Acapulco, a once-glamorous resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, has seen its share of ups and downs over the years. In the 1950s and 1960s, it was a playground for Hollywood stars and jet-setters. But by the 1980s, it had fallen on hard times, with drug-related violence and economic decline taking their toll.
In recent years, Acapulco has been making a comeback. The government has invested heavily in tourism infrastructure, and the city is once again attracting visitors from around the world.
If you’re planning a trip to Acapulco in April 2024, here are seven things you won’t want to miss:
1. Visit La Quebrada Cliff Divers
One of Acapulco’s most famous attractions is La Quebrada Cliff Divers. These daredevils plunge from a height of 136 feet (41 meters) into the crashing waves below. The divers perform several times a day, and it’s an exhilarating sight to see.
The tradition of cliff diving in Acapulco dates back to the 1930s. At that time, local fishermen would dive from the cliffs to show off their skills. Today, the cliff divers are professional athletes who train year-round.
2. Relax on the Beaches
Acapulco is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. The most popular beaches are Playa Condesa, Playa Icacos, and Playa Revolcadero. These beaches offer a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, try Playa Bonfil or Playa Pie de la Cuesta. These beaches are less crowded and offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
3. Explore the Zona Romantica
The Zona Romantica is Acapulco’s historic downtown district. This area is home to charming colonial buildings, art galleries, and boutiques. It’s also a great place to find restaurants and nightlife.
One of the most popular attractions in the Zona Romantica is the Zócalo. This is the main square of Acapulco and is a great place to relax and people-watch.
4. Take a Boat Trip to Isla Roqueta
Isla Roqueta is a small island located just off the coast of Acapulco. The island is home to a beautiful beach, a coral reef, and a lagoon. It’s a great place to go swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
There are several boat tours that depart from Acapulco to Isla Roqueta. The tours typically last for about four hours and include a stop at the island’s beach.
5. Visit the Acapulco Historical Museum
The Acapulco Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Acapulco. The museum has exhibits on the city’s pre-Columbian, colonial, and modern eras.
One of the most interesting exhibits in the museum is the one on the cliff divers. The exhibit features photographs and videos of the divers and tells the story of their tradition.
6. Go Shopping
Acapulco is a great place to go shopping for souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry. The city has several shopping malls, as well as many small shops and boutiques.
One of the most popular shopping destinations in Acapulco is the Galerias Acapulco shopping mall. The mall has over 100 stores and restaurants, including some of the most popular brands in the world.
7. Enjoy the Nightlife
Acapulco is known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night.
One of the most popular nightlife destinations in Acapulco is the Zona Disco. This area is home to several nightclubs that feature live music and dancing.
Culture
Acapulco is a city with a rich culture. The city’s traditions and customs are a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences.
One of the most important cultural events in Acapulco is the Day of the Dead. This holiday is celebrated every year on November 1 and 2. During the Day of the Dead, families gather to remember their deceased loved ones.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Acapulco is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less chance of rain.
The months of April and May are ideal for a trip to Acapulco. The weather is still warm, but the crowds are smaller than they are during the peak season.
Nearby Transportation
Acapulco is served by the Acapulco International Airport (ACA). The airport is located about 20 minutes from the city center.
There are several ways to get from the airport to the city center. You can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle.
Local Food
Acapulco is known for its delicious seafood. The city’s restaurants serve a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including ceviche, fish tacos, and shrimp cocktails.
Another popular dish in Acapulco is pozole. This is a soup made with hominy, pork, and vegetables.
Best Hotels
There are a variety of hotels to choose from in Acapulco. The city has everything from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
Some of the best hotels in Acapulco include:
- The Fairmont Acapulco Princess
- The Las Brisas Acapulco
- The One&Only Palmilla
Conclusion
Acapulco is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a fun-filled nightlife experience, Acapulco is the perfect destination.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Acapulco today!
