Acapulco rewards travelers who come prepared. The city is physically spread out along a 12km coastal boulevard, the airport sits 26km southeast of the center, and the rainy season can upend outdoor plans from June through October. This Acapulco travel tips and FAQ guide covers everything from airport transfers and local transport costs to tipping customs, safety, and practical money advice. For seasonal planning, see the best time to visit Acapulco guide. For area-by-area lodging advice, check where to stay in Acapulco. For an overview of all guides, weather, seasons, and hotels, see our Acapulco travel guide.
Acapulco Travel Tips: Getting There
Which Airport to Fly Into
Acapulco International Airport (ACA), officially General Juan N. Alvarez International Airport, is located 26km southeast of the city center in the Diamante Zone. It handles domestic flights from Mexico City (1 hour, Aeromexico, Volaris, Viva Aerobus), Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Tijuana, plus seasonal international flights from Houston, Dallas, and Toronto. A newer alternative: fly into Mexico City (MEX) and take a 5-hour intercity bus (Estrella de Oro line, about 800 MXN each way) for significant savings on airfare.
Airport to City Transport
A taxi from ACA airport to the Golden Zone takes 25-35 minutes and costs 500-600 MXN (US$30-35). Buy your ticket at the official taxi booth inside the terminal to avoid overcharging. Shared shuttle vans cost about 200 MXN per person but make multiple stops. Uber operates in Acapulco but cannot pick up directly at the airport terminal due to local taxi union restrictions. For Uber, walk 5 minutes out to the main road (Boulevard de las Naciones) and request your ride from there, fare is typically 200-300 MXN to the Golden Zone.
Acapulco Travel Tips: Getting Around
Acapulco’s public buses cost 12 MXN (US$0.70) and run the length of the Costera 24 hours a day. The blue-and-white “Costera” buses with air conditioning cost 15 MXN and are slightly more comfortable. Buses get crowded during rush hour and can be slow in Costera traffic, but they’re safe and cover the entire bay. Taxis are abundant: negotiate the fare before getting in since meters are rare. Typical fares: 80-120 MXN within the Golden Zone, 150-200 MXN from Golden Zone to Traditional Zone, 200-300 MXN to the Diamond Zone. Uber is available throughout the city and is typically 20-30% cheaper than taxis, with the added benefit of fixed pricing.
Acapulco Travel Tips: Money and Costs
The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the currency. As of mid-2026, the exchange rate hovers around 17-18 MXN per US dollar. ATMs are widely available along the Costera and in shopping malls. Use bank-affiliated ATMs (Banamex, BBVA, Santander) rather than standalone machines, which charge higher fees. Many restaurants and shops in the Golden and Diamond Zones accept credit cards, but the Traditional Zone is largely cash-based. Tipping: 10-15% at sit-down restaurants, 15-20 MXN per drink at bars, 10-20 MXN for hotel bellhops per bag, and 50-100 MXN per day for hotel housekeeping. Street food stalls and taco stands don’t expect tips.
Acapulco Travel Tips: Safety and Health
Acapulco has safety challenges that require awareness. The tourist zones (Costera, Traditional Zone during daylight, Diamond Zone resorts) are generally safe with a visible police presence. Avoid venturing into residential neighborhoods outside the tourist corridor, especially after dark. The hillside colonias that surround the bay have high crime rates and no reason for tourists to visit. Take authorized taxis or Uber rather than hailing random street taxis at night. The US State Department advises increased caution for Guerrero state. Tap water is not safe to drink, stick to bottled water (agua purificada), which is cheap and available everywhere. Ice in established restaurants and hotels is made from purified water and is safe, but at street stalls, ask “el hielo es de agua purificada?” if unsure. Pharmacies are abundant and well-stocked; you don’t need prescriptions for many medications that require them in the US or Europe.
Acapulco Travel Tips: Language and Customs
Spanish is the primary language. In the Golden and Diamond Zones, hotel staff and restaurant servers speak enough English for transactions. In the Traditional Zone, expect minimal English, knowing basic Spanish phrases goes a long way. “Buenos dias” (good morning), “por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you), “la cuenta, por favor” (the bill, please), and “cuanto cuesta?” (how much does it cost?) will cover most situations. Mexicans are generally warm and patient with visitors who make an effort. Dress is casual: shorts and sandals are acceptable almost everywhere except upscale restaurants and nightclubs, which may require long pants and closed shoes for men.
Acapulco Travel Tips: Weather FAQ
When is hurricane season? June 1 to November 30, with peak activity August through October. Hurricane Otis struck as a Category 5 on October 25, 2023. Is the rainy season really that bad? It depends. June and October are manageable with sunny mornings and afternoon storms. July and August are wet but warm. September is the month to genuinely avoid, with 337mm of rain and only 5 hours of sun per day. Does it ever get cold? No. Even in December and January, the coolest months, daytime highs reach 31°C (88°F) and sea temperatures stay at 28°C (82°F). Can I swim year-round? Yes, sea temperatures range from 27-30°C (81-86°F) every month.
Suggested Hotels in Acapulco
Las Brisas Acapulco
An iconic hillside resort with private casitas and plunge pools overlooking Acapulco Bay, set in 16 hectares of hibiscus gardens. Best for couples and honeymooners. Check rates and availability
Emporio Acapulco
A modern beachfront hotel in the Golden Zone with three pools, spa, and ocean-view rooms directly across from Galerias Diana shopping mall. Best for couples and business travelers. Check rates and availability
Hotel Acapulco
A clean, budget-friendly option near the Traditional Zone with air conditioning and free parking, walking distance to the Zocalo. Best for solo travelers and backpackers. Check rates and availability
