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As Mexico’s first true resort destination, Acapulco reigned throughout the 1930s and ‘40s as the exclusive playground of the wealthy elite. Frank Sinatra kept a home here, and his love of the city led him to immortalize its clear, turquoise bay in his hit “Come Fly with Me.” Celebrities like Joan Crawford and Jimmy Stewart also were known to hit the town for extended weekends on the water.

A decade of development recently opened the city to a new audience, and a variety of budget attractions now share space with high-priced amenities. Travelers of all types find common ground on Acapulco’s main drag, La Costera, where chi-chi nightclubs meet inexpensive local haunts. More than 12 miles of beach also allow visitors to mingle and meet for a swim or an afternoon drink. For unparalleled views of the Pacific and its stunning sunsets, crowds often gather just north of town, on the beach of Pie de la Cuesta.

Don’t leave the region without seeing the cliff divers of La Quebrada, whose stunning 12-story leaps have delighted visitors for nearly 80 years. Visiting cruise ship passengers might take a day trip to the tiny island of Roqueta, an uninhabited hideout just 45 minutes offshore that’s ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling and sunbathing.

Language: Spanish     Currency: Peso (MXN), US$