i'm the official planner for a last-minute trip for my entire family - 23 of us, age 2 -76. we have two comparable packages at Presidente Intercontinental in Ixtapa and Riu Emerald in Mazatlan. we've decided that AI is the best option for our large group (although most of us do not usual travel that way).

Any great thoughts, opinions, suggestions? none of us has been to either town.

Thanks in advance!!

I've been to Ixtapa and stayed at an AI. THere is really very little to do in Ixtapa once you leave the resort. However, you can catch the bus to Zihuatanejo. I have not been to Mazatlan. I'm sure Stewbear and Suzi will be able to give you more info.

Weather wise Zihua/Ixtapa is a much surer bet for warn sunny weather all Winter. Mazatlan can be very cool (Cold?) in mid Winter. It might be fine but normally at least 10 to 15 degrees cooler.
PS Zihua is but 4 miles away. Lots of good day trips also.

ok, just booked ixtapa!

several of the travelers in the group (myself included) are very interested in self-led day trips. we love to explore on our own. what are your faves?

Troncones with miles & miles of beach is a good day trip. It requiers either a $30 US (or so) cab ride or you must take the La Union bus asking to be let off at the Troncones exit. Then a short Cambi ride into town which you catch at a small Tienda at the highway. There is a bench to rest on for your very short wait. Highly recommend Mi Casa Su Casa a most lovely resort to hang at where for a delicious but inexpensive lunch you can use all their facilities including beach lounges & the pool. It's a surfers beach & not for any but the strongest of swimmers.
Barra de Potosi is a much more swimable beach about 9 miles long & mostly empty. Barra is a real dirt road village with several good beach cafés. Be sure to visit the Children's Library & if possible make a donation. Again a bus ride plus a ride in the back of a truck with seats or a $20 cab each way.
My favorite day (non beach) is a trip to Petatlan with one of Mexico's few gold markets. Dozens of stalls & shops selling Gold & silver items either pre made or to your design. Also a unique all white church with Jesus Negro said to preform miracles. All set on/near a lovely plaza which has a couple of good cafés for lunch or just to sipping coffee & watching the traffic.
Regular stores here run about 30% less then Zihua & at least 50% less than Ixtapa. I love this little city & have walked virtually every street of this friendly safe village.
Zihua is considered the second best deep sea port on Mexico's West coast. Also sails & snorkel/scuba trips are popular. All the normal beach stuff is available on Playa de Palmer in Ixtapa.
A visit to the "Crocadillo Preserve" in Ixtapa is a must as is (IMO) a long hike on gorgeous Playa Linda there.

OOPs! That's Deep sea sport Fishing