American travelers have flocked to Mexico’s beaches all year long, contributing to record-breaking tourism in hotspots such as Los Cabos and Cancun.

Travelers wanting something new and trendy should look to another gorgeous coastline in Mexico. The twin cities, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, are beaming with opportunities for an awesome beach vacay.

In fact, this coastal area was ranked the top spot in all of Mexico earlier this year, and it continues to gain more attention.

The scenery is stunning and has everything any beach vacationer could want to make the trip worthwhile. It could easily become your new favorite Mexican getaway.

Here are 6 reasons why you should visit this lesser known beach destination:

More Direct Flights From The U.S.

Airlines have taken notice of how awesome Itxtapa-Zihuatenejo is for beachgoers. We’ll just call it Ixtapa, as this is more common.

It was just announced that Alaska Airlines is launching new flights this winter from 2 major U.S. cities, adding to their impressive portfolio for our southern neighbors.

San Diego and Chicago are the lucky winners for this awesome beach escape, even though San Diego is an awesome beach destination too.

Just in time for Christmas, the new service will begin flying to Ixtapa on December 23 from both cities. Although, this will be Alaska’s first international flight out of Chicago.

Sale prices currently start in the low $400’s from San Diego and the mid-$700’s from Chicago.

Other airlines flying direct from the U.S. and Canada to Ixtapa:

  • United
  • American
  • WestJet
  • Sunwing
  • Sun Country (seasonal)
  • Volaris (seasonal)

Underrated Beaches

la ropa beach in ixtapa mexico

Ixtapa may not be as well known, but it holds its own against the mega-popular beach destinations.

Playa Linda is one of the commonly visited beaches here, and with good reason. There is a fun bike and skating path parallel to the beach, making for a great family hangout.

Others may prefer to go a little more off-path to Isla Ixtapa, an idyllic island within sight from the shore. And just a $4 boat ride.

Here, pristine soft-sand beaches are easy to reach and the perfect place to lounge for a worry-free beach day.

Fewer Crowds Than Other Popular Beach Destinations

isolated beach in ixtapa

Cancun and Los Cabos are amazing places to visit, but some elbow room would be nice, would it not? Here in Ixtapa, the beaches are lovely, open and awaiting more travelers to enjoy.

Now that summer is basically over for most, this may be the perfect time to plan your trip. Summer is synonymous with beach getaways, so planning your fall or winter getaway will be your best bet.

Located in the state of Guerrero, Acapulco may be the most familiar name, but Ixtapa is ready to embrace more vacationers.

Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts

As Los Cabos continues to charge sky-high prices for their luxe resorts, Ixtapa is ballin’ on a budget.

beach resort in ixtapa

But travelers won’t be cheated with low-quality digs. There are some legitimate nice places to stay with all-inclusive packages.

The region is lined with waterfront resorts spread across the coastline between both cities with familiar luxury brands, such as Barcelo.

Even Holiday Inn has a 4-star all-inclusive stay right on the gorgeous La Cucaracha Beach. And no, you will not find pesky cucarachas to ruin your stay.

What you will find is a beautiful beach with crystal blue waters. Nightly resort rates are often found in the $100s or even lower for multiple beachfront resorts.

A Plethora Of Water Excursions

scuba diver in pool of fish

If you’re the type that can’t sit still and needs to be on the move, Ixtapa has what you need. Some of the best ways to experience Ixtapa are tours in and on beautiful blue waters.

Whether you go to Isla Ixtapa or not, there are some awesome spots for snorkeling and other activities: kayaking, surfing, fishing and more.

You can even take a horse on the beach for a casual stroll, taking in all the stunning scenery. One of the top-rated attractions is hopping aboard a sailboat for one of Ixtapa’s magical sunsets.

And hey, if you’re into diving, you may be fortunate enough to find God. No no, not a case of religious awakening. Literally, find God.

Paseo del Pescador

colorful zihuatenejo sign

You can’t visit this region of Mexico without taking a stroll through the Paseo del Pescador, a bayside promenade in Zihuatenejo.

If you time it right, this is one of the most tranquil spots between both cities, with stunning scenery at every turn, from the lush green hills to the sounds of crashing waves.

Surrounding this walkway are plentiful shopping areas and restaurants serving some of the finest local mouth-watering seafood imaginable.

Credit: Source link