Port Guide | Mexico | Worth a Wander
Acapulco
James Ireton | Editor
Published on 2025-12-17
Congratulations-you've just docked in Acapulco, a city that was effortlessly glamorous when Sinatra crooned here, fabulously scandalous when Liz Taylor married (again) here, and now cheerfully unapologetic in its vaguely faded tropical charm. Sure, Acapulco has seen glitzier days, but think of her as your favorite slightly eccentric aunt who lived through Hollywood's golden era and isn't shy about pouring another drink and sharing the colorful details. Beyond the sandy postcard beaches and heart-stopping cliff divers of La Quebrada-who, legend has it, first leaped from towering cliffs back in the 1930s because fishing wasn't quite thrilling enough-lies an authentic, spirited city perfect for those who prefer their history spiced, salted, and garnished with fresh lime. Yes, exercise common sense because this isn't Disneyland-with margaritas come responsibilities. Stick to lively, well-trodden areas like the bustling malecon, wander the historic Fort of San Diego, and when the sun dips, surrender to the local ritual: an evening cerveza and tacos al pastor from a vendor with a busy grill. Welcome to Acapulco: sophisticated, messy, and wonderfully alive-just like travel should be.
Mexico has 16 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Acapulco is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife. Travelers should take precautions due to local security concerns and should stay in well-trafficked areas.
Where do cruise ships dock in Acapulco?
Port Name Acapulco
Country Mexico
Region North America
Ship Terminal Acapulco Cruise Ship Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The terminal is approximately 3 miles (5 km) from the city center and is accessible via taxis, shuttles, and local transportation.
What's the weather like in Acapulco?
Best Season to Visit Winter and early Spring (December to April)
Climate Tropical climate with a distinct dry and rainy season. Warm temperatures year-round with high humidity.
Weather Notes The dry season runs from November to May when rainfall is minimal. The rainy season typically starts in June, which can bring heavy rains and thunderstorms.
Temperature Range Average highs of 80-90F (27-32C) and lows of 60-70F (16-24C) during winter.
High Temp 92F
Low Temp 55F
Average Temp 72F
What do I need to know about Acapulco?
Language Spanish
Currency Mexican Peso (MXN)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population nearly 800,000
Timezone UTC-6
How do I get around Acapulco?
Taxis, local buses, and private shuttles are available for transit to and from the city.
What are The Best Things to do in Acapulco?
Discover what you should do while you're in Acapulco.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
La Quebrada Cliff Divers
La Quebrada 74, Centro, 39300 Acapulco, Gro.
Witness the world-famous cliff divers of Acapulco who perform thrilling dives from heights of up to 35 meters into the ocean below.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Palladium Acapulco Nightclub
Carretera Escenica 28, Fraccionamiento Pichilingue, 39867 Acapulco, Gro.
Dance the night away with stunning views of the bay at one of Acapulco's most iconic nightclubs.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Pozole Thursday Tradition
Various locations, Acapulco
Experience the Acapulco tradition of 'Jueves Pozolero' by trying this local delicacy.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Fort of San Diego
Hornitos s/n, Centro, 39300 Acapulco, Gro.
A star-shaped fortress built in the 17th century that now houses a historical museum.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Zocalo Acapulco
Avenida Costera Miguel Aleman s/n, Centro, 39300 Acapulco, Gro.
Explore the vibrant heart of Acapulco filled with shops, food stalls, and street performers.
Distance from Terminal: 2.3 miles
Mural Diego Rivera
Calle Inalambrica, Centro, 39300 Acapulco, Gro.
Admire a beautiful and lesser-known mural by famed artist Diego Rivera on the facade of a local house.
Distance from Terminal: 3.5 miles
Cathedral of Our Lady of Solitude
Calle Quebrada, Centro, 39300 Acapulco, Gro.
Visit this stunning cathedral, a symbol of Acapulco with its distinctive Byzantine architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 2.2 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Coyuca Lagoon Boat Tour
Coyuca de Benitez, Guerrero, Mexico
Explore the lush mangroves and bird life of Coyuca Lagoon on a boat tour.
Distance from Terminal: 23 miles
La Roqueta Island
Isla de La Roqueta, Acapulco, Gro.
Take a boat to this tranquil island for hiking, snorkeling, and a view of the bay.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Revolcadero Beach
Playa Revolcadero, Acapulco, Gro.
Famous for its great surf and beautiful sandy expanse.
Distance from Terminal: 14 miles
Tres Palos Lagoon
N/A
Enjoy kayaking or a serene boat ride in the picturesque Tres Palos Lagoon.
Distance from Terminal: 18 miles
El Veladero National Park
N/A
Ideal for hiking and experiencing native flora and fauna just outside the urban area.
Distance from Terminal: 4.7 miles
A Little Extra
Chapel of Peace
Calle de la Paz 130, Brisas La, 39867 Acapulco, Gro.
A peaceful chapel with panoramic views of Acapulco Bay, featuring a large cross and dove monument.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Costera Miguel Aleman Drive
Acapulco, Guerrero
Drive along the bustling main avenue and explore beaches, restaurants, and shopping areas.
Distance from Terminal: 0 miles
CICI Water Park
Costera Miguel Aleman, Cd. Renacimiento, 39739 Acapulco, Gro.
A family-friendly water park with slides, pools, and ocean views.
Distance from Terminal: 5.5 miles
Yacht Rental for Bay Tour
Club de Yates Acapulco, Av Costera Miguel Aleman 3998, Costa Azul, 39850 Acapulco, Gro.
Rent a yacht to explore Acapulco Bay's coastline and natural beauty.
Distance from Terminal: 6.3 miles
Mexico Regional Tip
Inconsistent traffic enforcement aimed at rental vehicle drivers. Visitors driving rental cars are disproportionately targeted for traffic violations such as minor speeding or parking offenses.