Ixtapa, Mexico, often mentioned alongside its charming sister city Zihuatanejo, offered an unforgettable escape for a spring wedding celebration that turned into an extended, blissful vacation. Initially planned as a 5-day trip, the allure of this Pacific paradise extended our stay by two more days, a testament to its captivating beauty and relaxing atmosphere. If you’re seeking the perfect blend of cultural richness, luxurious accommodations, and delectable cuisine, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo present an ideal vacation destination. This guide unveils a 7-day itinerary, designed to help you plan your own memorable journey to Ixtapa, Mexico.
Exploring the Allure of Ixtapa, Mexico
Prior to this trip, Mexico was uncharted territory for me. The prospect of discovering a new region, especially Ixtapa, with my boyfriend and his family was exciting. Like many first-time visitors, safety concerns about a less-known Mexican destination lingered in the back of my mind. However, approaching Ixtapa with an open mind allowed me to fully appreciate the unique experiences it offered.
Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, while distinct cities, are conveniently located just a short 15-minute taxi ride apart, costing less than $15 each way. Our itinerary thoughtfully incorporated stays in hotels in both Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, allowing us to experience the unique charm of each location.
Luxurious Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ixtapa
Our Mexican adventure began in Ixtapa at the stunning Las Brisas Hotel. Ixtapa boasts a variety of excellent lodging options, but Las Brisas truly stood out. Its expansive property provided a sense of privacy for all wedding guests while still fostering opportunities for communal enjoyment. Days were spent unwinding by the pool, enjoying the thrill of boogie boarding in the ocean waves, and indulging in fresh guacamole and refreshing margaritas.
A standout feature of Las Brisas was its private beach, offering a tranquil escape from crowded public areas. The wedding’s opening ceremony, held directly on this pristine beach on Monday evening, was a breathtaking spectacle, perfectly embodying the essence of a tropical destination wedding.
Zihuatanejo Hotel Highlight: La Casa Que Canta
On Tuesday, our journey continued to Zihuatanejo, where we checked into the luxurious La Casa Que Canta. Known for its exclusivity and higher price point compared to Las Brisas, La Casa Que Canta offered a different, yet equally appealing experience.
With only 24 rooms, La Casa Que Canta exuded a serene, adult-focused atmosphere. Although it lacked a private beach, the hotel compensated with two exquisite pools overlooking the ocean. The lower level saltwater pool and the upper-level infinity pool both provided mesmerizing views, creating the perfect setting for relaxation.
Culinary Delights: Dining in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo
Breakfast in downtown Ixtapa became a daily ritual at the charming Debra’s café. Debra’s is known for its fresh breakfast burritos and generously sized smoothies – a highly recommended spot to start your day in Ixtapa.
Poolside lunches were a daily indulgence, consistently featuring delicious guacamole and pico de gallo. For dinner, we explored several restaurants in downtown Zihuatanejo. Bandido’s is highly recommended for its flavorful molcajete bowl. El Faro, where we were exceptionally served by Andre, offered a memorable dining experience. Coconut’s, with its beautiful outdoor seating area in the back, provided a lovely ambiance for evening meals.
Activities and Experiences: What to Do in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo
The wedding ceremony and reception took place at the stunning Tentaciones Hotel in Zihuatanejo. It was hard to imagine a more picturesque wedding venue. While we didn’t see the hotel rooms, the exterior hinted at equally impressive interiors.
The sunset ceremony provided a magical backdrop for photographs, and as night fell, the lights of the bay created a captivating atmosphere. We savored a 5-course dinner and celebrated with dancing under the stars.
Beyond the wedding festivities, our week included ample free time for exploration. Our first night in Ixtapa led us to Senor Frogs for dinner and dancing. While admittedly touristy, it proved to be a fun experience, especially with a large group.
For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Playa Las Gatas is a must-visit. A short and inexpensive water taxi ride from the public beach in Zihuatanejo transports you to this memorable location.
Downtown Zihuatanejo offers its own array of attractions. Live music venues and late-night eateries create a lively atmosphere. We enjoyed browsing gift shops and soaking in the local tourist scene.
Our week in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo was a delightful blend of culinary experiences, relaxation, and quality time with family. I eagerly anticipate a return to this enchanting region of Mexico in the future. I hope this guide inspires you with ideas for your own trip to Ixtapa, Mexico!
If you appreciate beach-focused itineraries, you might also enjoy my blog post about Manuel Antonio National Beach in Costa Rica HERE! You’ll find it equally captivating.
