Beach, jungle, horses, turtles, and the best all-inclusive staff we’ve ever met.
Okay, we’re just going to come right out and say it — Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo completely blew us away. We had a feeling it was going to be good, but we had NO idea it was going to be that good. If Mexico’s Pacific coast is on your radar, stop sleeping on this place. Here’s everything you need to know.
Two Towns, One Amazing Destination
First things first — Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are technically two different towns but they’re basically neighbors. Ixtapa is the resort side of things, a smaller planned town of about 3,000 people where the big hotels are. Zihuatanejo (locals call it “Zihua”) is a real, vibrant fishing village with about 80,000 residents, a gorgeous harbor, and all the authentic Mexican charm you could ever want.
The combo is honestly perfect. You get the resort comfort AND the real-deal local experience. Don’t skip Zihua while you’re there!
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The Horseback Ride at El Riscal Ranch — DO NOT Skip This
This was hands-down one of the most memorable things we have ever done on any trip. We’re not exaggerating. The horseback tour at El Riscal Ranch is an hour and 15 minutes of pure magic — you ride through a working coconut farm, through actual jungle, along a stunning natural lagoon, and then out onto the beach where you get to gallop. Like, full-on run your horse on the beach.
Here’s the thing: this is reportedly the ONLY place along this stretch of coastline that lets you gallop on the beach. When we heard that we were like, uh, yes please. And it delivered 100%.
Ask for Luis and Raymond when you book — these guys are awesome. They know every trail, they’ll match you with the right horse for your experience level, and they make the whole thing feel like a true adventure rather than a tourist activity. Ixtapa tours through El Riscal Ranch — look them up, book it, thank us later.
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Coconut Farms and Sea Turtles — Yes, Really
The main industries here are tourism and agriculture, and coconuts are a BIG deal. There are four coconut oil farms in the area and each palm tree produces around 60 coconuts every three months — which is wild when you think about it. The farms are gorgeous and really cool to visit.
But here’s what really got us: those four farms also actively protect sea turtles during nesting season. The farmers watch over the eggs and help hatchlings make it safely to the water. It’s one of those things you don’t expect to find and then you’re just standing there feeling all the feelings watching baby turtles head to the ocean. 100/10, would recommend.
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Barceló Ixtapa — The Resort That Got Everything Right
We stayed at the Barceló Ixtapa all-inclusive and honestly, we have zero complaints. The beach and water are absolutely stunning — we’re talking that perfect Caribbean-level blue-green color that you think only exists in photos. It’s real. It’s right there. We spent a LOT of time just staring at it.
The food and drinks were solid — way above average for an all-inclusive. Lots of variety, good quality, and the swim-up bar situation did not disappoint. Activities were plentiful too — water sports, beach volleyball, you name it.
Free stuff you shouldn’t miss: There’s a guided bike tour to the marina that’s completely free — get off the resort and see the area! Plus there are free shows every single night. Every. Night. Great entertainment, great vibes.
We have to give a massive shoutout to the staff. Paulina, Victor, and Eduardo were incredible — like, genuinely some of the best hotel staff we’ve encountered anywhere in the world. They went above and beyond every single time and made us feel so welcome. That kind of service makes a trip.
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Getting Out of the Resort
The Market — You have to go to the market. Great shopping (we may have gone a little souvenir-crazy) and incredible street food. Just go hungry and bring some pesos.
Restaurant El Farosar — We loved this place. Fresh seafood, great atmosphere — exactly what you want from a restaurant in a coastal Mexican town. Add it to your list.
The Cable Car — Ride it. The views over the jungle and the bay are gorgeous and it gives you a completely different perspective on the whole area. Do it for the gram. Do it for yourself. Just do it.
Pro TipThe guided bike tour from the resort to the marina is free and a great way to explore a little beyond the hotel bubble. Don’t just sit by the pool the whole time (okay, sit by the pool SOME of the time — it’s gorgeous — but get out and explore too).
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Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is on our short list of places we’d go back to without a second thought. The beach is beautiful, the people are incredible, and there’s so much more to do here than people realize. If you’ve been on the fence — get off the fence. Book the trip!
Justin and Lindsay
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