One of Ixtapa's first hotels, the Dorado Pacifico maintains a modern edge with a sunlit, 11-story atrium and endless meters and feet of marble tile.

A private hilltop entrance leads into a stone courtyard with dramatic fountain, where porters escort new arrivals to the open-air reception area. Bright colors, high ceilings, and keyhole views of the Pacific Ocean highlight hotel's striking architecture. Las Brisas Ixtapa is a particular favorite of honeymooners for its romantic setting and rooms with private terraces, all with ocean views.

• Set on El Palmar beach, this hotel is 6 km (4 miles) from the village of Zihuatanejo and includes meals and drinks in the room rate.
• Air-conditioned guestrooms offer balconies or patios with either partial ocean or garden views; all have traditional Mexican decor.
• In addition to a large pool with a swim-up bar, the hotel offers three tennis courts, a childrens club, and massage services.

A modern atrium lobby features cascading waterfalls and an escalator leading from reception down to the lobby bar and pool level. With dozens of activities and two clubs for children, the Melia Azul caters to families. It also caters to business travelers with a convention center totaling nearly 7,000 square meters (75,000 square feet) and accommodating up to 2450 guests.

Popular with families during school holidays and winter months, the NH Krystal Ixtapa Resort also appeals to couples with its casual, open-air ambience, and beachwalking opportunities.

Serpentine paths wind through the serene garden grounds of the resort. Palm, bamboo, bougainvillea, hibiscus, and other tropical plants grow in abundance, and a narrow brook meanders through the gardens. The resort's atmosphere is tranquil, with the guests--mostly couples--lounging by the pool, strolling along the beach, or enjoying leisurely meals on the veranda.