Acapulco Beach: Music, Parties, and Hollywood Legends

Explore Acapulco Beach, famous for its music, parties, and Hollywood history. Enjoy the top spots for fun and relaxation on Acapulco Beach.

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Introdução

Acapulco Beach is one of the most famous beaches in México. It is located in the state of Guerrero and it’s on the Pacific coast. It is well-known for its clear blue sea, golden sand, and warm weather. People from all around the world visit Acapulco Beach to enjoy the beautiful views, relax in the sun, swim in the ocean, and have fun. It is a place where families, friends, and solo travelers come to make unforgettable memories.

Acapulco has a long history. It has been a popular spot for national and international travelers for many years. In the past, it became famous because of movies and because famous people visited it. Hollywood stars, like Elvis Presley, visited Acapulco for vacations and were seen in movies filmed there. This made the beach even more well-known. Over time, many people came to Acapulco Beach to see the places the stars visited and enjoy the same beautiful sights they saw.

A panoramic view of the Acapulco beach and city skyline, with lush green hills surrounding the coastline and tall buildings by the shore.
Discover the stunning view of Acapulco.

Today, Acapulco Beach is still a popular destination for travelers. People come to relax on the beach, explore the town, and enjoy many fun activities. The beach has changed a lot over the years, but it still keeps its charm. The views, the exciting things to do, and the warm weather continue to attract travelers from all over the world. Even though other beaches have become popular in Mexico, Acapulco Beach remains a favorite for many. Especially for many Mexicans.

In this article, we will learn about the history of Acapulco Beach. We will talk about how it became famous, what made it change over time, and what makes it special today. We will also share the best things to do, the best beaches to visit, the best food to try, and the best places to stay when you visit Acapulco. Let’s explore Acapulco Beach together!

The rugged coastline of Acapulco with waves crashing against the rocks and a sandy beach in the background, offering a scenic ocean view.
Enjoy the beauty of Acapulco’s rocky shores and clear waters, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Como chegar lá?

Getting to Acapulco is relatively easy. The most common method for international and long-distance travelers is flying directly into the General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA). Alternatively, for those starting in Central Mexico, driving or taking a comfortable long-distance bus from Cidade do México is a very popular option, which typically takes around 4 to 6 hours on well-maintained toll roads (the Autopista del Sol).

The History of Acapulco Beach

A long time ago, Acapulco Beach was a quiet place with small groups of people living near the ocean. The first people to live there were the indigenous people of Mexico. They used the beach for fishing and trading. Over time, the Spanish came to Mexico, and they built a big city by the ocean in Acapulco (the first big city by the ocean was Villa Rica de la Veracruz). In the 20th century, people from all over the world started visiting Acapulco Beach.

It became a popular place for the rich and famous to relax and have fun. In the 1950s and 1960s, many Hollywood stars went to Acapulco for vacation, as it was a hidden gem at the time. They loved the warm weather and the beautiful views. Acapulco Beach became a place for movies and parties. One of the most famous movies that made Acapulco Beach even more popular was Fun in Acapulco, a film with Elvis Presley. In the movie, Elvis sings and plays music on the beach. The movie showed everyone how special Acapulco Beach is, and many people wanted to visit the beach after watching it.

A vintage black-and-white photograph featuring Elvis Presley between two actresses, exuding classic Hollywood charm.
Ursula Andress, Elvis Presley and Elsa Cárdenas from the movie Fun in Acapulco.

Why Was Acapulco So Famous?

Acapulco Beach was famous for a few big reasons. First, it was a beautiful place to visit. People loved the clear water and the warm weather. Second, Acapulco was known for having big parties and exciting nightlife. Many famous people, like movie stars and musicians, went there to have fun and relax.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the beach was the most popular place for tourists in Mexico. People came from all over the world to enjoy the praias, the food, and the parties. Hollywood stars like Sylvester Stallone, Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor also visited Acapulco Beach. It was a place where the rich and famous stayed in fancy hotels and enjoyed the good life. In fact, there was a restaurant in this place called Planet Hollywood, which was created by a Las Vegas businessman and owner of several casinos; Robert Earl.

A retro photo of a man standing on the beach in Acapulco in the 70s, surrounded by palm trees and beach huts.
A throwback to the golden days of Acapulco’s beach scene, where the sun and sand never go out of style.

The Rise and Fall of Acapulco Beach

Acapulco Beach was at its best in the 1950s and 1960s. However, in the 1970s and 1980s, new beach towns como Cancun e Puerto Vallarta started to grow. These new places had new hotels and more modern attractions. Many people stopped going to Acapulco Beach and started visiting other places.

