Pacific Coast Destination Guide

Overview of Pacific Coast The Pacific coast contains some of Mexico's principal beach resorts as well as other lesser-known scenic spots and small coastal villages. The coast is backed by sweeping jungles that reach down to the clear blue waters of the Pacific. The central coast is known as the Mexican Riviera, and has international beach resorts like Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta, excellent seafood, and a large selection of adventure tourism attractions and activities. It is also one of the leading resort destinations in the country, with miles of palm trees, golden beaches and picturesque bays, excellent surf, an active nightlife, elegant dining and luxury accommodation. From Mazatlán in the north, the 'Pearl of the Pacific', to the exhilarating action of the famous cliff divers of Acapulco, bird watching near the small fishing village of San Blas, and the jade green waters of Puerto Escondido, the Pacific coastal region holds something for everyone. There are frequent bus services along the Pacific coast, connecting the main towns and resorts. Local buses service the beaches in and around the main towns. Taxis are readily available in the resort areas. Acapulco, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta have ports with ferries and cruise ship dockings.

Key Facts

Language: Spanish is the official language in Mexico. Some English is spoken in tourist regions. Passport/Visa: All foreign passengers to Mexico must hold a Mexico Visitor's Permit (FMM), which is issued free of charge, and obtainable from airlines, Mexican Consulates, Mexican international airports, and border crossing points. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers transiting through the United States are required to present a passport, or other valid travel document, to enter or re-enter the United States. Foreign passengers to Mexico should ensure that their passports and other travel documents are in good condition - even slightly torn passports will not be accepted. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: Mexican currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), divided into 100 centavos. Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly Visa, MasterCard and American Express. ATMs are available in most cities and towns and are the most convenient way to get money, but for safety reasons should only be used during business hours and vigilance is advised. Although many businesses will accept foreign currency (particularly US Dollars) it is best to use pesos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses), which have longer hours and offer a quicker service than the banks. Electricity: 110-120 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin flat blade attachment plugs are standard.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Pacific Coast Health Notes when travelling to Mexico Those entering Mexico from an infected area require a yellow fever certificate. There are no vaccination requirements for visitors to Mexico, however visitors should take medical advice if travelling outside the major tourist areas. A malaria risk exists in some rural areas, but not on the Pacific and Gulf coasts, and dengue fever is on the increase. Vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A and typhoid. Travellers who may come into close contact with animals and may be at risk of bites should consider a rabies vaccination. Sensible precautions regarding food and water should be followed and visitors are advised to be cautious of street food and stick to bottled water. Medical facilities are basic, so comprehensive medical insurance is recommended. As medicines may be in short supply in certain areas travellers should consider taking along prescription medications, in their original packaging, and accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed. Note: Zika is still a risk in Mexico. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should seek advice from healthcare providers before travelling to Mexico. Safety Notes when travelling to Mexico There can be incidents of robberies and muggings in Mexico, especially in the big cities such as Mexico City. Travellers, particularly women on their own, should be vigilant and take care of their belongings, especially on public transport. Only use authorised taxi services, and try to avoid bus travel at night. Visitors are advised to be wary of people presenting themselves as police officers attempting to fine or arrest them for no apparent reason, leading to theft or assault. If in doubt ask for identification. Most of the violence related to drug cartel wars in Mexico is concentrated along the border between Mexico and the United States. Tourist zones are generally unaffected, though it is worth checking the news before travelling. Hurricanes may affect the coastal areas between June and November. Customs in Mexico Mexicans are not impatient and do not appreciate impatience in others, so travellers should expect opening hours and public transport times to be flexible and laid back. Mexicans are friendly and hospitable people and courteous behaviour and polite speech in return is greatly appreciated. Travellers should also note that it is common for Mexicans to communicate closer than one arm's length from each other and that it is not an attempt to be forward. Duty Free in Mexico Travellers to Mexico over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 200g tobacco; 3 litres spirits or 6 litres wine; other goods to the value of US$500 if arriving by air, or US$300 if arriving by land are premitted without incurring duty fees. Prohibited goods include narcotics, firearms and used clothing that is not part of your personal luggage. The export of archaeological artefacts is strictly forbidden. Doing Business in Mexico In Mexico, business is ideally conducted face-to-face. Although many Mexican businessmen speak perfect English, Spanish is the official language of business in Mexico - and learning a few choice words and phrases will go a long way toward ingratiating yourself with your new associates. Business etiquette in Mexico is marked by a combination of formality and friendliness. It is very rare to hear the word 'No' being used in a direct or confrontational way - bald refusals are seen as rude. Use titles ('Señhor' and 'Señhora') until specifically instructed not to do so, but do not shrink away from engaging in personal discussions with your colleagues. Business meetings must be scheduled in advance, and then confirmed a few days before they are due to take place. The dress code for the Mexican business world is smart and formal. Business hours in Mexico are generally from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (with a 2 or 3 hour siesta in the early afternoon). Communication in Mexico The international access code for Mexico is +52. If calling internationally from a phone booth use the official TelMex phone booths, as all others charge very high fees. There is widespread network coverage in Mexico from Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T Mexico. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available.

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Tipping in Mexico Tipping is customary in Mexico for almost all services as employees are not paid sufficient hourly wages and often rely on tips. Waiters and bar staff should be tipped 10 to 15 percent if a service charge hasn't already been added to the bill. The American custom of tipping 15 to 20 percent is practiced at international resorts, including those in Los Cabos. Passport/Visa Note All foreign passengers to Mexico must hold a Mexico Visitor's Permit (FMM), which is issued free of charge, and obtainable from airlines, Mexican Consulates, Mexican international airports, and border crossing points. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers transiting through the United States are required to present a passport, or other valid travel document, to enter or re-enter the United States. Foreign passengers to Mexico should ensure that their passports and other travel documents are in good condition - even slightly torn passports will not be accepted. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

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Airports in Pacific Coast Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/en/puerto-vallarta-3.html Location: Pacific Coast The airport is located 5 miles (8 km) north of Puerto Vallarta. Time: Local time is GMT -6 (GMT -5 from first Sunday in April to second last Saturday in October). Contacts: Tel: +52 (322)221 1298. Getting to the city: Areomovil taxi transportation is the main source of transport from the airport, as well as combi bus (Colectivo minivan) which charge rates based on the zone of travel. The fare must be paid before departure at a small kiosk located just outside the terminal. Limos.com also provide a service for passengers from the airport. Taxis can be flagged down from the highway. The local bus also travels through to Puerto Vallarta. Car rental: There are several car rental agencies located in the terminal. Airport Taxis: Taxis are available just outside the terminal and rates are charged based on the zones of travel. Facilities: The airport features a bank, a bureaux de change, cash machines, several small shops on the ground level of the airport, duty-free shops, a café, restaurant and a bar. Parking: There is short-term parking available.

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Currency Mexican currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), divided into 100 centavos. Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly Visa, MasterCard and American Express. ATMs are available in most cities and towns and are the most convenient way to get money, but for safety reasons should only be used during business hours and vigilance is advised. Although many businesses will accept foreign currency (particularly US Dollars) it is best to use pesos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses), which have longer hours and offer a quicker service than the banks.

Exchange rate for 1 MXN - Mexican Peso 0.05 BMD 0.05 EUR 0.05 USD 0.04 GBP 5.84 JPY 0.07 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 0.05 CHF 0.07 AUD 1.35 UAH 18.12 KZT 80.81 LBP 0.04 LYD Swiss Franc Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar 0.37 BOB 5.79 NPR 0.02 OMR 0.20 QAR 0.07 SGD 0.44 SEK Bolivian Boliviano Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona 0.36 TTD 0.54 VEF 2.46 DOP 0.36 HRK 31.46 XOF 0.17 PGK Trinidad Tobago Dollar Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 0.05 BSD 0.11 FJD 1.21 HNL 5.93 DZD 63.93 MMK 0.60 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 0.18 PEN 37.22 CLP 25.66 AMD 1.30 CZK 1.07 MDL 6.67 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 157.70 UZS 0.21 ILS 0.04 JOD 0.02 KWD 1.68 UYU 1.91 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 1.53 NIO 0.45 NOK 0.21 PLN 0.20 SAR 7.84 LKR 1.91 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 0.20 AED 0.19 BRL 0.22 RON 0.42 HKD 31.53 XAF 1,206.06 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 0.75 ARS 0.14 XCD 0.42 GTQ 0.52 MAD 0.02 BHD 0.05 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 0.08 AZN 167.31 COP 3.67 KGS 15.01 HUF 0.42 TJS 734.28 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 0.48 EGP 63.92 KRW 304.24 PYG 0.22 MYR 28.91 CRC 0.08 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 5.62 PKR 3.58 RUB 0.84 ZAR 0.11 TND 0.11 BBD 0.09 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 0.16 TRY 2.50 PHP 1.75 TWD 10.54 NGN 5.75 XPF 0.21 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 6.70 JMD 0.10 ANG 0.07 BND 5.93 RSD 0.35 CNY 1,067.81 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 0.36 DKK 0.18 TMT 3.61 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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Mazatlan Overview

