5 Best Hotels in Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Local architect Enrique Zozaya has created an unlikely rustic-luxury property with this six-suite boutique hotel nestled almost undetectably into the hills above Bahía Zihuatanejo. It's as if Gilligan won the lottery—which you may need to do to stay here for any length of time. An open-air palapa suite is surrounded by six air-conditioned units, all exquisitely appointed with furnishings and decorations of elemental stone, ceramic, and wood. Four of the rooms have their own private infinity pools, and there's also a small central pool for common use. The emphasis on tranquillity prohibits intrusive technology: there aren't any TVs, radios, or sound systems.

There's a B-movie quality to this old hotel, constructed in an angular 1960s style and now surrounded by tall trees and thick vegetation; it was last renovated and expanded in 2011 and 2012. Guest quarters are plain but well maintained and priced according to the quality of the ocean view. The cheapest, boxlike rooms on the first floor have no view; the spacious ones on the top floor scan the entire bay from hammock-equipped terraces. Furnishings are nothing special; bathrooms are tiled in blue and green; and the quality of mattresses varies from room to room—give 'em a bounce before you decide. The crashing waves below may lure you down more than 200 stairs to beach level, where there are lounge chairs, a pool, and a bar.

This is almost as enchanting as any of Zihua's luxury hotels—and at a price that won't haunt you when you get home. Rooms and services aren't extravagant, but there are many nice touches, from the lobby's unique wood-inlay floor to the staircases that wander the lush cliff-side grounds. Rooms have Talavera ceramic sinks in wooden surrounds, carved doors and furnishings from Michoacán, molded plastic bathtubs, and large balconies with hammocks, jetted tubs, and fabulous bay views, especially from the higher floors. Situated right on La Madera beach, Bistro del Mar offers simple, delicious Mediterranean food, a wonderful view, and a welcome breeze.

This intimate property above La Ropa beach has some terrific bay views from its infinity-edge pool. An all-white motif is brightened by colorful throw pillows and terra-cotta accents, as well as a few whimsical touches. All rooms have terraces with ocean views and heated plunge pools. The Grand Suite has an open-air living room with even more expansive views of the water and the countryside.

Though the namesake owner of this small, sharp hideaway overlooking Playa Madera passed away in 2005, the family has stayed true to the founder's high standards. Rooms have pristine white walls, tile floors, and balconies. The little suites still have wonderful sitting areas, bedrooms, mini-patios, and small dining areas (toasters, blenders, and coffeemakers available upon request).