Zihuatanejo in March spans a 17F range from 70F lows to 87F highs, with showers risking soggy detours back to your hotel for outfit changes. Avoid temperature ambushes and cultural mismatches.
Skip blisters from all-day urban walking or regrets from varied indoor/outdoor shifts with grip-soled shoes and moisture-wicking layers, ensuring you maximize spontaneous adventures without weather worries. This guide delivers targeted, lightweight solutions for seamless exploration at key sites.
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Average High and Low Temperature in March in Zihuatanejo
Places to Visit
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Is March Good for Zihuatanejo?
Yes, Excellent
Warm 70-87F days, minimal 15mm rain, clear skies. Moderate crowds before spring break, suited for beaches and water activities.
Best For:
- Beachgoers
- Sun seekers
- Pre-peak visitors
Why Visit in March
March delivers consistent dry weather with highs of 87F and lows around 70F, totaling just 15mm rain. Sunny days dominate, ideal for extended beach time and water sports. Crowds remain manageable early on, post-winter peak but pre-April humidity. Sea temps hit 80F, excellent for swimming. Fishing tournaments add local flavor without mass tourism. Low humidity keeps afternoons bearable, and short daylight evenings suit relaxed pacing. Overall, prime conditions for active exploration.
Drawbacks in March
Late March attracts spring breakers, swelling beach crowds and noise. Humidity builds toward month's end despite low rain. Peak daytime heat nears 87F, demanding hydration and shade breaks. Evenings dip to 70F, requiring light layers. Limited AC in some eateries can feel stuffy. Minor showers possible, though rare. Spring winds occasionally stir dust on streets.
Best Weeks in March
- Early: March 1-10: 72-86F. Lowest crowds after winter season.
- Mid: March 11-20: 71-86F. Steady warmth, moderate visitors.
- Late: March 21-31: 70-87F. Peak heat, spring break crowds rise.
Recommendation:
Target early to mid-March for 71-86F ranges and fewer people. Steady sun and low rain maximize beach days without late-month bustle or heat spikes.
Key Sights in Zihuatanejo for March
March's dry 70-87F weather suits Zihuatanejo's beaches, markets, and bays perfectly. Low rain and moderate crowds enable unhurried walks on sands and urban paths, with clear light highlighting coastal views.
Highlights:
Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande
MuseumTerrain: Galleries show pottery shards, stone figures, and shell tools under bright lights. March mildness avoids indoor stuffiness, low crowds allow close inspection.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Morning
Why you should visit:
Galleries show pottery shards, stone figures, and shell tools under bright lights. March mildness avoids indoor stuffiness, low crowds allow close inspection.
Mercado Municipal
LandmarkTerrain: Stalls overflow with fresh fish, fruits, and spices amid bustling vendors. March's dry air keeps paths dust-free, lighter foot traffic eases navigation.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Afternoon
Why you should visit:
Stalls overflow with fresh fish, fruits, and spices amid bustling vendors. March's dry air keeps paths dust-free, lighter foot traffic eases navigation.
Paseo del Pescador
LandmarkTerrain: Wide walkway lines bay with boats bobbing and palm accents. March sun enhances water sparkle, minimal crowds free up bench seating.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Early morning
Why you should visit:
Wide walkway lines bay with boats bobbing and palm accents. March sun enhances water sparkle, minimal crowds free up bench seating.
Playa La Ropa
BeachTerrain: Golden sands stretch with gentle waves and scattered umbrellas. March warmth heats water to swimmable levels, fewer visitors claim prime spots.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Afternoon
Why you should visit:
Golden sands stretch with gentle waves and scattered umbrellas. March warmth heats water to swimmable levels, fewer visitors claim prime spots.
Zihuatanejo Bay
LandmarkTerrain: Curved shoreline frames fishing boats and distant hills under blue skies. March clarity sharpens vistas, low humidity sustains long gazes.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Late afternoon
Why you should visit:
Curved shoreline frames fishing boats and distant hills under blue skies. March clarity sharpens vistas, low humidity sustains long gazes.
Mirador La Majahua
BeachTerrain: Secluded sands meet rocky outcrops with calm surf. March dry spells firm sand for walks, reduced groups preserve quiet ambiance.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Morning
Why you should visit:
Secluded sands meet rocky outcrops with calm surf. March dry spells firm sand for walks, reduced groups preserve quiet ambiance.
Downtown Zihuatanejo
LandmarkTerrain: Colorful storefronts and plazas buzz with locals on sidewalks. March's steady temps support all-day strolling, lighter tourist flow speeds passage.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Afternoon
Why you should visit:
Colorful storefronts and plazas buzz with locals on sidewalks. March's steady temps support all-day strolling, lighter tourist flow speeds passage.