Also, Acapulco had problems with crime and safety. Some tourists stopped visiting because they felt it wasn’t safe. Even though Acapulco was still a nice place, it wasn’t as popular as it used to be. Also, natural disasters have occurred and affected Acapulco’s city and beach.

In recent years, Acapulco Beach has tried to become popular again. Some of the old hotels and attractions have been fixed up. The beach is still a beautiful place, and many people still visit to enjoy the sun, the ocean, and the great views. In addition, nightlife has been growing and is returning to the vibes it had in the 1960s.

Local fishermen working together to pull a boat onto the beach in Acapulco, with the ocean and pelicans in the background.
Hardworking fishermen of Acapulco.

The Art and Culture of Acapulco Beach

Acapulco Beach is not only famous for its beautiful views, but also for its connection to Mexican artists. Many famous Mexican artists, like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, visited Acapulco Beach. They loved the beach’s natural beauty and used it in their art. Acapulco is also famous for its connections to Mexican cinema legends like Maria Felix and Agustin Lara.

Both stars shared a special connection to the city, and many of their memories are linked to the Hotel Mirador. Maria Felix was one of Mexico’s most iconic actresses. It was here that she met Agustin Lara, a famous Mexican composer and singer. Their love story became part of Acapulco’s history. They spent many unforgettable moments in this hotel, adding to the magic and romance of the place.

A short commercial about our Acapulco trip.

In addition to the Hollywood stars and artists, Acapulco Beach has also seen famous musicians such as Luis Miguel, the renowned Mexican singer, who is known not only for his incredible voice but also for his personal life, which captured the public’s attention. Luis Miguel has a strong connection to Acapulco Beach, often spending time there. He is also known for his high-profile relationships, including with international pop star Mariah Carey.

Although their relationship ended years ago, Luis Miguel’s connection to Acapulco remains, and his songs continue to be a staple of the city’s romantic atmosphere. Many of his fans visit Acapulco to see where he spent time and perform, making it a romantic destination linked to his legacy. Some artists and politicians even lived in Acapulco and some of their homes have become museums or art galleries. The art of Acapulco can be found in many parts of the city, especially in the buildings and hotels.

A vintage artwork depicting women in bathing suits on the beach, evoking a 1930s style of summer leisure and beach culture.
Acapulco by Caroline Durieux.

La Quebrada: The Famous Cliff Divers

One of the most exciting things to do at Acapulco Beach is to watch the cliff divers at La Quebrada. It is a place with very high cliffs, and every day, brave people jump into the ocean from these cliffs. The divers jump from heights that are up to 35 meters! They make this dangerous jump look easy, and it is a very popular show for tourists. The tradition of mergulho from the cliffs started many years ago. It has become a famous activity in Acapulco, and many people visit the city just to see the cliff divers.

Cliff divers jumping off the rocky edges into the waters below in Acapulco, a popular adventurous activity in the city.
Experience the thrill of cliff diving in Acapulco, where adrenaline meets amazing views at this iconic location.

Top Activities in Acapulco Beach

There are many things to do in Acapulco Beach. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy:

  • Lagoon Boat Tours: You can take a boat ride on the beautiful Coyuca Lagoon. The water is calm, and you can see lots of birds and other animals. It’s a peaceful place to relax.
  • Mud Massages: Acapulco is famous for its mud baths. These baths are good for your skin and make you feel relaxed. You can find these mud baths at many places around the beach.
  • Hiking: Acapulco has many hills and mountains. You can go hiking and explore nature. Some hikes take you to the top of cliffs where you can see beautiful views of the ocean.
  • Thermal Baths: If you want to relax, you can visit hot springs nearby. The water is warm and is said to be good for your health.
A serene tropical beach with palm trees lining the shore, creating a perfect tropical paradise in Acapulco.
Coyuca Lagoon in Acapulco.

Best Beaches in Acapulco

Acapulco has many beautiful beaches, and each one is special. Some of the best beaches are:

  • Playa Condesa: This beach is very popular. It is perfect for people who want to be close to restaurants, shops, and bars. You can also enjoy water sports here.
  • Playa Mahahua: If you want a quieter beach, Playa Mahahua is a good choice. It is less crowded and perfect for relaxing.
  • Playa Barra Vieja: This beach is known for its beautiful sunsets. It’s a great place to enjoy frutos do mar frescos at the restaurants by the shore.
  • Punta Cometa: This is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Acapulco. It’s a peaceful spot with a great view.
  • Miguel Alemán Coastal Road: The most iconic and famous coastal road in this beautiful Mexican destination.
A beautiful sunset over the Acapulco beach, with the sun setting behind the ocean and casting vibrant colors across the sky.
End your day with a spectacular sunset at Acapulco Beach, where the sky meets the ocean in stunning colors.

