Las Gatas Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour

A Relaxed and Scenic Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure in Zihuatanejo

If you’re considering a half-day escape in Zihuatanejo that combines gentle paddling, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back beach vibe, the Las Gatas Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve seen plenty of tours in this part of Mexico, but what makes this one stand out is its balance of easy accessibility and genuine fun.

What we especially appreciate is how the tour is suitable for all skill levels—beginners can navigate the calm waters with ease, and the guided snorkel around the seawall offers a peek into underwater life without needing advanced diving skills. Plus, the included lunch on the beach really hits the spot after a morning of activity. That said, it’s worth noting that the snorkeling is mostly in a sheltered area; if you’re expecting a reef experience, you might find this a bit tame.

This tour is best suited for those who love a combination of outdoor activity, relaxed beach time, and good food—all wrapped in a well-organized package. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or with friends, it offers a straightforward way to experience Zihuatanejo’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners: Calm bay waters make kayaking accessible for all skill levels.
• Includes all essentials: Equipment, lunch, and hotel transfers are covered, making it a fuss-free option.
• Underwater highlight: The Jesus Christ underwater statue adds a unique touch to snorkeling.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for travelers with children, with a relaxed pace and safe environment.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with local insights.
• Great value: At about $94.79, you get a full 5-hour excursion with plenty of inclusions.

What to Expect from the Las Gatas Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with relaxation. It begins with a hotel pickup—an often overlooked but much-appreciated perk that saves you from navigating local transport or taxis. You’ll be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle to La Ropa Beach, where the real fun begins.

The Kayaking Starter Point

Once there, you’ll be fitted with a kayak and a lifejacket, a process that’s quick and straightforward. The guides are friendly and fluent in English, which makes asking questions or getting tips easy. We loved the way the guides keep it relaxed, making it perfect for first-time kayakers or those who just want a peaceful paddle in the bay.

The trip across Zihuatanejo Bay to Las Gatas Beach is short but scenic. Expect calm waters and gentle breezes, ideal for a leisurely paddle. Reviewers frequently mention how peaceful the journey is, with one noting, “kayaking across the bay was so peaceful and beautiful,” which captures the vibe well.

Snorkeling at the Seawall

Upon arrival at Las Gatas, you’ll have a chance to unwind with a cold drink and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Here, the snorkeling begins. The sheltered interior of the seawall is teeming with marine life—think colorful fish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. The coral formations are interesting and safe for beginners, but don’t expect a deep reef or dramatic drop-offs.

One reviewer mentioned, “the snorkeling was beautiful, and the guide was very helpful,” highlighting how guided snorkeling can make the experience more approachable. In fact, guides point out specific sea creatures and ensure everyone is comfortable, especially if it’s someone’s first time snorkeling.

The highlight underwater is the King of Kings statue—an underwater Jesus Christ sculpture made from melted-down keys donated by locals. It’s a quirky, memorable sight that adds a bit of local charm to your underwater adventure.

The Lunch Break and Beach Time

After snorkeling, you’ll return to the beach to indulge in a tasty lunch. Options include fish, chicken, shrimp, or cheese quesadillas, served with rice, salads, guacamole, and chips. Many reviews rave about the quality and flavor of the food, with one even calling it “delicious.” It’s a great chance to relax, soak up the sun, and chat about the morning’s highlights.

Following lunch, there’s plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or just people-watch. The beach itself is gorgeous, with soft sand and calm waters—perfect for families or those wanting a slow pace.

The Return Paddle and Drop-off

The trip wraps up with a paddle back to La Ropa Beach, where your transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel. The total duration runs around 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves you plenty of time for the rest of your vacation.

How This Tour Delivers Value

In terms of price, at approximately $94.79 per person, the tour is quite reasonable considering the inclusions. All equipment, transfer, and a substantial lunch are factored into the cost, so you’re paying for a full experience rather than piecemeal activities.

The reviews consistently praise the guides—like Pablo, Axel, and Luis—for their friendliness, local knowledge, and attentiveness. As one reviewer put it, “Luis was very knowledgeable about the marine life and the history of the area,” which added an extra layer of interest to the trip.

Many guests appreciate how smooth the logistics are. From hotel pickups and hotel drop-offs to the safety gear and small group size (max of 16 travelers), everything is designed to make the experience seamless. This is especially appealing if you prefer to avoid hassle and want a trustworthy operator.

The Experience for Different Travelers

If you’re traveling with kids or less experienced swimmers, this tour offers a safe environment to try snorkeling and paddling. Several reviews mention guides going out of their way to help beginners feel comfortable. Plus, the shallow waters mean you don’t have to worry about deep open water.

For couples or solo travelers, the relaxed pace and scenic views make it a perfect way to enjoy Zihuatanejo at a gentle, unhurried tempo. It’s more about soaking up the natural beauty than performing challenging physical feats.

However, if you’re an experienced snorkeler looking for dramatic reefs or adventure, this might feel a bit tame. The focus is on calm waters, family-friendly fun, and cultural touches like the Jesus statue, rather than serious diving or extensive underwater exploration.

Practical Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

• Book in advance: With an average booking window of 21 days, spots fill quickly—especially in high season.
• Bring cash for drinks: While lunch is included, drinks or snacks at the beach are paid separately.
• Wear beach clothes and sunscreen: The sun can be intense, and quick-drying clothes are best for paddling.
• Bring a waterproof camera: The underwater Jesus and colorful fish are photo-worthy.
• Moderate physical fitness: The tour is physically accessible, but a moderate fitness level is recommended.
• Prepare for a laid-back pace: It’s a relaxed trip, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo, and transportation back is included in the price.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, ideal for enjoying the cooler morning hours and making the most of your day.

Can children join this tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most ages above 2, though not recommended for very young kids or seniors over 81.

Do I need snorkeling experience?
Not at all. The sheltered seawall makes it beginner-friendly, and guides are there to assist.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 5 hours, including transfers, kayaking, snorkeling, lunch, and beach time.

What’s included in the price?
All kayak and snorkeling gear, lunch, hotel transport, and a knowledgeable guide are included.

Is this suitable for someone with limited physical fitness?
Yes, the trip is designed to be accessible with moderate physical effort, mainly paddling and swimming in calm waters.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, family-friendly way to explore Zihuatanejo’s waters, the Las Gatas Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour hits the sweet spot. It combines the peacefulness of paddling with the colorful intrigue of underwater life, all wrapped up in a well-organized, value-packed experience. Expect to be guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals who make safety and fun their priorities.

While it’s not a deep-sea adventure or reef dive, it’s perfect for those wanting a gentle intro to snorkeling and kayaking, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the scenery. The included lunch and smooth logistics make this a worthwhile choice for anyone looking to add a memorable, low-stress activity to their Zihuatanejo itinerary.

In summary, if you enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, cultural touches, and good food, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable day out that’s likely to leave you with plenty of happy memories—and some great photos too.

Would we recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you’re after a safe, scenic, and friendly experience that feels more like a leisurely day with new friends than a tour. It’s a fantastic way to see Zihuatanejo’s waters from a relaxed vantage point.