Considered Mexico’s original cradle of tourism, Acapulco cemented its place on the map when Hollywood stars and celebrities discovered its seaside charm in the glory days of the 1950s and 1960s. That’s when the Pearl of the Pacific became the playground for the rich and famous, from Frank Sinatra, John Wayne and Elizabeth Taylor to U.S. presidents. Films such as Elvis’ Fun in Acapulco and TV’s The Love Boat brought Acapulco’s allure to a whole new level.

Unfortunately, time took its toll on the city that boasts 365 days of sunshine, as did drug cartels and a depressed economy. The Acapulco of sun and stars lost its luster. Fast-forward to today, however, and Acapulco is experiencing a phoenix-like revival due to a robust resurgence of designer hotels, a vibrant culinary scene, trendy bars and some of the best nightlife in the country. Plus, vintage is in vogue. Not to mention Acapulco now boasts the largest state-of-the-art convention center in Latin America.

I headed to this vintage getaway to kick back and experience a combination of Acapulco’s nostalgia, nature and high-tech “newness” for three days. My downtime started when I checked in at Las Brisas, an icon of Acapulco during its heyday. Boasting the city’s best views of Acapulco Bay, the pink and white paradise has hosted plenty of dignitaries and celebrities over the years, including famous people like former President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jackie, who stayed here on their honeymoon. (I secretly wondered if I was staying in the same room as the couple from Camelot.)

My private pool featured floating hibiscus, inviting me to partake in a refreshing dip. After enjoying a leisurely afternoon in the privacy of my villa, I headed for the Sunset Bar, where I toasted to a glorious Acapulco sunset. Then it was off to the property’s Bella Vista Restaurant, where Chef Sergio works his magic with a menu featuring the best of international cuisine. As I looked out at the twinkling lights in the bay below, it was hard to imagine any place more romantic.

Cliff diver at La Quebrada © Cenk Unver | Dreamstime.com

The next day, I headed out to experience the grace of the cliff divers at La Quebrada. A major attraction since 1934, the cliff divers plummet from a rocky precipice more than 136 feet above the Pacific. A famous place that has been the scene for movie productions, visitors can enjoy the beauty of this rocky cove from decks or while drinking a margarita from any of the strategically placed restaurants.

Close by is the Casa de los Vientos where Diego Rivera’s wall mural is located, between La Quebrada and the Sinfonia del Mar. Since it is hard to locate, it is best seen with a guide.

For a peek into the rich history of Acapulco, visit the Fort of San Diego Museum. Here you will find an assortment of artifacts and historical collections that tell the story of Acapulco’s strategic influence on America. The star-shaped fort, built from stone in 1616 to protect against marauding English and Dutch pirates, was the most important Spanish stronghold along the Pacific coast. From architectural wonders to the religious objects and maps, the museum shows Acapulco’s historical connections with the Manila galleons sailing to and from the Philippines as well as ships from Peru, Chile and Central America. Trade involved spices, silk, porcelain, ivory and various materials for religious objects.

Though Acapulco is known for its many splendid beaches, it also boasts an exotic freshwater lagoon where herons, egrets and storks nest in the dense mangroves. In fact, the lagoon, at nine miles long and more than three miles wide, encompasses an area three times larger than the Bay of Acapulco. Here you will find some of the best bird-watching in the area, so don’t forget your binoculars and a camera. This is also where the first Tarzan movies were filmed.

I boarded a pontoon boat with a guide, and we leisurely forded the waterways. Birds were everywhere, along with a striped iguana or two. About halfway, we detoured through a mangrove tunnel and emerged upon a lake of lotus flowers. My guide presented me with a flower for my hair and quickly crafted a necklace from the stems. Then, without warning, he dove to the bottom of the shallow lagoon and scraped a ball of mud together for a classic black mud mask — known for its exfoliating and regenerative qualities. My friend Arely and I slathered the goo on our faces like war paint, looking forward to our natural beauty treatment outcome: radiant skin.

With completion of the largest and most modern convention center in Latin America, Expo Mundo Imperial, Acapulco welcomes back travel and tourism in a big way. Located conveniently near the airport and in the new Acapulco Diamante sector, the Expo is part of the impressive tourist complex comprising five distinct entities: the Forum, Promenade, Resort & Spa and the Expo. (The 4-star Resort at Mundo Imperial, with 814 guestrooms, features five restaurants and will open in late 2014.) World-class shopping is available at nearby La Isla Shopping Village.

Acapulco after sunset © Anthony Aneese Totah, Jr. | Dreamstime.com

Ask any Mexican where the best nightlife in the country is, and they will invariably tell you Acapulco. The nightlife is legendary — a place where you can dance until dawn. “There are two Acapulcos,” said my driver, Manuel. “The one during the day, and the one during the night. Both are equally impressive and are like no other place in the country.” With music from techno to hip-hop for the night scene, the vibe ranges from sophisticated to edgy. Most clubs don’t start hopping until after midnight, and many feature spectacular light and sound shows, performances and music. Not a night owl? Enjoy one of the many piano bars or simply bask in the light of the moon while soaking in your private balcony pool.

Acapulco Info to Go

International flights arrive at Acapulco International Airport with service by Aeromexico, Delta Air Lines and United. Most flights are routed through Mexico City. Once in Acapulco, the best way to get around is by taxi. However, at the airport you must use the special airport transit service, Transportes Aeropuerto. Travel time is approximately 30 minutes north to the resort area or about 20 minutes to the new convention area. According to the U.S. State Department, drug cartel violence still exists in Acapulco although it is not directed toward Americans. Nevertheless, travelers should always be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

Where to Stay in Acapulco

Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués This 5-star property pampers with a fusion of Asian and Latin American design. All 40 villas boast a heated pool; some have their own outdoor shower. The spa offers East-meets-West massage techniques. Lote 1, Col. Punta Diamante $$$$

Las Brisas Hotel Located on 40 acres overlooking Acapulco Bay, Las Brisas is vintage Acapulco with views unmatched by the competition. It’s known for its world-class dining, private beach club and hibiscus-laced private pools. Fracc. Las Brisas $$–$$$

Hotel Boca Chica This hotel offers a stunning example of mid-century modern revival, with 36 uniquely designed guestrooms offering exclusive service. You know it’s great when you can check in by private boat. Playa Caletilla, Fracc. Las Playas $$

Restaurants in Acapulco

Bellavista Restaurant Boasting the best view of Acapulco, this restaurant serves international cuisine in one of the most romantic settings. Chef Sergio offers an enticing menu of haute cuisine. Las Brisas Hotel, Fracc. Las Brisas $$$–$$$$

La Cabaña de Caleta Restaurant Popular with locals and visitors in the know, this place serves the freshest fish and seafood and has a full-service bar. Try the ceviche, paella and baby shark tacos. Calle Playa Caleta, Fracc. Las Playas $$

Tony’s Asian Bistro Restaurant Chef Erik Nguyen skillfully blends the best of Asian with French. A favorite with locals, service is impeccable. Av. Escénica Las Brias $$$

Read more about the spa at Banyan Tree Cabo Marques.