Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo
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One hundred twenty miles north of Acapulco, you will find the popular tourist resort of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo. Zihuatanejo, nicknamed “Zih” by English-speaking tourists. Once a Prehispanic settlement on a picturesque bay, full of history and earthly delights, it is now home to dreamy boutique hotels and is a cruise stop to boot.

Ixtapa—a twin city (they share the same airport)—is a relatively new resort created by Fonatur, Mexico’s National Tourism Foundation. It is located on the open sea and gradually making a name for itself and its plush hotel chains, marina, fancy restaurants, manicured gardens, and holiday packages.

Zihuatanejo is still a town in its own right, and while very welcoming to tourists, foreigners sometimes need to remember that there are local ways and customs (like continual noise-making) that are not pleasing, but are part of the terrain. This is by far the most charming part of the area, with a real market, small naval base, super marina and sea fishing, great beaches, and the isolated enclave of Las Gatas with its coral reef.

Strong swimmers who think they can brave it from here to La Ropa beach should check currents with locals first. Nurse sharks and other sea creatures by the reef are harmless, but rays and jellyfish can cause harm or discomfort, so tourists should be alert. The continual heat breeds raging bacteria, so watch for stomach infections and dehydration, especially in small children. Local environmentalists have been warning about pollution in the bay for over a decade, so be aware before you take to the waters. Beach-water monitoring efforts reported two offenders in 2005: Playa Quieta and Playa Municipal. (For more information, see Mexico Beach Water Advisory.)


Surf & Beach Safety


The surf here can be dangerous, so check beach warning flags or safety measures with your hotel concierge before descending to the open sea. Lifeguards are present at most tourist beaches.


Beach flag system: