Zihuatanejo's name is derived from the Nahuatl dialect. It means "Place of Women," and is derived from Calzonzin, the ancient Taraskan King who would bring his many wives here for some relaxation and recreation.
In the 17th Century, Chinese ships carrying Oriental treasures would stop here on their way to New Spain, only to find they were unwelcome visitors, as pirates robbed them of their riches. Of course, visitors now are more than welcome to explore Zihuatanejo's small village charm and rustic setting.
For those seeking an all-inclusive tourist experience, Ixtapa is the place for you. In the 1970?s, Mexico's Federal Government sought a tourist-friendly site and found everything they needed just north of Zihuatanejo. White sand beaches and white rocky islands made for a pristine vista. They again chose a word from the Nahauatl dialect, naming their new nirvana Ixtapa, or "the white place."
Having two cities so close together geographically yet so different in character is advantageous for the traveler looking for a little of everything. Take a nature hike along Zihuatanejo's coastline and see parts of Mexico unchanged since pre-colonial times. Visit a mango or coconut plantation, or observe the tranquility of local fishing villages. Then, when you're tired of roughing it, allow yourself to be treated to every amenity you can fathom in Ixtapa. Play a round of golf at one of two world-class golf courses, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas afforded here.
Shopping and dining options are plentiful in both towns. But once you get here, you'll know that the main attraction of Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa is the beautiful white-sand beaches. From Zihuatanejo's Playa La Ropa to Ixtapa's Playa Palmar, relaxation is the key word here. Let your cares fade away with the setting sun, and enjoy.