Acapulco, Mexico: Beaches, Cliff Divers & Travel Guide
Acapulco is Mexico's original Pacific beach resort, in the state of Guerrero — famous for the La Quebrada cliff divers, its sweeping bay and lively nightlife.
About Acapulco
Acapulco is Mexico's original beach resort — the glamorous “Pearl of the Pacific” of the mid-20th century — set on a dramatic bay in the state of Guerrero. It is famous for the La Quebrada cliff divers, a long sweep of beaches, and an energetic nightlife. Today it draws mostly domestic Mexican tourists. Before planning a trip, US travelers should read the safety section below carefully.
How to get to Acapulco
Acapulco International Airport (ACA) receives mostly domestic flights; direct service from the US is very limited, so most international visitors connect through Mexico City. By road, Acapulco is about 400 km (around 4 hours) from Mexico City via the Highway 95D toll road.
Best time to visit Acapulco
The dry season, November to April, has the most reliable sunshine. May to October is hot and humid, and the Pacific hurricane season runs June through November.
Top things to do in Acapulco
Watch the La Quebrada cliff divers plunge into a narrow ocean inlet, relax on beaches like Caleta, Condesa, Revolcadero and Pie de la Cuesta, visit the colonial-era Fuerte de San Diego, and take a boat to Roqueta Island. The upscale Acapulco Diamante area holds the newest hotels and beaches.
Where to stay in Acapulco
Acapulco Diamante (south of the bay) is the modern, upscale zone; the Zona Dorada along Costera Miguel Alemán is the classic hotel strip near the nightlife; and Caleta is the older, calmer traditional area.
Is Acapulco safe for tourists?
The US Department of State currently advises “Do Not Travel” (Level 4) to the state of Guerrero because of crime and kidnapping — its highest advisory level. Acapulco receives mainly domestic visitors. If you still choose to visit, weigh this carefully: most visitors fly in rather than drive, stay in the main tourist areas, and avoid traveling between cities, especially at night. Read the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory in full before planning your trip.
Nearby Destinations on the Mexican Pacific
Combine your Acapulco trip with other Pacific destinations: Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, about 3 hours north, offer quieter, upscale beaches. Puerto Escondido is famous for its world-class surf breaks. Huatulco, with its pristine bays, is ideal for eco-tourism. Check our travel information guide and vacation packages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Acapulco, Mexico?
Acapulco is on the Pacific coast in the state of Guerrero, about 400 km (roughly 4 hours) south of Mexico City.
How do I get to Acapulco?
Acapulco International Airport (ACA) has mostly domestic flights, so US travelers usually connect through Mexico City. By road it is about 4 hours from Mexico City on Highway 95D.
What is Acapulco known for?
The La Quebrada cliff divers, its large bay and beaches (Caleta, Condesa, Revolcadero, Pie de la Cuesta), Fort San Diego, and a famous nightlife scene.
When is the best time to visit Acapulco?
November to April for the driest, sunniest weather. The Pacific hurricane season runs June to November.
Is Acapulco safe for tourists?
The US State Department advises Do Not Travel (Level 4) to the state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located. Read the full, current US advisory and weigh it carefully before planning a trip.