Why You Need to Visit Acapulco, Mexico
“Down to Acapulco Bay, it’s perfect for a flying honeymoon, they say”
These are the exact same words that Frank Sinatra sang in his song “Come Fly with Me.”
Back in the day, Acapulco was a favorite among the Hollywood elite. Even before Cancun became a tourist hotspot, Acapulco was Mexico’s original vacation destination. This place was synonymous with glamor, fun, and wealth.
There still exist lavish hotels, decadent restaurants, colorful bars, and white sand beaches. But because of the sudden rise of crime rates, its reputation has taken a nosedive.
As of the moment, Acapulco is trying to regain its reputation as the previous Spring break dream destination. Certainly, they have made major improvements over the past few years, especially with the construction of Punta Diamante.
The revival of Acapulco’s Glory Days
Acapulco’s economy depends heavily on tourism, which is why tourism companies have been working on regaining their former reputation as the hottest getaway. They spent millions upgrading hotels, infrastructure, and adding new amenities.
Here are a few places to get started:
- Explore Punta Diamante
Punta Diamante, on Acapulco’s south end, is quickly becoming the city’s hottest new location.
Located in this district are an abundance of luxurious hotels and restaurants that are alluring to most first-timers. Punta Diamante’s beaches are calmer and more convenient, but they may cost you a hefty amount of money.
Even if Punta Diamante is out of your price range, it’s worth a trip to see Acapulco’s new face, dine at one of the numerous new restaurants, and stay to watch the sunset into the Pacific.
- Spectating the cliff divers in La Quebrada
La Quebrada features men jumping from high off the cliff walls, often twisting and turning acrobatically in the air.
Spectators will need to pay $3. Not bad for the price considering the stunts the divers pull to impress the audience.
Shows usually begin at 1 pm every day. Divers must synchronize their leaps with the tide to land in the deepest part of the sea. Diving may also be done in the late afternoon if divers are feeling really daring.
- Take a dip in the Playa
There are so many beaches to choose from in Mexico!
Playa Condesa is the most popular among tourists. And if that couldn’t get any more appealing, it’s quick to access if you’re getting a room in one of the nearby hotels.
If you’re looking to escape the crowd, you’ll surely love Playa Icacos. It’s an 11-minute walk from Playa Condesa, but it’s worth it when you want to avoid the long queues to try out the watersports.
- Indulge in the Nightlife
Acapulco is famed for its beaches as well as for its nightlife, as it is home to several huge and well-known nightclubs that have been around for years.
Palladium is a stellar choice for its spectacular views over the bay as well as great music. If you’re looking for a more classy experience, Siboney Piano Bar makes a good choice as well.
- Get on a boat to La Roqueta
Off Acapulco’s coast lies the expansive island of Isla de la Roqueta. Playa Roqueta, a small beach that’s surrounded by a stony crag, has several rustic restaurants, but the area is best known for diving and snorkeling offshore.
The only way to access the island is by boat. Fortunately, many of the popular tourist boats from Acapulco make a stop at the island. In addition to the wide variety of tropical fish, snorkelers and divers love the underwater statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe, known as the Capilla Submarina.
What are the best times of the year to visit?
From worst to best, we’re going to list down the best times to visit Acapulco:
- December to March
You might be tempted by nonstop flights from the United States to Acapulco at this time of the month, but hotels and airlines will likely raise their rates. It’s mainly because this time of the year is their peak season.
Acapulco is a frequent go-to for people who want to avoid the chilly winter. It’s sunny and warm — anyone would tell you it’s the best time of the year to visit. But unless you’re looking to escape the winter, the trip wouldn’t be worth it. You’re most likely going to blow off a lot of money this season.
- June to September
Summer is Acapulco’s season of low tourism. Hotels and airfares are sure to offer bargain-friendly prices, but your body might not be able to take the fluctuating weather.
It can either get very hot or you’re going to experience a lot of storms. Not to mention, the humidity is off the charts at this time of the year.
- April and May
Acapulco’s late spring boasts some of the finest weather and the year’s best flight and accommodation rates.
These months are the best times of the year where you can enjoy the peaceful and beautiful scenery to relax in. Acapulco used to be quite a popular Spring break destination among college students.
While it still is, it’s just not as bustling as it was back then. Their nightlife remains as lively as ever, though, so you’re sure to have a great time with locals and tourists alike.
- October and November
Much like April and May, this time offers visitors a winning combo of desirable weather and low prices. Unlike the spring months, you won’t have to worry about encountering rowdy spring breakers. Instead, you can soak up the 80-degree weather and sunshine in peace.
This is also the best time to get flights if you plan to stay over the winter.
Staying safe in Acapulco
So as long as you stay within the commercial areas of Acapulco, you should be safe.
The headlines you see in newspapers or the crime reports you see on tv are often blown out of proportion. Ever since the crime rates in Acapulco rose, there have been less than favorable articles talking about why you should avoid this dream destination.
This place is relatively safe if you stick to commercial areas. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the beauty Acapulco holds. Once you get around to visiting this wonderful city, you’ll know exactly what the buzz is about.
