Explore Acapulco, Mexico: An Exciting 1-Day Itinerary

Acapulco, Mexico

1 days

La Quebrada cliff divers
Acapulco cityscape from above
Aerial shot of Fort San Diego
Rocky shoreline
Acapulco bay beachfront

About Acapulco, Mexico

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of Acapulco, Mexico. This Pacific Coast paradise offers a blend of luxury resorts, pristine beaches, and lively nightlife. Explore the historic Fort of San Diego, witness the daring cliff divers of La Quebrada, or simply relax on the sun-kissed sands of Playa Condesa. Savor authentic Mexican cuisine in charming beachfront restaurants and shop for local crafts in bustling markets. With its tropical climate, Acapulco is a year-round destination, perfect for water sports, deep-sea fishing, and golfing. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Acapulco offers an unforgettable travel experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Historic and Cultural Exploration of Acapulco

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Fort of San Diego, a star-shaped fort that houses the Acapulco Historical Museum. Here, you can learn about the city's history and its importance as a trading port during the Spanish colonial period.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch at a local restaurant. Try the famous 'Pozole', a traditional soup made with hominy, meat, and garnished with shredded lettuce, chili pepper, radish, onion, lime and oregano.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the La Quebrada Cliff Divers show. This is a must-see attraction in Acapulco where professional divers plunge from cliffs into the Pacific Ocean. The divers have been performing their death-defying feats since 1934.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a beachfront restaurant. Acapulco is known for its seafood, so don't miss the opportunity to try some fresh fish or shrimp.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the beautiful Acapulco Bay. The bay is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the city lights reflecting off the water.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Fort of San Diego

1
Fort of San Diego

One of the most significant maritime fortresses on the Pacific coast, the Fort of San Diego houses a museum detailing Acapulco's history as a key shipping port between America and Asia.

Attractions
Monuments
Museums
Acapulco Historical Museum

2
Acapulco Historical Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of Acapulco, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the city from pre-Hispanic times to the present.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
La Quebrada Cliff Divers

3
La Quebrada Cliff Divers

A world-famous tourist attraction, La Quebrada Cliff Divers are brave individuals who dive from heights of up to 35 meters into a narrow sea inlet. Shows are held several times a day.

Attractions
Entertainment
Acapulco Bay

4
Acapulco Bay

Acapulco Bay is a major seaport and tourist destination. It is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and nightlife.

Attractions
Beaches
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pozole

Pozole

A traditional soup made from hominy corn, with plenty of herbs and spices. The soup is often topped with shredded lettuce, chili peppers, radish, onion, lime, and oregano. It's a popular dish in Acapulco and is often enjoyed during celebrations.

Tacos al Pastor

Tacos al Pastor

A popular street food in Acapulco, Tacos al Pastor are made with spit-grilled pork, served on a corn tortilla and garnished with onions, coriander leaves, and pineapple.

Ceviche

Ceviche

Acapulco's coastal location means seafood is a staple, and Ceviche is a must-try. It's a dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Chiles Rellenos

A classic Mexican dish, Chiles Rellenos are large chili peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried, and served with salsa or sauce. It's a popular dish in Acapulco.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas

Enchiladas are corn tortillas rolled around a filling and covered with a chili pepper sauce. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, cheese, beans, and vegetables.

Tamales

Tamales

A traditional Mexican dish, Tamales are made of masa (a dough made from corn) that's filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, or chilies, wrapped in a corn husk and then steamed.

Churros

Churros

A popular dessert in Acapulco, Churros are fried-dough pastries—predominantly choux—sprinkled with sugar and often served with a cup of hot chocolate.

Guacamole

Guacamole

A traditional Mexican dip, Guacamole is made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and other fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a common appetizer in Acapulco.

Tequila

Tequila

Tequila is a type of alcoholic drink made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila. It's a popular drink in Acapulco.

Mezcal

Mezcal

Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave. The taste is strong and smoky, and it's a popular drink in Acapulco.

Michelada

Michelada

A Michelada is a Mexican cerveza preparada made with beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, tomato juice, and chili peppers. It's a popular drink in Acapulco.

Agua de Jamaica

Agua de Jamaica

Agua de Jamaica is a non-alcoholic Mexican drink made from the flowers of the Jamaica plant, which is a type of hibiscus, sugar, and water. It's a refreshing drink often served in Acapulco.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Acapulco, Mexico as a tourist is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During these months, you can expect warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities and exploring the city. The peak tourist season is from December to April, when the weather is at its best. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in November or May.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 5

Mon

Constitution Day

March 18

Mon

Benito Juárez's Birthday Memorial

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

July 7

Sun

General Election Day

September 16

Mon

Independence Day

October 1

Tue

Inauguration day

November 18

Mon

Revolution Day Memorial

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular choice for getting around Acapulco. It gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and parking can be a challenge in busy areas.

