Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo: Twin Pacific Gems in Guerrero

The neighboring towns of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are a destination in themselves along the Mexican Pacific coast. The area's beaches attract over a million visitors each year.

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are ideal destinations for those who enjoy beaches, nature, and tranquil places.

The towns of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are located on the coast of the State of Guerrero. These neighboring locations are united as a tourist destination, so they are often referred to together. Ixtapa is the more developed town, featuring upscale hotels, international cuisine, bars, cafes, nightclubs, luxury shopping, and golf courses. In contrast, Zihuatanejo still retains its fishing village charm. Ixtapa is just a 5-minute drive from Zihuatanejo, and both towns are located 200 km from Acapulco.

Both towns have an International Airport that serves both domestic and international flights.

Tourist Information about Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Ixtapa is the most developed area for tourism, with luxury hotels, international restaurants, bars, cafes, nightclubs, stores with well-known brands, and expansive golf courses. The atmosphere here is very cosmopolitan due to the large number of international visitors and expats who choose to live here.

Fishing and Diving

Deep-sea fishing is a popular activity among visitors to the Zihuatanejo coast. Many travel agencies organize fishing trips for big game like tuna, barracuda, sailfish, dorado, blue marlin, snapper, and roosterfish.

The Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area boasts over 25 recommended diving sites. Various diving schools offer daily trips that include navigation, equipment, and oxygen tanks. There are full-day and half-day trips available. Some of the recommended dive sites include Piedra Solitaria, Morro de Potosí, Sacramento, Cueva de la Gata, Bajo de Jaime, Bajo de Chato, Bajo del Borracho, and Manzanillo.

There are also ideal snorkeling spots such as Playa Las Gatas, Playa Manzanillo, and Isla de Ixtapa.

Beaches of Ixtapa - Zihuatanejo

Playa Principal (Zihuatanejo)

Playa Principal is the main beach in Zihuatanejo, stretching over 1 km. The beach is home to the main dock, where most maritime traffic, cruise ships, and boat tours to Playa Las Gatas depart. The views from the beach are beautiful, and there are many restaurants and beachside cafes.

Playa Las Gatas (Zihuatanejo)

To reach Playa Las Gatas, you must cross the bay by panga from the main dock. The beach is protected by a coral reef, making the waters calm and ideal for water sports, swimming, and snorkeling. It has restaurants and food stalls along the shore.

Playa La Ropa (Zihuatanejo)

Playa La Ropa is one of the busiest and longest beaches in the bay. During certain times of the year, the waves are perfect for surfing.

Playa La Madera (Zihuatanejo)

With less than 200 meters of shoreline, Playa La Madera has calm waters, making it ideal for swimming.

Playa El Palmar (Ixtapa)

Playa El Palmar stretches over 2 km and is home to most of the large hotels. The beach is well-organized for tourists, offering lifeguard services and all the necessary amenities for a day at the sea.

Playa Linda (Ixtapa)

Located north of Ixtapa, Playa Linda is where boats to Isla de Ixtapa depart. The area still retains a wild, natural atmosphere.

Playa Varadero (Isla de Ixtapa)

Playa Varadero has calm, crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. Boat tours are also available, and various water sports are offered.

Playa Coral (Isla de Ixtapa)

Playa Coral, located to the south of Isla de Ixtapa, is famous for its reefs and abundant marine life, making it ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Barra de Potosí

Barra de Potosí is...