Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the western part of the state of Guerrero. It is situated within the municipality of Zihuatanejo de Azueta, approximately 240 km northwest of Acapulco, and belongs to a coastal region known as the Costa Grande.
The area functions as a combined tourist destination consisting of the modern resort of Ixtapa and the traditional town of Zihuatanejo, which is located 5 km away. While Ixtapa serves as a contemporary resort, Zihuatanejo maintains a traditional atmosphere and is situated on a well-protected bay popular with private boat owners during the winter months.
In 2023, Zihuatanejo was designated a Pueblo Mágico by the Mexican government in recognition of its cultural and historical significance. Historically, 18th-century English mariners referred to the area as Chequetan or Seguataneo.