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Where to Stay in Acapulco

Where to Stay in Acapulco

Acapulco Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Mainly in Old Acapulco, budget-friendly dorms and private rooms, with a social atmosphere.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Along La Costera Miguel Alemán, comfortable stays with good amenities at fair prices.

  • Luxury Hotels and Resorts

    Concentrated in the Golden and Diamante Zones, all-inclusive options with extensive facilities.

  • Boutique Hotels

    A smaller collection of properties offering personalized service and unique design.

Other Stays

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Widely available via platforms, offering more space and privacy for families or groups.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism

    Limited within Acapulco itself, more likely in surrounding rural communities.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Very limited or not present in main tourist areas; basic campgrounds might be outside the city.

  • House/Pet Sitting

    Explore options on platforms like TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Neighborhood Guide

Acapulco’s distinct neighborhoods offer different atmospheres and access to attractions. Your choice shapes your stay.

Old Acapulco

Pros
  • Closer to historical sites and local culture.
  • More budget-friendly accommodation and dining.
  • A more genuine Acapulco experience.
  • Excellent proximity to local buses.
Cons
  • Can feel less polished than resort zones.
  • Some areas are crowded.
  • Older infrastructure.
  • Exercise caution walking alone late at night.

Golden Zone

Pros
  • Main tourist strip with lively activity.
  • Abundance of hotels, restaurants, and bars.
  • High police presence.
  • Central for beaches, dining, and nightlife.
Cons
  • Can be noisy due to traffic and nightlife.
  • Very touristy.
  • Offers a less "authentic" Mexican experience.
  • High density of visitors.

Diamante Zone

Pros
  • Newer, more upscale properties.
  • Often with larger grounds and more amenities.
  • Quieter and more secluded.
  • Close to the international airport.
Cons
  • More expensive accommodation and dining.
  • Requires taxis to access Old Acapulco or Golden Zone.
  • Offers a less local feel.
  • Limited public transport.

Finding Your Ideal Location

Recommendation

Stay in the Golden Zone for easy access to activities and nightlife. Choose Old Acapulco for a historical and local experience. Select the Diamante Zone for luxury and quiet.

Caleta y Caletilla

Two smaller, calmer beaches adjacent to Old Acapulco. Popular with local families, offering a more relaxed, authentic atmosphere with older, modest hotels.

Booking Strategies

Strategic booking for your Acapulco stay varies by season.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (Late Dec - Apr): Book 3-6 months ahead, specifically for holidays.
  • Shoulder Season (May, Nov - Early Dec): Book 1-3 months ahead for more options.
  • Low Season (Jun - Oct): Booking 1 month or less ahead is usually fine; last-minute deals appear.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices can double or triple during peak holiday periods.

Considerations

  • Trusted Platforms: Use major OTAs (Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com) for hotels.
  • Vacation Rentals: Use Airbnb and Vrbo for apartments and homes.
  • Negotiation: Fixed rates at major hotels; small guesthouses might offer slight discounts for walk-ins in low season.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Review policies for each booking; strict policies often apply to resorts.

Practical Advice

Direct Bookings
  • Some smaller local hotels or guesthouses may have their own direct reservation systems.
  • Compare prices across platforms before making a final choice.
  • Direct bookings sometimes offer exclusive perks or flexibility.
  • Verify all booking terms and conditions carefully.
Special Events
  • During major festivals or events, booking even further in advance is wise.
  • Event dates can cause unexpected spikes in demand and prices.
  • Consider travel insurance for high-value bookings.
  • Always keep confirmation details accessible.

Important Note

Peak Periods
Last-Minute Deals

While possible in low season, relying on last-minute deals for popular properties is not advisable during peak times.

Cancellation Terms

Understand these terms fully before confirming; fees often apply for cancellations close to arrival.

Accommodation Recommendations

Find options across various budget levels and travel styles for your Acapulco stay.

Budget & Mid-Range

Budget Stays

Hostel Bambudda (Old Acapulco): Dorms and private rooms, social atmosphere. Hotel Costa Azul (Near Golden Zone): Simple, clean, good value, often has a pool.

  • Hostel Bambudda (Old Acapulco)
  • Hotel Costa Azul (Near Golden Zone)
  • Good for solo travelers
  • Cost-effective
Mid-Range Options

Hotel Elcano (Golden Zone): Classic Acapulco hotel, renovated, direct beach access. Gamma Acapulco Malecón (Old Acapulco): Modern, good amenities, near main square.

  • Hotel Elcano (Golden Zone)
  • Gamma Acapulco Malecón (Old Acapulco/Downtown)
  • Comfort with amenities
  • Central locations

Luxury & All-Inclusive

Luxury Stays

Princess Mundo Imperial (Diamante Zone): Iconic, pyramid-shaped resort, golf courses. Banyan Tree Cabo Marques (Diamante Zone): Exclusive clifftop villas, private pools, stunning views.

  • Princess Mundo Imperial Riviera Diamante Acapulco
  • Banyan Tree Cabo Marques
  • High-end experience
  • Secluded and premium
All-Inclusive Resorts

Dreams Acapulco Resort & Spa (Golden Zone): Family-friendly, kids' club. Emporio Acapulco (Golden Zone): Large pools, central location on La Costera.

  • Dreams Acapulco Resort & Spa
  • Emporio Acapulco
  • Convenient and activity-rich
  • Popular choice

Traveler Specific Options

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Most large resorts in Golden and Diamante Zones cater to families, offering kids' clubs and expansive pool areas. Dreams Acapulco, Princess Mundo Imperial, Park Royal Beach Resort Acapulco.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels like Hostel Bambudda for social settings. Mid-range hotels on the Costera offer convenience and easy access to activities.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals via Airbnb or Vrbo are ideal for longer stays, offering kitchens and more space. Some hotels might offer extended stay rates.

  • Cultural & Historical Properties

    Las Brisas Acapulco: Iconic pink and white casitas, private pools, classic glamour. Hotel Los Flamingos: Once owned by Hollywood figures, vintage charm.

Properties with Unique Ambiance

  • Las Brisas Acapulco

    Famous for its iconic pink and white casitas, once a favorite of Hollywood stars. Retains classic Acapulco glamour, with private or semi-private pools.

  • Hotel Los Flamingos

    Known as the 'Pink Palace', once owned by Johnny Weissmuller and other Hollywood figures. Is a vintage charm, offering a glimpse into Acapulco’s Golden Age.

  • Dreams Acapulco Resort & Spa

    A family-friendly all-inclusive option with multiple pools, a kids' club, and a variety of activities for all ages.

  • Gamma Acapulco Malecón

    A modern hotel with good amenities, near the main square and port, providing convenience for exploring the traditional zone.

Helpful Reminders

Review Current Conditions

Read recent reviews before booking to gain current insight into property conditions and service quality.

  • Check online travel agency reviews.
  • Look for recent guest comments.
  • See photos uploaded by visitors.
  • Consider independent travel blogs.
Set Proper Expectations

This practice sets proper expectations for your stay, avoiding potential disappointments upon arrival.

  • Understand the hotel's policies.
  • Note the exact location and access.
  • Clarify amenities included in your rate.
  • Confirm any additional fees beforehand.

Unique Stays

Banyan Tree Cabo Marques

An exclusive clifftop villa resort offering privacy, stunning bay views, and personalized service. Villas have private pools.

Las Brisas Acapulco

Iconic for its pink and white casitas, once a favorite of Hollywood stars. Retains classic glamour and has private or semi-private pools.

Hotel Elcano

A classic Acapulco hotel, renovated for modern comfort while retaining its charm. Direct beach access and two pools.