AAA

200 Palmar Bay P A C I F I C O C E A N Marina Vista Hermosillo Beach H OT E L Z O N E Paseo de las Grandes Dolphinarium P a s e o de l Pa l m ar Paseo Ixtapa To Zihuatenejo Palmar Beach 0 1/2 mile 0 1/2 km Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo 45 Only 4.3 miles separate Ixtapa and Zihuatenejo, but travelers to the state of Guerrero are treated to two very different experiences when stopping at these sister resort towns. Ixtapa, a former coconut plantation until the 1970s, is the more glamorous sibling, with a Hotel Zone of high-rises, all-inclusive resorts, upscale shopping. Its proximity to the Dolphinarium in Puerta del Mar, two championship golf courses, Palma Real and Marina Ixtapa, and the Magic World Aquatic Park theme park complete its appeal. Down the road, Zihuatanejo, is the laid-back, free spirit of the two: a quaint fishing village full of winding streets of galleries, folk art shops, and beachfront palapa-style seafood restaurants. The bright blue waters both towns are blessed with mark them clearly as equally alluring tourist and fishing destinations. Sailfish average 75-100 pounds, and black marlin can be as big as 1,100 pounds—the biggest recorded catch in the area. In fact, the waters are so rife with exotic marine life that snorkeler-favorite Las Gatas Beach is actually named after the number of cat sharks residing off its shores. 2 4 5 9 8 iXTaPa/ziHUaTaNejo 6 7 Experienced divers head to Los Morros de Potosi's granite rocks, cave network and vertical walls, but those who want to enjoy the Pacific away from underwater locales can find their bliss in a sailboat, or on water skis. 1 3 IxTApA AzUl IxTApA GRAND ooooo High standards, exceptional service, and exquisite gastronomy are the hallmarks of this Grand Hotel minutes from the boutiques and golf greens of Ixtapa Marina. Guests will admire not only the natural beauty, but the EarthCheck Gold Certification and eco-environmental concept that show a dedication to the unspoiled beachfront fully enjoyed from their modern, stylish accommodations. 1 CApEllA IxTApA ooooo Capella Ixtapa is a secluded and romantic resort set alongside a stunning rock cliff. It features 59 guestrooms that cascade towards the Pacific. Each accommodation features a large, private outdoor terrace with an individual plunge pool. There is an array of dining options available with three on-site restaurants. Guests may indulge in a luxurious spa treatment in our 6,000-square-foot Spa. AAA Four Diamond. 2 3 AzUl IxpTApA bEACH RESoRT & CoNVENTIoN CENTER oooo½ Azul Ixtapa Beach Resort has all the convenience, yet scenic seclusion, a traveler could require—delectable à la carte dining, aqua spinning at the EcoGym, a family zone for all ages—only 20 minutes from the Zihuatanejo airport. An average 255 days of sun provides excellent water sports opportunities, while the 320 ocean view rooms make for a quiet retreat.

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