Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa? Choosing Where to Stay

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are often named together, but they feel very different. Ixtapa is a planned resort area with long beaches, a marina and golf, while Zihuatanejo is a traditional Mexican fishing town wrapped around a sheltered bay. They are only about ten minutes apart, so you can enjoy both. The question is which one you want to wake up in.

Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo at a Glance

• Ixtapa: long open beaches, a marina, golf courses and a modern, spacious feel.
• Zihuatanejo: calm bay beaches, a lively town center and authentic local character.
• Distance: about 10 minutes apart by car or taxi.
• Airport: both are close to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH).

Ixtapa

Ixtapa was developed as a resort destination, and it shows in its wide boulevards, landscaped streets and long beachfront. Its main beach faces the open Pacific, with big sunsets and stronger waves. The area also has a marina, two golf courses and a paved bike path that runs from the marina past the golf course toward Playa Linda, where boats leave for Isla Ixtapa.

Best for: golfers, families who want easy flat walks and bike rides, and guests who like a modern, resort-style setting.

Zihuatanejo

Zihuatanejo grew up around fishing, and its bay still has that feel. The town center has a waterfront promenade, markets, small shops and many of the area’s best restaurants. The bay beaches are calmer and good for swimming, from Playa La Madera close to town to the long, golden Playa La Ropa and Playa Las Gatas, reachable only by boat or on foot. Many villas sit on the hillsides with sweeping views over the bay.

Best for: food lovers, couples, and anyone who wants calm water and real local atmosphere.

How to Choose

• Want calm water for swimming: choose Zihuatanejo and its bay beaches.
• Golf or long beach walks: choose Ixtapa.
• Restaurants and evening strolls: Zihuatanejo’s town center is hard to beat.
• Can’t decide: stay in one and spend a day in the other, since they are only minutes apart.

Getting Around

Taxis are easy to find and move quickly between the two towns, and the airport is close to both. You don’t need a car for most villa stays.

Explore our Ixtapa Zihuatanejo villas →