The holiday destination of Mazatlán is the most important port on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is also the shrimp capital of the world, with the largest fleet of commercial shrimp vessels in Latin America. This attractive city also has the reputation of being one of Mexico's premier beach holiday resorts. The contrast between commercial port and tourist resort is interesting and sets the place apart from other popular resorts. Travellers will find world-renowned deep sea fishing, miles of lovely beaches, excellent seafood, a variety of water activities and a choice of accommodation to suit all tastes. Fondly called the 'Pearl of the Pacific', Mazatlán boasts Mexico's longest and prettiest waterfront promenade, or malecon. This is the city's defining characteristic, and much of the city's life can be viewed from here. The colonial old town centre is the heart of Mazatlán, where the busy main plaza, alongside the 19th-century cathedral with its blue and gold motifs, and the open-air market, are a hive of activity. The city emanates a combination of laid-back seaside charm and affordable luxury, its beaches lined with bars and outdoor cafés, and the sky above filled with colourful parasails. Sunbathers and hawkers compete for space on the city beaches, and fishing vessels and jet skis circulate in Mazatlán bay.

Shopping in Mazatlan

Mexico is a great place to shop for diamonds because the gems can be purchased here tax-free. The best place to seek out jewellery is Mazatlán's Golden Zone (Zona Dorada) tourist area. The streets of the Golden Zone are a paradise for greedy shoppers, where jewellery, designer clothes, seashell souvenirs and almost anything else imaginable can be found within the tiny boutiques and vast emporiums. The Mazatlán Arts and Crafts Center is a treasure-trove of handmade goods. Wandering the Central Market in Old Mazatlán is a colourful shopping experience, with busy street food stalls under bright umbrellas in front of little stores selling a hodge-podge of crafts, clothing and novelties. Away from the sea, on the Avenida de los Deportes, is a large shopping mall, La Gran Plaza, which has a supermarket stocking essentials. Shops generally open from around 10am and stay open until late.

Dining in Mazatlan

Shrimp in every guise is the mainstay of Mazatlán restaurants. A favourite spot for tasting this tempting crustacean is the tourist-oriented El Shrimp Bucket on Olas Altas, the original of the chain of restaurants that has proliferated throughout Mexico. Great cuisine here is not confined to shrimp, however: Asian and Italian restaurants abound, along with some superb authentic Mexican eateries. Favourites among these include Cenaduria El Túnel, near the Angela Peralta Theatre, famed for its chicken gorditas and the best pozole (pork stew) in town. There is a fairly good choice of dining options around the Plazuela Machado, including the upmarket al fresco Pedro y Lola. For a quick snack opt for a hotdog or taco from a street stall, or find a cheap meal at the Central Market where a few restaurants offer inexpensive daily specials.

Activities in Mazatlan

Mazatlán, like any busy seaside resort, has a lively nightlife with a plethora of dance, live music and drinking venues. Extremely popular are Mexican fiesta theme parties that are organised by the larger hotels. Most of the nightclubs and popular pubs are to be found in the Zona Dorada, offering a variety of music from chilled piano playing to lively local mariachi groups. One of the favourites for locals, offering sizzling Latin beats, is Mundo Bananas, on Avenue Camaron Sabalo. The young crowd tend to favour the Fiesta Land complex at the southern end of the Zona Dorada, which is packed with restaurants and lively clubs like Bora-Bora and Valentinos. Those whose tastes run to other than dancing will find plenty of sports bars, karaoke bars, cocktail bars, and brew houses in which to spend a fun, social evening.

Things to be aware of in Mazatlan

There are lots of hawkers on the beach in Mazatlan and this can become a nuisance to travellers. Don't stray too far from the tourist areas alone as travellers are easy targets for petty crime.

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Ixtapa Overview

A popular port of call and destination for cruise passengers, the Mexican resort of Ixtapa is set on one of the Pacific coastline's most spectacular bays and is justly renowned for its beautiful beaches. It's located just three miles (5km) from the municipal seat of Zihuatanejo. Ixtapa was constructed in the 1970s on a coconut plantation and mangrove estuary and in recent years has given way to high-rise hotels and luxury villas, making it one of Mexico's most modern resorts with an energy and atmosphere that is reminiscent of Acapulco's earlier years. In fact, Ixtapa is only 152 miles (245km) northwest of Acapulco, so the attractions of that famous resort hub are accessible on daytrips and long excursions. Ixtapa is home to the all-inclusive luxury resorts, international restaurants, and upscale shopping most people associate with Mexican beach holidays. The neighbouring town of Zihuatanejo has a very different character, and has become known as a quaint backpackers' hotspot with picturesque winding streets, lots of art galleries and folk appeal, small boutique hotels, and traditional seafood restaurants. The proximity of this more bohemian beach hangout offers visitors a change of scene and mood and more options for dining and accommodation. With breathtaking views, sugary white beaches, offshore tropical islands, two world-class golf courses, exciting scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities, mouth-watering restaurants, and a pulsating nightlife, Ixtapa is fast becoming a popular choice for holidaymakers looking for the perfect beach holiday in Mexico.

