Acapulco is known for its stunning beaches. You can find it on Mexico’s Caribbean coast on the Pacific Ocean. Aside from that, it has the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. You have Pie de la Cuesta, Caleta, Diamante, the Golden Zone, and more to choose from.
Although Acapulco is not an ideal choice for surfers, foreign tourists visit because their beaches are ideal for rest and relaxation. In fact, Hollywood stars often make their way here to get their much-needed break.
THE 10 BEST Acapulco Beaches to Visit
Aside from that, there are plenty of water activities that you can do here too. From swimming to fishing, to sailing to going horseback riding. Or to just sunning yourself under the tropical sun, your vacation here is not something you will forget. Plus they even have a kayaking tour that is fun!
Of course, you need to prepare yourself for the crowd. Especially in Acapulco’s close-in beaches. However, if you want some peace and quiet, then opt for the remote beaches instead.
There are three tourist areas in Acapulco: 
- Traditional Zone – It is the old Acapulco where you will find Caleta Beach, Zolcalo, San Diego Fort, and La Quebrada. There are plenty of open-air markets here too.
- Diamond Zone – This spot is atop the hills found on the eastern side of the bay. You will find luxury beach resorts, mansions, and beach houses.
- Golden Zone – This is the main tourist area in Acapulco. You will find the best hotels here that will accommodate all kinds of travelers. Aside from that, you will find the El Rollo water park with its water slides, Baby O nightclub, tourist shops, and more.
Tips to Consider for Travelers
Travelers from the United States often head to Mexico’s Pacific Coast in the southern state of Guerrero for Acapulco. In fact, the beautiful city has much to offer locals and guests alike depending on your tastes.
For example, Acapulco Diamante is the right place for those who want to splurge on their vacation. You can book a stay in one of their five-star hotels. On the other hand, if you are here on a budget, Puerto Marques is a great place to find comfortable accommodations.
Top Popular Beaches in Acapulco Bay
If you are ready to soak up the sun, you need to find an ideal spot for you in Acapulco. Fortunately, there are several options for you to consider here. Let’s take a look.
#1 Playa Pie de la Cuesta
Pie de la Cuesta, or “Foot of the Slope”, is a long stretch of yellow sand beach. It runs parallel to the Coyoca Lagoon where you will find a freshwater lake. Aside from that, this is an ideal spot to enjoy beach walks with your partner as it is not crowded. In addition, the sunset here is spectacular. Take note that the waters are a bit rough so exercise caution if you plan on swimming.
#2 Playa Angosta
Another popular tourist destination in Mexico is Playa Angosta. Also called, narrow beach, Angosta is a great spot if you want to avoid the crowd. This narrow stretch of sand lies between two cliffs. Aside from that, it is the next inlet over from La Quebrada. This is where many cliff divers head out to. So don’t forget about the Cliff Divers! In addition, this is the only beach where you can enjoy a full sunset view over the Pacific Ocean.
#3 Playa Revolcadero
Meanwhile, Playa Revolcadero is a wide stretch of sandy beach that opens up to the ocean. If you are looking for luxury hotels, this is where you’ll find one like the Hotel Fairmont Acapulco Princess. Also, the beach fills up with chic travelers who want to clear their heads after a night of partying. Aside from that, many people flock here for swimming as it is near the main road.
#4 Playa Condesa
Playa Condesa is the Golden Zone Central in Acapulco. Many are saying that it is here where tourism and hedonism meet. This is why you should expect large crowds here, especially during the high season. Aside from that, the choppy waters are not suited for swimming. However, you can do water skiing, sailing, turtle release, or just lounging by the beach. Aside from that, you can also go horseback riding on the beach if you like for a unique experience.
#5 Playa Caleta/ Caletilla
Playa Caleta and Playa Caletilla are among the best places to visit while in Acapulco. After all, these two small beaches blend together into a cove just south of the Peninsula de Playas. During the 50s, celebrities and millionaires often headed here for their vacation. Recent years, however, transformed the main beach into a family getaway because of their calm waters.
