PICTURE A RESORT SO SERENE THAT AS YOU APPROACH ITS PALAPAS-CROWNED LOBBY ALL THAT CAN BE HEARD ARE TWEETS FROM A BIRD YOU CAN’T IDENTIFY. AS YOU WALK THROUGH THE PROPERTY, PASSING PONDS, SWAYING PALMS AND GIANT WHITE BUTTERFLIES, YOU ARRIVE AT A PRISTINE BEACH WITH A TURQUOISE SHORELINE THAT RIPPLES ACROSS SOFT WHITE SAND.

Zihuatenejo

The city’s landscape is lush, displaying varying hues of green on the hills that roll across town. There’s a strong tropical vibe with coconut trees that wave against the skyline. And the climate year-round is balmy with occasional salty sea breezes that brush against the foliage.

Playa la Ropa, perhaps the best-known beach in Zihua, is flanked with open-air restaurants, residential condo units and the luxurious Thompson Zihuatenejo Beach Resort. The property features 56 seaside rooms and suites, many with ocean views, plunge pools and stylish midcentury furnishings. The decor features artifacts created by local artisans, Oaxacan clay light fixtures, Mexican artwork and a spacious layout. The pet friendly hotel features a beautiful pool, fitness center, tennis courts, a full-service spa and two restaurants, both under the direction of Executive Chef Javier Garcia Cerrillo who has worked across the globe.

Dining

Hao, located on the sand with a spectacular ocean view, features casual dining. Accommodating staff greet guests and are ready to serve up traditional as well as contemporary Mexican dishes using locally sourced ingredients. The breakfast menu offers a range of tropical fruit bowls, Red Velvet Pancakes, Avocado-baked Eggs, and a variety of omelets. Lunch consists of the Crudo of the Day, Vegan Roll, Sustainable Salmon Trout Bowl and Shrimp Empanadas. Dinner features Garlic Mojo Shrimp, Grilled Cheese Rib-eye Tacos and local Spiny Lobster. Hotel guests who wish to laze at the pool or along the seashore can order food and drinks from Hao, and the order will be delivered — so there’s no need to get off that relaxing lounger.

Ceniza, a more upscale dining experience also located beachfront, opens nightly at 6:30 p.m. Here, the attentive staff recommends fresh dishes like Scallop & Spiny Lobster Empanadas, Local Bonita Tartare, Grilled Local Oysters, Bone-Marrow Charred Octopus. Desserts, like the Woodfire-baked Plantain, Cacao Tamale and Lemongrass Crème are not to be missed. Ceniza, which sits under a palm- thatched palapa, provides a tranquil ambiance as guests enjoy watching the ocean, just a few feet away.

A highlight in addition to the on-site delicious restaurants allows food enthusiasts to schedule a private cooking class with Chef Javier as he demonstrates how he creates his delectable dishes using the herbs and vegetables grown on the property. He can also take guests on a tour of the local village markets where he teaches about the selection of fresh seafood at the Paseo del Pescador.

Touring

While there is plenty to do on property, such as paddleboarding, surfing, walking along the concierge can also arrange an expedition of the surrounding areas, including Ixtapa. This can be enjoyed on a private boat or sailing cruise on the bay, or as a guided city tour by car. By touring the villages, travelers can grasp the local culture, learn historical features and traditions about the area and, of course, shop. Make sure the outing includes a visit to Playa Linda to check out the estuary that is home to various iguanas and crocodiles for a unique viewing opportunity.

With all it has to offer, Zihua is a remarkable getaway that can capture the heart of any visitor. It’s no wonder vacationers return year after year to bask in this small town’s charm.

More Mexico Travel