Summary
Acapulco is a renowned beach resort, historically frequented by celebrities such as Sinatra, Bardot, and Elizabeth Taylor during the mid-20th century.
Situated against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains, Acapulco encompasses three main tourist districts: Las Playas to the north, the high-rise Golden Zone along the bay, and the emerging luxury sector of Punta Diamante.
However, it’s worth noting that Acapulco’s allure has diminished since the 1990s due to significant challenges, notably violence stemming from cartel activity. While this rarely impacts visitors, it remains a deterrent for some.
Nonetheless, with upscale developments rising in the secluded Punta Diamante and improvements such as a new tunnel alleviating traffic congestion, Acapulco aspires to reclaim its former elegance.
Let us explore the most significant attractions in Acapulco:
1. Fort of San Diego
Acapulco’s premier historical monument, the Fort of San Diego, was constructed in 1617 to defend against pirate incursions.
At that time, it served as the most formidable fortification along Mexico’s Pacific coastline, specifically designed to safeguard the Manila galleons, a fleet pivotal in the Pacific trade between Acapulco and the Spanish-held Manila in the Philippines.
Following damage from an earthquake in the 1770s, the fort was reconstructed to its present pentagonal form.
Over the ensuing years, the fort was involved in military conflicts, including the Mexican War of Independence and the French Intervention in Mexico during the 1860s.
2. Acapulco Historical Museum
Established in 1986, the museum within the fort chronicles Acapulco’s rich history while highlighting the fort’s role in pivotal moments over the past four centuries.
Noteworthy are the exhibitions concerning the Manila galleons, issues of piracy in the Pacific, and trade with Japan and China.
The museum features models of the galleons and original artifacts, including exquisite porcelain vases.
Additionally, it revisits the pre-Hispanic Mezcala culture, which thrived in the present state of Guerrero from 700 BC to 650 AD, renowned for its striking geometric stone masks and figurines.
3. La Quebrada Cliff Divers
In La Quebrada, meaning “ravine” in Spanish, daredevil divers perform breathtaking leaps from steep cliffs into a narrow inlet. This tradition has captivated spectators since at least 1934. The challenge lies in timing their jumps to coincided with incoming waves to ensure a safe landing.
Divers ascend the cliffs without safety equipment and jump from heights of 12 and 24 meters, with daily performances at 13:00, 19:30, 20:30, and 21:30. A nominal fee ($2.50 USD) is required to witness the show from a platform or dine at La Perla restaurant, which boasts a terrace adjacent to the cliffs.
4. Capilla de la Paz
This monument, perched 400 meters above the bay’s eastern entrance, is accessible via organized tours.
Located atop “El Guitarrón,” a prominent hill in the city, the chapel offers breathtaking vistas of the shoreline, cityscape, and Sierra Madre del Sur.
In memory of his sons who tragically perished in a plane crash in 1967, developer Carlos Trouyet commissioned the chapel in the early 1970s, serving as the final resting place for Trouyet, his wife Milly, and their sons Jorge and Carlos Jr.
The site includes a towering 40-meter cross and a sculpture representing two clasped hands, “Las Manos de la Hermandad,” created by Claudio Favier.
5. Mural Diego Rivera
Diego Rivera, one of Mexico’s preeminent 20th-century artists and former spouse of Frida Kahlo, left an indelible mark on Acapulco during his visit in 1956. His artwork adorns the exterior of Dolores Olmedo’s residence, a notable art patron with whom he had a prolonged relationship.
This mural, a testament to Rivera’s artistry, constitutes one of his last creations before his passing in 1957, characterized by a vibrant three-dimensional mosaic infused with pre-Hispanic motifs.
Prominent symbols include Tlaloc, the Aztec deity of rain and thunder, alongside a xoloitzcuintli—a hairless dog. Featured prominently are two feathered serpents of Quetzalcóatl, position on either side of the entranceway.
6. Punta Diamante
This rapidly developing area of Acapulco is situated outside the main bay, on a sandbar adjacent to the Laguna de Tres Palos in the southeast.
While Punta Diamante may lack the character and vibrancy of Old Acapulco, it compensates with spaciousness and convenience.
Proximity to the airport is a notable advantage, and a contemporary tunnel established in 2017 has notably reduced travel times to the prime tourist area of Dorada surrounding the bay.
A continuous sandy beach stretches along the coastline, exceptional for families due to its gradual slope and shallow surf that breaks up to 100 meters offshore, ensuring children’s safety.
7. Barra Vieja
Located a few kilometers beyond Punta Diamante, Barra Vieja offers a tranquil alternative to Acapulco’s bustling atmosphere, with ample space along its expansive beach.
Similar to Punta Diamante, the beach features a gentle slope, providing ample shallow water despite the stronger waves.
During peak season, patrons can select from a variety of palapas (traditional palm huts) serving freshly caught fish, such as red snapper.
The Tres Vidas Golf Courses, an 18-hole championship course, is situated on slightly elevated terrain, offering invigorating views of the ocean.
