Ixtapa

Travel Guide

A beach with a canopy structure, lanterns, and people enjoying the sunset.
A marina with numerous boats docked, a lighthouse, and a sunset in the background.
A beach with sailboats, palm trees, and buildings in the background.
A marina with yachts docked, palm trees, and a lighthouse.
A sunset over a beach with waves and distant rocky islands.

Experience golf, family entertainment, stunning beaches, and engaging outdoor pursuits in the captivating region surrounding Ixtapa.

Ixtapa is an ideal destination for outdoor, family travelers. You can enjoy various activities, including golf at Campo de Golf Ixtapa and the nearby Vista Vallarta Club de Golf. For family fun, nearby attractions like VidantaWorld and Splash Water Park Vallarta offer entertainment for all ages. Nature enthusiasts can take a trip to the Marietas Islands, an archipelago known for its stunning beaches and opportunities for city tourism.

While you're in Ixtapa, visit some of its nearby areas. Puerto Vallarta is known for its family-friendly outdoor experiences, featuring landmarks like the Malecon esplanade and beaches such as Playa de los Muertos and Playa Palmares. Las Jarretaderas offers outdoor and sports experiences, perfect for those looking to engage in physical activities. Another nearby area, Nuevo Nayarit, is recognized for its beach experiences and includes attractions like Vallarta Adventures and Nuevo Vallarta Beach.

The best time to visit Ixtapa is influenced more by rainfall than temperature, as the weather remains warm and fairly constant throughout the year. The rainy season occurs from July to September, when rainfall is heavier. Demand for accommodations and activities stays steady, with a slight lull in August and from October to November, providing a quieter experience during those months.

Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico - Adults Only - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico - Adults Only - All Inclusive

4.5 out of 5
Av de los Cocoteros - Lote 2 Nuevo Nayarit NAY
Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Nuevo Vallarta Beach ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (4,744 reviews)
"All ameniities etc"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

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Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico - Adults Only - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Vallarta - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Vallarta - All Inclusive

3.5 out of 5
Av. de los Cocoteros s/n Nuevo Nayarit NAY
Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. Popular attractions Nuevo Vallarta Beach and ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (4,038 reviews)
"The property was clean and generally well maintained. However, the pool water was rather warm and not particularly refreshing, especially given the hot weather. The food was average, with room for improvement, and the evening entertainment was somewhat underwhelming. The restaurant staff appeared ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

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Hotel Riu Vallarta - All Inclusive
Delta Hotels by Marriott Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort

Delta Hotels by Marriott Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort

4 out of 5
Carr. La Cruz a Punta Mita km 0.2 La Cruz de Huanacaxtle NAY
$241 nightly
The price is $291 total per night from Dec 11 to Dec 12
$291 total
Dec 11 - Dec 12
Total with taxes and fees
Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 10 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Playa Bucerías and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,416 reviews)
"Great family experience kids enjoyed all the amenities"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Delta Hotels by Marriott Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort
See all 11,053 properties in Ixtapa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hotel Tropicana - Near Olas Altas Street

Hotel Tropicana - Near Olas Altas Street

3 out of 5
Puerto Vallarta
Stay at this aparthotel in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
8/10 Very Good! (3,324 reviews)
"Excelente Hotel Servicio de primera clase"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Hotel Tropicana - Near Olas Altas Street
ITARE BEACH HOUSE

ITARE BEACH HOUSE

3.5 out of 5
500 Playa Los Picos Flamingos Bucerías Nay.
Stay at this aparthotel in Bucerías. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and rainfall showerheads. Popular attractions Nuevo Vallarta Beach and Playa Bucerías ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (102 reviews)
"The Itare Beach House is a beautiful hotel. We spend 5 nights here and enjoyed everything about it. The rooms are beautifully decorated and an amazing view from the huge deck . The location is an easy walk from town and restaurants. The staff are friendly and helpful with any questions you may have. ..."

