Things to Do in Ixtapa

Semi-tropical climate year-round with an average of 300 sunny days a year and temperatures ranging from 73° to 93° F (23° to 33° C).

In an unusually beautiful site, in the heart of the Mexican Pacific, surrounded by mountains covered with tropical forest that come down to the coast, lies the peaceful, picturesque fishing village of Zihuatanejo with its wonderful combination of tranquility, exuberant surroundings and affordable tourist facilities. Its superb semi-tropical climate, with temperatures oscillating between 23 and 33ºC and its nearly three kilometers of beach have made this one of Mexico’s most popular resorts.

What was formerly known as Cihuatlán (meaning “Place of women” in Náhuatl) was the Tarascan monarch’s favorite place of retreat. It was there that in October 1527 the first galleon, captained by Álvaro de Saavedra y Cerón, set sail in search of a route that would link America to the Philippines. Legend has it that famous pirates such as Francis Drake used to lie in wait off the coast of this attractive port.

Although it has been modernized, Zihuatanejo still retains the village atmosphere that has made it famous throughout the world.

Although its main attraction is the golden beaches that surround its gorgeous bay, wandering round the cobbled streets in the town center is also extremely pleasant. There you will find restaurants serving national and international cuisine, picturesque shops and typical markets carrying everything from traditional handicrafts to the latest international fashions.

Also worth visiting in the archaeological museum where you will be able to find out about some of the history of the region. For those in search of nightlife, Zihuatanejo offers night clubs and small, intimate bars with live music.

Seven kilometers outside Zihuatanejo lies the modern tourist complex of Ixtapa (meaning “Place of White Sands” in Náhuatl, which, together with Zihuatanejo, forms what is known as the “Dorado Pacífico.”

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has managed to preserve all the attractions that have made it so highly sought after; virtually unspoiled beaches, year-round sun, a calm, clean sea, exuberant vegetation and exotic birds. It also has a first-rate infrastructure, hotels and restaurants to suit every budget, golf course and above all, facilities for water sports, excursions and walks.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is 448 km southeast of Mexico City and 268 km away from the port of Acapulco by Highway 200. It is served by an international airport.