What's the best time to visit Acapulco?
The best time to visit Acapulco is during the winter months from December to March when the weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with tourists enjoying the beaches and nightlife. This period also hosts various festivals and events, such as the Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe in December and the Mexican Open sports event in February/March.
Known for some of the best beaches not only in Mexico but in the world, Acapulco is one of those places you visit and fall in love with head over heels right away. Be it the delicious tacos, water-based activities, or hiking, Acapulco caters to all travelers’ needs.
That said, knowing when to visit Acapulco is key to ensuring a lovely stay, as the weather can either make or break your stay. So, read on to learn about the best time to visit Acapulco, as well as some helpful travel tips along the way.
The Overall Best Time to Visit Acapulco
OAXACA, MEXICO-DEC 10, 2015: Beautiful ladys celebrating Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe) on Dec 10, 2015 . Oaxaca, Mexico. It is a popular Catholic feastival/Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock
The overall best time to visit Acapulco is in winter (December–March). This is Acapulco’s peak tourist season, which translates into awesome weather, busy beaches, and bustling nightlife.
Plus, the winter months are the only time of the year with flights from the US available all the time; the rest of the time, visitors are required to catch a regional flight from Mexico City.
That said, note that, thanks to the high demand and warm weather, these months see higher airfare and hotel rates. One of the main events during this period is the December Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Featuring street parties, flowery ornaments, live performances, and costumes, the festival is not only a deeply religious holiday but also a joyous and entertaining one. December visitors shouldn’t miss the Posadas de Navidad, either.
An important aspect of the annual Christmas celebrations, these religious festivities are usually found around the town square. The beginning of January has the Three Kings Day celebrations — a time for both giving and receiving presents.
You can find plenty of buffets in local restaurants around this time. A popular event, Candelaria features an afternoon parade at the beginning of February alongside marching bands, floats, fireworks, and costumes.
One of the most popular sports events in Latin America, the Mexican Open is a must for all February/March visitors. Besides sports fans, February sees an influx of visitors for The Carnival.
Held annually, Acapulco’s Carnival is known for its memorable performances, colorful costumes, and great food and drinks. These months see average temperatures between 72°F and 86°F.
Cheapest Time to Visit Acapulco
Acapulco, Mexico-December 24 2020: A view of Caleta beach, it can see Sand and people, Acapulco/ehudson/Sutterstock
The cheapest time to visit Acapulco is in the spring, in April and May. Acapulco’s shoulder season is known not only for the more affordable hotel/flight deals.
But it also has pleasant weather (the temperatures at this time vary between 74°F and 87°F) and interesting events such as Semana Santa (April), featuring rituals, ceremonies, and processions, as well as the French Festival (May).
A multicultural event, Acapulco’s French Festival covers music, cinema, gastronomy, fashion, and literature. For Easter festivities, consider Holy Week — highlights include the confetti-filled eggs and parties in nearby clubs and beaches.
Music lovers should check out Festival de Música de Acapulco (May) and enjoy international and domestic music performances.
Then, there’s the annual boat show organized at the Acapulco Yacht Club. Skimfest is yet another May event worth checking out if you’re a fan of surfing competitions. The end of the month draws in visitors for Acafest, a yearly music festival.
Least Busy Time to Visit Acapulco
Mexico City, Mexico, ; October 26 2019: Parade of catrinas at the Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico City/Eve Orea/Shutterstock
The least busy time to visit Acapulco is in the fall, either in October or November. Just like spring’s shoulder season, this one has ideal weather conditions — add the dispersed crowds in the mix, and you have yourself the perfect Acapulco stay.
October and November see average lows of 75°F and highs of 85°F. That said, note that October is one of the most humid months in the entire year, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
In terms of events worth mentioning at this time, note there’s Dia de la Raza (October), a national holiday with large crowds on the streets enjoying colorful parades and fireworks.
Wish to learn more about Acapulco’s past? Mark your calendar for the Guerrero State Anniversary. A yearly event, the Guerrero State Anniversary comes with discounted admission to the Museo de Historia.
November sees the Revolution Day (Aniversario del Inicio de la Revolución Mexicana) festivities. Celebrated yearly, Revolution Day has large parades and civic ceremonies.
Honoring the dead, Dia de Los Muertos is one of the most unique holidays in the entire country.
With people heading to their loved ones’ graves, skulls being sold at every corner, and the plethora of dances, Dia de Los Muertos is a long-lasting tradition. If you fancy Halloween, keep an eye out for All Hallows Eve, a Mexican version of the well-known Halloween holiday.
Worst Time to Visit Acapulco
Acapulco, Mexico – November 28, 2020: Acapulco beach at sunrise, beach at Costera Miguel Aleman, pacific ocean in Mexico/Gill_figueroa/Shutterstock
The worst time to visit Acapulco is during the rainy season, especially during the months of June, July, and August.
Your beach plans can easily get ruined, as when it rains, it usually pours, and you certainly won’t get to experience Acapulco in all its glory. If you go to Acapulco at this time, expect average temperatures between 76°F and 87°F.
