Find out about the best resort in Ixtapa, and what they have to offer in terms of amenities and prices.
If at all possible, plan your vacation during the low season. Low season is generally interpreted to mean anytime that the kids are out of school! So, if you'd like good prices, try to avoid the summer months, the winter break and Easter. High season seems to be extending every year, so check with your travel agent, because a day or two can really make a difference to your pocketbook! Regardless of the season, you are likely to enjoy good weather, as Ixtapa offers more than 340 days of sunshine every year.
Several good resorts have sprung up in the area in recent years. This gives Ixtapa a feel of both modernity and quaintness. When choosing a resort, consider your budget, whether or not you'd like an all-inclusive package, and if you would enjoy a family setting.
The Barcelo Ixtapa Beach Resort is one of the nicest in the area. Located directly on the beach, it offers rooms with astounding ocean or mountain views, and comes with every amenity. It offers 24-hour room service, satellite television, phones with voice mail, a safe and a mini bar. With 333 rooms, it is a large property. 14 suites are available, including a president's suite. It offers all-inclusive options. This resort offers a supervised program for children ages 6-12, has six shows per week, three buffets per day, and a top notch restaurant on site. Many activities are available at this resort. In addition, medical service is available, and you can even arrange a massage during your stay. From US $160 per night.
Club Med Ixtapa is a fun, cheerful resort geared towards families with children. While its rooms are neither large nor luxurious, its childcare program is top notch, and offers many fun activities for the kids all day long. A doctor is available, and prescriptions can be filled on site. This is a resort to go if you would like to participate in many activities. The ambience is one of exuberance, rather than tranquility. Club Med Ixtapa offers buffets for every meal, and also has a small restaurant on site. A calm beach is next to the property, which is perfect for the kids. Weekly rates run from about US $630 per adult and from $260 to $360 per child, depending on the age of the child.
The Costa Real Ixtapa Resort is situated in the perfect position for lots of fun. Located on the beach, it is also in close proximity to discotheques, shopping, golf, the marina, and many fine restaurants. Two favorites are Carlos and Charlie's and Senor Frogs. Water sports are readily available. This luxury resort features a swim-up bar, valet service, room service and an on-spot dry cleaning service. The rooms at this resort are decorated in very good taste and are comfortable and clean. From US $76 per night.
With 450 rooms and 12 suites, The Presidente Intercontinental Ixtapa Resort is a large, completely all-inclusive property, offering 24-hour dining, recreational activities and entertainment for one price, including tips. You will find everything you need at this resort, from high-speed Internet access to a fitness center. The tower rooms offer the best views. Do not get a room near the front entrance, as you may find it to be noisy. This resort also offers the fun Chiqui club for children, and adults can take advantage of the deep-sea fishing located nearby. Everyone will enjoy the beautiful golden beach that lies directly outside the building. Additionally, there are activities programs offered during the day, and live entertainment every night. Karaoke night is especially fun! From US $175 per night.
The Krystal Ixtapa Resort offers ocean views from private balconies, satellite television, an on-site disco, five restaurants and an equal number of bars, water sports and a children's' club for kids ages 4-12. Tennis courts are also available, and there is a separate pool especially for the children. From US $82 per night.
When packing, be aware that there will typically be short showers during the summer months; however, the temperature remains temperate year round, hovering at around 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The cool ocean breezes are very refreshing during the summer. You will want to bring casual clothing for daytime activities. Remember that Mexico is generally pretty conservative, and it is always better to wear long pants when in the town proper. Resorts generally have dress codes for evening dining, which means a dress or pants and a nice shirt for women, and a jacket and nice pants for men. Sometimes ties are required. Don't make the mistake of going to a fancy restaurant in shorts, or you may have the experience of one visitor who had to rent an oversized pair of trousers for his evening meal!
Don't limit your vacation to your resort. Ixtapa is about four miles from the quaint village of Zihuantenejo, which is definitely worth a side trip. Zihuantenejo has small seaside restaurants and is a great place to shop for local crafts. The Ixtapa-Zihuantenejo area with its fine beaches, blue water lagoons and various activities is an excellent choice, and you are certain to have a good time.