Mercado de Artesanías
LandmarkTerrain: Open-air booths display woven baskets, silver jewelry, and ceramics. March breezes cool browsing, sparse crowds enable unhurried haggling.
Dress code: None required
Best time of day: Early morning
Why you should visit:
Open-air booths display woven baskets, silver jewelry, and ceramics. March breezes cool browsing, sparse crowds enable unhurried haggling.
Zihuatanejo March Weather by Time of Day
Afternoon highs reach 87°F, with dawn lows at 70°F, spanning a 17°F monthly temperature range. Average humidity sits at 62%, accompanied by 15mm total rainfall over 3 rainy days featuring infrequent showers. Expect steady warming from early to late March under 11.2 daily sunshine hours.
Early Morning (5-9 AM)
- Temperature: from 72°F in early March to 78°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 73°F to 79°F
- Humidity: moderate 60-65%
- Wind: light onshore breezes 4-6 mph, gusts to 20 mph
- UV Index: rising from 3 to 6
- Rainfall Chance: very low under 5%
- Best Activities: shoreline strolls, yoga sessions, light stretching
Conditions:
Sunrise brings gradual warming from overnight chills, under mostly clear skies typical of dry season. Gentle sea winds temper rising heat, while steady humidity cushions the atmosphere. Cloud cover stays sparse, fostering early light penetration with negligible moisture risk.
Late Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
- Temperature: from 78°F in early March to 83°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 79°F to 84°F
- Humidity: around 62%
- Wind: steady light winds 5 mph, occasional gusts to 22 mph
- UV Index: high 7-9
- Rainfall Chance: negligible below 10%
- Best Activities: beach lounging, swimming, casual paddleboarding
Conditions:
Temperatures build steadily toward midday peaks, with abundant sunshine dominating the clear blue expanse. Moderate humidity levels remain consistent, softened by persistent light breezes from the coast. UV exposure intensifies rapidly, demanding caution amid virtually dry air masses.
Early Afternoon (12-3 PM)
- Temperature: from 82°F in early March to 86°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 84°F to 88°F
- Humidity: 62-64%
- Wind: mild trades 5-7 mph, gusting to 22 mph
- UV Index: very high peaking at 10
- Rainfall Chance: minimal 5%
- Best Activities: snorkeling, sunbathing with cover, shaded reading
Conditions:
Midday heat surges under unrelenting solar rays, pushing air masses to their warmest. Scattered high clouds offer fleeting shade, as light winds circulate balmy layers. Elevated UV demands protection, with humidity providing a subtle veil over parched landscapes free of convective activity.
Late Afternoon (3-6 PM)
- Temperature: from 84°F in early March to 87°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 86°F to 89°F
- Humidity: steady mid-60s
- Wind: light to moderate 5 mph average, gusts up to 22 mph
- UV Index: high 8-10 easing
- Rainfall Chance: slim under 8%
- Best Activities: kayaking, beach volleyball, sunset watching
Conditions:
Peak warmth lingers as the sun arcs westward, sustaining tropical warmth across coastal zones. Faint haze may soften horizons, tempered by refreshing gusts sweeping inland. Humidity clings moderately, while diminishing UV still warrants vigilance in the rain-scarce environment.
Evening (6-9 PM)
- Temperature: from 82°F in early March to 84°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 82°F to 85°F
- Humidity: rising slightly to 64%
- Wind: easing breezes 4-5 mph, gusts to 20 mph
- UV Index: moderate 4-6
- Rainfall Chance: low 5-10%
- Best Activities: al fresco dining, leisurely swims, stargazing
Conditions:
Sunset ushers gradual cooling from daytime highs, with twilight skies clearing fully. Light winds diminish, allowing warmer pockets to settle amid moderate moisture. Lingering heat radiates from sands, under starry vaults with scant threat of evening showers in the stable air.
Night (9 PM - 5 AM)
- Temperature: from 76°F in early March to 72°F by month's end
- Feels Like: 75°F to 72°F
- Humidity: 62-65%
- Wind: calm 3-5 mph, infrequent gusts
- UV Index: negligible 0-1
- Rainfall Chance: virtually none
- Best Activities: night walks, relaxing on patios, storytelling gatherings
Conditions:
Overnight hours see steady descent to dawn minimums, enveloped in tranquil darkness. Clear conditions prevail, with minimal wind stirring the humid veil. Terrestrial cooling dominates sans cloud interference, fostering restful repose in the precipitation-free nocturnal regime.
6 Mistakes to Avoid
Packing Non-Packable or Heavy Outerwear
Many travelers include structured blazers, leather jackets, or thick denim jackets that rarely get used.This leads to: Wasted luggage space and weight, Overheating in 70-87F temperatures, No room for souvenirs
Solution: Choose ultralight, truly packable layers that compress to nothing.
