Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are two beach towns on Mexico’s Pacific coast, a little over four miles away from each other.

Despite their proximity, these are two towns with very distinct characters: Ixtapa offers you the experience of a modern resort, and Zihuatanejo offers you a bucolic, traditional Mexican fishing town.

Ixtapa is generally characterized by contemporary, high-rise, resort villages whereas Zihuatanejo offers the atmosphere, character, and feel of traditional Mexico—and is also host to some very fine hotels offering exceptional accommodations.

Ixtapa was a coconut plantation until the Mexican Tourist Board, looking for a geographical location to build a Cancun-like resort on the Pacific Coast in the 1970s, chose this village as the next ‘big place’ for Mexican tourism. Today it is host to one of Mexico’s most modern resorts, offering good services and infrastructure, first class luxury hotels and amenities that meet the holidaymaker’s every need. Ixtapa lies about 125 miles northwest of Acapulco.

Zihuatanejo is one of the most attractive coastal areas on Mexico’s Pacific Ocean, frequented by Mexicans and foreigners alike, with great connections by road and air. It offers you the opportunity to experience local provincial life in a quiet, relaxed and very natural atmosphere. Accommodations here range from the simple to the elegant, depending on your tastes and budget.

Both locations are set against the backdrop of the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains, have excellent beaches and stunning natural scenery. There is a bicycle trail between the two towns and pedal-bikes may be rented locally if you’re able and inclined to move around using pedal power.

Regardless of which kind of coastal holiday you’d like to go on, this area offers you the opportunity to experience a wonderful climate, stunning natural beauty and great facilities.

Consider Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo when you’re considering a vacation by the ocean with your partner, with your friends, or a place to take your family. The area offers a panoply of attractions and amenities which provide relaxation and enjoyment surrounded by a beautiful natural environment next to the majestic Pacific Ocean.

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Key Attractions

Stunning Beaches

Both Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo have stunning beaches for you to experience and enjoy. There are some great beaches for swimmers and surfers, and in some places the water is crystal clear— perfect for snorkeling.

Water Sports in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

A wide variety of water activities, including sailing and windsurfing are available for you to experience in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. SCUBA diving trips can also be arranged, and surfing is particularly good in this area as well.

Local Cruises

Local boat tours are a great way to see remote places otherwise not accessible or difficult to get to. Your tour can include stops at good places for swimming, snorkeling and diving, give you access to remote and secluded beaches, or if you just want to relax, take a sunset cruise and watch the sun melt into the Pacific Ocean in style.

Sports Fishing in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Zihuatanejo is considered by many to be one of Mexico’s finest destinations for sports fishing. 

Away from the Water

There is plenty to do away from the water, and activities include local tours that will take you into the nearby countryside to see local villages and towns, lagoons and other places of interest. Horseback riding along the beach and through the coconut plantations is another option for you to experience.

Golf in Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo

The climate here is ideal for golf and there are several excellent golf courses in the area. Most of the course are affiliated with, or owned by, key hotels in Ixtapa.

*Information credit to mexperience.com*