Zihuatanejo, Mexico: Everything You Need To Know
Zihuatanejo is near southern Mexico, it’s still close enough to the United States to allow for easy trips home. So, family and friends can head down to visit you, or you can head up to visit them. You’ll only be a quick car or plane ride away.
Mexico is a favorite among expats and retirees who are looking to move out of the States but want to stay close.
Also, Mexico is one of the easiest countries for North Americans to travel to.
Zihuatanejo, in the Guerrero state, is a paradise of gorgeous beaches that has caught the attention of many. It used to be a fishing village until the 1970s.
Change came about after Ixtapa, a small beach resort complex, was built here.
Despite it becoming a beach resort town, Zihuatanejo has managed to keep its historic charm.
As a result, downton Zihuatanejo is home to cobblestone streets lined with local restaurants, bars, boutiques, and more.
Cost Of Living In Zihuatanejo
Mexico is a great option if you’re looking to live better for less money. Even though Zihuatanejo is a touristy resort town, the cost of living is lower than your current budget in the States. A couple could live well in Zihuatanejo on US$1,600 a month.
Let’s look at some specifics: groceries, rentals, and transportation.
Grocery shopping will be more or less expensive depending on the products you buy.
Trade in a few imported goods for local ones, and you’ll bring down costs considerably.
For example, instead of buying kiwis and other imported fruits, get local ones such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples. By making these switches, your monthly grocery expenses can be as low as US$150.
Getting around in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, is a breeze. Public transportation is affordable and readily available. A one-way bus ticket costs 50 cents. Taxi fares start at US$2, and if you need the taxi driver to wait for you for an hour, the fare goes up to US$16.
There are times when you’ll probably be more comfortable driving and being in control of your time. If you don’t own a car, you can rent one for US$33 per day.
Depending on what you’re looking for, your rental budget could be as high as US$1,090 or as low as US$270 per month.
A family moving with children to Zihuatanejo will likely want a place with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and that’s close to the center of town. Such an apartment will go for about US$1,100.
Settling outside of the city center, you’ll pay closer to US$654 for a three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment.
A one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment in the city center will cost about US$468. Outside of the city, a similar apartment will cost around US$273.
Things To Do In Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Zihuatanejo, Mexico, is a well-established resort town, meaning you’re sure to find activities suited to your tastes and interests. From lounging at the beach to culture and archaeology tours, Zihuatanejo offers something for everyone.
Here’s a list of things to do and places to visit in Zihuatanejo, Mexico…
1. Playa La Ropa
If you’re looking to unwind and lounge around on a beach, Playa La Ropa should be your first stop. La Ropa Beach has been featured as one of the most romantic beaches in Mexico. The water is warm and calm, making it a great place to swim and go paddle boarding. You could also walk the mile-long sandy beach. This Zihuatanejo beach has restaurants right on the sand where you can enjoy dinner while gazing at a gorgeous sunset.
2. Ixtapa Island Boat Tour
Taking a boat out to Ixtapa Island is a popular activity in Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
Ixtapa Island has three beaches called Playa Varadero, Playa Cuachalalate, and Playa Coral. You could enjoy all three or choose to spend the day at the one that best suits your plans.
For example, if you like to snorkel and want an adventure, head to Playa Coral where you can observe coral reefs. Playa Varadero and Playa Cuachalalate have calm waters ideal for swimming. Enjoy a nice meal after you swim or snorkel, and kick back in a hammock as a perfect ending to your day.
3. Paseo Del Pescador
Paseo del Pescador (“Fisherman’s Walk”) is a paved walkway that runs along the shoreline in Zihuatanejo. On your walk you’ll pass by local artisan stores and restaurants that offer both local and international foods. Also, Paseo del Pescador is where local fishermen arrive and display their catch of the day. There’s no better place to buy fresh seafood.
4. Xihuacán Ruins
The Xihuacán Ruins are 30 minutes from Zihuatanejo. Firstly, this archaeological site will transport you 3,000 years back in time. The Xihuacán Ruins is a multicultural site, with artifacts left behind by the Aztecs, Zapotecans, Toltecs, Olmecs, and other indigenous groups.
5. Costa Grande Archaeological Museum
The Costa Grande Archaeological Museum is in the town of Zihuatanejo and is home to various archaeological findings, including tools, pottery, utensils, and weapons, that help visitors better understand the lifestyle of the ancient civilizations of Guerrero State.
Retiring In Zihuatanejo
Retiring in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, is an excellent decision if you want to upgrade your quality of life while keeping a low cost of living.
A couple could live in Zihuatanejo for as little as US$1,600.
The immigration process is simple, and the proximity to the United States makes this a smart choice for retirees who want to remain close to friends and family.
Zihuatanejo’s popularity among expats and tourists means that English is widely spoken here, as it is throughout Mexico.
Is Zihuatanejo, Mexico, For You?
Moving To Zihuatanejo
When packing for your move, you should take only the essentials and leave anything that can be easily replaced in Mexico.
The good news is that Zihuatanejo is close enough to the States that the move won’t be a hassle.
Also, you could pack everything up in your car or trailer and haul it all down in one trip.
The first step before moving is to spend time in your potential new home. Get a feel of the place for a few months before making a permanent move.
Zihuatanejo might look ideal for you on paper, but the reality of it may end up being quite different.
Once you’ve spent time in Zihuatanejo and have decided it’s a good fit, go back home and sort through your things.
You’ll want to pack clothes; a few decorations; maybe some paintings, picture frames, or photo albums; and other items that you know you’ll need and probably won’t find in Zihuatanejo.
Consider selling or gifting things like bed frames, tables, chairs, and larger furniture—you’ll be able to purchase them again in Mexico.
Whether you keep your car, buy a new one in Mexico, or rely on public transportation and taxis is up to you. If you decide to drive down, make sure your car is in proper condition, that it’s up-to-date on oil and tire changes, and that you have all necessary paperwork.
Visas And Residency
Moving To Mexico
As a U.S or Canadian citizen, you don’t need a visa to stay in Mexico for up to six months. And, if you’re planning on moving here, you’ll need to apply for residency.
The process is straightforward… You have to visit your local Mexican consulate and request a residency visa application form.
Mexico has several types of visas that you can apply for depending on your situation, including a Retirement Visa.
You can qualify by proving you receive a certain amount of money through your pension or by investing in property.
Weather In Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Zihuatanejo, Mexico, is a favorite among snowbirds due to its warm weather. For example, the temperature varies very little throughout the year, so you don’t have to worry about shopping for cold-weather clothing.
The average year-round temperature in Zihuatanejo is 78°F (25°C).
Even though the temperature varies only slightly, the most popular months for visitors are November through March.
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