Escape to Paradise: Top Ways to Unwind in Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa, Mexico
One of cinema's most unforgettable beach scenes comes from The Shawshank Redemption, where Andy Dufresne dreams of freedom in Zihuatanejo. "It's in Mexico... a little place on the Pacific Ocean," he tells Red. "They say it has no memory. That's where I want to live."
Whether seeking to shed memories or daily stress, Zihuatanejo—this former sleepy fishing village—offers an ideal escape. Paired with neighboring Ixtapa, its upscale counterpart, the possibilities expand. Discover six exceptional ways to disconnect.
Claim Your Private Beach
Mexico's Costa Grande boasts stunning beaches, but for true seclusion, take a water taxi from Ixtapa's Playa Linda to Isla Ixtapa (10 minutes away). Hike to Playa Carey, a pristine cove with no facilities—just soft sands, turquoise waters, and occasional sea turtles (a protected hatching site).
Extend your retreat with snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off Playa Coral, teeming with marine life. Relax afterward at a palapa-shaded beach table at one of the island's restaurants.
Indulge in Luxurious Spa Treatments
Between Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa, world-class spas abound, with local-inspired therapies standing out. At La Casa Que Canta's Spa By Clarins, try authentic Mexican body wraps using exfoliating papaya or anti-inflammatory prickly pear cactus, or unwind with a massage featuring organic local oils.
Embark on World-Class Sport Fishing
This Pacific stretch ranks among the globe's premier fishing spots. Battle barracuda, mahi-mahi, sailfish, marlin, wahoo, or yellowfin tuna. Zihuatanejo Sportfishing Charters provides 26- to 40-foot boats, expert crews, gear, bait, licenses, and refreshments (water, sodas, beer). Note: Local charters practice catch-and-release, except for meals or trophies.
Ride into Scenic Sunsets
Ixtapa's horse ranches like El Riscal and Rancho El Palmar near Playa Larga offer guided coastal trail rides with bay views. Opt for late-afternoon excursions to catch Pacific sunsets. For a different adventure, rent a bike for the 5-mile Ciclopista trail, winding through forests, marinas, and wildlife like iguanas and butterflies.
Explore Vibrant Dive Sites
With calm seasonal waters, dive over 35 sites. Beginners love fish-filled Islas Blancas; all levels enjoy Los Morros de Potosi's corals, caves, and tunnels. Spot seahorses, octopuses, rays, turtles, lobsters, and more exotic species like guitarfish.
Savor Authentic Guerrero Cuisine
Fresh seafood shines in ceviches, caldo de cuatete soup, and tiritas de pescado. Join Jueves Pozolero (Pozole Thursday) for hominy stew town-wide, or visit Santa Prisca Pozoleria and Teosintle daily. Guerrero's official mezcal pairs perfectly in cocktails like the mezcal paloma. End with baked cocadas, rich coconut treats.
