taxis have no meters. All taxi fares have a surcharge of 50% at night (from midnight to 6 a.m.).

"road from the airport"

Be careful in readily accepting some of the so-called "free transportation" to town; usually these are time-share salesmen that will later demand you the transportation fee if you don't stay in one of their properties or sales sections.

Zihuatanejo--or Zihua, to the locals--is the quintessential Mexican beach village. For travelers, this offers an ideal contrast and the best of both worlds. Those looking for luxury should opt for Ixtapa which is side by side with Zihua, and take advantage of well-appointed rooms in a pristine setting of great natural beauty. You can easily and quickly make the four-mile trip into Zihuatanejo for a sampling of the simple life of this pueblo by the sea. Those who prefer a more rustic retreat with real personality, however, tend to settle in Zihuatanejo. It's noted for its long-standing community of Swiss and Italian immigrants, and its legendary beach playboys. Those who enjoy Zihua seem to return year after year.