When to Go to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

When to Go to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Mexico's Pacific Coast is at its best in winter, with temperatures of 70°F-80°F. The off-season brings humidity, mosquitoes, and heat, but also emptier beaches, warmer water, and less-crowded streets.

Brides who want to glow but not sweat like a sumo wrestler should avoid a June wedding. The rainy season here is June to October, and the heat just before and during it can be stifling.

Surfers, on the other hand, will love the turbulent waters at this time of year. What's more, the countryside, the Sierra Madre Occidental, and the Sierra Madre del Sur turn a brilliant green. Note, though, that hurricane season runs from late September to early November.

Fishing Season

Anglers revel in the profusion of sailfish (November through March), black and blue marlin (May through January), yellowfin tuna (November through June), and mahimahi (November through January). Light-tackle fishing in the lagoons and just off the beach in pangas (skiffs) for huachinango (red snapper) is also popular.