Pack instead: Women's packable down or synthetic puffer, Ultra-lightweight nylon trench, Thin merino or cashmere cardigan
Choosing the Wrong Footwear for Cobblestones
Bringing only one or two pairs, or selecting shoes that look good but lack real support.This leads to: Blisters after 10-15 km days, Ankle rolls on uneven surfaces, Ruined shoes from sudden showers
Solution: Experienced travelers select 2-3 versatile pairs that cover every situation.
Pack instead: Cute white sneakers with arch support, Water-resistant low ankle boots, Foldable ballet flats with cushioning
Overlooking Church and Venue Dress Codes
Wearing sleeveless tops or cropped leggings without easy cover-ups.This leads to: Denied entry at cathedrals and major sites, Expensive last-minute scarf purchases, Disrupted plans
Solution: Pack one multi-use cover piece that works with every outfit.
Pack instead: Large lightweight scarf (shoulder + knee cover), Long tunic that layers over leggings, Packable kimono or wrap
Underestimating Rain Protection
Relying on a tiny travel umbrella instead of proper clothing.This leads to: Soaked leggings and ruined makeup, Cold wet feet for hours, Forced to skip outdoor sights
Solution: Add stylish, truly water-resistant pieces that still look polished.
Pack instead: Women's packable rain shell or trench, Quick-dry high-waisted leggings, Water-resistant cute walking shoes
Overpacking Accessories and Bags
Bringing multiple handbags, statement necklaces, and heavy earrings.This leads to: Security hold-ups, Neck and shoulder pain, Higher pickpocket target
Solution: One bag + two scarves + minimal jewelry cover every look.
Pack instead: Small crossbody bag with RFID, One large scarf (doubles as cover-up), Simple stud earrings
Wearing Brand-New Items Without Testing
Buying new leggings, bras, or shoes days before departure.This leads to: Chafing from stiff seams, Blisters on day one, Wardrobe malfunctions mid-trip
Solution: Every new item must survive several 10 km+ test walks at home.
Pack instead: Pre-worn travel leggings, Broken-in supportive sneakers, Already-tested packable jacket
What to Pack: Category by Category
A detailed breakdown of every clothing and gear category you need, with specific recommendations tailored to the exact weather and activities you'll encounter.
Base Layers & Thermals
Breathable bases handle mild mornings turning hot, wicking moisture in moderate humidity. High-waisted leggings pair with tunics for market modesty or beach cover-ups. My tip: quick-dry fabrics prevent chafing on long walks.
Key features: Moisture-wicking required, Breathable synthetics, Layerable high-waists
Recommended:
- High-waisted travel leggings - moisture-wicking for humidity
- Sleeveless quick-dry tank - vented for heat
- Lightweight base tee - supportive under layers
Avoid: Skip thick cottons that cling when sweat builds in humid afternoons.
Mid Layers
Daily swings from mild starts to hot peaks need light, packable options. Cardigans or wraps add coverage for breezy evenings without bulk. High-waisted bottoms peek out stylishly underneath.
Key features: Packable for swings, Lightweight knits, Versatile over tanks
Recommended:
- Oversized cotton cardigan - shields from breeze
- Pashmina wrap - doubles as scarf
- Thin fleece vest - quick to layer
Avoid: Overpack fleeces; one light piece covers variable mornings without overheating later.
Outerwear
Sun protection trumps all with high UV—opt for packable UPF layers. Compact umbrella handles rare showers. Long-sleeve button-ups over high-waisted shorts keep you covered functionally.
Key features: UPF-rated fabrics, Packable designs, Breathable coverage
Recommended:
- UPF 50 long-sleeve shirt - roll-up sleeves
- Packable sun poncho - water-repellent
- Compact travel umbrella - fits daypack
Avoid: Don't overload with jackets; sun gear suffices over heavy rainproof shells here.
Footwear
Stick to 2-3 pairs: supportive walkers for uneven streets, versatile dressy flats, optional sandals for heat. Water-resistant helps minimal showers. High arches get cute supportive wedges.
Key features: Cushioned arch support, Breathable uppers, Versatile strap styles
Recommended:
- Mesh walking sneakers - grippy for paths
- Cork wedge sandals - dressy yet stable
- Water-resistant slides - quick beach swaps
Avoid: Avoid flimsy flip-flops alone; they slip on wet stones or long treks.
Bottoms
High-waisted picks suit hot afternoons and modest dress needs—leggings under dresses work anywhere. Breathable shorts for beaches, capris for markets. Pair with scarves for extra coverage.
Key features: High-waisted fits, Quick-dry materials, Modesty-friendly lengths
Recommended:
- High-waisted linen shorts - roll-up hems
- Convertible travel pants - zip to capri
- Buttery-soft leggings - layer under tunics
Avoid: Jeans trap heat midday; choose airy alternatives that move with you.
