Apple TV+’s bilingual hit series ‘Acapulco’ brings a vibrant splash of 1980s nostalgia, heartwarming comedy, and sun-drenched beaches straight to your screen. Inspired by the 2017 blockbuster movie How to Be a Latin Lover, this spectacular period comedy transports viewers back to the golden era of Mexican beach resorts.
The story follows a young Máximo Gallardo, who lands his dream job as a cabana boy at Las Colinas, the hottest resort in town. Narrated by the wealthy, present-day Máximo (played by the legendary Eugenio Derbez), the show is a joyous celebration of neon fashion, 80s Spanish pop anthems, and endless margaritas. With a stellar cast including Damián Alcázar, Jessica Collins, Vanessa Bauche, and Camila Perez, the performances are just as bright as the scenery.
But as you watch Máximo navigate the hilarious and chaotic world of resort hospitality, you might find yourself wondering: Where was this breathtaking show actually filmed?
The Magic of Mexico: Why Jalisco?
Although the show is famously titled ‘Acapulco’, the production did not actually take place in the titular city. Instead, the creators chose to film the series entirely within the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
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The first season was shot between April and June 2021. Because the series heavily celebrates Latinx heritage and bilingual storytelling, it was non-negotiable for the creators to utilize authentic Mexican locations. Jalisco proved to be the perfect choice for several reasons:
- Pristine Coastlines: The Mexican Pacific coast offers unbeatable, vibrant backdrops that a Hollywood soundstage simply cannot replicate.
- Industry Expertise: Mexico boasts a robust television and film production infrastructure filled with highly skilled local professionals.
- Financial Incentives: A comprehensive, local-government-sponsored tax promotion program makes the region incredibly attractive for major international studios.
Discovering Mismaloya and Puerto Vallarta
To recreate the untouched, glamorous vibe of a 1980s mega-resort, the production team bypassed modern-day Acapulco and set up camp on the coast of Bahía de Banderas, near the popular city of Puerto Vallarta.
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Specifically, much of the filming took place in and around the remote, picturesque fishing village of Mismaloya. This is not the first time Apple TV+ has utilized this stunning region; the thriller Defending Jacob also filmed scenes in the area. Once a sparsely populated town, Mismaloya has seen a steady rise in popularity and is now considered one of the most desirable, high-end tourist destinations in Jalisco.
The Real “Las Colinas” Resort Experience
In the show, the fictional Las Colinas resort is the center of the universe—a colorful, luxurious playground for the international elite. While the cast and crew have historically kept a tight lid on the exact hotel properties used for filming, the aesthetic is deeply rooted in the real-life luxury of the Bahía de Banderas coastline.
Visitors looking to experience the ‘Acapulco’ vibe in real life can explore the exact regions where the cast filmed:
- Los Arcos National Park: Located just off the coast of Mismaloya, this stunning marine nature reserve features gorgeous granite islands and is a massive draw for snorkeling and diving.
- World-Class Hospitality: The coastline is packed with state-of-the-art resorts, open-air palapas, and world-class restaurants that cater to the same luxurious lifestyle portrayed at Las Colinas.
- Authentic Charm: Despite its growth, the area maintains the beautiful, breezy, and welcoming atmosphere that makes Máximo’s 1980s dream job look so incredibly appealing.
Whether you are tuning in for the laugh-out-loud comedy, the incredible cast, or the sweeping ocean views, ‘Acapulco’ serves as a perfect, sun-soaked television escape.
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