Acapulco, Mexico Travel Guide

Acapulco offers stunning beaches, thrilling cliff diving, and vibrant nightlife, making it a must-visit destination on Mexico's Pacific coast.

Acapulco, nestled on Mexico's Pacific coast, is a city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. Once a playground for Hollywood stars, Acapulco continues to enchant visitors with its natural beauty and cultural treasures. The city's wide bay is surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking views that captivate tourists from around the world. The beaches are the heart of Acapulco, with popular spots like Playa Condesa and Playa Icacos offering golden sands and warm waters. For those seeking adventure, La Quebrada cliff divers provide a thrilling spectacle as they leap from towering cliffs into the ocean below. History enthusiasts can explore the Fort of San Diego, a 17th-century fortress that now houses a fascinating museum on the region's past. Acapulco's nightlife is legendary, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the Costera Miguel Alemán. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance, and savor delicious local cuisine. The city's markets, like Mercado Central, offer a glimpse into everyday life and a chance to purchase unique handicrafts. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere, Acapulco is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Acapulco.

Visit La Quebrada in the early evening to catch the most spectacular cliff diving shows.
Stay in the Zona Dorada for easy access to the best beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.
Use local buses or shared taxis to get around the city; they're affordable and convenient.
Try the local seafood dishes, especially ceviche and pescado a la talla, at beachside restaurants.
Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be intense, especially during midday.
Visit the Fort of San Diego on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.

Neighbourhoods in Acapulco

Acapulco Dorado

Acapulco Diamante

Acapulco Tradicional

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Acapulco

Explore Acapulco: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Acapulco

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Plaza Álvarez

Experience the vibrant culture and community spirit at Plaza Álvarez, Acapulco's charming city park and tourist attraction.

4.3

Playa Puerto Marqués

Experience the beauty of Playa Puerto Marqués, Acapulco's serene beach paradise, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst tropical scenery.

4.3

La Quebrada

Experience the exhilarating cliff diving at La Quebrada, an iconic attraction in Acapulco, where adventure meets breathtaking views.

4.6

Diana the Huntress

Explore the iconic Diana the Huntress monument in Acapulco, a stunning sculpture symbolizing beauty, strength, and the vibrant culture of Mexico.

4.5

Best landmarks in Acapulco

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Plaza Álvarez

Discover the vibrant heart of Acapulco at Plaza Álvarez, a city park filled with lush greenery, local culture, and stunning views.

4.3

Hotel Princess Mundo Imperial

Experience luxury at Hotel Princess Mundo Imperial, a premier resort in Acapulco with golf, spa, and breathtaking ocean views.

4.6

Playa Puerto Marqués

Discover the beauty and vibrancy of Playa Puerto Marqués, a top beach destination in Acapulco with stunning sunsets and exciting water activities.

4.3

La Quebrada

Experience the thrilling cliff diving at La Quebrada, Acapulco's iconic tourist attraction offering breathtaking views and unforgettable performances.

4.6

Best restaurants in Acapulco

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Los Buzos

Experience the freshest seafood at Los Buzos in Acapulco - a culinary gem offering delightful flavors and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Paititi del Mar

Discover fresh seafood delights at Paititi del Mar in Acapulco - where every meal is a celebration of coastal flavors.

4.7

Taquitos Acapulco

Experience the authentic taste of Mexico at Taquitos Acapulco - where every taco tells a story.

4.0

Buzos Costera - Restaurante de Mariscos en Acapulco

Discover Buzos Costera: A delightful seafood restaurant offering fresh flavors and breathtaking views in Acapulco's coastal paradise.

4.3

Best bars in Acapulco

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Si Señor

Si Señor in Acapulco offers an unforgettable dining experience with authentic Mexican flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Elcano Diamante Club de Playa

Savor the best of Spanish cuisine with stunning ocean views at Elcano Diamante Club de Playa in Acapulco.

4.5

Barbarroja Acapulco

Discover the vibrant flavors of Barbarroja Acapulco, where fresh grilled delights meet a lively atmosphere by the coast.

4.2

Antigua Acapulco

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Antigua Acapulco, a premier grill restaurant offering a delightful dining experience.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Acapulco

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Si Señor

Discover the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Si Señor, Acapulco’s premier grill and bar for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

Baby`O Acapulco

Dance the night away at Baby'O Acapulco, the ultimate disco club in Mexico's renowned beach paradise, offering an electrifying nightlife experience.

