El Palmar Ii
Guerrero, Mexico
Ixtapa's main beach stretches wide with fine sand and excellent views, especially at sunset. The waves here run high, so strong swimming ability is essential. Plan your visit for before noon or after 4 p.m., when conditions are calmer and the beach is less crowded.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to El Palmar Ii
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is El Palmar Ii?
El Palmar II is Ixtapa's main beach, a sprawling stretch of coastline in Guerrero state near Zihuatanejo. The sand is fine and the views across the water are genuine draws, particularly at sunset when the western-facing shore catches the light. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from 22.7°C in winter to 25.1°C in July. The beach has lifeguards on duty and has maintained Blue Flag status since 2014. What makes El Palmar II distinctive is its size and the swell conditions—waves here run consistently high, which demands respect and swimming ability. The beach operates as a working destination throughout the year rather than a seasonal spot.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Guerrero, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Mexico certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
El Palmar Ii faces W toward Pacific Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Feb | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Mar | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Apr | 26°C | 23°C | Med |
| May | 27°C | 24°C | Med |
| Jun | 27°C | 24°C | Med |
| Jul | 28°C | 25°C | Med |
| Aug | 28°C | 25°C | Med |
| Sep | 27°C | 24°C | Med |
| Oct | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Nov | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Dec | 26°C | 23°C | High |
The best time to visit El Palmar Ii is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 28.1°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 25.1°C in July.
How crowded does El Palmar Ii get?El Palmar II, as Ixtapa's main beach, draws a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. The beach's large size means crowds spread out rather than compress into a small area, but you shouldn't expect solitude. Tourism here is consistent because Ixtapa itself functions as a year-round resort destination with infrastructure to support visitors.
The peak presence typically falls during the dry season (December through April) when North American visitors escape winter weather. During summer months (May through September), the atmosphere shifts toward local and regional visitors, with tourist density dropping noticeably. The beach remains in use throughout, just with different crowd composition.
What shapes the daily experience is the timing pattern locals recommend. The morning hours (sunrise through early noon) tend to have fewer people and calmer water. This is when you'll find the beach more accessible and conditions more manageable for swimmers without advanced skills. The midday and early afternoon period brings higher crowds and rougher conditions—both tourists seeking activity and increasingly choppy water from wind and tide.
After 4 p.m., numbers drop again as people leave for meals and evening activities. This second window offers calmer evening light and a less crowded beach, though swimming conditions remain more challenging than morning hours. The evening period appeals to photographers and people prioritizing scenery over swimming.
Is El Palmar Ii open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 30-06). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at El Palmar Ii
Is El Palmar Ii safe to swim?El Palmar Ii is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at El Palmar Ii?Peak water temperature at El Palmar Ii reaches around <span class="inline-stat">25.1°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 25.8°C.
What is the beach like at El Palmar Ii?El Palmar II occupies Ixtapa's primary beach position with the scale to absorb visitors without feeling cramped. The sand composition is fine throughout, making it comfortable for walking and sitting. As a west-facing beach, you get unobstructed sunset views across the Pacific, which is a genuine advantage if timing your visit around photography or evening swims.
Water conditions deserve careful attention here. The waves are consistently high—this isn't a gentle beach for wading. The description from locals is direct: you need to know how to swim well if you're entering the water. This makes El Palmar II fundamentally different from sheltered coves elsewhere in the region. The swell that creates the impressive wave action also means currents are present. Swimmers should assess conditions before entering and respect any guidance from lifeguards.
The timing recommendation from people familiar with the beach is specific: visit before noon or after 4 p.m. This isn't arbitrary. Morning hours typically offer calmer water conditions, while the afternoon brings stronger winds that increase wave size. The midday period (roughly noon to 4 p.m.) is when conditions are most challenging. If you're a confident swimmer, those hours might appeal to you. If you're testing your skills or prefer easier conditions, the morning window is more practical.
Water temperatures are warm enough for swimming every month. January through April hover around 22.7–22.9°C, May through August peak at 24–25.1°C, and the shoulder months (September through December) stay in the 23–24°C range. You won't need a wetsuit, though the winter months might feel noticeably cooler if you're sensitive to temperature.
Lifeguards are stationed here, which matters given the high-energy water conditions. Their presence is a practical safety feature, not decoration. The Blue Flag certification reflects consistent management of beach cleanliness and safety protocols since 2014.
Does El Palmar Ii have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, El Palmar Ii meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season.
While You're Here
Beyond El Palmar Ii
Zihuatanejo, just 17 kilometers away, is the historic fishing town anchoring this region. The town center has markets, restaurants, and local atmosphere distinct from Ixtapa's resort character. Ixtapa itself contains hotels, dining, and shopping concentrated in its commercial zone near El Palmar II.