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2026

ITARE BEACH HOUSE
Hotel Eloisa - Near Playa de los Muertos

Hotel Eloisa - Near Playa de los Muertos

3 out of 5
Puerto Vallarta
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, a rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the pool and the ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,664 reviews)
"Pros- very clean- the staff does an incredible job Pools are lovely Close to everything Cons- can be a bit noisy during festivals or when families take over the pool ( only occurred twice in 2 weeks) No views except from the roof or if you have a room facing the square. Standard rooms only have an ..."

Reviewed on Nov 10, 2026

Hotel Eloisa - Near Playa de los Muertos
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Ixtapa attractions

Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe

9.2/10 (20 reviews)
Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe is just one of the places to see in Ixtapa, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area.
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Things to do

Puerto Vallarta City Highlights, Tequila and Coffee Factory

Puerto Vallarta City Highlights, Tequila and Coffee Factory

$19
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Puerto Vallarta City Highlights, Tequila and Coffee Factory
Rhythms of the Night - Sunset Cruise, Dinner & Performance at Las Caletas

Rhythms of the Night - Sunset Cruise, Dinner & Performance at Las Caletas

$129
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Rhythms of the Night - Sunset Cruise, Dinner & Performance at Las Caletas
Bioluminescence & sunset local boat tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary

Bioluminescence & sunset local boat tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary

$59
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Bioluminescence & sunset local boat tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary
Puerto Vallarta: Coastal Hiking along Magical Beaches

Puerto Vallarta: Coastal Hiking along Magical Beaches

$35
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Puerto Vallarta: Coastal Hiking along Magical Beaches
Puerto Vallarta: Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel

Full-Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkeling

$37
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Full-Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkeling
Jorullo Bridge RZR Tour

RZR Tour in Puerto Vallarta + Jorullo Bridge

$340
per traveler
92% of travellers recommend
RZR Tour in Puerto Vallarta + Jorullo Bridge
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Frequently asked questions

Is Ixtapa worth visiting?
Ixtapa is worth visiting for its delicious Latin American and seafood dining, where travelers can enjoy fresh catches. Travelers can also explore standout attractions like the Paradise Adventure Park / Canopy Indio for adventure, and the historic Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
When is the best time to visit Ixtapa?
The best time to visit Ixtapa is from November through March, when the climate is typically most pleasant for travelers. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of June through August are a good option, offering a warmer experience during what is considered the destination's warmer season.
What is Ixtapa known for?
Ixtapa is known for its outdoor adventures at Paradise Adventure Park / Canopy Indio. Travelers can also explore the historic Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe and enjoy golf at Campo de Golf Ixtapa. The city also offers a rich Latin American food culture for travelers to experience.
What is a good itinerary length for Ixtapa?
A good itinerary length for Ixtapa is two to three days to enjoy local highlights like Paradise Adventure Park / Canopy Indio and Campo de Golf Ixtapa. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also take a Private Mexican Cooking Class, or explore nearby Puerto Vallarta with a city tour and visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. See Ixtapa Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Ixtapa?
Ixtapa offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and leisure activities for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Ixtapa?
To plan your trip to Ixtapa, search for places to stay on Expedia and book flights in advance. Consider activities like a Private Mexican Cooking Class or visiting Paradise Adventure Park. Plan outdoor activities, such as golfing at Campo de Golf Ixtapa, for early morning or late afternoon. A rental car can help you explore.
What cuisines can you find in Ixtapa?
In Ixtapa you can find Mexican cuisine, featuring popular dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and fresh guacamole. Travelers can also enjoy a wide array of seafood, along with Italian pasta dishes, Mediterranean flavors, and Japanese specialties. For a casual experience, look for places offering local beers.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Ixtapa?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Ixtapa by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Ixtapa with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Ixtapa trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Ixtapa?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Ixtapa can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Ixtapa trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Ixtapa trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Ixtapa trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Ixtapa trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Ixtapa?
If it's your first trip to Ixtapa, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Ixtapa hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Ixtapa hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Ixtapa

A coastal city with a prominent bridge connecting two land masses, a beach with umbrellas, and several boats in the water.

Puerto Vallarta

A coastal cityscape with a wide beach, a marina, and a backdrop of mountains.

Mezcales

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