Taxis are plentiful in Acapulco and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up at designated taxi stands. They are a convenient way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the city. However, it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Acapulco has an extensive bus system that covers most of the city. Buses run frequently and are a cost-effective way to get around. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Acapulco. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using an app on your smartphone, and the fare is automatically charged to your credit card.

Water taxis operate in the bay area, providing a unique and scenic way to travel between the main beaches and attractions in Acapulco. It's a fun and relaxing way to get around, especially if you're not in a hurry.

Many of Acapulco's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the main tourist areas. Walking is a great way to explore the city, take in the sights, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. However, be prepared for the heat and always carry water with you.

Bicycle rentals are available in Acapulco. Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in the beach areas where traffic is less intense. However, be aware that not all areas have dedicated bike lanes, so always be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ MXN

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 065; Fire: 068; Police: 060

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Acapulco, Mexico as a first time visitor

1

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

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used is the Mexican Peso (MXN), but US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas.

4

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's recommended to carry some cash for small vendors and tipping.

5

The climate is tropical with high humidity. The average temperature ranges from 80°F to 92°F (27°C to 33°C).

6

The rainy season is from June to October, with September being the wettest month.

7

Acapulco is in the Central Time Zone (GMT -6).

8

It's recommended to drink bottled water instead of tap water.

9

Public transportation is available, but taxis are the most common way to get around.

10

Be cautious of your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items to prevent theft.

11

The dress code is generally casual, but some upscale restaurants and clubs may require formal attire.

12

Tipping is customary in Mexico. A tip of 10-15% is expected in restaurants.

13

Acapulco has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

14

The city is known for its beautiful beaches, but be aware that some can have strong currents and are not suitable for swimming.

15

Acapulco is famous for its cliff divers. While it's a popular tourist attraction, it's not recommended for inexperienced divers.

16

Mexican cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Acapulco. Be sure to try local specialties like pozole and ceviche.

17

Sunscreen is a must due to the strong sun. Also, insect repellent can be useful, especially during the rainy season.

18

Healthcare facilities are available, but travel insurance is recommended for any medical emergencies.

19

Acapulco can be crowded during peak tourist season, which is from November to April.

20

Respect local customs and traditions. Mexicans are generally warm and friendly, and appreciate when visitors make an effort to understand their culture.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

oh-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

ah-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

see

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

no

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

no en-tee-en-do

Expressing confusion or misunderstanding

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

ban-yo

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ayuda

a-yu-da

In need of assistance

Food

Comida

co-mee-da

Talking about food

Water

Agua

a-gwa

Requesting water

Beer

Cerveza

ser-ve-za

Ordering a beer

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

la kwen-ta, por fa-vor

Requesting the bill at a restaurant

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking for the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

me gus-ta-ree-a

Expressing a desire or preference

Good night

Buenas noches

bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimsuit

  • Beach cover-up

  • Flip flops

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat

  • Evening wear for dining out

  • Toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion

  • Insect repellent

  • Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Personal medication

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel reservation details

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel guidebook for Acapulco

  • Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Acapulco, Mexico, it's important to consider the weather conditions to make the most of your visit. Acapulco is known for its tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The city experiences two main seasons - the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from November to May, is the most popular time to visit. During this period, you can expect average daytime temperatures around 88°F (31°C), and cooler nights with temperatures dropping to around 72°F (22°C). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities and beach visits. The rainy season, from June to October, sees higher humidity and frequent, though usually brief, rain showers. The average temperature during this period ranges from 77°F (25°C) to 91°F (33°C). Despite the rain, this season has its own charm with lush greenery and fewer tourists. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen to protect against the strong sun. During the rainy season, packing a light rain jacket or umbrella would be beneficial. Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before your outdoor activities. Enjoy your trip to Acapulco!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

33° / 22°

January is a great time to visit Acapulco, with warm temperatures and low rainfall. It's perfect for beach activities and exploring the city.

February

33° / 22°

February is similar to January, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and water sports.

March

34° / 23°

March sees a slight increase in temperature. It's a great time for swimming and enjoying the tropical climate.

April

35° / 24°

April is one of the hottest months in Acapulco. Make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

May

36° / 25°

May continues the trend of increasing temperatures. It's a great time for beach activities, but remember to take breaks in the shade.

June

35° / 25°

June marks the beginning of the rainy season in Acapulco. However, showers are usually short and followed by sunshine.

July

35° / 24°

July is in the middle of the rainy season, but don't let this deter you. The rain often comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for sunbathing and exploring.

August

35° / 24°

August is similar to July, with short bursts of rain. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the occasional shower.

September

34° / 24°

September is the wettest month in Acapulco. If you don't mind the rain, you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices.

October

34° / 24°

October sees the end of the rainy season. The weather is still warm, making it a good time to visit the beach and explore the city.

November

34° / 23°

November is a great time to visit Acapulco, with less rainfall and warm temperatures. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

December

33° / 22°

December is a popular time to visit Acapulco, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's a great time to escape the winter chill.

Did you know?

Did you know that Acapulco is also known as 'Pearl of the Pacific' due to its beautiful bay and numerous beaches?

1 of 10

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