Ixtapa Uncovered

Whether you’re in Ixtapa for a family beach holiday or relaxation with a friend, lowcostholidays.com’s insider tips will keep you in the know.

When is the best time to go:

Ixtapa is hot and humid year-round. The rainy season is May to October, but as with most monsoon areas, rains tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off. September brings the highest levels of humidity and sees the heaviest of the rains.

Spectacular days out:

Take the family to swim with dolphins, this is not to be missed on your holidays to Ixtapa. Dolphins are very friendly and expressive creatures that show their feelings with body language, gestures and sounds. Feel how much these friendly dolphins love your company, swim with them, discover their skills and gain an appreciation for their intelligence.

How’s the shopping:

Shopping in Ixtapa is generally limited to kitsch tourist items; although there are some shopping areas that offer good clothes, arts and crafts.

There is a traditional Mexican Flea Market which is worth checking out – the Mercado de Artesanía Turístico.

The Catcha L´Ola Surf Shop is a serious surfers shop operated by a local surfer legend Ixtapa P. Yañez. Boards sold and rented, board repairs, wax, equipment rentals, wet suits, lessons and organized to the best surf in the area. Located in the Ixtapa shopping centre.

Siboney is a boutique selling high quality beachwear and beach accessories for women and men. Specializing in bathing suits, sarongs, shirts, t-shirts, hats, shorts, sunglasses, and sandals.

Where can I get a burger:

There are plenty of restaurants to choose from on your holidays to Ixtapa, catering for all tastes from local Mexican food to international food.

If you’re wanting a burger, head to Ruben´s, it’s a world famous family restaurant, serving amazing burgers and more.

Beccofino’s is an excellent Italian restaurant, with seafood specialities, a trendy American bar and teak wood deck, creating a unique Mediterranean atmosphere.

There is a Domino's Pizza who even delivers and their pizzas are excellent.

Get in with the locals...

Here’s some information for when you’re on your Ixtapa holidays;

Can I drink the water?

The tap water in Ixtapa isn’t safe to drink, so to prevent any illness always drink bottled water.

What’s the 999 number?

If there is an emergency, call 060 or 080.

Shall I pack the sun cream/anorak?

Ixtapa can get very hot, especially in the summer; you should make sure you pack and wear lots of high factor sun creams and sun block for children. Don’t forget to bring a hat to protect your children’s heads too.

Shall I learn the lingo?

A few local phrases can’t hurt whilst on your holidays to Ixtapa.

How do I get around?

The easiest way to get around Ixtapa is to either hire a car or take taxis. There are plenty of taxis and your hotel should be able to call them for you. Taxis in most of Mexico's beachside towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in.

Do I need to tip?

Yes. It is usual to tip approximately 10-15% of your bill.