Nestled between Mexico’s Pacific Coast and the sprawling Sierra Madre mountains, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo is a city of contrasts. The city itself comprises the neighboring towns of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. They come together to offer picture-perfect beach resorts and authentic Mexican culture, making it an ideal spot for the indecisive traveler. Over the last 50 years, Ixtapa has experienced impressive growth, after its evolution from a quiet coconut plantation to the well-known vacation hotspot it is today. Zihuatanejo, on the other hand, retains its old world flavor with its village-like, easygoing atmosphere.

With only four miles separating the two locations, you can spend one morning lounging on Ixtapa’s white sand beaches and shuttle over for a romantic evening strolling Zihuatanejo’s brick-paved fisherman’s walk overlooking the water. After a day of fun in the sun, treat yourself to mouthwateringly fresh seafood or savor the island life by watching the sunset from a hammock among the palms.

Whether you arrive by land or by plane, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo is well connected. From Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), you can choose between taxis or colectivos which will take you to the city center in around 15 minutes. Visitors arriving from neighboring cities such as Acapulco or Mexico City can also take a bus here. Although longer than a flight — roughly four hours from Acapulco and nine from Mexico City — land travel promises exquisite views you otherwise might have missed. Once you’ve arrived, regardless of which hub you’re staying in, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo has a shuttle to and from both cities operating every 20 minutes.

With clear blue skies and gentle sea breezes all year round, there is no wrong time to visit. Although Mexico is known for its rainy season during the fall, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo’s prime location on the coast means showers are scarce and typically bound to late afternoons in September. For music lovers, March offers an incredible experience with Zihuafest. A famous guitar festival, Zihuafest brings in first class talent from all around the globe for a week-long musical immersion. February brings sporting and volunteering together through the six-day SailFest. Auctions, sailboat races, cook offs, and regattas raise funds for Zihuatanejo’s local children. Regardless of when you go, keep in mind that there is no off-season and no shortage of vacation rentals in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.

Isla Ixtapa

Isla Ixtapa is number one on most must-see lists for a reason. Hop on a water taxi and you’ll find yourself in paradise in under 10 minutes. Boasting four unique beaches all within walking distance of each other, you are sure to find one to suit your needs. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and diving.

Ciclopista bike path

If your vacation isn’t complete without a spot of exercise, the Ciclopista bike path will get your heart pumping while immersing you in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo’s natural beauty. The path will take you through five miles of breathtaking scenery featuring nature reserves home to native crocodiles, rainforests boasting 40 foot trees, and ending with the crystal-clear waters of Playa Linda. Book a local tour or experience the blissful sights solo.

Whale watching

From November to April, thousands of whales make their way to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo’s warm waters to give birth. The yearly migration brings both grey and humpback whales to the coast. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to catch a glimpse from the shoreline. For a more up close and personal look at these gentle giants, diving and sailing companies offer whale watching expeditions.