in full Acapulco de Juárez
City and port (pop., 2000: 619,253), southwestern Mexico.
Situated on a deep semicircular bay, it has the best harbour on Mexico's Pacific coast. It was discovered by Hernán Cortés in 1531, and a settlement was founded in 1550. Until 1815 it was a main depot for Spanish colonial fleets going to the Far East. It has become a major international resort for tourists attracted by its scenic beauty, climate, and excellent beaches.