8. Playa Pie de la Cuesta
Situated northwest of Acapulco, the city gradually thins out, leading to the serene Pie de la Cuesta after approximately 10 kilometers of winding coastal roads.
This tranquil village lies at the eastern tip of another sandbar separating the Pacific Ocean from the expansive Laguna de Coyuca.
Visitors needn’t venture far for relaxation, as the beach extends for miles and provides a welcoming atmosphere.
With palapas behind serving a variety of meals, guests can also enjoy cocktails such as the coconut-based coco loco while observing the crashing surf.
Although swimming can be perilous due to strong currents, the location is breathtaking at sunset, and you may observe riders on horseback alongside the shore during daytime.
9. Isla la Roqueta
This verdant but largely untouched island is located directly south of Las Playas at Acapulco’s western bay entrance.
The main beach, lined with restaurants, features an expanse of golden sand, caressed by tranquil, clear waters.
Reaching the island is possible from Playa Caleta via a tourist boat or a ferry; choosing the ferry often brings greater versatility in exploring the island.
Among the island’s attractions is the Virgen de los Mares, a submerged statue of the Virgin Mary, and two vibrant reefs, Piedra de Elefante and Piedra de Hierbabuena, teeming with diverse marine life.
10. Our Lady of Solitude Cathedral
Designed by architect Federico Mariscal, Acapulco’s cathedral was constructed during the 1940s and 50s.
The initial structure, begun in the 1900s, was subsequently destroyed by an earthquake and a following hurricane.
Its architecture is distinctive within Mexico, intermingling Art Deco, Moorish, and Byzantine styles.
Two ornate towers, each topped with colorful, mosaic-covered domes, evoke more of a mosque’s minarets than conventional church towers.
The interior features apses adorned with blue and gold tiles, beneath intricate geometric stained glass windows.
11. Zócalo
Acapulco’s principal plaza, situated at the base of the cathedral, offers a rare glimpse into local life.
Boasting all the hallmark features of a Mexican town square, it includes a bandstand (pavilion), a fountain, well-maintained Indian laurel trees, and vendors peddling their goods.
Visiting on Sunday afternoons is particularly delightful, as families partake in leisurely strolls and concerts by Acapulco’s municipal band become a highlight.
During typical days, patrons can discover a variety of street food vendors and souvenir stalls, along with cafes and an ice cream parlor lining the square.
12. Laguna de Tres Palos
The lagoon situated behind Punta Diamante and Barra Vieja has emerged as a vital ecotourism attraction, offering exceptional opportunities to observe Acapulco’s tropical avifauna.
Guided boat excursions are available, led by local fishermen who share their expertise and knowledge about the area’s wildlife.
During these journeys, participants can spot herons and various other birds that make the lagoon their home.
You may also witness the striking beauty of mangroves and giant water lilies, alongside a variety of fish in the water.
There’s an opportunity for a mud facial scrub derived from the lagoon’s natural resources, followed by a delicious lunch featuring freshly caught grilled seafood, including “pescado a la talla.”
Horseback riding can also be enjoyed along the southern shores of the lagoon.
13. Puerto Marqués
Located between Punta Diamante and Acapulco Bay lies Puerto Marqués, positioned within a smaller bay.
While currently unremarkable, archaeologists have uncovered Mesoamerica’s oldest stone pottery within this bay, dating back approximately 3,500 years.
The beach is well-frequented by Acapulco’s locals, offering a dynamically social atmosphere that varies according to the time of day.
Puerto Marqués is celebrated for showcasing authentic Guerrero cuisine, though beware of restaurant promoters eager to usher you into their establishments.
The beach hosts a narrow stretch of golden sand, with crystalline waters that are among the safest for swimming in the Acapulco area.
A short walk up the hill from the beach leads to Laguna Negra, known for its crocodile population.
14. Playa la Condesa
Playa la Condesa, a quintessential beach, is situated in the Golden Zone within Acapulco’s bay arc, bordered by towering hotels and high-rise apartments.
This public beach features coarse golden sand and, while sometimes perilous due to strong surf, remains mostly safe for visitors.
The beach is a hub of activity, with vendors bustling around, numerous bars and restaurants in proximity, and various water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and waterskiing readily available.
15. Local Food
As previously mentioned, “pescado a la talla” is a remarkable dish wherein you choose your fresh fish (most commonly red snapper). The fish is then filleted, seasoned with salt and chili, and grilled to perfection.
In a similar style, “pescado al mojo de ajo” features a delicate garlic sauce.
Ceviche, a popular dish in both Mexican and Caribbean cuisines, consists of small pieces of fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, accompanied by herbs, onions, avocados, and salsa picante.
For an authentic experience, sample “pozole guerrerense,” a maize-based broth with chicken or pork, typically enjoyed on Thursdays or Sundays, varying based on whether it’s prepared in the green (verde) or white (blanco) style.
.jpg){kind=link}