Comparison Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta – Which is the Better Vacation?

Comparison Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta – Both Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta are top destinations in Mexico, known for their beaches and warm weather. And while Acapulco is more focused on nightlife and has a historical significance, Puerto Vallarta is the better choice for its charming old town, art, and culture scene.

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Getting a Sim Card for Travel – Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco

We don’t recommend buying a sim card at Puerto Vallarta airport or Acapulco airport. Getting your travel sim cards from airports, though deemed convenient, can get pretty expensive. For convenience, you can buy an eSim online or if you aren’t in a hurry, just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Puerto Vallarta or in Acapulco.

READ HERE for the best Mexico sim card for tourist

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Comparing Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

Both Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta are located on the Pacific coast and are known for their beaches, warm weather, and a variety of activities for tourists. Looking at various travel elements below, let’s differentiate experience for each of Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta.

Location

Acapulco is located on the southern coast of Mexico in the state of Guerrero. It is approximately 320 miles (515 km) southeast of Mexico City. Puerto Vallarta is located on the western coast of Mexico in the state of Jalisco. It is approximately 330 miles (530 km) northwest of Mexico City.

Art and Culture

Puerto Vallarta is known for its strong focus on art and culture, with a variety of galleries and museums to visit. It also has a charming old town, where you can find traditional Mexican architecture and art. Acapulco has some historical sites such as Fort San Diego, but it’s not as well known for its art and culture as Puerto Vallarta.

Beaches in Acapulco – Puerto Vallarta vs Acapulco

Playa Caleta / Caleta Beach

This small bay is known for its clear waters and a variety of water sports available, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.

Where to Stay in Playa Caleta: Calinda Beach Acapulco, The Elcano Hotel

Condesa Beach

This wide beach is known for its lively atmosphere and plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, but it can get quite crowded during peak season.

Where to Stay in Condesa Beach: Emporio Acapulco, Las Brisas Acapulco

Playa Hornos / Hornos Beach

This secluded beach is known for its excellent snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The beach is located in a more secluded area and therefore there is less of a crowd and more of a peaceful atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Playa Hornos:

Camino Real Acapulco Diamante: This hotel is located on the beachfront, it offers a luxurious spa, and it’s a great place for families and couples.

Park Royal Acapulco: This hotel is a great option for those on a budget, it offers an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a bar, and it’s located just a short walk from the beach.

Playa Pie de la Cuesta

This long beach is known for its strong surf and is popular with surfers and windsurfers. It’s located outside of the city and is more secluded, but it’s a great place to catch some waves and enjoy the scenery.

Where to Stay in Playa Pie de la Cuesta:

Hotel Los Flamingos: This hotel is located on the beach and it features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. It’s a great option for families and couples.

Posada El Mirador: This hotel is a great option for those on a budget, it offers basic but comfortable rooms, and it’s located just a short walk from the beach.

Keep in mind that there are limited options for accommodation in Pie de la Cuesta and most places are guesthouses or small hotels.

Icacos Beach

This beach is located on the outskirts of Acapulco and is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Where to Stay in Icacos: Acapulco Princess Hotel and the Banyan Tree Cabo Marques

Revolcadero Beach

This wide beach is known for its calm waters, which make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It’s a popular spot with tourists and locals alike, but it can get quite crowded during peak season.

Where to Stay in Revolcadero Beach: Fairmont Pierre Marques and the Camino Real Acapulco Diamante

Other Top Things to Do in Acapulco

Acapulco is a city located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, known for its beaches, nightlife, and water sports. Here are some of the top things to do in Acapulco:

Visit La Quebrada

This is a popular spot to watch cliff divers perform acrobatic feats as they jump from the cliffs into the sea below. The divers light up the cliffs at night, making it a spectacular sight.

Explore the Old Town

The old town of Acapulco, also known as El Centro, is home to several historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can walk through the streets and see the city’s colonial-era architecture, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Solitude, and see the famous Acapulco Bay from the Mirador de la Quebrada.

Visit the Acapulco Botanical Garden

This beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers, as well as a small zoo. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, admire the plants, and see the animals. It is located on Costera Miguel Alemán, Acapulco, Guerrero.

