There is a sense of magic nostalgia surrounding the iconic Acapulco, a city of charming beach resorts, high-energy nightlife, and a history of spectacular rises and falls.

By Paola Cigui

Located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, Acapulco has been inhabited by Olmecs, Nahuas, and Coixas. With the arrival of the Spanish in the 1520s, it soon became a Spanish colony. In the 1530s, Hernán Cortés established Acapulco as a major port which was later attacked by English pirates. The port was then devastated by an earthquake in 1776 and the Mexican War of Independence that lasted from 1810 to 1821. Despite the tragedies, the 20th century represented an economic and cultural boom for the city. After the visit of the Prince of Wales, the economic growth and new glamourous reputation began Acapulco’s Golden Age (1940-70). The city was suddenly considered Mexico’s hottest holiday destination, guaranteeing bliss and excitement. Acapulco was chosen as the wedding location of Elizabeth Taylor and Mike Todd, the movie setting of Fun in Acapulco starring Elvis Presley, and the honeymoon destination of JFK and Jackie Kennedy in 1953.

In the 2000s, Mexico’s drug wars left the city broken. Tourists were directed to other destinations in the country such as Cancun in the Yucatán Peninsula. History aside, the natural beauty, ardent nightlife, and delicious cuisine are unbeatable reasons to choose Acapulco as a late summer gateway.

One of the most pristine beaches in Acapulco is Playa de Barra Vieja. This natural beauty has a much more local feel compared to the luxurious beaches in Punta Diamante, offering stunning scenery, a tranquil atmosphere, and delicious local food. On this wildly picturesque beach you can go horseback riding, ride along on an ATV, or enjoy a boat tour of the lagoon and take in the tropical wildlife. The beach offers plenty of restaurants, where you can take a siesta on one of the colorful hammocks set up around your table.

For a bit of serenity and a breathtaking view of Acapulco, give the Capilla de la Paz (“Chapel of Peace”) a visit. This small but charming chapel is located on a cliff off the blissful Las Brisas area of Acapulco. At this location, you can find a white cross over 130 feet tall, a bird sanctuary, gardens, and sculptures such as Las Manos de la Hermanidad (“The Hands of Brotherhood”) by Claudio Favier.

One of the most pristine beaches in Acapulco is Playa de Barra Vieja. This natural beauty has a much more local feel compared to the luxurious beaches in Punta Diamante, offering stunning scenery, a tranquil atmosphere, and delicious local food. On this wildly picturesque beach you can go horseback riding, ride along on an ATV, or enjoy a boat tour of the lagoon and take in the tropical wildlife. The beach offers plenty of restaurants, where you can take a siesta on one of the colorful hammocks set up around your table.

Once in Mexico, every art lover wants to admire the work of the iconic Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera, one of the most controversial couples in the history of Mexico. The traditional part of Acapulco, known as La Costera, treasures one of the last murals done by Rivera, which is a contender for the city’s most valuable cultural artifact. Created in 1956, the mural features Aztec mythology and it was created for Dolores Olmedo, Rivera’s close friend and collector of his paintings.

Pozole is a traditional soup from Mexico. It is a tasty mixture of meat (typically beef or pork or a combination of both) garnished by your choice of shredded lettuce, chili peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, avocado, salsa, and limes. There are three types of pozole: green, white, and red. In the state of Guerrero, every Thursday is Pozole day (called jueves pozolero) and this traditional dish can be easily found in the restaurants of Acapulco.

Cecina is a typical Mexican dish consisting of thinly sliced beef, served with tortillas, sour cream, salsa verde, and the omnipresent ingredient of any Mexican kitchen- lime. If you’re driving from Mexico City to Acapulco, a recommended stop is 4 Vientos, a restaurant located on the highway. In the picture below, cecina, served with homemade tender tortillas, is their absolute specialty

Pescadillas (from the word pescado, meaning fish) are simply fried fish quesadillas. This crunchy delight is usually made of fresh tuna (but can have any local fish available), onion, tomato, garlic, and chilis, wrapped into a fried corn tortilla. They are perfect as appetizers, spiced up with the various salsas, the traditional red or green sauces, and a shot of mezcal or two.

www.lasbrisashotels.com.mx | (52) 744.469.6900

Las Brisas Acapulco guarantees a luxurious experience offering a wide selection of modern stand-alone casitas. This legendary seaside resort features private oceanfront pools, large terraces with the most spectacular views of Acapulco Bay and both relaxing and exploring activities. Ideal for families and couples, this paradisiac resort offers tranquility, romance, and exclusivity.

Once in Acapulco, also known as the Pearl of The Pacific, opt for the most romantic gateway: Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués. This luxury resort has a distinctive Asian feel. Built on high stilts over sheer cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this dreamy boutique resort in Cabo Marques offers a premium spa, all-villa accommodations, and breathtaking views.

www.encantoacapulco.mx | (52) 744 446 7101

Overlooking Acapulco Bay at the highest point of Brisas Marqués, featuring a swimming pool, and boasting views up to 270 º to the Pacific Ocean and all of Acapulco´s bay. Tres Vidas golf course is near this ocean front hotel. Acapulco Airport is 24-minutes’ drive away. This property is also rated for the best value in Acapulco.