Explore our Acapulco Travel Guide for the best insights on where to stay, top attractions, activities, and local cuisine in this vibrant Mexican beach destination. Discover essential travel tips to make your Acapulco vacation safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Acapulco, a renowned beach resort city on the Pacific coast of Mexico, depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and local events. Here's a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:
Dry Season (November to April):
Weather: This period is characterized by warm, dry weather, with average temperatures ranging from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F).
Crowds: Peak tourist season, especially from December to April. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Why Visit: Ideal for beach activities, water sports, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. This is also the best time for whale watching.
Wet Season (May to October):
Weather: The wet season brings hotter temperatures and higher humidity, with occasional rain showers, mainly in the afternoon or evening. Temperatures often exceed 33°C (91°F).
Crowds: Fewer tourists, resulting in lower prices and less crowded beaches.
Why Visit: Good for those seeking a quieter experience and don't mind the heat or the occasional rain. The landscape is lush and green during this time.
Special Events:
Acapulco International Film Festival: Held in November, it's a great time for movie enthusiasts.
Semana Santa (Holy Week): A busy period with many local festivities, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Considerations:
Hurricane Season: Officially runs from June to November, with the highest risk from August to October. It's less likely to affect Acapulco directly, but it's still something to consider.
Heat and Humidity: If you're sensitive to high temperatures and humidity, avoid the wet season.
Getting to Acapulco and Getting Around Acapulco
Getting to Acapulco:
By Air:
Acapulco International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional General Juan N. Álvarez): The primary gateway for international and domestic flights.
The airport is well-connected with major cities in Mexico and has direct flights from the U.S. and Canada.
By Bus:
Long-distance buses connect Acapulco with Mexico City and other major cities in Mexico.
The bus journey from Mexico City takes approximately 4-5 hours.
By Car:
Driving to Acapulco is a popular option for travelers coming from Mexico City and nearby regions.
The journey offers scenic views but be aware of road conditions and safety.
Getting Around Acapulco:
Rental Cars:
Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Acapulco and the surrounding areas at your own pace.
It's particularly useful for visiting beaches and attractions outside the main bay area.
Taxis:
Taxis are abundant and an efficient way to get around the city.
Opt for official taxis or ones arranged by your hotel for safety.
Public Buses:
Local buses are an affordable option for getting around Acapulco.
They cover most areas of the city, but understanding the routes can be challenging for non-Spanish speakers.
Collectivos:
These are shared minivans or small buses that run along fixed routes.
They are very economical and a common way for locals to travel short distances within the city.
Walking:
For areas like the Costera Miguel Alemán, the main boulevard along the bay, walking can be a pleasant way to explore.
Tips for Travelers:
Language: Spanish is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). ATMs are widely available.
Safety: Stay in well-traveled areas, especially at night, and follow local advice for safety.
Heat and Humidity: Acapulco can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Acapulco is well-equipped to cater to tourists, and navigating the city is relatively straightforward. Whether you choose to drive, take a taxi, or use public transportation, getting around Acapulco offers the opportunity to explore its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Acapulco
Top 15 Attractions in Acapulco
Acapulco, a vibrant city on Mexico's Pacific coast, is famous for its stunning beaches, lively atmosphere, and rich history. Here's a list of the top attractions in Acapulco:
La Quebrada Cliff Divers: Witness the world-famous cliff divers perform breathtaking dives into the Pacific Ocean from towering cliffs, a tradition since 1934.
Acapulco Bay: The heart of the city, known for its beautiful beaches like Playa Condesa and Playa Icacos, offering water sports, restaurants, and bars.
The Chapel of Peace (Capilla de la Paz): Located on a hilltop, this chapel offers stunning views of the bay and is known for its large white cross and serene environment.
Isla La Roqueta: A short boat ride from Acapulco, this island is perfect for snorkeling, hiking, and enjoying quiet beaches.
Acapulco Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico de Acapulco): Home to a vast collection of tropical plants and a peaceful retreat from the city.
Playa Pie de la Cuesta: Famous for its spectacular sunsets and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling Acapulco Bay area.
Zócalo de Acapulco: The city’s main square, surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the local life.
El Rollo Acapulco: A water park that’s great for families, featuring water slides, pools, and entertainment.
Barra Vieja Beach: Known for its seafood restaurants and the opportunity to take a scenic horseback ride along the beach.
Acapulco Historical Museum of Fort San Diego: Delve deeper into the region's history with exhibits on the fort's significance and the area's cultural development.
Mural Diego Rivera: Visit the famous mural by Diego Rivera, located at Casa de los Vientos, which showcases the artist’s unique style and pays homage to Mexican heritage.
Puerto Marques Bay: A quieter alternative to Acapulco Bay, offering beautiful beaches and water activities in a more relaxed setting.
Tres Palos Lagoon: Ideal for nature lovers, offering boat tours to see local wildlife, including birds and flora.
