Fishing Frenzy

Ixtapa Mexico offers a variety of activities and amenities catering to diverse travelers. Ixtapa has a contemporary, sophisticated feel, contrasted with neighboring Zihuatanejo, a peaceful, traditional Mexican town. The area is abundant with beautiful beaches ideal for a multitude of different water activities. This resort contains everything a vacationer would want, but enjoys the benefit of being smaller and less crowded than destinations such as Cancun or Acapulco.

Ixtapa boasts an ideal climate. Its temperature is 78.8 Fahrenheit on average, and sunny almost every day. It is located about 150 miles north of Acapulco. During the rainiest months, there are only intermittent afternoon showers. The area is hilly and tropical, with white sand beaches and hidden coves. Since half the area has been designated an ecological preserve, Ixtapa maintains a very peaceful atmosphere.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has its own airport. There are nonstop flights from Mexico City and many cities in the United States. The airport is very close to Ixtapa hotels. Taxis are not metered, so agree on a price with the taxi driver before you leave for your destination. If you plan on exploring around the greater area, you can rent a car at the airport. If you intend to hang around the resort areas only, you are better off relying on taxis and moderately priced local transport.

A number of excellent boat charters are offered, as Ixtapa is very popular for sport fishing. The majority of the fish caught are sailfish, marlin and rooster fish. Local fishing captains are well-versed at finding the best fishing spots just off the coast. On land, golfers have two premium golf courses to choose from. Closer to the water, pristine beaches abound, perfect for sunbathing and a plethora of water sports.

Ixtapa's beaches are the most memorable part of any vacation. They range from those with large waves ideal for surfing, to small beaches in secluded, protected coves, excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling. The region is extremely desirable for scuba and snorkeling because it is part of the southwestern coastal plain, with underwater volcanic rock and marine sediment. This provides interesting viewing for divers and snorkelers alike. A multitude of certified dive schools provide extensive training, along with equipment. This ensures exciting and enjoyable dives at over fifty dive sites. Beaches best known for good snorkeling and diving are Playa Las Gatas and Ixtapa Island.

The area has multitudes of top notch restaurants and wonderful shopping. Much of this can be found in the quaint village of Zihuatanejo, which offers lovely seaside cafes, wonderful markets selling local crafts, as well as a beautiful promenade by the sea. The close proximity of Ixtapa to Zihuatanejo allows visitors to split their time between both places.

The best of both worlds exist on an Ixtapa Mexico vacation. Travelers experience the modern luxury and sophistication of Ixtapa alongside the charming old Mexican character of Zihuatanejo. All of this exists in an uncrowded and tranquil scene.