Shopping in Ixtapa

There is a good selection of shops available throughout Ixtapa, from boutiques and famous brand and designer names and jewellery stores to specialist shops and craft markets selling local wares. Ixtapa Boulevard is the place to go for shopping centres and stores, as well as the artisan market where popular buys include huaraches (handmade leather sandals), wooden sculptures, art, jewellery, furnishings, beachwear, sarongs and traditional masks. Those looking for the quintessential Mexican souvenir need look no further than Tequila Por Favor, Zihuatanejo's first liquor store, which offers an amazing variety of tequila, fine spirits, and Cuban and Mexican cigars.

Dining in Ixtapa

With some of the most picturesque and romantic beach-side settings, those looking for a night of wining and dining will find there is no shortage of quality restaurants and eateries in Ixtapa. For some of the best seafood around, try 4 Hermanos, and for bit of spice, look no further than Deborah's Chili Beans on Ixtapa Boulevard. For a more familiar dinner, head to Porto di Mare for a bit of Italian fare.

Activities in Ixtapa

The nightlife in Ixtapa is second to none with a good selection of restaurants, bars, clubs and discos to keep you partying into the early hours. Sip a cocktail under the tropical overhang at La Playa Bar in the heart of Zihuatanejo. Head for the world renowned restaurant-cum-disco on Ixtapa's beach, Carlos 'n' Charlie's, to enjoy some of the finest BBQ ribs and dancing. Or head to Bandido's for live music from Wednesday through Saturday. Senor Frog's and Christine on Ixtapa Boulevard see the DJs spin a mix of pop and disco to keep the party going.

Things to be aware of in Ixtapa

There are a lot of peddlers and hawkers along the beach in Ixtapa which can become a nuisance for travellers.

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Puerto Vallarta Overview

Puerto Vallarta is situated in the Bahia de Banderas, a 14-mile (22km) long bay lined with long stretches of sandy beaches. It is the second largest holiday resort on the Pacific coast after Acapulco, but despite its resort status it has managed to maintain its own unique character. Puerto Vallarta's charm is due to its blend of first-world cosmopolitan city and the colonial features of its historic old town. The graceful centre is embellished with quaint cobblestone streets that are lined with delightful white adobe houses, flower-filled wrought-iron balconies and red tiled roofs, making this one of Mexico's most picturesque coastal cities. Puerto Vallarta's luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping centres have spread out along the coast on either side of the original town, allowing Puerto Vallarta to grow as a holiday destination without sacrificing its colonial charms. With more than 250 restaurants, visitors to Puerto Vallarta are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out in this charming city. In Puerto Vallarta tourists will find a cosmopolitan hub which nevertheless boasts the simple pleasures of a Mexican village. Outdoor recreation is limitless in Puerto Vallarta, especially considering the diversity of watersports available, including scuba diving and snorkelling, while whales and dolphins inhabit the bay and can often be seen on organised boat trips.

Shopping in Puerto Vallarta

Even serious shoppers won't be disappointed by the variety of shops in Puerto Vallarta, which line almost every downtown street and range from speciality stores and shopping centres to outdoor markets and art galleries. No other holiday resort destination in Mexico can offer a better shopping experience than Puerto Vallarta. It has developed a reputation as an art centre and there is an abundance of local arts and crafts, such as pottery, ceramics and hand blown glass. Boutiques stock an array of shoes, traditional Mexican sandals and clothing, while the main flea market is the place to bargain for inexpensive handicrafts, clothes and souvenirs.

Dining in Puerto Vallarta

As the culinary capital of Mexico, and host to the annual Gourmet Dining Festival every November, foodies will be in paradise while on holiday in Puerto Vallarta. It is home to some of the best restaurants in Mexico, and offers thousands of places to dine ranging from award-winning venues and family-run restaurants to coffee houses and relaxed beachside cafes. A wide range of international cuisine is available, from Italian to Japanese and French, with the eclectic Daiquiri Dick's coming out tops and La Ola Rica serving popular pizzas and coconut shrimp. For traditional local Mexican fare, visit El Arrayán in the centre of town.

