Where to stay

The main bases

Zihuatanejo’s bay has a handful of distinct zones, and which beach you pick sets the tone of your whole trip.

Playa La Ropa — The swimming-and-sunset side. Soft sand, calm water, a run of beachfront restaurants, and the best mix of boutique hotels and mid-range places. Best for couples and anyone who wants to walk out of their room onto the nicest bay beach. It is a short taxi or a longish walk from the centro.

Playa La Madera — The middle ground. Walkable to the centro along the water, smaller beach than La Ropa, lots of small hotels and rentals on the hill with bay views. Good for first-timers who want to be near the restaurants without staying in the thick of town.

Centro (the town) — Cheapest and most local. You are in the fishing-town bustle, steps from the market, taco stands, and the malecon. Best for budget travelers and people who want to be in the middle of things and do not mind noise. The town beach is fine for a stroll but not the one you swim at.

Ixtapa — The separate resort strip, about 15 minutes away. Big all-inclusives, a wide surf beach, a golf-course feel. Choose it only if you specifically want the polished high-rise experience; you lose the character that makes Zihua worth the trip.

Quick pick

First trip: La Madera. Couples and swimmers: La Ropa. Budget and local flavor: centro. Resort autopilot: Ixtapa.