4.4

Baby Lobster

Dive into the nightlife at Baby Lobster, Acapulco's premier night club and piano bar, where music and fun combine for an unforgettable experience.

3.8

Candela Discotheque

Dive into the energetic nightlife at Candela Discotheque, Acapulco's ultimate destination for dancing and entertainment.

4.1

Best shops in Acapulco

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Galerías Acapulco

Explore Galerías Acapulco: Your one-stop shopping mall for fashion, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Acapulco.

4.4

La Isla Shopping Village

Experience the vibrant shopping and dining atmosphere at La Isla Shopping Village in Acapulco, a true retail gem on Mexico's coast.

4.5

Mercado Central

Discover the heart of Acapulco at Mercado Central, where vibrant culture meets delightful flavors and unique treasures await every visitor.

3.9

Liverpool

Explore Liverpool in Acapulco, a premier department store offering diverse shopping experiences from clothing to electronics and more.

4.4

Explore Acapulco on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Acapulco, mapped for you.

Acapulco Essentials

Acapulco is served by the General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA), located about 26 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from major cities in Mexico and some international destinations. Alternatively, you can reach Acapulco by bus from Mexico City, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. Major bus companies such as Estrella de Oro and Estrella Blanca operate regular services to Acapulco. For those driving, Acapulco is accessible via the Autopista del Sol (Highway 95D) from Mexico City.
In Acapulco, taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps like Uber. Public buses offer an affordable option for getting around the city, but they can be crowded. For a more scenic experience, consider taking the retro-looking 'Calandrias,' which are horse-drawn carriages. Car rentals are available at the airport and in the city, but driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic and local driving habits.
The official currency in Acapulco is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful, especially in tourist areas, but be cautious of skimming devices. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and in various locations throughout the city.
While Acapulco is generally safe for tourists, certain areas have higher crime rates, particularly those targeting tourists. Avoid neighborhoods like Coloso and Renacimiento, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, busy areas and avoid walking alone after dark. Use authorized taxis or rideshare services rather than hailing cabs on the street. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Major hospitals in Acapulco include the Hospital del Pacífico and Clínica Sanatorio Santa Lucia, which offer emergency services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widespread and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress casually but modestly; swimwear is appropriate at the beach but not in town. Religion: Do respect religious customs, particularly when visiting churches; cover your head and shoulders if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'hola.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like pozole and ceviche. Don't refuse food or drink offerings from locals, as it can be seen as impolite.
To experience Acapulco like a local, visit the Mercado Central for fresh produce and local crafts. Enjoy a meal at a 'fondita,' a small, family-run restaurant serving traditional Mexican food. Take a stroll along the Costera Miguel Alemán for beautiful ocean views. Don't miss the famous cliff divers at La Quebrada, a must-see spectacle. For a unique experience, visit the local 'tianguis' markets, where you can find everything from clothes to street food.

When is the best time to visit Acapulco?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Acapulco

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Acapulco. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh/ah]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh o-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una en punto
  [ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
- Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [seys]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-booce)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of Acapulco

Long before the arrival of Europeans, Acapulco was inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Nahuas. These early settlers established fishing villages and small communities along the coast, taking advantage of the rich marine resources and fertile land.
In 1521, Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in Acapulco, recognizing its strategic importance as a port. By 1531, the Spanish had formally established the city, using it as a key point for maritime trade and communication between Asia and the Americas.
From 1565 to 1815, Acapulco became a bustling hub for the Manila Galleon trade route, connecting the Philippines and Mexico. Ships laden with silk, spices, porcelain, and other goods from Asia would arrive in Acapulco, which then served as a distribution point for these treasures throughout New Spain.
The lucrative galleon trade made Acapulco a target for pirates and privateers. To protect the city and its valuable cargo, the Spanish constructed Fort San Diego in 1616. This fortress played a crucial defensive role and remains a historical landmark today.
Acapulco was a significant site during the Mexican War of Independence (1810-1821). The city was captured by insurgent forces led by José María Morelos in 1813, marking a pivotal moment in the struggle against Spanish rule.
In the mid-20th century, Acapulco transformed into a glamorous destination for Hollywood stars, international celebrities, and affluent tourists. The construction of luxury hotels, resorts, and the iconic Acapulco International Airport in 1945 cemented its status as a premier vacation hotspot.
Today, Acapulco is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical heritage with modern attractions. The city offers a mix of cultural experiences, from visiting historic sites like Fort San Diego and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Solitude to enjoying its stunning beaches and lively nightlife.