Hotels in Acapulco

The listings include the most expensive resorts south of town in Diamante and continue along Costera Alemán to the less expensive, more traditional hotels north of town, in the downtown or "Old Acapulco" part of the city. Hotel prices have tended to fall or stay the same in Acapulco in recent years. Inquire about promotional rates or check with the airlines for air-hotel packages. During Christmas and Easter weeks, considered the high season, some hotels double their rates. Low season lasts September through November and April through June; the rest of the year is midseason. The rates below do not include the 17% tax. Private villas are available for rent in the hills south of town; staying in one of these palatial homes is an unforgettable experience. Acapulco Luxury Villas (tel. 866/403-8322 in the U.S., or 01-800/030-4444 in Mexico; www.acapulcoluxuryvillas.com) handles some of the most exclusive villas.

South of Town -- Acapulco's most exclusive and renowned hotels, restaurants, and villas nestle in the steep forested hillsides here, between the naval base and Puerto Marqués. This area is several kilometers from the heart of Acapulco; you'll pay about 200 pesos round-trip taxi fare every time you venture off the property into town.

Downtown (on La Quebrada) & Old Acapulco Beaches -- Numerous budget hotels dot the streets fanning out from the zócalo. They're among the best values in town, but be sure to check your room first to see that it meets your needs. Several hotels in this area are close to Caleta and Caletilla beaches, or on the back of the hilly peninsula, at Playa la Angosta.