Activities in Puerto Vallarta

The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. There are nightclubs and all night discos, strip bars, live music clubs, bars serving up sundowner cocktails, restaurants that bring on bands after the food has been cleared away, folkloric dancing and Mexican fiestas, and hotel bars where visitors and locals alike gather over a drink for a chat at the end of the day. The centre of the nightlife is the Malecon strip where the vibrant atmosphere suits the young and the young at heart. The South Side features a variety of alternative entertainment, including gay bars and strip shows.

Things to be aware of in Puerto Vallarta

During the warmer months of May to August insects and mosquitoes can become a problem in Puerto Vallarta so be sure to bring plenty of repellent with you.

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Acapulco Overview

Situated on one of the loveliest bays on the Mexican coast, backed by the evergreen vegetation of the Sierra foothills, Acapulco is the Queen of Mexican beach resorts, the loudest and most famous in the country with non-stop energy, high-rise hotels, a glittering nightlife, white beaches and an enormous range of holiday activities. The main attraction in Acapulco is the string of beaches that sweep around the bay, each offering a different atmosphere and ample opportunities for watersports, with calm waters, sun bathing and seafront dining of international quality. The downside of Acapulco city is the shabby, polluted and overcrowded old town area, but it is easy enough to ignore this side of Acapulco with plenty to keep visitors happy along the glitzy holiday resort strip, with its shopping plazas, restaurants and beaches. A famous Acapulco institution since the 1930s are the Quebrada cliff divers, who pitch themselves gracefully from a height of 148ft (45m) into the seemingly shallow water of a narrow chasm in the ocean below after praying at the small rock shrine for safety.

Shopping in Acapulco

One of the pleasures of a holiday in Acapulco is shopping for souvenirs, of which there is a plentiful, varied selection gathered from all over Mexico. Handmade leather goods, locally made textiles, beautiful pieces of silver jewellery, bright and lovely ceramics, and even inspiring paintings by local artists are just some of the things on offer in the markets, stores and beachfront stalls. The older areas of Acapulco have a number of well-priced tailors and quaint souvenir shops. A good spot to indulge in some bargain hunting is the open-air artisan's mall opposite the Plaza Bahia, where it is possible to do a little haggling for arts and crafts. The native-made goods may be appealing, but just as desirable for avid shoppers are the many upscale boutiques selling well known designer labels which pepper the streets of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), also dubbed Mexico's 'Sunset Boulevard'. As far as modern malls go, Acapulco's biggest, complete with food court and cinemas, is Le Gran Plaza, situated on the Costera.

Dining in Acapulco

Acapulco's scenic setting around a picturesque bay allows for some magical and romantic dining opportunities in a multitude of restaurants while on holiday. Cuisine of all sorts is on offer, the quality generally very high and the prices reasonable. Some of the best restaurants use a fusion of styles and cuisines to create something unique and special, like the Kookaburra, with its spectacular terrace views of Acapulco Bay, creating delicious French dishes prepared with Mexican ingredients. Mexican seafood is a top favourite with visitors, a fact well exploited by most establishments, like the El Amigo Miguel off the main town square, where delicious shrimp and grilled red snapper medleys are specialities of the house.

Activities in Acapulco

Flashing lights, pumping music and boundless energy are the characteristics of Acapulco's frenetic nightlife, which centres on the clubs and discos of the main strip and Las Brisas. Clubs like the renowned Palladium, where the legendary 'silver man' fire dancer performs in the early morning hours, make Acapulco a hot favourite destination for young spring-break revellers from the USA. Those looking for a more Latin experience head down to Ninas, a traditional Mexican salsa club where the locals burn up the dance floor. For visitors interested in seeing some authentic Latin American Salsa dancing, head to Salon Q, 'the cathedral of salsa'. Disco Beach on Costera Aleman is well known for its popular Friday night foam parties. Mandara up on the side of the mountain, with its panoramic views of Acapulco by night, is one of the best places to end your evening and wait for the sun to rise before another day on the beach. Most of the dance clubs open at 11pm, close at 6am, and charge a fairly steep entrance fee, but this often includes 'all you can drink'. Those taking a break from dancing can enjoy bar-hopping along the Costera, which is lined with numerous exuberant open-air watering holes.

Things to be aware of in Acapulco

There is often an oily layer on the seawater of Acapulco from the use of jet skis. Visitors to Acapulco are strongly advised to avoid the resort during America's spring break in mid-March as hoards of student revellers descend on Acapulco for spring break mayhem and partying.

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