Mexico’s Pacific coast is home to two relatively unspoiled destination gems: the cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. Here the world-weary traveler experience Mexico’s past and present. While the two cities may share similar topography, they are quite different in terms of entertainment and attractions. Ixtapa (where most Americans stay) is new, modern and luxurious complete with five star hotels, renowned spas, and fabulous dining. Zihuatanejo on the other hand is a charming fishing village that offers visitors a taste of Mexico’s past.
Ixtapa (pronounced eesh-tah-pa) lies approximately 360 miles southwest of Mexico City and 150 miles northwest of Acapulco, hidden amongst the Sierra Madre Mountains. Of the two cities, Ixtapa is livelier and glitzier. It is exclusively a vacation resort, started in the 1970’s by Mexico’s National Fund for Tourism Development. Those travelers seeking all the modern creature comforts and luxurious surroundings should stay in Ixtapa. About four miles south of Ixtapa is the quaint village of Zihuatanejo (pronounced see-wah-tah-neh-hoh) or “Zihua” to the locals. Travelers who are looking for a relaxing vacation far from the noise and maddening crowd will be happy here. No matter where you hang your hat, though, the two are so close together that travel between them is quite simple. This is why Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are really two completely different vacation options in one convenient location.
From the traveler who wants great hotels and a boisterous nightlife to the ones who wants nothing more than a cozy cabana along the waterfront, both vacationers have one common denominator: they want a great beach! There is surely no shortage of gorgeous beaches along this stretch of the Pacific. Playa Las Gatas in Zihuatanejo will certainly fit the bill. Named for the nurse sharks that used to feed in the area, the beach is lined with rocks that form a breakwater. A Tarascan king built the breakwater so that his daughter would have a safe place to roam, or so the legend goes. Another option for the true beach connoisseur is the Isla Ixtapa. This island is a ten-minute ferry ride from Ixtapa, and there are three beaches to choose from on the island. Beachcombers can rent snorkel gear, take a horseback tour of the island or simply do nothing but revel in the crystal waters of the Mexican Pacific.
Adventure seekers need not fear that an Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo vacation will be lacking in excitement. On the contrary, numerous beaches offer horseback riding, snorkeling, windsurfing and other activities for those with an active lifestyle. The most popular boat excursion is a snorkel trip to the Isla Ixtapa, where the beauty above the water is only surpassed by the magical kingdom below. Beginners and experienced snorkelers alike will be delighted at the variety of aquatic wildlife beneath the pristine waters. For the land-lover, the Sheraton at Ixtapa has an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones designed golf course to challenge your duffing abilities.
After a long day of relaxing or sightseeing, what could be better than a fabulous meal at one of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo’s great restaurants? For an authentic Mexican experience complete with a thatched roof and traditional decor, check out Atoles Y Tamales Any in Zihautanejo. Here visitors will be delighted with a rotating selection of tamales that are large in size and taste, but not in price. For a more romantic, upscale dining experience don’t miss Kua-Kan restaurant, located in La Casa Que Canta hotel. This chef-owned and run establishment is full of exotic seafood dishes cooked in the traditional Mexican style, infused with a touch of the Mediterranean. The restaurant takes full advantage of its location and incorporates only the freshest selection of seafood and produce into its revolving menu.
If you desire nothing more out of a vacation than a chair and a beach, but your spouse seeks excitement at every turn, than Ixtapa and Zihautanejo are ideal vacation destinations for your family. These truly unique offer something to do, see, and eat for every taste and budget imaginable. Whether you choose to spend your time reading on the ocean or on the back of a horse exploring, you won’t be disappointed with all that Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo has to offer.
