My husband and I went on a day trip to Ixtapa Island and the highlight was a wonderful hike around the island with another couple. When you arrive at the dock, hang a left from the beach instead of going to the right where everyone else goes. There is a path (a bit steep and rocky but we managed fine in sandals) which takes you to the peak of the island. The views are spectacular (careful - don't go to close to the edge!) and are well worth the trip. The trail eventually descends to the snorkelling area and then you are back in the tourist trap (about 1/2 hour at slow pace with picture stops). We didn't go snorkelling as it was very wavy. There were people walking on the coral reefs which is very bad for them - there are signs asking people not to do this but it wasn't enforced. As a nature person, please don't step on the reefs!

All in all, the places where the typical tours go on the island aren't really worth it but if you step off the beaten path, you will be rewarded. Then go to the beach and enjoy some beers!

PS - take a town bus (6 pesos/person) to Playa Linda and then the boat (30 pesos/person) instead of a tour. Much more freedom!

Just got back from a cruise to Mexico which we loved, but our excursion to Isla Ixtapa was a real disappointment. The small fishing boat that took us to the island almost capsized (everyone sat on one side) - well we did get a laugh out of that! There are about 5 or 6 different restaurants on the island and the one we went to wasn't ready for us, the beach was dirty, the chairs weren't out etc. The water was very calm and warm, but several of us were bitten by invisible tiny jellyfish (at least that's what we were told). While swimming we were constantly moving out of the way of small boats that would come close to shore to deliver food to the restaurants, consequently our swimming area kept getting smaller and smaller. The lunch served at the restaurant was good, but the bathroom facilities left a lot to be desired. Next time we'll just go to a hotel for the day!

If you want to be trapped on an island all day with nothing to do then go the ixtapa isle! my friends and I went to snorkel which was about a joke you can't see a thing! The so called restaurants are pretty bad! I would never go back again!! Don't waste your money!
Instead rent a moped and go to playa la linda beach! you can come and go as you please!

Please don't waste your time and $$$ on this excursion. It's not like it was terrible, but the beaches and pools at all the hotel's in the area were far better. The comp. fish lunch was great though. They served a tunafish fillet with garlic/butter. It was outstanding. Go on the Sunset Cruise on the 85ft. sailboat instead. That was fantastic.