Health & safety
Dangers & annoyances
Mexico’s central Pacific coast is tranquilo (peaceful), with little crime. Major coastal resorts have a large and visible police presence so violent crimes against visitors are rare.
Of the resort cities, Acapulco is the most known for crime, and in recent years several grisly murders have threatened to curb the resort’s tourism industry. The violence, however, is primarily related to drug trafficking. Visitors who avoid the town’s inland neighborhoods have little to fear. The coastal Hwy 200, which has had an up-and-down safety record, is now mostly safe for travel. The stretch through Michoacán and Guerrero still has a reputation for being unsafe at night, although increased law enforcement has greatly improved the situation. The most likely danger you’ll encounter are the powerful undertows that can make swimming deadly. Heed local warnings and swim with caution. Otherwise, kick back – you’re on vacation!