Take a Boat Tour

Boat tours are a great way to see Acapulco Bay and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a tour on a traditional Mexican boat called a “panga” or a luxury yacht and see the city from a different perspective.

Water Sports

Acapulco offers a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving. Visitors can also take a sailboat or catamaran tour and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Acapulco Bay.

Visit the Fort of San Diego

This historic fort is located in the heart of Acapulco’s old town and it offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.

Beaches in Puerto Vallarta – Puerto Vallarta vs Acapulco

Puerto Vallarta, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include:

Los Muertos Beach

Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town, this beach is popular with both tourists and locals. It offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and jet skiing. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to spend the day.

Playa de los Camarones

This beach is located just north of Los Muertos Beach and is known for its clear waters and great snorkeling opportunities. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day.

Playa Conchas Chinas

This beach is located south of Puerto Vallarta and is known for its beautiful scenery and secluded location. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are few restaurants and bars on the beach but it’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Playa Mismaloya

Located south of Puerto Vallarta, this beach is known for its beautiful scenery, clear waters, and great swimming opportunities. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. There are many restaurants and bars located near the beach, making it a great place to spend the day.

Playa Las Animas

This beach is located on the southern end of Banderas Bay and is known for its beautiful scenery, clear waters, and secluded location. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are few restaurants and bars on the beach but it’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Other Top Things to do in Puerto Vallarta – Puerto Vallarta vs Acapulco

Visit the Malecon

The Malecon is a seaside promenade that runs along the coast of Puerto Vallarta, starting from the Los Muertos Pier to the Hotel Rosita. It’s a great place to take a stroll and take in the sights and sounds of the city. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of sculptures, street performers, and vendors selling souvenirs.

Explore the Old Town – El Centro

Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town, also known as El Centro, is located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from Malecon. It’s a charming area filled with cobblestone streets, brightly colored buildings, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to explore and get a sense of the city’s history and culture.

Take a boat tour

Boat tours can be taken from the Los Muertos Pier or from the Marina Vallarta, which are both located in the heart of the city. There are many boat tour operators that offer a variety of tour options, including sunset cruises, snorkeling trips, and whale-watching excursions.

Hiking and rock climbing in the Sierra Madre Mountains

The Sierra Madre Mountains provide a beautiful and rugged landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountains offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, with some of the most popular routes leading to scenic overlooks and waterfalls. For those looking for more of an adventure, there are also opportunities for rock climbing, with several guided tours available.

Visit the Los Arcos National Marine Park

This marine park is located just a short boat ride from Puerto Vallarta and is known for its beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can snorkel or dive to see a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. You can take a boat tour to reach the marine park.

Visit the Botanical Gardens

The botanical gardens are located on the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta and can be reached by taxi or bus. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees, as well as a number of walking trails, waterfalls, and a lake.

Take a Zip-Line tour

Zip-line tours are typically located in the mountains surrounding Puerto Vallarta, and can be reached by taking a tour or rental car. It’s a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty and get a different perspective on the surroundings.

Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

This beautiful church, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, is located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, just a short walk from the Malecon and Old Town. Visitors can take a tour of the church to learn more about its history and significance.

Festivals in Puerto Vallarta – Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

Festival Cultural de Mayo

This annual event takes place in May and features a variety of cultural activities, including music, dance, and theater performances, as well as art exhibits and food fairs. The event is held in various venues throughout the city, including the main square, the Malecon, and the Teatro Vallarta.

Day of the Dead Celebration – Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

In November, Puerto Vallarta celebrates the Day of the Dead, a traditional Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones. The celebration includes traditional music, dance, and food, as well as processions and altars decorated with flowers and candles. The event takes place in various locations throughout the city, including the main square, the Malecon, and the Teatro Vallarta.

International Gourmet Festival

This festival is a gastronomic event that takes place in November and features a variety of gourmet food, wine, and spirits. The event is held in various venues throughout the city, including the main square, the Malecon, and the Teatro Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta International Film Festival

This festival takes place in November and features a variety of films from around the world. The event is held in various venues throughout the city, including the main square, the Malecon, and the Teatro Vallarta.

Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata

This is a festival of Colombian folklore music and takes place in November, it features a variety of music, dance, and theater performances, as well as art exhibits and food fairs. The event is held in various venues throughout the city, including the main square, the Malecon and the Teatro Vallarta.

