Relaxing on a beach chair, sipping a margarita and listening to the waves as they crash on the sand is spring break paradise for many. Zihuatanejo, Mexico, famous for its pristine beaches, distinctive cuisine and proximity to the nearby popular city of Ixtapa, provides the perfect combination of relaxation and fun.
Located southwest of Mexico City on the Pacific Coast, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, as it is commonly called, is a destination that combines the old-fashioned charm of traditional Mexican culture with an abundance of vacation activities. The cities have just 85,000 inhabitants, making this tropical hideaway a secret amongst those “in the know.”
Arriving at the tiny airport is an experience in itself. “Customs” consists of a mini stoplight that travelers have to press and wait for a green or a red light. The red light means officials check the passengers’ bags, the green light means they can walk right through. Dozens of taxi drivers wait right outside the gate ready to take vacationers away from the busy airport to a beach.
A popular Zihua beach for both locals and vacationers is the Playa La Ropa. This beach boasts an impressive array of water activities, including water skiing, parachuting, snorkeling, jet skiing, fishing, banana boat rides and surfing. In the middle of the three-mile stretch of sand is a crocodile lagoon where onlookers frequently gather to catch a glimpse of one of the massive creatures.

There are a variety of small hotels nestled along the beaches of Playa La Ropa, ranging from five star luxury suites and private villas to affordable lodging slightly farther from the beach.
The Villa Del Sol resort has both hotel and villa accommodations and an excellent beachfront restaurant. Ignacio Vega, his wife, Martha, and their three children have been visiting Zihua and staying there for almost 10 years and now own their own condo.
“It’s a short flight, so we are able to come down whenever the kids are on school breaks. We usually make it down at least three times a year. I want to keep this condo and pass it on to the kids so they can bring their families here,” Vega said.
Outside the beach, in downtown Zihua, tourists will find the best posole (Mexican soup), tamales and margaritas at the famous restaurant Tamales Any. Down the street is Los Braseros, a popular local place that serves the best tacos in Zihua. For a gourmet dinner, head to Amuleto. Situated high in the hills and perfect for a sunset meal, this gorgeous restaurant has just five tables and overlooks Playa La Ropa.
Just an hour drive from Ixtapa-Zihua is Troncones, the famous surfing beach . Troncones makes a perfect day trip from Ixtapa or Zihua. Less crowded than Playa La Ropa during peak tourist times, it’s a quiet, relaxing getaway with possibilities for individuals who want to surf. Roberto Vasquez has been driving beach-goers from Zihua to Troncones for years.
“I’ve let the Vegas and their friends in on more than a few Zihua secrets, like the best restaurants and margarita joints. But the friendship with these people has been worth it. They treat me like family now. And last year, they brought me an Xbox!” Vasquez said.
Those looking for lively nightlife can take the 10-minute cab ride from Zihua into Ixtapa and choose from variety of dance clubs, including Carlos ‘n Charlie’s and Senor Frogs. Cheap drinks, friendly staff, and good music abound, ensuring club-goers a good time at either local place. But, arrive before 11 p.m., and you might find the clubs empty. In Mexico, the party starts late and often goes all night long.