The towns of Zihuatenejo and Ixtapa are designed to meet the needs of foreigners, attracting mostly Americans, Canadians and Europeons year round. These two resort towns are just a few miles apart, adorned with white sand beaches along the Pacific coast of Mexico.
Zihuatenejo is the larger of the two towns, with five main beaches on the bay. It is a unique setting surrounded by forested hills and steep cliffs. The three most popular beaches are Playa La Ropa, Playa Los Gatos and Playa Madera, all perfect for setting up shop in a lounge chair with a good book or wading in the gentle surf.
Zihuatenejo has its own international airport with direct flights from the United States, Canada and several provincial cities in Mexico.
Ixtapa, 2-3 miles northwest of Zihuatenejo, is a government planned tourist resort that kicked off in the 70s. This development was supported by a loan from the World Bank and is home to some of Mexico’s most idyllic beaches. Playa del Palmar is Ixtapa’s main beach and a perfect place for body surfing, boogie boarding or scuba diving. Other popular beaches are Playa Hermosa, Playa Linda and Playa Quieta. Ixtapa is higher end than Zihuatenejo with super luxurious accommodations like the Clifton Westin Brisas Hotel.
Both resort towns have outstanding international cuisine as well as local “platos tipicos de Mexico” (traditional Mexican dishes).
