Plan a CruiseThe Acapulco cruise terminal is a newly built facility located downtown, directly across from the Zocalo (town square). While the terminal itself is modern, the city offers a vibrant atmosphere known for its legendary nightlife and a history as a magnet for celebrities. Most of the tourist "action," including popular beaches like Playa Condesa, is found east of the terminal in the Zona Dorado (Golden Zone). Acapulco is a diverse city with a population of over 2 million, blending big-city amenities with a small-town feel in many areas.
Getting Around from the Port
The downtown area, including the Zocalo and the Malecon (waterfront promenade) leading to Playa Tlacopanocha, is easily walkable from the cruise terminal. To reach the main tourist hub of the Zona Dorado and Playa Condesa, you can take one of the many VW Bug taxis. A ride to this area typically costs around $3 US. A crucial tip for taxis: always agree on the price with the driver before you get in, as drivers often try to charge tourists more. For most daytime trips, expect to pay around 25 pesos (approximately $2.25 US). For a budget-friendly option, look for the blue and white "Costera" public buses that run along the main strip. A ride costs just a few dollars, but be prepared for a potentially bumpy, hot, and crowded journey.
Attractions and Activities
- La Quebrada Cliff Divers: A quintessential Acapulco experience. Witness skilled divers plunge into the narrow, tide-dependent stream below. Shows are at 1 PM, 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:30 PM. You can watch from a designated platform for a small fee or dine at the La Perla restaurant for a prime view.
- Zócalo (Town Square): Located directly across from the cruise terminal, this is Acapulco's historical heart. Explore the local culture, visit Acapulco's cathedral, and find numerous restaurants ranging from sidewalk bistros to tiny street-corner kitchens, some offering full dinners for as little as 35 pesos.
- Xtasea Zip Line: For thrill-seekers, Acapulco boasts the world's longest over-the-sea zip line, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
- Beaches: Acapulco offers many choices. Playa Tlacopanocha is a cute, small beach walkable from the terminal along the Malecon. For more activity, head to Playa Condesa in the Zona Dorado (approx. $3 US taxi ride).
- Artisans' Mall: Located across from Plaza Bahia, this open-air market is ideal for finding inexpensive arts, crafts, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected here; a common strategy is to aim for around half or even a third of the initial asking price.
Dining & Shopping
For dining, the Zócalo area, directly opposite the terminal, offers a wide array of options, from small eateries to cafes, where you can find full dinners for as little as 35 pesos. Shopping options near the port include the Zócalo itself, which is a historic part of the city featuring hundreds of shops selling gifts, crafts, jewelry, and clothing. It's recommended to shop here during daylight hours. The Artisans' Mall, located across from Plaza Bahia, is an open-air market for arts, crafts, and souvenirs, where bargaining is key to getting good prices.
Safety
- Always keep a close eye on your personal belongings.
- When taking a taxi, always agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid being overcharged. Drivers often try to charge tourists more.
- For shopping in the Zocalo area, it is advisable to do so during the daytime.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as the US dollar ($), which can be confusing. Look for "US$" or an "S" with a double stroke to identify prices in US dollars. The exchange rate is approximately 17 pesos to 1 US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Credit cards are less commonly accepted than in Europe or the USA, and some businesses may add a surcharge of around 5% for card transactions. Spanish is the official language. English proficiency is common in tourist areas.