Like Cancun, Ixtapa was developed by the Mexican government as a resort center about 30 years ago. Somewhat less crowded and more favored by Mexicans, Ixtapa still has everything the beach vacationer could want: great dining, fishing, golf, horseback riding, scuba diving, nightlife, and shopping. An added bonus is that half of the land on the site has been allotted for an ecological reserve.  For these reasons, Ixtapa retains an atmosphere dominated by nature and solitude.

Four miles from Ixtapa is the fishing village of Zihuatanejo, and the two cities are often referred to Mexico's "Twin Resorts." Zihuatanejo is nothing like Ixtapa, however: it is much less crowded; less developed, and actually has an economy exclusive of tourism. The town also has small museums displaying local archeological finds dating back to the Olmecs.
With a year-round semi-tropical climate and average temperatures ranging from 73-93 degrees Fahrenheit, Zihuatanejo enjoys approximately 300 days of sun annually.  The rainy season generally starts in June and carries on through the end of September or into October. The rains usually fall in the late afternoons or evenings and infuse the region with an intense greenness.  Light and casual clothing is recommended - but remember to also bring a sweater or light jacket for evenings as the sea breeze at night can sometimes become unexpectedly chilly.

Average annual water temperature: 79F (26C). Winter average: 70F-73F (21-23C), Summer average: 80F-82F (27C-28C).