Ixtapa - Luxury Resorts & Stunning Beaches

Ixtapa, unlike Zihuatanejo, is a planned resort developed by FONATUR, Mexico’s federal tourism agency. Located just a short distance up the coastal road from Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa boasts upscale shopping centers, luxury hotels, and tall condominium buildings. Visitors can also explore a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightspots. The area is home to a large marina and features residential neighborhoods offering quieter accommodations, including bed & breakfasts and smaller hotels.

Ixtapa comes alive during the evenings, offering a vibrant yet relaxed nightlife atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, sip on cocktails at stylish beachside lounges, or take romantic seaside walks while watching the sunset. The town also hosts occasional cultural events and festivals that give visitors a taste of local traditions and community spirit.

Ixtapa is also a hub for outdoor activities, with two highly rated 18-hole golf courses, racquet sports, and water sports like sailing, jet skiing, and parasailing. For families, there are kid-friendly beaches and safe swimming areas, as well as guided eco-tours perfect for young adventurers. For those seeking adventure, Troncones, a small eco-tourism village 30 miles (55 km) north, offers pristine beaches, untouched nature, hiking trails, and turtle sanctuaries.

Ixtapa Beaches

Ixtapa's main attraction are its amazing beaches and nearby islands.

El Palmar, Ixtapa's main beach, is long, smooth, and perfect for beach walks. Most of the beachfront hotels are located here, making it synonymous with the “Hotel Zone.” The bay faces the open Pacific, so the waves can be strong, making it ideal for surfers. As you head south towards Zihuatanejo, the waters become calmer, protected by a ridge and large rocks. El Palmar also offers stunning sunset views over the Pacific, making it a great spot for people-watching.

Playa Quieta, just north of El Palmar, offers a much calmer beach, attracting kayakers, swimmers, and windsurfers. With fewer crowds, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful day by the sea. Families will find this beach particularly appealing due to its calm waters and welcoming atmosphere.

North of Playa Quieta is Playa Linda, a serene beach known for its fine white sand and tranquil waters. From here, a water taxi can take you to Isla Ixtapa, a small island with four secluded beaches. Visitors can enjoy food and drinks, and participate in water sports or scuba diving.

Isla Ixtapa

The island off the coast of Ixtapa is called Isla Ixtapa (Ixtapa Island). It is a popular destination for day trips and offers four distinct beaches: Playa Cuachalalate, Playa Varadero, Playa Coral, and Playa Cary. The island is accessible by a short water taxi ride from Playa Linda.

Highlights of Isla Ixtapa:

Playa Cuachalalate: The main beach, offering restaurants, sun loungers, and family-friendly waters.

Playa Coral: Known for its crystal-clear water, ideal for snorkeling and exploring marine life. You might spot tropical fish, colorful coral reefs, and other fascinating underwater creatures.

Playa Varadero: A quieter beach perfect for relaxation, with restaurants nearby serving fresh seafood.

Playa Cary: The most secluded and tranquil spot on the island, great for escaping crowds.

Activities on Isla Ixtapa:

• Snorkeling: Explore colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Scuba diving: Discover underwater treasures with guided dives.
• Jet skiing: Enjoy high-speed thrills on the water.
• Kayaking: Paddle through the calm waters around the island.
• Enjoying fresh seafood: Relax at beachfront restaurants while savoring local dishes.

Isla Ixtapa is not only a nature-rich retreat but also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can see exotic birds, small reptiles, and native vegetation that make the island a tranquil escape from the bustling mainland.

Zihuatanejo

Traveling from Ixtapa to the center of Zihuatanejo is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) and takes approximately 20 minutes by car or taxi. For more information about Ixtapa's other half, click here for Zihuatanejo.