Best Beaches to Watch the Sunset

If you love sunsets, Acapulco has some great spots to watch the sun go down:

  • Playa Barra Vieja: This beach has one of the best sunset views in Acapulco. The colors of the sky are amazing!
  • Punta Cometa: Another great spot for sunsets. You can enjoy a peaceful evening while watching the sun set over the ocean.
Watch the sun set over the horizon at Acapulco Beach, offering an unforgettable display of nature’s beauty.

Best Food and Restaurants in Acapulco

Acapulco Beach is also known for its delicious food. Some of the best dishes to try are:

  • Fish Tacos: This is a must-try dish. You can find fish tacos all over Acapulco.
  • Ceviche: This dish is made with fresh seafood, and it’s very popular in Acapulco.
  • Pescado a la Talla: This is grilled fish with special sauces. It’s a favorite of many locals.

Some of the best restaurants in Acapulco include:

  • La Perla Restaurant: This restaurant is famous for its seafood and beautiful view of the ocean.
  • Zócalo Area: Here, you can find many small restaurants serving local Mexican dishes.
  • 100% Natural:This restaurant is a classic on this beach, offering delicious dishes perfect for fitness enthusiasts.
A delicious grilled fish platter served with green and red salsas, showcasing a local Acapulco specialty for seafood lovers.
A must-try dish in Acapulco!

Best Hotels in Acapulco: Punta Diamante

Punta Diamante is one of the best places to stay in Acapulco. It has many luxury hotels, perfect for those who want to relax in style. Some top hotels include:

  • Princess Mundo Imperial: A large resort in Punta Diamante with many facilities and services.
  • Hotel Encanto Acapulco: A modern hotel with beautiful design and great service.
  • Holiday Inn Acapulco: It’s not in Punta Diamante but it’s one of the best hotels in Acapulco.
A beachfront hotel in Acapulco surrounded by palm trees, offering a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.
Relax in style at one of Acapulco’s top beachfront hotels: Princess Mundo Imperial.

Best Bars and Clubs in Acapulco

Acapulco Beach also has a great nightlife scene. You can find fun bars and clubs to enjoy:

  • Terraza Sunset Bar: A casual place where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the beach atmosphere.
  • Barbarroja Acapulco: If you want to dance all night, Barbarroja is the place to go. It’s one of the best party places in Acapulco.
  • Hannah Sun Club: A magical place to dance all-night-long!
  • Baby’O: It’s an iconic nightclub, famous for glamorous nightlife and celebrities. Salma Hayek was there also.

Conclusion: Why Visit Acapulco Beach

Acapulco Beach is a very special place, even though it has changed a lot over the years. It is still one of the best places to visit in Mexico because of its beautiful history, stunning beaches, and fun activities. No matter what you enjoy, Acapulco Beach has something for everyone.

One of the best things to do is watch the brave cliff divers at La Quebrada. It is exciting to see people jump from high cliffs into the ocean below. Another great part of visiting Acapulco is the delicious food. You can try fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled fish, which are popular dishes. There are also many wonderful restaurants where you can enjoy a meal while looking at the ocean.

If you want to relax, the beach is the perfect place. You can lay in the sun, listen to the waves, or take a swim in the warm water. There are also many great hotels near the beach, from luxury resorts to more affordable options, where you can enjoy the beautiful views.

A group of tourists enjoying a boat ride in Acapulco, smiling and posing for a picture in the bright sunshine.
Our Vibe Adventure’s team in Acapulco, 2022.

While Acapulco Beach might not be as famous as it once was, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many people. Over the years, new places have become popular, but Acapulco remains a unique spot in Mexico. The people who visit still love it for the memories they make and the beauty they experience. Finally, is it safe to travel to acapulco? The answer is yes. Due to the plan to increase tourism after the hurricanes that have devastated the area, security is at its highest throughout the coastal zone and surrounding areas, especially in the evening and at night.

The city has a perfect mix of fun, adventure, cultura, and relaxation. It offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for excitement or just a place to unwind. Acapulco Beach is a destination that will always be cherished by anyone who has visited. It’s a place that stays in your heart long after you leave, and it will always be remembered as a beautiful part of Mexico.

Vídeo informativo

Welcome to Acapulco beach in Mexico!