Zihuatanejo, just 17 kilometers away, is the historic fishing town anchoring this region. The town center has markets, restaurants, and local atmosphere distinct from Ixtapa's resort character. Ixtapa itself contains hotels, dining, and shopping concentrated in its commercial zone near El Palmar II.
The broader Guerrero coast offers other beaches within reasonable driving distance—different exposures, different wave conditions, and different crowd levels. If El Palmar II's high-energy swell doesn't suit your preference, exploring nearby coves provides alternatives. The region's geography creates natural variation in beach conditions.
The broader Guerrero coast offers other beaches within reasonable driving distance—different exposures, different wave conditions, and different crowd levels. If El Palmar II's high-energy swell doesn't suit your preference, exploring nearby coves provides alternatives. The region's geography creates natural variation in beach conditions.
For activities beyond the beach: sport fishing operates from Zihuatanejo harbor, boat tours run seasonally, and local restaurants focus on seafood. Hiking and nature exploration exist in the surrounding coastal terrain, though this requires local knowledge or a guide for safe access.
For activities beyond the beach: sport fishing operates from Zihuatanejo harbor, boat tours run seasonally, and local restaurants focus on seafood. Hiking and nature exploration exist in the surrounding coastal terrain, though this requires local knowledge or a guide for safe access.
Transport
Getting to El Palmar Ii
How do I get to El Palmar Ii by car?El Palmar Ii is approximately 20.14 km from Zihuatanejo de Azueta. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to El Palmar Ii?The nearest airport is Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) (ZIH), approximately 17.2 km away. Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) is 17.2 kilometers from El Palmar II, roughly a 25–30 minute drive depending on traffic and your exact destination. The airport receives direct flights from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Los Angeles, plus seasonal service from other North American cities. From the airport, options include standard taxis (negotiate fare before entering), ride-sharing services where available, or pre-arranged hotel transfers. The road is paved and straightforward, following Highway 200 toward Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa. If renting a car, the drive is uncomplicated but be prepared for typical Mexican highway conditions and road signs in Spanish.
Can I get to El Palmar Ii by public transport?Long-distance buses from other Mexican cities arrive at Zihuatanejo's central station. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to Ixtapa where El Palmar II is located. Journey times depend on your origin point—buses from Acapulco (south) or Mexico City (north) run regular schedules. Confirm current routes and schedules with local operators, as service changes seasonally.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-07 – 30-06 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 17.6626°N, 101.6106°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Mexico |
Frequently Asked Questions
El Palmar Ii FAQ
Is El Palmar II worth visiting?
That depends on what you want from a beach. If you value size, warm water year-round, consistent sunsets, and don't mind waves and some crowds, yes. The beach has legitimate appeal: fine sand, lifeguards, Blue Flag certification, and genuine scenic quality. If you're seeking quiet isolation or flat-water conditions, you'll be disappointed. El Palmar II is straightforward about what it offers—a substantial main beach with real swell and real tourism activity.
How do I get to El Palmar II?
Fly into Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), 17.2 kilometers away. From there, take a taxi, ride-share, or rental car to reach El Palmar II in Ixtapa—roughly 25–30 minutes depending on traffic. If arriving by long-distance bus, the main station is in Zihuatanejo, then local transport to Ixtapa. The road system is straightforward, following Highway 200.
What's the best time of year to visit?
January through April offers dry weather and moderate crowds, though water temperatures are at their coolest (22.7–22.9°C). May through September brings warmer water (24–25.1°C) but increased humidity and occasional rain. Timing by water conditions: mornings offer calmer seas, while midday (noon–4 p.m.) brings stronger winds and higher waves. Your visit works year-round—choose based on crowd preference and water temperature tolerance.
What facilities are available at El Palmar II?
Lifeguards are present, and the beach maintains Blue Flag status indicating regular cleaning and safety management. Being Ixtapa's main beach, nearby infrastructure includes hotels, restaurants, and shops in the adjacent resort area. Facilities directly on the beach itself are standard for Mexican resort beaches—expect vendors, umbrellas/loungers for rent, and basic services. Specific facility details change seasonally, so confirm current availability locally.
Is El Palmar II suitable for families?
It can be, with important caveats. Lifeguards are present and the beach is large. However, the high-wave conditions and strong currents mean young children or weak swimmers need constant supervision and honestly aren't ideal here. The recommended visiting times (before noon or after 4 p.m.) help—morning hours offer somewhat calmer water. Families with older kids comfortable in active water conditions can manage fine. Families with very young children should consider whether the swell makes this the best choice.
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