How to Get There
Bus
The bus stations (there are several) are all near downtown, mostly on Avenida Cuauhtémoc, which is only a couple of blocks from the beachfront drive, the Costera. You can find a number of economical hotels on Cuauhtémoc or take a taxi to the hotel of your choice.
Air
The international airport is about 20 km east of town, between the sea and a lagoon. Private taxis are not allowed, but of course some “pirates” try; better avoid them. Authorized transportation will cost about US$25 to town or your hotel.
Car
If you drive from México City, you pass through the town of Las Cruces. At this point you can choose to take either of two routes across the mountain into Acapulco: “La Cima” is longer, harder, and dirtier, but free and offers a spectacular view of the Bay. The “Maxitunel” is faster, but you pay a toll.
In either case, you drive into the City and head down to the Bay. This street will take you down to Diana Circle, where you can turn left (east) for the Hotel Zone or right (west) for the old city and more economical accommodations. Hotel Continental, site of the American Consular Office, is on the circle just to your right.
Getting Around
City Buses
Always look on the windshield for the specific route.
Orange Routes
“Caleta – Hornos – Base” route:
(1) big, yellow, air-conditioned buses, at 3.50 pesos, and
(2) orange-striped buses which cost 3.00 pesos.
“Caleta – Cine RÃo – Base”
Detours behind Papagayo Park, through the business district on Cuauhtémoc Avenue.
Other “orange” buses go past the Naval Base (to Puerto Marqués, Parderas, Coloso, or Praderas), but these routes do not go to the Zócalo, but end at Las Hamacas,
Other Routes
One block east of the Zócalo, between the main dock and the Palacio Federal (now being remodeled) you will see buses of various routes.
Green route: will take you to Pie de la Cuesta, but it’s not a ride I’d recommend.
Pink route: marked “Hospital – Y”, will take you past the main market.
If you don’t speak Spanish, write down the name of where you want to go and show it to the driver. Most will be glad to help.
Taxis
Most taxis do not have meters, so you should settle the destination and the price before getting in. 20 pesos will take you about half way around the bay; expect to pay twice this for the entire bay. You’ll pay at least 70 pesos from Las Brisas and up to 200 pesos from the airport hotels.
