When you think of Acapulco the first thing that may come to mind is the 1963 Elvis movie Fun in Acapulco. While there is indeed plenty of fun here, this Pacific coastal town also offers a fascinating history and pristine beaches.
Here are five recommendations for Acapulco:
Cliff Diving. For centuries, the La Quebrada Cliff Divers have thrilled audiences. The divers climb up and dive off cliffs over 100 feet high into water that ranges from six to 16 feet deep — so accurate timing of the inbound waves is critical. You can best view the cliff divers from El Mirador Hotel at La Quebrada.
Fort San Diego. The fort is located right across from the cruise terminal, offering easy access. Tour guides are available to walk you through 11 exhibition rooms of Fort San Diego or you can do it on your own. You’ll find highlights of the Acapulco/China trade, displays of artifacts, a profile of Sir Frances Drake, the fort’s chapel and a tiled kitchen showcasing how they used to cook. TVs are around the displays to show short clips in English. Admission into the fort is a donation of 100 pesos or approximately $10 USD.
Tour Old Acapulco. Just a short walk or taxi ride from the cruise pier will put you in Old Acapulco where you can explore local markets with homemade wares and eat at roadside taco stands. One of the markets really stood out — the family handmade wooden bowls and painted each one, then signed the bottom to make it authentic. Also be sure to visit Los Flamingo Hotel, a property bought by a bunch of Hollywood stars including Johnny Weismuller (Tarzan), and John Wayne in 1950 that remains a popular site.
Resort for a day at Boca Chica. If fun in the sun is what you’re looking for, consider a day pass at Hotel Boca Chica. For approximately $30 USD, guests can lounge by the pool, snorkel in the bay, enjoy the adjacent beach and dine at a great Asian-inspired venue right over the water (food and drinks extra). Day passes are limited depending on hotel occupancy.
Glass-bottom boat. Board a glass-bottom boat in Playa Caleta and check out the natural and manmade wonders below the Pacific Ocean. On the bottom lays the virgin of the seas, Virgin of Guadalupe, a sculpture that is said to protect the sea region. If you’re looking for a “no frills” relaxing day on the water, this may be for you.
Tips:
- If you’re heading to Acapulco be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothes, as the humidity can be overpowering during certain times of the year.
- Make sure you have pesos. While the USD is accepted, you can negotiate better with local currency.
- Try the restaurant called Zibu that offers cliff side views and amazing Mexican-Asian fusion food.
- Cabs in the area charge by zones, starting at $2 USD; shared cabs are also available for $1 per person but it’s a tight ride.
- If you are going to venture out on your own, consider hiring a Federal Tour Guide. We used Tony, his contact is [email protected].
Check out a full line of information about Acapulco at the tourism website: https://rememberacapulco.com/.
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