Papagayo Park: A large public park in the city center with recreational areas, a lake, and activities for children.
Xtasea: A thrilling adventure with the world's longest over-water zip line, spanning 1,800 meters across Puerto Marques Bay at speeds up to 120 km/h.
Top 15 Activities to do in Acapulco
Acapulco offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests, from beach lovers and adventure seekers to those interested in culture and relaxation. Here's a detailed list of top activities to do in Acapulco:
Enjoy Water Sports: Engage in various water sports available at Acapulco's beaches, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world around Acapulco, especially around Isla La Roqueta, known for its clear waters and diverse marine life.
Take a Sunset Cruise: Experience a romantic or relaxing sunset cruise around Acapulco Bay, often featuring music, dancing, and stunning views.
Experience the Nightlife: Acapulco is famous for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy the night at various clubs and bars along the Costera Miguel Alemán.
Golfing: Play golf at one of Acapulco’s scenic golf courses, which offer beautiful views and challenging layouts.
Go Deep-Sea Fishing: Take a chartered boat for deep-sea fishing, with the chance to catch marlin, sailfish, and other deep-water species.
Relax at the Spa: Visit one of Acapulco’s luxurious spas for relaxation and rejuvenation, with treatments that often incorporate traditional Mexican healing practices.
Explore Local Cuisine: Sample local Mexican cuisine, especially fresh seafood dishes, and try the traditional pozole, a rich stew.
Yacht Charter: Charter a yacht for a day to explore the coastline, relax on the water, and enjoy snorkeling or swimming in secluded areas.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the area’s natural beauty with hikes or nature walks, particularly in the hills around the city or to nearby lagoons.
Paragliding: For the adventurous, paragliding offers breathtaking views of the bay and the surrounding landscapes.
Attend Cultural Festivals: Participate in local festivals and events, which often include music, dance, and traditional celebrations.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes in a local cooking class.
Shop for Souvenirs: Visit the local markets and shops to buy traditional Mexican crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Beach Yoga and Fitness: Join a beach yoga or fitness class for a refreshing start to the day with stunning ocean views.
Best Shopping
Acapulco offers a diverse shopping experience, blending traditional Mexican crafts with modern retail. Here are some of the best shopping areas in the city:
La Isla Acapulco Shopping Village: This is a modern and upscale open-air shopping center located in the Diamante zone. It offers a range of international and national retail brands, fine dining options, and entertainment, including a movie theater. The ambience is relaxed, and it's a great place to shop for high-end clothing, accessories, and electronics.
Costera Miguel Alemán: This is the main boulevard running through Acapulco and is lined with various shops, malls, and boutiques. It's the place to go for everything from souvenirs and beachwear to jewelry and luxury goods. There are also numerous restaurants and cafes for when you need a break from shopping.
Mercado Central: For a more local and traditional experience, visit the Central Market in downtown Acapulco. Here, you can find a wide variety of Mexican handicrafts, including silver jewelry, textiles, and pottery. It's also a great place to sample local foods and spices.
Mercado de Artesanías (Craft Market): These markets are scattered throughout Acapulco and are perfect for picking up handmade souvenirs, traditional Mexican clothing, and local art. The prices are usually reasonable, and bargaining is expected.
Galerías Diana: A well-known shopping center located along the Costera Miguel Alemán. It houses a variety of shops selling clothes, shoes, and other goods, along with movie theaters and food courts.
Each of these areas offers a unique shopping experience, from upscale malls to bustling local markets, ensuring that visitors to Acapulco can find a wide range of products to suit their tastes and budgets.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Acapulco, once the playground of Hollywood's elite, maintains a vibrant and diverse entertainment and nightlife scene that caters to various tastes. Here's an overview:
Nightclubs and Bars: Acapulco's nightlife is legendary, with numerous clubs and bars offering everything from live music and DJs to spectacular ocean views. Hotspots like Palladium are famous for their lively atmosphere and late-night dancing.
Beach Parties: Many of Acapulco's beaches transform into party venues at night, with music, dancing, and beach bars creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere. Playa Condesa, in particular, is known for its vibrant beach party scene.
Live Music: For those who enjoy live music, Acapulco has several venues that host local and international artists, ranging from traditional Mexican music to contemporary genres.
Dinner and Shows: Some restaurants and venues in Acapulco offer dinner combined with live entertainment, such as Mexican cultural shows, which can include folkloric dance and music performances.
Casinos: For those interested in gambling, Acapulco offers several casinos where visitors can enjoy games of chance in a sophisticated setting.
Relaxing Lounges: For a more laid-back evening, there are numerous lounges and bars along the Costera Miguel Alemán and in the Diamante area, where you can enjoy a cocktail with stunning views of the bay.
Cultural Events and Festivals: Acapulco hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, which can include film festivals, art exhibitions, and culinary events.