Vallarta Pride

This annual event takes place in May and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, with a week of events including parades, parties, and cultural activities. The event is held in various venues throughout the city, including the main square, the Malecon, and the Teatro Vallarta.

Are there any ruins in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is not known for having ancient ruins like some other parts of Mexico such as the Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula or the Aztec ruins in Mexico City. However, there are a few pre-Columbian archaeological sites located near Puerto Vallarta that you can visit:

The archeological site of Cuale Island

Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, Cuale Island is home to the ancient ruins of a pre-Columbian settlement. Visitors can explore the island’s ancient pyramids and see the remains of an ancient civilization.

The archeological site of Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas

This hacienda is located about 50 km (31 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and is home to the ancient ruins of a pre-Columbian settlement. Visitors can explore the hacienda’s ancient pyramids and see the remains of an ancient civilization.

The archeological site of Ixtapa

This ancient settlement is located about 50 km (31 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and is home to the ancient ruins of a pre-Columbian civilization. Visitors can explore the ancient pyramids and see the remains of an ancient civilization.

Please note that these sites are not as extensive or as well-preserved as some of the ancient ruins in other parts of Mexico. Additionally, keep in mind that access to the sites may be limited or closed due to the current pandemic situation, so it’s best to check with the local tourism board or the site management for the most up-to-date information and availability.

Top Day Trips from Puerto Vallarta – Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, and there are a number of popular day trips that visitors can take from the city. Here are some of the top options:

Sayulita

This charming surf town is located about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta and is known for its laid-back vibe, great surf, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and shopping for crafts and souvenirs. The town is about 60km (37 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and can be reached by car, bus, or by taking a tour.

RELATED READ: How to Get from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita

San Sebastian

This small colonial town is located about 130km (81 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and is known for its charming streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful church. Visitors can explore the town’s historical sites and enjoy traditional Mexican food. San Sebastian can be reached by car, bus, or by taking a tour.

The Marietas Islands

These islands are located about 15km (9 miles) from the coast of Puerto Vallarta and are known for their beautiful beaches and clear waters. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The islands can be reached by taking a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta.

Yelapa

This small fishing village is located about 40km (25 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Yelapa can be reached by boat from Puerto Vallarta.

Guadalajara

This is the second largest city in Mexico, located about 300km (186 miles) from Puerto Vallarta, known for its rich culture, history, and traditional Mexican architecture. Visitors can explore the city’s historical sites and enjoy traditional Mexican food. Guadalajara can be reached by car, bus or by taking a tour.

Please note that the travel time and distance may vary depending on the traffic, mode of transportation, and location of the final destination. It’s best to check with the local tour operators or transportation providers for the most accurate information.

Nightlife in Acapulco

Zona Dorada / Golden Zone

One of the most famous nightlife destinations in Acapulco is the “Zona Dorada” (Golden Zone), which is home to a variety of clubs, bars, and discos. Some of the most popular clubs in the Zona Dorada include Palladium, Mandara, and Baby’O. These clubs feature live music, DJs, and dance floors, and they are known for their lively atmosphere and great drinks.

La Costera / The Coastline

Another popular nightlife destination in Acapulco is the “La Costera” (The Coastline) which is a long stretch of road that runs along the beach. It features a variety of bars, discos, and nightclubs that offer a more relaxed and casual atmosphere. Some of the most popular bars and discos in La Costera include the Blue Marlin, El Alebrije, and El Alebrije Beach Club.

El Alebrije – Puerto Vallarta vs Acapulco

If you’re looking for a more traditional nightlife experience, Acapulco also offers a variety of “cantinas” (bars) and “bares nocturnos” (nightclubs) that feature live music and traditional Mexican entertainment. Some of the most popular cantinas and bares nocturnos in Acapulco include El Alebrije, El Gran Maguey, and El Santuario.

Nightlife in Puerto Vallarta – Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide variety of options for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the top places to experience the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta:

The Malecon

The Malecon is a seaside promenade that runs along the coast of Puerto Vallarta and is home to a number of bars and nightclubs. Visitors can enjoy a variety of live music and dance the night away. Some popular places to check out include La Bodeguita del Medio, La Vaquita, and Mandala.

