Acapulco: The Pearl of the Pacific – Tourism Guide

Acapulco is Mexico’s most traditional tourist city. Known as the “Jewel of the Pacific,” Acapulco offers a wide range of attractions for visitors.

The city of Acapulco welcomes both domestic and international tourists.

Acapulco blends stunning beaches and landscapes with vibrant entertainment options and an exciting nightlife.

How to Get to Acapulco

Acapulco is located in the state of Guerrero, on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

By plane: Flights arrive at Acapulco International Airport, located 26 kilometers from the tourist zone. The airport receives flights from major Mexican cities as well as from the United States.

By car or bus: Acapulco is 400 kilometers from Mexico City via Federal Highway 95. Several bus companies operate routes from Mexico City and other towns.

Acapulco Tourist Information

Acapulco has several districts; the most upscale and touristy area is known as “Acapulco Diamante.” This area is home to luxury hotels, elegant boutiques, and the residences of the rich and famous. The beaches in Acapulco Diamante are beautiful and popular.

Acapulco features many beaches, and visitors are encouraged to explore them at their own pace.

Beaches in Acapulco

Pie de la Cuesta

This is a long beach stretching for several kilometers. It borders the Coyoca Lagoon and has rough waves. Surrounded by natural landscapes, the beach has restaurants serving fresh seafood.

Playa Hornitos

This family-friendly beach is located across from Papagayo Park and is very popular with locals and tourists.

Hornos and Tamarindos Beaches

These beaches are often visited by tourists and have restaurants offering traditional Mexican cuisine.

Roqueta and Marin Beaches

Located on Roqueta Island, these natural and rugged beaches are accessible by boat. Marin Beach is especially peaceful and reached by foot.

Caleta and Caletilla Beaches

The most famous beaches in Acapulco, Caleta and Caletilla, are separated only by the Mágico Mundo Marino aquarium. These lively beaches are filled with music, bars, and everything tourists need to enjoy a perfect beach day.

Playa Angosta

Playa Angosta is a narrow beach nestled between cliffs, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. It offers a few food and drink stands and one of the best sunset views in Acapulco.

Playa Condesa

The main beach in Acapulco’s Golden Zone, Condesa Beach is surrounded by hotels and located in front of a large rock called La Redonda. It’s a favorite spot for tourists.

Playa Icacos

Another beach in the Golden Zone, Icacos Beach is busy with tourists and has all the amenities for a full day of fun.

Playa Revolcadero

Located near the luxurious Hotel Princess, Revolcadero Beach attracts stylish visitors and wealthy residents of Acapulco.

Playa Larga

Playa Larga is a wide, natural beach with minimal infrastructure—perfect for those looking for tranquility and nature. It's a great place for birdwatching and occasionally sea turtles. Located 10 km from Puerto Marqués.

Top Attractions in Acapulco

Acapulco Cliff Divers

The cliff divers perform at La Quebrada, a tradition dating back to the 1930s when fishermen’s children began diving into the sea to retrieve hooks caught on rocks. Over time, it became one of Acapulco’s most iconic attractions. Today, the divers are part of the Acapulco Cliff Divers Association and follow strict routines, jumping from heights over 30 meters. Performances are held daily; it’s best to check the schedule in advance.

La Roqueta Island

This small island lies across from Acapulco in Santa Lucía Bay and features beaches, a lighthouse, and a small zoo.

San Diego Fort

This colonial-era fort was built to protect the coast from pirates. Today, it houses a museum and offers guided tours.

Mágico Mundo Marino

Mágico Mundo Marino is a modern aquarium and marine-themed amusement park. It’s ideal for families and features marine shows, diving exhibitions, and more.

El Veladero National Park

El Veladero National Park spans over 3,200 hectares of protected land, known for its ecological value. It's located in the upper part of Acapulco.

Palma Sola Archaeological Site

Located on the slopes of El Veladero Hill, this site features granite rock formations with pre-Columbian petroglyphs. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Hotels in Acapulco

Acapulco Princess, El Tropicano, Hotel Elcano, Hotel Caleta, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Park Royal, Acasol Hotel, Fiesta Inn, Hotel El Presidente Acapulco, Hotel Maralisa, Hotel Encanto, Mayan Palace, Pierre Marques, Las Brisas, Quinta Real, Avalon Excalibur, Boca Chica, Camino Real, Villas La Lupita, Club del Sol, Real Bananas, Sea Garden Terrace, Romano Palace, Tortuga Acapulco.