The rainy season goes hand in hand with the annoying summer humidity, which is more than enough to make you reconsider your outdoor plans. That said, if you do decide to visit Acapulco at this time, you’ll come across fewer crowds, emptier hotels, and reasonable prices.
Still, if you decide to visit during Acapulco’s rainiest months, you can always add a cultural touch to your itinerary to compensate for the lack of great weather.
At the beginning of June, there’s the Black Film Festival, or Festival de Cine Negro, where you can enjoy film screenings in numerous theatre venues. There’s also Dia de la Marina (June), honoring the Mexican Navy.
Acapulco by Month: Climate & Activities
Anton_Ivanov/Shutterstock
Still unsure about the best time to visit Acapulco? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:
January
Winter temperatures in Acapulco range from 21 to 30°C (70-86°F). January is ideal for enjoying the beaches, exploring the historic Fort of San Diego, and attending the annual Acapulco Tennis Open.
February
Similar to January, February maintains pleasant temperatures between 21 to 30°C (70-86°F). Visitors can relax at Playa Condesa, witness the famous cliff divers at La Quebrada, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
March
As spring begins, temperatures range from 22 to 31°C (72-88°F). March is perfect for water activities like jet skiing and parasailing, exploring the Zoofari Park, and attending the Acapulco International Film Festival.
April
Spring temperatures in Acapulco range from 23 to 32°C (73-90°F). It’s an ideal time for snorkeling in Roqueta Island, enjoying the nightlife in the Zona Dorada, and participating in the Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations.
May
May sees temperatures ranging from 24 to 32°C (75-90°F). It’s a great month for exploring the Coyuca Lagoon, attending the Festival Internacional de Jazz, and enjoying the quieter beaches before the summer crowds arrive.
June
Summer arrives with temperatures between 25 to 32°C (77-90°F). June offers opportunities for surfing at Playa Revolcadero, exploring the Naval History Museum, and attending local cultural events.
July
July maintains warm temperatures from 25 to 32°C (77-90°F). It’s a popular month for yacht excursions, visiting the Papagayo Park, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere at the La Condesa district.
August
Temperatures in August range from 25 to 32°C (77-90°F). It’s an excellent time for enjoying water parks like El Rollo, exploring the La Roqueta Chapel, and participating in the Acapulco Triathlon.
September
As fall begins, temperatures range from 25 to 32°C (77-90°F). September offers a pleasant transition, with opportunities for hiking in the Tres Palos Lagoon area and enjoying the beaches with fewer tourists.
October
October sees temperatures ranging from 24 to 31°C (75-88°F). It’s a great month for deep-sea fishing, exploring the Acapulco Historical Museum, and attending the annual Acapulco Air Show.
November
Fall temperatures range from 23 to 31°C (73-88°F). November is perfect for golfing at the Tres Vidas Golf Course, exploring the Isla de La Roqueta, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Puerto Marques.
December
Winter returns with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30°C (72-86°F). December brings opportunities for holiday celebrations, enjoying traditional Mexican cuisine, and participating in the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
ACAPULCO, MEXICO – OCT 29, 2016: Architecture of Acapulco de Juarez, a major seaport in the state of Guerrero on the Pacific coast of Mexico/Anton_Ivanov/Shutterstock
Why is it called Acapulco?
The name Acapulco is derived from Nahuatl and denotes “the place where the reeds were washed away.”
Do people speak English in Acapulco?
Although Spanish is the main language spoken in Acapulco, most people can communicate in English quite well thanks to the large influx of visitors. That said, brushing up your Spanish skills wouldn’t hurt and goes a long way.
What food is Acapulco known for?
Acapulco is known for the following types of food:
1. Ceviche
2. Pozole
3. Enchiladas
4. Chalupas
5. Tamales
6. Taco
7. Sincronizadas
Is it expensive in Acapulco?
If you stay in Acapulco for a week, you’ll need $1375 (for those going solo), $2470 (for couples), and $4630 (for a family of four). Hotel prices in Acapulco range between $35-160 per night (on average, $40).
Depending on how you plan to spend your days, set aside $24-$49 per day per person for eating out and transportation purposes.
Don’t rely too much on the above-mentioned figures, though. While having insights into previous visitors’ budget data is useful, by the time you actually visit Acapulco, they will likely have been altered.
Is Acapulco a party town?
Yes, Acapulco has many party venues and caters to each visitor’s taste. From heading to Costera Street, Acapulco’s beach bar district, to having a fun night out in Palladium, Acapulco’s top techno club, you’re bound to enjoy the nightlife there.
So, When Should You Visit Acapulco?
| 👍 Best Time to Visit | December to March |
| 💲 Cheapest Time to Visit | April to May |
| 🗓️ Least Busy Time to Visit | October or November |
| 👎 Worst Time to Visit | June to August |
All in all, visiting Acapulco is bound to be a special experience, and now you’re armed with the necessary information to choose the period that works for you the most.
So what are you waiting for — book your trip today and experience for yourself all that Acapulco has to offer. Happy travels!