Old Town

Old Town, also known as El Centro, is home to a number of bars and nightclubs. Visitors can enjoy a variety of live music, traditional Mexican music and dance. Some popular places to check out include Bar La Playa, El Arrayán, and La Piazzetta.

Zona Romantica

This neighborhood is known for its romantic ambiance and is home to a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges. Visitors can enjoy a variety of live music, traditional Mexican music and dance. Some popular places to check out include Bar La Playa, El Arrayán, and La Piazzetta.

Marina Vallarta

This neighborhood is home to a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges. Visitors can enjoy a variety of live music, traditional Mexican music, and dance. Some popular places to check out include The Palm Cabaret & Bar, Andale, and The Red Room.

Getting To and Getting Around – Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

Getting There – Acapulco

By Air

The main airport in Acapulco is the General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA), which is located about 15 minutes from the city center. Several major airlines offer direct flights to Acapulco from cities in Mexico and the United States, including Mexico City, Cancun, and Houston. 2

By Bus

Acapulco is well-connected by bus to other major cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, Morelia, and Guadalajara. Bus companies such as ADO and Estrella Roja offer regular services to and from Acapulco.

By Car

Acapulco is located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast Highway (Mexican Federal Highway 200) and is easily accessible by car from Mexico City, which is about 6 hours away. 4 By Train: There is no train service to Acapulco, The nearest train station is in Mexico City, if you decide to take the train to Mexico City, you will have to take a bus or a plane to get to Acapulco.

Currency and ATMs in Mexico – Puerto Vallarta vs Acapulco

Mexico has its own currency called the Mexican Peso. A $1 USD=19 MXN. There are lots of ATMs and exchange currency in many parts of the country. And you have to know that dollars is very common and well-accepted in the country.

Click here to know more about the exchange rate in Mexico

How many days is enough in Acapulco?

The length of your stay in Acapulco will depend on your interests and what you want to see and do. However, generally speaking, 3-5 days in Acapulco would be enough to experience the main highlights and activities the city has to offer.

During that time, you could visit the main tourist attractions such as La Quebrada, the Old Town, and the Botanical Garden, relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and enjoy the nightlife. You could also spend a day or two exploring the surrounding area and taking day trips to nearby towns or natural attractions.

However, if you want to experience more of what Acapulco has to offer, such as water sports or visiting more historical places, you may want to stay longer. Ultimately, the perfect length of your stay will depend on your personal preferences and how much time you have available.

What are the safest areas of Acapulco now?

Acapulco has faced safety concerns in recent years related to crime and violence, and it is important for travelers to take precautions and stay informed about the current situation. However, certain areas of the city are considered safer than others.

The areas that are considered safer in Acapulco include:

Zona Diamante (Diamond Zone)

This is the most upscale area of the city and is home to many luxury resorts, high-end restaurants, and exclusive shops. It is considered to be one of the safer areas of the city.

The beach area of Caleta and Caletilla

This area is known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling and diving, and it is considered a safer area as it is frequented by tourists.

The Old Town

This area is also known as El Centro and is home to several historic sites and landmarks, it is considered safer as it’s a tourist area.

Areas to Avoid in Acapulco

As with any travel destination, there are certain areas of Acapulco that are considered to be more dangerous than others. It is important for travelers to be aware of these areas and take precautions to stay safe.

The areas that are considered to be less safe in Acapulco include:

The neighborhoods are located away from the tourist areas, such as Colonia Costa Azul, Colonia Granjas México, and Colonia Guerrero. These areas have higher crime rates and are not as well-patrolled by the police.

The neighborhoods located on the outskirts of the city, such as Barrio de San Miguel, Barrio de Santa Teresa and Barrio de San Juan. These areas have higher crime rates and are not as well-patrolled by the police.

The beach area of Playa Revolcadero and Playa Hornos – These beaches have a reputation for high crime rates and have been known for muggings and thefts.

Final Thoughts – Acapulco vs Puerto Vallarta

Both are beach towns with warm weather, Acapulco has good nightlife while Puerto Vallarta has a traditional Mexican vibe. You can’t go wrong with either, but for this, we choose Puerto Vallarta. Tell us what you ended up choosing and have a great vacation!