Acapulco City Guide

Seafood and pozole are local favorites. International options include Italian, Asian, and American cuisines. Vegetarian options exist but vegan choices are limited. Many places stay open late.

Nightlife is lively with nightclubs, beach bars, and live music venues.

Coffee culture is growing with a mix of traditional Mexican and some third-wave cafes. Specialty roasters are limited.

Tipping is expected. 10-15% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Bellhops and housekeepers expect 20-50 MXN per day. Taxis usually don't require tips unless extra help is given.

Buy SIM cards at OXXO stores, official Telcel, AT&T, Movistar shops, and sometimes airports. Telcel offers best coverage. Passport or ID required for registration.

Street cleanliness varies; tourist areas are generally clean while other areas less so. Waste pickup is regular but recycling is limited.

OXXO and convenience stores often open 24/7. Late pharmacies and clinics are limited. Some street food and restaurants open late.

Supermarkets carry international brands mostly American. Local markets offer fresh produce and meats. Open 7/8 AM to 10/11 PM. Open Sundays, smaller shops may close. Bargaining is common only in markets.

Cards are accepted in big hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. Cash is needed for markets, small vendors, taxis, and tips.

ATMs are available from Banamex, BBVA, and Santander. Expect fees of 30-50 MXN per withdrawal. Use ATMs inside banks or secure places.

Local schools teach mainly Spanish. Limited international options include the bilingual American School of Acapulco. Contact schools directly for admissions.

Digital nomad scene is small with limited meetups and co-living options. Work-friendly cafes exist but few dedicated coworking spaces.

Papagayo Park is the main green space. Other parks exist but shaded walking paths are limited.

Popular running routes along Costera Miguel Alemán and Papagayo Park. Generally safe during the day; caution at night.

Several gyms and hotel fitness centers are available for training.

Tennis courts at hotels and private clubs with mostly hard courts. Some offer rentals and coaching.

Padel courts less common but available at select facilities.

A few yoga studios offer drop-in classes, mostly Hatha and Vinyasa. English-speaking instructors sometimes available.

Local gyms offer Taekwondo, Karate, Boxing, and some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Drop-in varies and few English instructors.

No skiing opportunities in this tropical coastal city.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing rentals and tours common in Acapulco Bay. Waters generally calm inside the bay.

Surf spots at Revolcadero and Bonfil Beaches, 20-30 min drive. Water is warm year-round. May to October is best season. Schools and rentals available.

Diving available around Acapulco Bay and nearby islands. Good visibility mostly outside bay. Tropical fish and turtles common. PADI centers and rentals available.

Private hospitals like Hospital del Pacífico have English-speaking staff and better service. Public healthcare can be basic and crowded. Pharmacies are common and many meds are OTC.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available.

Parks and some hotels have playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafes and beaches are common. Attractions include La Quebrada divers and Papagayo Park.

Generally accepting, especially in tourist areas. Some LGBTQ+ venues and annual Pride event in June. Discretion advised in conservative areas.

Pet-friendliness varies. Some hotels, restaurants, and a few pet supply stores available. Limited pet parks.