Secret Mexico Destination: Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo
Located southwest of Mexico City on the Pacific coast, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, as it is commonly called, is a destination which combines the old-fashioned charm of traditional Mexican culture along 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 await either a green light or a red light. The red light means officials check your bag, the green light means you walk right through. Dozens of taxi drivers offering their services wait right outside the gate for arriving vacationers. Once away from the busy airport, the beach is the first place to head after the flight.
A popular Zihua beach for both locals and vacationers is the Playa La Ropa. This beach boats 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 that onlookers are frequently gathered around, hoping to catch a glimpse of one of the massive creatures. On weekends, the beach is crowded with locals on their days off from work, but on the weekdays the beach belongs to vacationers.
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 very affordable lodging slightly further 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 at Villa Del Sol for almost 10 years. Two years ago, the California family bought their own condo at the resort.
“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.
In downtown Zihua you’ll find the best posole (Mexican soup), tamales, and margaritas at the famous restaurant Tamales Any. Down the street is Los Braseros, a very popular spot with the locals that serves the best tacos in Zihua. If a gourmet dinner is more your style, 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.
Tommy Vega, the youngest of the clan, says his favorite part about Zihua is getting to drink his favorite soda, Yoli, like a Mexican version of 7-Up.
“My mom lets me drink two a day when I’m on the beach,” Tommy says.
Just an hour drive from Ixtapa-Zihua is the famous surfing beach of Troncones. Known as one of the “secret” surfing beaches in Mexico, Troncones makes a perfect day trip from Ixtapa or Zihua. Less crowded than Playa La Ropa during peak tourist times, it’s a quiet getaway if you just want to relax for the day, or for those who want to surf. Roberto Vasquez has been driving beachgoers from Zihua to Troncones for years. Working as a taxi driver, he has perfected his English over the years with help from the friends he has made in frequent vacationers, including the Vegas.
“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 X-Box!” Vasquez said.
Those looking for a more lively nightlife can take the ten minute cab ride from Zihua into Ixtapa and choose from variety of dance clubs, including Carlos n’ Charlie’s and Senor Frogs. Always lively, these clubs prime hangouts for both locals and vacationers looking for a good time. Cheap drinks, friendly staff, and good music abound, ensuring clubgoers a good time at either local. But arrive before 11pm and you might find the clubs empty – in Mexico the party starts late and often goes all night long.
To plan a trip to Zihua or Ixtapa, try Alaska Airlines, which flies direct from most major airports.
