Acapulco Travel Guide

When people close their eyes and dream of the perfect vacation it often includes warm, sandy beaches, tropical drinks and breezes, and lots to do – or not do – both day and night. If this sounds like the perfect trip, you might want to start packing for an Acapulco vacation.  Long known as a more upscale, adult alternative to Mexico’s other playgrounds, an Acapulco vacation promises a moonlit walk on the beach, grilled shrimp to the sound of a quiet guitar and pulsing music at one of its many night clubs. Mexican hospitality is alive and well in Acapulco, and everyone you meet will be eager to make your stay an enjoyable one.

Airports and Ground Transportation

As a popular getaway location there is bound to be a variety of discount airfares to Acapulco from almost every origination. Acapulco’s main airport, Alvarez International Airport (ACA), is conveniently situated just sixteen miles south of Acapulco’s famous “C” shaped bay. If you’re travelling from Chicago (ORD) expect cheap flights to Acapulco in both summer and winter starting at about $550 round trip. Round trips starting in Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) promise even greater discount airfare to Acapulco of about $400 or $600, respectively, using Continental Airlines.

The cheapest flights to Acapulco from New York (JFK) go for about $650 on either Aero Mexico or Delta. Many visitors arrive for their Acapulco vacation via the airline Mexicana, so be sure to check and see if they offer cheap flights to Acapulco from your home town. The smart travel shopper will check back each evening and morning for additional discount airfares to Acapulco as specials regularly appear on airlines’ websites.  Acapulco vacation packages that include hotel or resort, discount air fare to Acapulco, and ground transportation can also save you money.

Once on the ground, transportation will take one of several forms. Taxis are commonplace and safe; there are no meters, so be sure to inquire as to the fare or tariff before you get in the car. Bargaining is okay – maybe even expected! Private taxis, rather than the collectivo shared taxis in yellow and white, are the safest. You might consider hiring an English speaking tour or travel guide who can escort you in a car or a van. Be sure to hire one who is certified and bonded by the Department of Tourism. You’ll pay after the service is performed. Buses are available, but are often unregulated, and therefore may not be a safe choice.

Best Times to Go, Best Things to Do

Acapulco is a tropical paradise, and as such, it’s hot and humid most of the year.  July is the hottest month in Acapulco. It rains heavily and often during the months of June through September, tapering off to nearly completely dry weather by winter. The driest, most temperate weather is between the months of December and April – just when most North American and European visitors are ready for a beach break!

Many people come to Acapulco for two reasons – to enjoy warm, sandy beaches during the day time and to enjoy the club and disco scene at night. Families will enjoy a visit to Cici Acapulco Magico, a water park full of exciting rides such as the Tornado Slide and the Sky Coaster. Especially magical is the chance to swim with the dolphins, and experience you and your children will never forget. Nightlife includes the famous Palladium and Disco Beach, two popular clubs. An enduring, widely- recognized symbol of Acapulco is the stunning picture of the athletic and graceful divers poised above and then falling from the cliffs of La Quebrada. Don’t miss it.

Hotels and Lodging

When planning your Acapulco vacation you’ll find a variety of lodging options, from the luxe Quinta Real Acapulco in the celebrated Punta Diamante beach neighborhood to more budget friendly accommodations such as the Hotel Casa Inn Acapulco. For a real taste of Mexico, many visitors enjoy staying in rented villas, such as the Villa Vera Hotel and Spa. Enjoy your stay – can you hear the Mariachi’s welcoming you already?