MONTREAL — Long a symbol of Mexican glamour, Acapulco has seen its share of challenging years.
There have been episodes of crime and violence, and devastating hurricanes – the most recent of which, Otis, hit the city hard in 2023. No wonder the famous seaside resort in the state of Guerrero experienced decreased visitor numbers over the years.
But tourism officials say the Mexican Riviera of its heyday – in the 1950s and 1960s – has never stopped believing in its renaissance.
And many believe the pearl of the Pacific is gradually regaining its lustre.
Supported by significant public and private investments, Acapulco is working to reconnect with the prestige that made its name.
The modernization of the waterfront, the opening of new hotel complexes, and the strengthening of security infrastructure reflect a genuine desire for revitalization.
For travel advisors, the destination is once again becoming an attractive product, capable of offering a skillful blend of retro charm, authentic Mexican character and spectacular scenery.
LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL
Ana Guillermina Camarena, Director of Promotion for the Acapulco Tourism Office, was in Montreal recently along with Mexican consul in Montreal, Tania Lara Ortiz, to spread the word about Acapulcoʻs resurgence.
“Major investments have been made in the repair of public infrastructure, particularly at the airport and along the coast,” said Camarena. “Several hotels also took advantage of the period following Hurricane Otis to modernize their facilities.”
VAST HOTEL INVENTORY
Today the destination has an inventory of 16,000 rooms, a tangible sign of the colossal work accomplished in just two years, when nearly 70% of the 19,000 rooms that Acapulco had in 2023 had been severely damaged by Otis.
Hotel Alba Suites enjoys an ideal location in the heart of Acapulco, near Caleta and Caletilla beaches and the San Diego Fort Historical Museum.
“It’s an excellent choice for families, who can enjoy five swimming pools and a waterslide,” said the hotelʻs Director of Sales, Carlos Pérez Guevara. “The hotel is also well-suited for extended stays, with rooms equipped with kitchenettes. We also offer a free shuttle service to the city centre and the beach.”
BACK ON THE RADAR
Beyond its legendary bay, once frequented by celebrities like Elvis Presley and Elizabeth Taylor, Acapulco boasts numerous attractions. The city offers a multitude of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and windsurfing, and is known for its vibrant nightlife.
Always a favourite, the fearless divers of La Quebrada plunge into the sea from the top of vertiginous cliffs. Acapulco is also preparing to host the 50th edition of Tianguis Turístico México, the country’s biggest tourism conference, April 27 – 30, 2026.
Ready to reconnect with its glorious past, Mexico’s first international tourist port is once again on the cruise line’s radar. In recent weeks Norwegian Encore docked in Acapulco, where more than 5,000 people, passengers and crew members, were welcomed by an official ceremony marking Acapulco’s return to the list of key ports of call on Pacific cruise itineraries.
As for direct flights, Air Transat launched direct YUL-ACA flights earlier this month. Itʻs an iconic destination for the company which inaugurated its very first air link there in November 1987, almost 40 years ago.
More information is at VisitAcapulco.travel.