Ixtapa, Mexico Vacation Is Fun For All

By Sean Elstins

An Ixtapa, Mexico vacation offers the best of all worlds. The area boasts beautiful white sand beaches ideal for all water sports, has first class amenities, and proximity to the tranquil old town of neighboring Zihuatanejo. Ixtapa is a modern resort area, but still much smaller than Cancun and Acapulco.

Ixtapa is located on the Pacific Coast, approximately 145 miles (240 km) northwest of Acapulco. The region is known for its hilly, tropical coastline dotted with white sandy beaches and wonderful hidden coves. Half the land in Ixtapa has been set aside as an ecological reserve. The average annual temperature is 78.8 Fahrenheit, and the sun shines approximately 340 days out of the year. Even in the rainy season (June to September) the sun is only interrupted by brief afternoon showers.

Ixtapa-Zihautanejo International Airport is minutes from the resort area, and has nonstop flights from many United States cities. Once you are at the resort, local transportation via taxi is reliable. If you plan to explore areas outside of Ixtapa, a rental car, available at the airport, is necessary.

In addition to being a wonderful area for golfing, tennis, and relaxing in the sun, Ixtapa is very popular for all water sports, including sport fishing. The main types of fish caught are marlin, rooster fish and sail fish. A number of excellent boat charters are offered, along with equipment. Local fishing captains are known for their experience and ability in finding premium fishing spots along the coast. Back on land, golfers can choose between two superior courses.

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.

Ixtapa is only five minutes from the quaint Mexican village of Zihuatanejo. Visitors can easily split their time between both places. The combined locales provide an abundance of first class restaurants and a huge variety of shopping. Zihuatanejo has lovely seaside cafes, markets selling local crafts, and a picturesque promenade by the sea, contrasted by Ixtapa's contemporary sophistication.

Visitors to Ixtapa unwind in comfort and luxury while also being exposed to traditional, charming old-Mexican character. An Ixtapa, Mexico vacation is a less crowded, more tranquil experience that promotes true relaxation. - 30312

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