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Ixtapa’s lodging splits into three zones: the beachfront Zona Hotelera on Playa El Palmar, the quieter Playa Linda and Playa Quieta area to the north, and the bay-side town of Zihuatanejo for a non-resort stay. Prices below are per night for a double room and swing with the season; see the best time to visit Ixtapa guide for when rates drop, and the things to do in Ixtapa guide for what’s near each zone.
Where to Stay in Ixtapa: El Palmar and the Zona Hotelera
The Zona Hotelera is the resort’s core, a walkable strip of all-inclusives and beachfront pools directly on Playa El Palmar. It’s the best choice for a first visit: everything is on foot, and the airport shuttle drops you at the door. Most properties here are all-inclusive. The Ixtapa weather by month guide shows the beach weather by month, and the Ixtapa travel guide has the destination overview.
Suggested Hotels in El Palmar
Cala de Mar Resort and Spa Ixtapa
A cliffside five-star with three restaurants, a full spa and suites with private plunge pools, perched above the southern end of El Palmar. Best for couples and honeymooners who want a luxury, non-all-inclusive stay. Check rates and availability
Holiday Inn Resort Ixtapa All-Inclusive
An IHG all-inclusive directly on the beach with an outdoor pool, spa, gym and kids’ club, plus a terrace overlooking the Pacific. Best for families who want predictable quality and all meals included. Check rates and availability
Posada Real Ixtapa
A four-star beachfront hotel 100 m from the sand with an ocean-view pool, tennis and a kids’ area, at a noticeably lower rate than its neighbors. Best for budget-minded travelers who still want a beachfront address. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Ixtapa: Playa Linda and Playa Quieta
The northern beaches are calmer and less crowded, and the lodging here tilts toward all-inclusives and condo-style units. It’s the pick for families with toddlers and for anyone who wants still water and a slower pace. The Ixtapa travel tips and FAQ guide has airport transfer costs to this end of the resort.
Suggested Hotels in Playa Linda
Las Brisas Ixtapa
A five-star with four restaurants, a private beach area and a pool, set on 15 acres of tropical grounds near Playa Linda, about 650 m from the sand. Best for couples and golfers who want a full-service resort away from the main strip. Check rates and availability
Azul Ixtapa All-Inclusive Resort
An all-inclusive at the base of a tropical hillside with three pools, a children’s water park, nightly shows and ocean views over the bay. Best for families and groups who want entertainment on site. Check rates and availability
Qualton Club Ixtapa All-Inclusive
A budget all-inclusive on Playa Linda with a restaurant, pool and beach access about 150 m from the water, at the lowest all-inclusive rates in the resort. Best for families and groups watching their budget. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Ixtapa: Zihuatanejo and Playa La Ropa
For a non-resort stay, cross the bay to Zihuatanejo. You trade the all-inclusive buffet for boutique hotels, beach clubs and real restaurants, at generally lower prices. The Ixtapa neighborhoods guide explains each district, and the events and festivals in Ixtapa guide lists the festivals that fill the town’s rooms.
Suggested Hotels in Zihuatanejo
La Villa Luz (Adults Only)
An adults-only boutique hotel near Playa La Ropa with an outdoor pool, a Mexican restaurant and rooms opening onto balconies with pool or sea views. Best for couples who want a quiet, adult-focused stay. Check rates and availability
Hotel J.B.
A three-star a 10-minute walk from Playa La Ropa with a pool, a shared outdoor kitchen with barbecue, and bright Mexican-style rooms and bungalows. Best for budget travelers and families who want self-catering options. Check rates and availability
Pie de Playa la Ropa
A simple beachfront property set about 50 m from Playa La Ropa with double, triple and quad rooms right on the sand. Best for solo travelers and couples who want the cheapest beachfront bed in Zihuatanejo. Check rates and availability