Accessories
Scarves solve swings and dress codes—drape over tanks for cathedrals. High UV demands hats, buffs. Sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen are non-negotiable for beach days.
Key features: Multi-use scarves, UV-blocking hats, Secure sun clips
Recommended:
- Infinity scarf - cools or warms
- Wide-brim packable hat - UPF 50
- Polarized sunglasses - glare reduction
Avoid: Forget small purses without straps; opt for secure crossbodies on crowded streets.
Bags & Luggage
Crossbody bags keep hands free for markets; packable daypacks haul beach gear. Roll carry-on suits short flights. I'd skip huge suitcases—cobblestones hate wheels.
Key features: Anti-theft zippers, Packable volumes, Lightweight frames
Recommended:
- Leather crossbody - RFID-blocked pockets
- Foldable daypack - holds towels
- Soft-sided carry-on - easy overhead
Avoid: Heavy rolling bags snag on uneven paths; lightweight backpacks win every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is March a good time to visit Zihuatanejo?
Yes, expect fewer crowds than winter highs, making it easier to enjoy coastal paths and local eateries without lines.
2. What should I pack for Zihuatanejo in March?
Bring swimwear, quick-dry clothes, sturdy sandals, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket just in case.
3. Do I need vaccinations for Zihuatanejo?
Check routine shots like hepatitis A and typhoid; consult your doctor for personalized advice before heading out.
4. Is it safe to drink the water in Zihuatanejo?
Stick to bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing teeth to avoid stomach issues during your stay.
5. How do I get from the airport to Zihuatanejo?
Take a pre-booked shuttle or taxi from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo airport; it's a straightforward drive along the coast.
6. What's the best area to stay in Zihuatanejo?
Opt for spots near the main beach for easy access to water activities and fresh seafood spots.
7. Are there beaches suitable for swimming in Zihuatanejo?
Yes, several calm bays offer gentle waves perfect for safe swims and floating with the family.
8. Can I rent a car in Zihuatanejo?
Yes, local agencies provide rentals; useful for exploring nearby coves but watch for narrow roads.
9. Is English widely spoken in Zihuatanejo?
You'll manage in tourist zones and hotels, but basic Spanish phrases help in markets and smaller shops.
10. What activities are available for families in Zihuatanejo?
Try gentle boat rides, sandcastle building, and shallow-water kayaking to keep kids entertained.
11. Are there good seafood restaurants in Zihuatanejo?
Plenty of fresh catches grilled simply; arrive early for beachside tables with ocean views.
12. How is the public transportation in Zihuatanejo?
Local buses and collectivos connect beaches affordably; flag them down anywhere along main routes.
13. Should I tip in Zihuatanejo?
Yes, add 10-15% at restaurants and a few pesos for porters or beach vendors as custom.
14. What currency should I use in Zihuatanejo?
Mexican pesos work everywhere; exchange some dollars at banks for better rates than airports.
15. Is Zihuatanejo expensive?
Budget-friendly compared to bigger resorts; street eats and local taxis keep costs manageable.
16. Can I use my credit card everywhere in Zihuatanejo?
Cards accepted at hotels and larger spots; carry cash for markets and small beach shacks.
17. What's the voltage for plugs in Zihuatanejo?
Standard 127V with Type A/B plugs; pack a universal adapter if your devices need different fittings.
18. Do I need a visa for Zihuatanejo?
Most visitors get 180 days stamp-free; confirm based on your passport at entry.
19. Is there WiFi in hotels in Zihuatanejo?
Most provide it, though speeds vary; download maps offline for reliable beach navigation.
20. Are there ATMs in Zihuatanejo?
Yes, scattered around town center and beach areas; use ones inside banks to avoid fees.
21. How is the snorkeling in Zihuatanejo?
Clear waters reveal colorful fish near rocky points; rent gear locally and go at high tide.
22. Can I go fishing in Zihuatanejo?
Book half-day charters for offshore trolling; no license needed for sport catches.
23. Are there boat tours in Zihuatanejo?
Daily departures for island hops and sea caves; pack water and motion sickness aids.
24. Is it suitable for surfing in Zihuatanejo in March?
Gentle breaks work for beginners; lessons available from beach setups most days.
25. What about whale watching in Zihuatanejo in March?
Humpbacks migrate through; join guided tours early morning for best sightings offshore.
26. Are markets good for shopping in Zihuatanejo?
Haggle for handmade crafts and spices; visit midweek to dodge weekend busyness.
27. How to avoid crowds in Zihuatanejo?
Head to outlying beaches by foot or bike early; evenings quiet down nicely too.
28. What time of day for beach activities?
Mornings suit calm swims, afternoons for paddleboarding; I've loved the relaxed pace here.
29. Any health precautions for Zihuatanejo?
Use DEET repellent evenings, stay hydrated, and pick reputable spots for street food to stay healthy.