Ixtapa

Overview

Once a coconut plantation, Ixtapa was transformed into an intriguing vacation destination in the early 1970s. Located in Zihuatanejo de Azueta, in the Mexican state of Guerrero, Ixtapa lies about 152 miles from sunny Acapulco. Los Morros de Potosi and the Ixtapa Lagoon are popular dive sites. 

There are also many opportunities for sportfishing for yellowtail, black tuna, cooker, Spanish mackerel, and more.

For those seeking to explore further afield, neighboring Zihuatanejo offers a diverting excursion. Barra de Potosi Beach, at the end of Playa Blanca, offers a stunning array of waterfowl on the shores of a large lagoon.

What To Do

Snorkel the calm waters at Playa Gata and see hundreds of species of fish or swim with friendly dolphins at the kid-friendly Delfiniti Dolphinarium.

Go horseback riding on the soft sands of Playa Larga beach through coconut plantations and mangrove trees in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area.

Sail, kayak, and bird-watch along lovely Barra de Potosi beach in the south. Watch dolphins and whales play in the waves, and turtles lay their eggs along the shore, between October and March.

What To See

Isla Ixtapa
Isla Ixtapa is a beautiful oasis from the concrete jungle of Ixtapa. The turquoise waters are crystal-clear, calm and great for snorkeling. Isla Ixtapa has four beaches; Playa Corales on the back side of the island is the nicest and quietest, with soft white sand, an offshore coral reef and little tide pools harboring starfish and sea urchins. Frequent boats to Isla Ixtapa depart from Playa Linda’s pier.

Cocodrilario             
Playa Linda has a small cocodrilario (crocodile reserve) that is also home to fat iguanas and several bird species. You can watch the crocs from the safety of the well-fenced wooden viewing platform located near the bus stop.