#6 Playa Icacos
Meanwhile, Playa Icacos holds the record of being the largest beach in Acapulco. In fact, you can surf at one end of the beach then find calm waters at the opposite edge. Aside from that, Icacos is home to large hotels, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. It is a good choice if you want to be in the midst of all the action in Acapulco. Also, there is no shortage of beach games here for the whole family.
#7 Playa Roqueta
Playa Roqueta is on Isla Roqueta which you can reach using water taxis. The Isla la Roqueta is half an hour away from the mainland of the bay of Acapulco. Among the best things that you can do here are various water sports because the waters are calm and inviting. There is tons of snorkeling here too!
#8 Playa Puerto Marques and Playa Majahua
If you ask the locals, many of them will say that Puerto Marqués and Majahua beach are their favorites. Although these two are smaller than bayside beaches, locals head out here because there are fewer people visiting. However, these beaches are ideal for morning to afternoon water adventures. One reason behind this is that the waters go inside the bay at night.
#9 Playa Hornos and Playa Tamarindos
For those who are looking for popular Acapulco beaches, make sure that you jot these two on your list. Aside from being close to Acapulco’s Traditional Zone compared to Playa Hornitos, these two have much to offer tourists. For starters, the rows of palm trees offer some shade from the sweltering heat. Also, the pristine sand is quite inviting especially when it is beside the blue waters of the ocean. This is a favorite hangout by locals and tourists from Mexico City.
#10 Playa Larga
Playa Larga, or “Long Beach” in English, is a long stretch of beach that reaches all the way to Barra Vieja Beach. It is a good place for those who prefer an underdeveloped beach to unwind in. You can find campsites here plus a sea turtle hatchery among others.
Where to Stay
Now that you know the best beaches to visit in Acapulco. It’s time to consider where to stay. Let’s take a look.
Golden Zone
The Golden Zone runs from La Costera to Avalon Excalibur Hotel in Parque Papagayo all the way to the Naval Base. You will not run out of options for the best hotels here. Especially since they cater to all kinds of travelers. Aside from that, there are plenty of activities to do here like visiting El Rollo known for its swimming pool and water slides.
Acapulco Diamante
There are direct flights heading to General Juan N. Alvarez International Airport. From here, you can make your way to Playa Diamante if you want a more luxurious vacation experience. Here you will find a host of activities to choose from like enjoying a round of golf from the numerous golf courses, boat rides to golden beaches nearby, and even a.city tour.
Traditional Zone
If you want to learn more about Acapulco de Juárez then stay in the traditional zone. There are plenty of historic buildings here. Among the famous places, you will find here are La Catedral and Sinfonia. Aside from that, you can make your way to Zocalo which is an open-air market. Also, you will have several beaches at your disposal like Caleta, Hornitos, and La Angosta. While you are here, you can check out Hotel Los Flamingos where famous celebrities like Errol Flynn, Frank Sinatra, and Cary Grant stayed.
Best Time to Visit
The temperature should not be an issue when choosing the time to visit. The average temperatures change just a few degrees between their warmest and coldest months. That said, you still need to take extra precautions during the rainy season. It is best to avoid traveling here from June to October.
Is Acapulco Safe?
Your safety is also something to consider when heading out to any part of Mexico including Acapulco. Although this city is a medium risk to tourists, avoid going outside to neighboring areas.
The recent incident of a shooting attack in Tulum has left many tourists on high alert. One of the victims, German citizen Jennifer Henzold, was hit by stray bullets along with another tourist. The daytime bloodshed is just one of a few examples of a series of killings in the area.
Visit Acapulco
If you are excited to visit the beautiful land of Mexico, you can head to the port of call in Acapulco. The boat trip here will give you a fantastic view of the bay even from a distance. From here, you can make your way to the Bahía de Banderas to explore Puerto Vallarta and other stunning beaches. What are you waiting for? The warm water of Acapulco awaits!
