Isla Grande, Ixtapa
19 February 2012
Sail down the afternoon seabreeze on a broad reach, navigate past the underwater pinnacle rock, and drop the hook into the warm waters of Isla Grande. A long time ago, when I first sailed Mexico on "Marlin," some lady told me "go to Ixtapa, baby, it will blow your mind." So here we are prepared to be mind-blown. A kayak to shore, a table for two under a beach umbrella, and a bit of ramble around the island, and yes, I'd say she was about right. Over my shoulder you can see the shores of Playa Lindo, where I'd go surfing a few days later with Roberto and Ivan. After I took my lumps in the head-high, perfectly glassy waves, and caught a dozen or so good rides, we drove back to Ivan's place, where his gorgeous young wife made us some shockingly tasty - and blindingly hot - chiliquiles for lunch. Then I just stared out at their view and soaked up the mellow vibe. We spoke in some Spanish and English strung together with a lot of laughing. I had such a good time with those guys.