
Playa Las Gatas
A tranquil paradise in Zihuatanejo, known for its calm turquoise waters, natural breakwater, and unique underwater Christ statue.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters

Playa Las Gatas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil paradise in Zihuatanejo, known for its calm turquoise waters, natural breakwater, and unique underwater Christ statue.
"The calm, crystal-clear waters and the underwater Christ statue make this beach a must-visit."

🚤 Boat Ride Essentials
Confirm boat prices and schedules from Zihuatanejo pier to Las Gatas.
💰 Minimum Spend Alert
Be aware of potential minimum consumption at restaurants.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underwater Christ Statue
Underwater
A unique religious monument submerged in the sea, perfect for snorkelers and divers to discover.

Tranquil Turquoise Waters
Main beach area
Crystal-clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the shore.

Natural Breakwater
Along the beach
A historic rock formation that creates calm waters, making it perfect for families and water activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Las Gatas: Plan Your Journey
Dining Expectations at Las Gatas
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚤 Boat Ride Essentials
Confirm boat prices and schedules from Zihuatanejo pier to Las Gatas.
💰 Minimum Spend Alert
Be aware of potential minimum consumption at restaurants.
🐠 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own or rent gear to explore the underwater Christ statue.
☀️ Sun Protection
Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a full day at the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚤 Boat Ride Essentials
Confirm boat prices and schedules from Zihuatanejo pier to Las Gatas.
💰 Minimum Spend Alert
Be aware of potential minimum consumption at restaurants.
🐠 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own or rent gear to explore the underwater Christ statue.
☀️ Sun Protection
Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a full day at the beach.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
Wear shoes suitable for walking to the pier and potentially on rocky areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Las Gatas is widely praised for its stunning turquoise waters, calm swimming conditions, and the unique underwater Christ statue, making it a paradise for families and snorkelers. However, some visitors note potential issues with restaurant minimum consumption policies, which can be a concern for smaller groups.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Playa Las Gatas is by taking a lancha (small boat) from the main pier in Zihuatanejo. The journey is scenic and relatively short. Some TikTok videos mention a 'free' way to get there, which likely refers to walking to the pier, not the boat fare itself.
Boat schedules can vary, but they generally run frequently throughout the day. It's advisable to check the latest prices and operating hours at the Zihuatanejo pier before you go, as they can change.
While the boat is the primary method, some TikToks show how to get to the pier using public transportation in Zihuatanejo, which is a cost-effective option.
Playa Las Gatas is located across the bay from Zihuatanejo's main town. While you can walk to the pier to catch a boat, walking directly to the beach is not feasible.
Taxis can take you to the Zihuatanejo pier, from where you'll need to board a boat. Direct taxi service to Playa Las Gatas is not available due to its location across the bay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playa Las Gatas itself does not have an entrance fee. The cost associated with visiting is primarily for the boat transportation from Zihuatanejo.
Tickets for the boat ride to Playa Las Gatas can typically be purchased directly at the Zihuatanejo pier on the day of your visit. Advance booking is usually not necessary.
The beach is generally accessible throughout the day. The boat services operate during daylight hours, so plan your return trip accordingly.
While the beach is free to enter, be aware that restaurants may have a minimum consumption policy, especially for groups.
Playa Las Gatas is primarily a day-use destination. While there are accommodations like bungalows nearby, it's not a typical overnight camping spot.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling (especially to see the underwater Christ statue), sunbathing, and relaxing under a palapa. The calm waters are great for families.
Yes, Playa Las Gatas is excellent for snorkeling due to its clear, calm waters and the presence of the underwater Christ statue and marine life.
The beach is named after a harmless shark species, 'gatas' (cats), that used to inhabit the area.
Absolutely! The shallow, calm waters created by the natural breakwater make it a very safe and enjoyable beach for children.
You'll find palapa restaurants, beach chair rentals, and restrooms. Some areas offer bungalows for rent.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Several palapa restaurants line the beach, offering fresh seafood, ceviche, and other local Mexican dishes.
Yes, some travelers have reported that restaurants on Playa Las Gatas may have a minimum consumption requirement, particularly for larger groups.
While not explicitly stated in the provided content, it's generally best practice to check with local establishments or be discreet if bringing outside food and drinks to a beach with many restaurants.
Fresh seafood and ceviche are popular choices, capitalizing on the beachside location.
While some restaurants might have minimums, exploring different eateries and looking for daily specials could offer more budget-friendly choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the turquoise waters, the underwater Christ statue (if you have underwater camera gear), the natural breakwater, and the vibrant palapa restaurants.
Yes, with an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case, you can capture stunning images of the submerged Christ statue.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the beach.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check local rules and respect privacy before flying a drone.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended for snorkeling and capturing underwater scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can relax knowing the waters are protected, and the beach offers plenty of space for kids to explore. The gentle waves are perfect for little ones who might be hesitant in rougher seas. Consider bringing sand toys for extra entertainment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for public transport to reach the Zihuatanejo pier can significantly cut down on travel costs. Once at the beach, while restaurants may have minimums, exploring options and sharing dishes can help manage expenses. Bringing some snacks and water from town can also be a good strategy.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
The clear, calm waters provide excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to easily spot the statue and the diverse marine life that inhabits the area. Renting or bringing your own snorkel gear is highly recommended to make the most of this underwater spectacle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique History of Playa Las Gatas
Beyond its name, the beach is characterized by a significant natural breakwater. This rock formation, a key historical feature, creates exceptionally calm and shallow waters, making it a safe haven for swimmers and families. This natural barrier is what defines the tranquil atmosphere of Playa Las Gatas, setting it apart from more exposed beaches.
Adding to its allure is the submerged 'Cristo Rey' (Christ the King) statue. This underwater monument offers a unique spiritual and visual experience for snorkelers and divers, blending religious significance with marine exploration. It's a testament to the creative ways visitors can engage with the natural and cultural elements of the area.
Navigating to Las Gatas: A Traveler's Guide
For those looking for budget-friendly options, utilizing public transportation to get to the Zihuatanejo pier is a popular strategy. This allows visitors to save money on taxis and focus their budget on enjoying the beach and its amenities. The boat ride itself is relatively short and offers pleasant views of the coastline.
It's important to note that Playa Las Gatas is not accessible by car or direct taxi. The journey requires a boat transfer, making it a distinct and memorable part of the travel experience. Planning for this boat segment is crucial for a well-organized visit.
Dining Experiences at Playa Las Gatas
However, visitors should be aware of potential dining policies. Some travelers have noted that restaurants on Playa Las Gatas may implement a minimum consumption requirement, particularly for larger groups. Reports mention minimums of around 2,000 pesos per table and instances of discrimination against smaller parties. It's advisable to inquire about these policies upon arrival to manage expectations and avoid any surprises.
Despite these potential considerations, the opportunity to savor delicious food with a view of the ocean is a significant draw. Exploring different restaurants and understanding their policies can help ensure a pleasant and satisfying culinary experience at this beautiful Mexican beach.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit