Looking to escape the dull grey winter in Texas or wondering where to go for Spring Break? Then why not take a look at Acapulco?

Whether you are in need of a quiet tropical getaway or some good fun-in-sun family time, plan your Acapulco trip during the week, as weekends are usually busier with the crowds from Mexico City.

Book your room at the iconic Princess Mundo Imperial in the newer, more residential and very safe Diamante section of the city, between the older sections of Acapulco and the airport.

The hotel has a gated entrance and is right on the beach with pools, al fresco dining and a bilingual parrot named Lola. The rooms are large, very comfortable, and have great views; and the staff and service are exceptional. Ask if they are doing a baby sea turtle release while you are there—-Instagram-worthy photo ops abound!

If all you want to do is bask in the warm Mexican sunshine and sip piña coladas, then by all means, do that, but if you are in the mood for adventure, exploring, and sightseeing, then check out what else Acapulco has to offer.

1. La Quebrada Cliff Divers

Take a boat tour through beautiful Acapulco Bay to the La Quebrada cliffs, pack a lunch and watch the long-standing tradition, oftentimes passed down through the generations of these local young men, many who have been diving since before they were teens. As you sail around the bay, you’ll see hillside homes both colorful and stunning, plus you can work on your tan if you want, or maybe even jump in for a refreshing swim. At certain times of the year, there will be dolphin and whales swimming around and showing off their own diving skills.

2. Cultural Corridor

Don’t miss this new update near the traditional port of Acapulco. As you stroll down the street, the walls come alive with fascinating and bold murals from the recent International Public Art Festival “El Origen” exposition. There are several new museums to explore: Museo de la Mascara (Museum of the Mask), Museo Historico Naval (Naval History Museum) and the Museo Historico de Acapulco (History Museum of Acapulco) in the old fort Fuerte de San Diego. All are must-sees, with something for everyone.

3. XTASEA

Zipline across the exquisitely beautiful Marques Bay. You have to try this, even if you are afraid of heights as you are well secured, strapped and buckled in. First, you fly superman-style over the jungle, then you soar like an eagle over the pristinely aquamarine seawater which feels both exhilarating and peaceful. Although it is the longest zipline over water in the world, it is over in less than a minute and you’ll want to go again.

4. Tres Palos Lagoon

To see this birdwatcher’s paradise, rent a small boat from Hermanos Salas (you can call Alberto Salas at +52 1 744 115 0618) and be transported away from the sights and sounds of the city into the quiet mangrove-surrounded lagoon filled with herons, cranes, egrets and many other fish-loving birds. Don’t forget your camera!

5. The Food

Since Acapulco is a tourist destination, there are the typical chain restaurants, and of course, plenty of local, authentic Mexican fare. But, there are two restaurants that you have to try while you are there. On your way south to the Tres Palos Lagoon lies Ismirna del Mar in the Barra Vieja section, about 30 minutes from the center of Acapulco, and right on the beach. The other restaurant that you’ll want to save for a special late dinner is Zibu, famous for its Mex-Thai fusion cuisine. Most Mexicans eat dinner around 10 pm, so take an afternoon siesta and make a reservation at Zibu for 9 to beat the crowds. The view is one of the best in the city and this cliffside spot will leave you wanting more.

Old Acapulco is new again and it has evolved into the kind of destination you’ve been hoping for. There is so much more to see and do than ever before. It is clean, safe and full of the warm Mexican sunshine and spirit that travelers have been seeking and returning to for thousands of years.

Cover: Acapulco Bay and the La Quebrada cliffs. Photo courtesy Acapulco Destination Marketing Office