Where is Acapulco Mexico?

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Where is Acapulco Mexico Located - Acapulco Mexico Map

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Where is Acapulco, Mexico, located?

Are you wondering where Acapulco, Mexico is located? Are you curious about what its glory days were like and whether it’s still worth visiting today? Let us provide answers to all your questions. 

Acapulco is a coastal town as well as seaport located in the Mexican State of Guerrero on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. The nearest airport is General Juan N Alvarez International Airport (also known as ACA). So pack up your bags and come experience this beautiful destination.

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🇲🇽 Mexico Travel Resources We Use:

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Those interested in visiting Acapulco, Mexico will find it situated at a latitude of 16.85 and longitude of -99.91.

Distance to Other Major Destinations:

 

Distance

Estimated travel time by car

Acapulco – Mexico City

237 miles (381 km)

~ 4 hours and 40 minutes

Acapulco – Oaxaca

451 miles (727 km)

 ~ 8 hours and 30 minutes

Acapulco – Cancun

1,164 miles (1,872 km)

~ 22 hours and 30 minutes

Acapulco – Puerto Vallarta

765 miles (1,229 km)

~ 14 hours and 50 minutes

Where is Acapulco Mexico on the Map

Where in Mexico is Acapulco?

Nestled in Mexico’s southwestern region, Acapulco is situated along the stunning Pacific coast. This picturesque destination rests on a semi-circle bay and lies an approximate 236 miles (379 km) from the bustling capital of Mexico City.

If you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked vacation in Mexico, Acapulco should definitely be at the top of your list. With its sweeping bay facing the Pacific Ocean and once frequented by stars such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley during their heyday, this resort city is an absolute must-see. So come explore all that Acapulco has to offer!

As a couple residing in Mexico, we have been privileged to explore numerous renowned beach towns and unequivocally class Acapulco amongst the finest Mexican beaches. Other popular tourist destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta are equally alluring.

Despite its wonderful features, Acapulco is a city people often question regarding safety. However, over the past few years, there have been significant improvements in security measures taken to protect locals and visitors alike. If you are still undecided if this destination should be your next getaway trip or whether you’re already planning on visiting – this post will give you all of the essential information needed!

About Acapulco

Nahuatl word “Acapulco” translates to “the place where the reeds were destroyed” in English – a phrase believed to have originated from an ancient love story between two warring tribes. Acapulco de Juárez is its full name, and it serves as the largest city of Guerrero state in Mexico. Puerto Marques and Bahia de Acapulco, also known as Bay of Santa Lucia are its two main bays – each offering their own unique charm for exploration!

From the 1950s to the 1960s, Acapulco, Mexico was a glitzy holiday hot spot for Hollywood’s elite. Its proximity to Mexico City via paved road meant it was easily accessible for those with money and fame– John F. Kennedy, Frank Sinatra, Debbie Reynolds and Elvis Presley were just some of its constant visitors!

Acapulco is part of the renowned Sun Triangle, which also comprises Taxco and Ixtapa -Zihuatanejo. This region offers a plethora of tourist attractions for visitors to explore, as it literally appears in the shape of a triangle on maps! Nowhere else can you find such an abundance of captivating sights all within one geographic area like this.

Frequently Asked Questions about Acapulco Mexico

When is the best time to go to Acapulco?

The most delightful weather in Acapulco happens between April and May, as well as October to November. During these days the climate is usually clear, hot and humid – a great combination for visitors looking to take advantage of cost-saving opportunities. Moreover, those months make up what’s known as the dry season when compared with June until September which constitute the wet period.

Is Acapulco a dangerous city?

It is plain to see that Acapulco has an alarmingly high rate of criminal activity and violence in the city. That’s why there are such a large number of military and police forces visible, keeping watch on the streets. Additionally, the National Security Department has declared certain areas off-limits for visitors; it would be prudent to avoid these zones at all costs if you wish to stay safe during your visit here.

Although Acapulco is susceptible to earthquakes, these natural disasters are rare and won’t disrupt your vacation. The strongest tremor in recent years happened on September 2021 with a magnitude of 7.0 and caused minimal harm – some cracks appeared in structures, along with landslides and minor gas leaks – however the city itself was unscathed due to its reinforced infrastructure that keeps the tourist attractions safe at all times.

As tourists are frequently targeted by pickpockets and other criminals in heavily visited areas, it’s important to practice good vigilance while out in public. Keep your valuables close, store any cash securely, safeguard personal documents and IDs – these steps will help keep you extra safe during your travels. Additionally, take special caution with drinking water: tap water from the region may be fine for locals but bottled sources are recommended when travelling abroad.

Drinking water straight from the tap can be a risk if you’re not familiar with it, particularly in areas such as Acapulco. To avoid any unwelcome gastrointestinal issues while on vacation, steer clear of consuming Mexican tap water and opt for bottled varieties instead.

Is a visa required in Acapulco?

When taking a leisure trip to Acapulco, no visa is required as long as your stay does not exceed 180 days.

What is Acapulco known for?

With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and stunning scenery, Acapulco Mexico has long been known as the “Pearl of the Pacific”. In days gone by it was visited by Hollywood stars and wealthy travelers alike; even Elvis Presley took advantage of this paradise destination to film his musical comedy Fun in Acapulco. Today there’s no better way to spend your day under the sun than soaking up some Mexican culture on a beach in Acapulco before hitting up one of its lively parties at night.

Is Acapulco worth visiting?

Undeniably, Acapulco is magnificent and worth visiting. But the crucial query remains – can you overlook any unfortunate experiences whilst on your journey? Ultimately, there is no doubt that Acapulco will enchant you with its timeless beauty and charm.

Traveling to 🇲🇽 Mexico soon?

I recommend these travel resources for Mexico that I personally use:

🏨 Hotels: I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Mexico. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights: To find the best flight deals to Mexico, I always use Kayak. Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia.

🚗 Rental Cars: I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation. Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.

🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Mexico, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Mexico. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master, whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.

📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro, It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.