Acapulco

Acapulco, a coastal city on Mexico's Pacific shore, has attracted visitors for decades. You can watch cliff divers at La Quebrada, sunbathe on Playa Condesa, or learn about local history at the Fort of San Diego. When evening arrives, you'll find many nightclubs and beachfront bars open until early morning.

Beaches Along Acapulco's Coast

Acapulco's coastline has beaches for different preferences. Playa Condesa, in the center of the Zona Dorada, is active with water sports. For a calmer atmosphere, visit Playa Pie de la Cuesta, where you can watch the sun set over the lagoon. Surfers often go to Playa Bonfil for its large waves, while families tend to choose the calmer waters of Playa Caleta and Caletilla.

La Quebrada's Cliff Diving Tradition

At La Quebrada, skilled divers jump from heights up to 35 meters into a narrow inlet with strong waves. This tradition has continued since the 1930s. You can watch from a public viewing platform or while eating at the nearby La Perla restaurant. Divers perform several times daily, with evening shows lit by torches.

Acapulco's Nightlife

As evening begins, Acapulco's nightlife becomes active. Many clubs, particularly in the Zona Dorada, stay open until dawn. Baby'O, which has been popular for many years, has hosted well-known celebrities and plays both Latin and international music. For a more relaxed evening, try one of the beachfront bars along Playa Condesa, where you can drink cocktails near the sea.

Fort of San Diego: A Colonial Era Landmark

The Fort of San Diego is a star-shaped fortress built in the 17th century to protect against pirates. Today, it houses the Acapulco Historical Museum. You can see exhibits about the city's role in trade with the Philippines and how it developed as a tourist destination. From the fort, you'll have wide views of the bay.

Local Flavors: Seafood and Regional Specialties

Acapulco's food is influenced by its coastal location and culture. You can eat fresh seafood at La Cabaña de Caleta, which serves local dishes like pescado a la talla (grilled fish marinated in chili). For regional flavors, go to El Cabrito de Acapulco to taste traditional meals such as pozole, a filling soup made with hominy and meat. Many mezcalerías in the city offer tastings of mezcal, a spirit that Guerrero is known for.

When to Visit Acapulco

Acapulco has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. From November to April, the weather is dry and this is when most tourists visit. If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind occasional rain, consider visiting during May-June or October-November. July to September can be hot and humid with more rainfall, but hotel rates are often lower during these months.

Getting Around Acapulco

You have several options for moving around Acapulco. The local bus system is affordable and covers most areas of interest, with routes along the main coastal road. Taxis are common, but make sure to agree on a fare before your trip. You can take a water taxi from Caleta Beach to Roqueta Island for a different perspective of the bay. In the Zona Dorada, you can walk to many points of interest along the beachfront promenade.

Safety in Acapulco

Acapulco has experienced security issues in recent years, but most tourist areas remain safe for visitors who take reasonable precautions. Stay in well-traveled areas, especially at night, and use official taxis or ride-sharing services. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuable items out of sight. Check current travel advisories before your trip and consider staying in the Zona Dorada or Diamante areas, which are generally considered more secure.