American travelers have been flocking to the beaches of Mexico, particularly popular destinations like Los Cabos and Cancun. However, there is another stunning coastline in Mexico that is gaining attention and is worth a visit. Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, twin cities located in Mexico, offer an incredible beach vacation experience and have recently been ranked as the top spot in the country.
One of the reasons why Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are becoming increasingly popular is the increase in direct flights from the U.S. Alaska Airlines has announced that it will be launching new flights from two major U.S. cities, San Diego and Chicago, to Ixtapa. This new service will begin flying on December 23, just in time for Christmas. Other airlines such as United, American, WestJet, Sunwing, Sun Country, and Volaris also offer direct flights from the U.S. and Canada to Ixtapa.
Despite not being as well-known as other popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, Ixtapa holds its own with its underrated beaches. Playa Linda is one of the commonly visited beaches in the area, offering a fun bike and skating path parallel to the beach. For those who prefer a more secluded experience, Isla Ixtapa is an idyllic island within sight from the shore. A short $4 boat ride takes you to this pristine soft-sand beach, perfect for a worry-free beach day.
One of the advantages of visiting Ixtapa is the fewer crowds compared to other popular beach destinations. While Cancun and Los Cabos can get crowded, Ixtapa’s beaches are open and awaiting more travelers to enjoy. Planning a trip in the fall or winter, after the summer rush, is the perfect time to visit.
Another reason why Ixtapa is worth a visit is the affordability of all-inclusive resorts. While places like Los Cabos charge high prices for luxury resorts, Ixtapa offers affordable options without compromising on quality. With waterfront resorts spread across the coastline between Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, travelers can find familiar luxury brands like Barcelo and even a 4-star all-inclusive stay at Holiday Inn right on La Cucaracha Beach.
For those who love water excursions, Ixtapa offers a plethora of options. From snorkeling to kayaking, surfing, fishing, and even horseback riding on the beach, there are activities for everyone. One of the top-rated attractions is sailing aboard a sailboat to witness the magical sunsets of Ixtapa. Diving enthusiasts may also have the chance to explore underwater and come across unique sights.
In Zihuatanejo, visitors should not miss taking a stroll through the Paseo del Pescador, a bayside promenade. This tranquil spot offers stunning scenery, from lush green hills to crashing waves. The walkway is surrounded by shopping areas and restaurants serving delicious local seafood.
In conclusion, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo in Mexico offer an incredible beach vacation experience. With direct flights from the U.S., underrated beaches, fewer crowds, affordable all-inclusive resorts, water excursions, and beautiful promenades, this lesser-known beach destination is definitely worth a visit.
