· MX

Acapulco de Juárez

Acapulco de Juarez, Guerrero, Mexico

Acapulco: Where Sun-Kissed Shores Meet Thrilling Adventures Acapulco de Juárez, affectionately known simply as Acapulco, is more than just a beach destination; it's a legendary escape etched into the fabric of Mexico's c…

#Beach destination#Tourist hotspot#Mexican Riviera#Historic city#Resort town

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Acapulco de Juárez.

Top Hotels in Acapulco de Juárez

Top Flights to Acapulco de Juárez

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Acapulco de Juárez.

Tours

La Quebrada Cliff Divers

Witness the breathtaking cliff diving show at La Quebrada where fearless divers leap from heights of up to 35 meters into the ocean.

Acapulco Botanical Gardens

Explore a wide variety of native and exotic plants at the Acapulco Botanical Gardens, located near the Universidad Loyola del Pacífico.

Fort of San Diego

Visit the Fort of San Diego, an iconic landmark showcasing the city’s colonial past and housing a historical museum.

Papagayo Park

A large park ideal for children with playgrounds, a small zoo, and boating activities on a lake.

Shopping

La Isla Shopping Village

An upscale shopping destination in Acapulco, featuring a wide variety of international and local brands, dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

Mercado El Parazal

Experience local culture at Mercado El Parazal, a bustling market selling local produce, crafts, and traditional food.

Outdoor

Scuba Diving in Acapulco Bay

Discover underwater life with a guided scuba diving tour in Acapulco Bay, suitable for both beginners and certified divers.

Snorkeling at Isla Roqueta

Enjoy snorkeling at Isla Roqueta, exploring vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes, perfect for all skill levels.

Pie de la Cuesta Beach

Relax at Pie de la Cuesta, a beautiful beach known for its stunning sunsets and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

Coyuca Lagoon Tour

Take a boat tour of Coyuca Lagoon, exploring lush mangroves, diverse wildlife, and serene surroundings.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Acapulco de Juárez.

Currency

$ | MXN | Mexican Peso

Population

673478.0

Languages

Spanish, Spanish

Average weather

Acapulco de Juárez

Jan

31°22°

Feb

31°22°

Mar

31°23°

Apr

31°23°

May

31°24°

Jun

30°24°

Jul

30°24°

Aug

31°24°

Sep

31°24°

Oct

31°24°

Nov

31°23°

Dec

31°22°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Acapulco de Juárez.

What people love

Acapulco de Juárez, commonly known as Acapulco, is a popular tourist destination in Mexico with several pros for travelers:

Beaches: Acapulco is famous for its stunning beaches with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and relaxing by the ocean.
Cliff Divers: One of the iconic attractions of Acapulco is the cliff divers at La Quebrada. These skilled divers perform daring jumps from cliffs into the ocean below, providing thrilling entertainment for spectators.
Nightlife: Acapulco offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, and delicious Mexican cuisine.
Water Activities: The destination is ideal for water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, and boat tours. The warm waters of the Pacific Ocean make it a paradise for water enthusiasts.
Historical Sites: Acapulco has a rich history, and visitors can explore historical sites such as the Fuerte de San Diego, a 17th-century fort that now houses a museum showcasing the region's past.
Shopping: The city offers a variety of shopping options, from traditional markets selling local crafts and souvenirs to modern malls with international brands.
Luxury Resorts: Acapulco boasts a range of luxury resorts and hotels that offer world-class amenities, spas, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Overall, Acapulco de Juárez is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking a mix of beach relaxation, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and lively entertainment options.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Acapulco de Juárez in Guerrero, Mexico include:

Safety concerns: Acapulco has experienced issues with crime and violence in recent years, particularly related to drug trafficking. Travelers should exercise caution, stay in well-known tourist areas, and avoid venturing out alone at night.
Beach pollution: Acapulco's beaches can sometimes suffer from pollution, leading to concerns about water quality and cleanliness. It's important to research the current state of the beaches before planning a visit.
Crowds and commercialization: Acapulco is a popular tourist destination, which means it can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. Some travelers may find the city to be overly commercialized with a focus on tourism.
Traffic and infrastructure: Acapulco's infrastructure can be outdated and congested, leading to traffic jams and delays, especially during peak travel times. Public transportation options may also be limited.
Language barrier: While many people in Acapulco may speak some English, the primary language is Spanish. Travelers who do not speak Spanish may encounter communication challenges.

It's important to note that experiences can vary, and many visitors to Acapulco have enjoyable and safe trips. However, being aware of these potential cons can help travelers make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

Acapulco de Juárez, commonly known as Acapulco, is a city located in the state of Guerrero on Mexico's Pacific coast. It holds a rich and vibrant history that dates back thousands of years.

Pre-Columbian Era

The area around Acapulco has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous peoples, including the Nahuas and the Yopes. These groups lived off the land, fishing and farming to sustain their communities.

Spanish Colonial Period

1531: Acapulco was officially founded by Spanish explorers. It quickly became an important port for the Spanish Empire due to its strategic location on the Pacific Ocean.
1565: The Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade began, linking Asia and the Americas. Acapulco became a critical node in this trade route, receiving goods from Asia to be transported across Mexico to the Atlantic and then to Europe.
Historical Figures: Don Vasco de Quiroga and Andrés de Urdaneta were instrumental in establishing and maintaining the galleon trade.

Independence and 19th Century

1821: Mexico gained independence from Spain, and Acapulco's role as a port continued to be significant for the new nation.
1854: Acapulco was the site of the Plan of Ayutla, which led to the ousting of the dictator Santa Anna and the establishment of a more democratic government.

20th Century

1940s-1950s: Acapulco became a major tourist destination, attracting Hollywood stars and international celebrities. This was due in part to the construction of the Carretera Escénica, a scenic highway that made access to the city easier.
1953: The famous Hotel Los Flamingos, owned by John Wayne and other Hollywood stars, became a symbol of Acapulco's glamour.
1955: The construction of the Acapulco International Airport further boosted its status as a tourist hotspot.

Late 20th Century to Present

1983: Acapulco was heavily damaged by Hurricane Tico, leading to significant reconstruction efforts.
1997: Another natural disaster, Hurricane Paulina, caused extensive damage and loss of life.
21st Century: Acapulco has faced challenges with crime and violence, impacting its reputation as a tourist destination. However, efforts have been made to revitalize the city and ensure safety for visitors.

Important Landmarks

La Quebrada: Famous for its cliff divers who jump from heights of up to 35 meters into the sea below.
Fort of San Diego: Built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates, it is now a museum that highlights the city's history.
La Costera: The main avenue along the bay, lined with hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Cathedral of Our Lady of Solitude: Located in the Zócalo, this cathedral is an architectural highlight of the city.

Acapulco remains an iconic destination, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical significance. Despite challenges, it continues to attract tourists from around the world, drawn by its rich history and cultural offerings.