Three Weeks in Zihua: Loving Life, Exploring Possibilities

I just spent three weeks in Zihuatanejo, and it reminded me—yet again—why this place is so special. Zihua has always been a fishing town at heart. You feel it in the very early morning when the pangas return with the catch of the day, in the mercados overflowing with fresh produce, and in the rhythm of life that’s both unhurried and deeply connected to the sea.

This is what makes Zihua such a perfect backdrop for Camp Joy: it’s authentic, warm, and rooted in community. My time here was about living and loving life in this seaside town, while also scouting out the best options for our future retreats.

Women at the Helm

What struck me most during this trip is how much women are shaping the energy of Zihua right now. Women have always been a driving force here—running kitchens, markets, and families—but there’s a new wave of creativity blooming.

I found women opening cafés, boutiques, and studios that blend tradition with fresh vision. Their work feels deeply tied to Zihua’s culture, while also creating something new and inspiring. These spaces aren’t just businesses—they’re living expressions of identity and heritage, places where community and artistry meet.

Yara sources natural dies from a women's co-operative an hour south of Zihuatanejo.

Joy in Everyday Life

Of course, my three weeks weren’t only about research. I soaked up the daily joy of Zihua—long walks on Playa La Ropa, whole grilled red snapper dinners with live music, lazy afternoons wandering colorful streets. I may have indulged in one too many beach massages (all in the name of “research,” of course), but each moment was a reminder of why this town feels like such a gift.

What I love about Zihua is that even as it evolves, its essence doesn’t change. At its core, it’s still a fishing village—a place built on trust, tradition, and community. That balance of old and new is exactly what we want to capture at Camp Joy: an experience that is grounded and soulful, but also playful and full of discovery.

Looking Ahead to Camp Joy Zihua

These weeks have left me more excited than ever for what Camp Joy can offer here. In addition to quiet mornings, joyful adventures, and time to simply be, we’ll weave in visits to the women-led spaces that are reshaping Zihua.

Our campers won’t just experience Zihua as visitors—they’ll connect with the women who are redefining it, hear their stories, and bring home pieces of this community’s creativity and spirit.

Zihua has a way of reminding you to breathe deeper, laugh louder, and reconnect with yourself and others. That’s the magic we’re building Camp Joy around, and I can’t wait to share it.

Check out some Zihua women-led businesses below; you'll have a chance to visit these locations and a chance to meet the women behind them and experience their creativity firsthand.

Monique’s Picks: Women-Led Gems in Zihua

Mikaela Macramé — Owned and designed by Michelle Radilla, showcasing handmade macramé and wall art with other artisan pieces @mikaela.macrame

Nook — Locally owned boutique with timeless, elegant linen clothing.

Yandala — Designer Yara collaborates with a women's co-operative to source natural dies for her 100% Mexican cotton clothing @yandalamx

6 Hermanas — This unassuming laundry run by Erika doubles as a design studio for custom clothing (she recreated my favorite shorts and top!).

El Embarcadero — Hand-stamped dinner napkins, woven baskets, and thoughtful home goods.

Metztli — Handmade earrings, local art, and breezy beach dresses full of color and charm.

Michelle and her gorgeous store

Yara, local designer with amazing clothes and local ties

You won't believe what Erika can do behind this door!

El Embarcadero