Sunset Cruises: For a different kind of evening activity, consider a sunset cruise around the bay. These cruises often feature music, drinks, and sometimes dinner, offering a romantic and scenic way to experience the city.
Cinemas and Theatres: Modern cinemas showing the latest movies (often in English with Spanish subtitles) and theatres presenting plays and performances can also be part of your entertainment options.
Acapulco's entertainment and nightlife scene is as dynamic and varied as the city itself. Whether you're looking for a high-energy dance club, a cultural experience, or a relaxed evening by the ocean, Acapulco offers something for every nighttime preference.
Local Cuisine
Acapulco's local cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Mexican flavors with a strong emphasis on seafood, given its coastal location. Here are some aspects of the local food scene in Acapulco:
Seafood: As a beach resort city, Acapulco is renowned for its fresh seafood. Dishes like ceviche (fresh fish marinated in lime juice and spices), camarones al mojo de ajo (shrimp in garlic sauce), and pescado a la talla (grilled fish with a chili paste) are local favorites.
Pozole: This traditional pre-Columbian soup or stew is very popular in Acapulco. It's made from hominy corn with plenty of herbs and spices, typically served with shredded chicken or pork, and garnished with lettuce, radish, onion, lime, and chili.
Tamales and Quesadillas: You'll find various types of tamales and quesadillas, often featuring local ingredients like corn, cheese, and different kinds of meat.
Tacos and Enchiladas: Street vendors and restaurants offer an array of tacos and enchiladas, filled with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, and topped with salsas ranging from mild to very spicy.
Guacamole and Salsas: Freshly made guacamole and a variety of salsas are a staple in Acapulco, often served as an appetizer with tortilla chips.
Tropical Fruits: The region's tropical climate yields a bounty of fresh fruits like mangoes, papayas, coconuts, and pineapples, often used in desserts, juices, or simply enjoyed fresh.
Cocktails: Acapulco is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and no night out is complete without trying some local cocktails. The Margarita and the Piña Colada are particularly popular, as are drinks made with mezcal and tequila.
Beachside Dining: Many restaurants in Acapulco offer beachside dining experiences, where you can enjoy the local cuisine with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Fine Dining: In addition to traditional eateries, Acapulco also has a range of fine dining restaurants that offer gourmet dishes, often blending traditional Mexican flavors with international influences.
Acapulco's cuisine is a reflection of its coastal setting and cultural heritage, offering a rich array of flavors and dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you're enjoying seafood by the beach, tasting local street food, or indulging in a gourmet meal, the city's food scene is sure to be a highlight of your visit.
Accommodations
Choosing the right area to stay in Acapulco can significantly enhance your vacation experience. The city is divided into several zones, each offering a unique vibe and set of attractions. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
Acapulco Diamante:
The most modern and upscale area of Acapulco.
Known for its luxurious resorts, high-end condominiums, and exclusive beaches.
Ideal for travelers looking for luxury, tranquility, and upscale amenities.
Acapulco Dorado (Golden Zone):
The traditional heart of Acapulco tourism, located around the Costera Miguel Alemán.
Home to many popular beaches, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops.
Perfect for those who want to be in the center of the action and close to many of Acapulco’s famous attractions.
Acapulco Tradicional (Old Acapulco):
The oldest part of the city, stretching from the central Zócalo to the Peninsula de las Playas.
Offers a more authentic Mexican experience with historical landmarks, traditional markets, and local eateries.
Suitable for travelers interested in history and culture, and those on a budget.
Pie de la Cuesta:
A quieter area located northwest of the main bay.
Known for its spectacular sunsets and laid-back atmosphere.
Ideal for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Puerto Marqués:
A scenic bay with calm waters, located northeast of Acapulco Diamante.
Offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to more modest hotels.
Great for water sports, relaxation, and families.
Each area caters to different preferences, whether you're looking for luxury, nightlife, cultural experiences, or tranquility. Consider what type of vacation you're seeking when choosing where to stay in Acapulco.
Travel Tips
Traveling to Acapulco can be an exciting and enjoyable experience, but it's important to keep some tips in mind to ensure a safe and memorable trip:
Safety First:
Stay in well-known tourist areas, especially at night.
Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
Stay Hydrated and Sun Protected:
Acapulco's climate is typically hot and sunny. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Beach Safety:
Pay attention to beach safety flags and swim in designated areas, as some beaches can have strong currents.
Consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet from rocky areas.
Food and Water Safety:
Be cautious with street food. Eat at busy places with high turnover.
Drink bottled water and avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water.
Negotiate Taxi Fares:
Confirm the taxi fare before getting into the cab, as not all taxis have meters.
Use official taxis or transportation arranged by your hotel.
Pack Appropriately:
Bring light clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes.
Consider packing a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Plan Your Itinerary:
Acapulco has a lot to offer. Plan your itinerary to balance relaxation with activities.
