Avoid Acapulco during the Christmas holidays and other peak vacation times if on a budget, because then all bets are off in finding a bargain. But other times of the year - particularly the humid summer months - you can almost name your price. A collective taxi from the airport (80 pesos or US$5.80) to the Condesa Americana Hotel, a sprawling resort that will put you right in the middle of things.

Along the Costera, you can people-watch and pick up any supplies you may need before heading to the beach. Check out the Diana outdoor market where stalls sell a little bit of everything.

Take a picnic to La Condesa Beach, the most popular in the city and where you'll find a LGBTQ section to the east where locals and visitors meet up. Laze about, play a little beach volleyball, try some water sports.

Adjourn to El Nono Restaurant as sunset approaches to enjoy affordable, plentiful drinks and fresh seafood along with the view.

You don't have to go far for nightlife, Picante or Reinas Bar are both affordable LGBTQ options for drinks and fun close to Condesa Beach. If you get peckish, small shops serving Al Pastor, a kind of shawarma made from pork, are open late.