As a long-time fan of all things Mexico, I had long heard rave reviews about the twin towns of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. But until recently, I had no firsthand impression of this Pacific coast hot spot. A recent visit fixed that problem — and also opened my eyes to the diversity of activities and attractions the destination offers.
From a crocodile sanctuary and glistening beaches to a modern-day “Parthenon” with a scandalous past, there’s something to please a variety of traveler types in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.
My introduction began by checking into the stylish Thompson Zihuatanejo, which served as an ideal base — it’s located along Playa La Ropa, one of the area’s most attractive stretches of sand. Regardless of where travelers stay, this beach is worth visiting, whether for a swim, a stroll or a sunset walk.
La Ropa beach in Zihuatanejo
Credit: 2025 DepartureLevel.com
One of the more offbeat experiences of my trip came on my first full day, when I took a day tour that started at the Partenon (Parthenon), a stately complex set dramatically atop a hill. Complete with columns, statues and terraces, the villa looks like it was transported from the Mediterranean. That being said, its history is more local — and more scandalous.
Constructed in the 1970s by a powerful Mexican police official whose career unraveled after alleged ties to drug traffickers, the property once hosted extravagant parties. It was abandoned for decades before recently reopening as a cultural venue and tourist attraction.
Today, visitors can explore its grounds, admire sweeping views over Zihuatanejo Bay and — depending on what’s on the calendar — attend concerts and cultural events. When I visited, there was an interesting exhibit of artwork by multiple artists.
Back down at sea level, I immersed myself in the region’s laid-back vibe during a visit to downtown Zihuatanejo. The town is a charming mix of shops, waterfront cafes, restaurants and artisan stores. Like many first-time visitors, I posed in front of the giant “Zihua” sign on the waterfront, where fishing boats bob in the distance. Then I took a seat at a cafe on Paseo del Pescador, near a space where free public entertainment sometimes takes place in the afternoon and evenings.
Two Towns, Two Personalities
One of the advantages of visiting this region of Mexico is that clients get access to two towns for the price of one, and each has its own unique flavor. I was charmed by Zihuatanejo, with its fishing-village heritage and small-scale hotels and businesses. Just a few minutes away by car, I discovered the allure of Ixtapa, a more polished, modern town with large-scale resorts and broad boulevards.
In Ixtapa, one of my most unforgettable experiences was at Playa Linda. There, just a few steps from the sand, a crocodile habitat is one of the town’s most-visited attractions. It’s easy to spot dozens of these large creatures as they lounge in the sun, just a few feet below the protected viewing platform. An array of birds perch in the trees just above, making this a good spot for bird watching, too. Admission is free, and it’s a wonderful and safe place for families to view local wildlife.
The town also offers diversions such as the Ciclopista Ixtapa, a scenic cycling route that winds through coconut groves and lagoons, and Isla Ixtapa, which is a quick boat ride away and features multiple beaches and prime conditions for snorkeling and swimming.
A crocodile habitat in Ixtapa is an oft-visited attraction.
Credit: 2025 DepartureLevel.comDay Trips, Dining and More
The region around Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo is home to a variety of interesting day-trip destinations. Barra de Potosi, for example, is a beachfront town that’s about 20 minutes south of the airport. Among its attractions (in addition to the beach) is El Refugio de Potosi, a wildlife sanctuary that’s home to macaws, iguanas, hummingbirds and other animals.
Surfers, meanwhile, should head to Troncones, a beach town to the north that offers superb waves as well as activities such as ATV tours.
Also good for watersports is Playa Las Gatas, which can be reached by boat from the pier in Zihuatanejo. The beach is ideal for snorkeling, and there are restaurants that specialize in just-caught seafood.
Whale watching is another reason to visit this region; humpback whales swim the waters off the coast from Dec. 15 to March 15 each year, and companies such as Pacific Travel offer guided boat excursions that include transportation to and from hotels as well as onboard refreshments.
Anglers, meanwhile, can book outings with companies such as Ixtapa Sport Fishing; the deep waters are home to sailfish, marlin, dorado, yellowfin tuna and other species.
After several days in this region, I came to appreciate how Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo complement each other. Travelers can easily mix and match activities in both towns, and then add excursions to other areas or out onto the waters of the Pacific.
The region’s relaxed, easygoing ambience and diversity of activities make it a smart choice for various traveler types — from couples and groups of friends to families, from surfers and fishing fans to people just looking to relax.
Whatever the motivation, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo provide plenty of inspiration for a multifaceted coastal getaway. I’m already planning what I want to do on the next visit.
