About Ixtapa

The touristic development and community of Ixtapa, a quick 5 km drive to the north of Zihuatanejo town, was begun in the early 1970's by Fonatur, the National government tourist development agency which developed both Cancun and Huatulco. The master plan includes a provision that 50% of the allotments of land must remain green or for garden or uncovered outdoor areas, so hotels and home constructions cannot overrun the land and nature.

The commercial zone of Ixtapa offers a great variety of large hotels and condo rentals, as well as touristic shops and boutiques, restaurants and clubs, and tour and activities operators.

Visit Isla Ixtapa

Ixtapa is home to two signature golf courses, the Palma Real Golf Course and the Marina Ixtapa Golf Course. It also offers a 600-slip marina with a pleasant promenade with a number of very popular restaurants and shops overlooking the marina proper.

Ixtapa is serviced by the Zihuatanejo International airport and access via Federal Highway 200 from Acapulco and points south, and Lazaro Cardenas and Morelia from points north.

Playa del Palmar and the Ixtapa Hotel Zones

Ixtapa's principal beach is Playa del Palmar, home of the world class high rise hotels that have made Ixtapa The Place to vacation since the development of this resort destination in the 1970's.  Most hotels are well known around the world and all offer the services and amenities one has come to expect from a first class hotel. The hotels are serviced by shopping malls and plazas off the main boulevard with stores and boutiques offering crafts, souvenirs, beach clothing and other conveniences. The Marina Ixtapa area, at the northern end of the main beach, is a favorite spot to take a stroll, hang out and enjoy some excellent meals overlooking the boat slips.

Golfing in Ixtapa | Playa del Palmar | Ixtapa Island | Horseback Riding

Slightly Off the Beach

Off the beaches and along the golf courses are small hotels and condominiums that may not offer the total hotel services but are wonderful places to spend a vacation.  Many of these are overlooking the beautiful Palma Real Golf Course and are available by the night or week.

Playa Linda

Just north of Ixtapa we discover a beautiful sandy beach named Playa Linda, whose name means "pretty beach".  This beach is well known for surfing, horseback riding and it's quaint artisans market.  A short walk or ride north on Playa Linda brings you to a river mouth, coconut groves and  wetlands full of wildlife.  The pier,  popular for fishing, is also the jumping off point for a trip to Isla Ixtapa with its own beaches, restaurants and natural beauty.

Ixtapa Beaches

Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Golf Courses

Special Events Calendar for Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

Zihuatanejo Hotels and Vacation Rentals

Zihuatanejo Flight Status and Airport Information