How did Acapulco Gold get its name?
By Jeff Eckenrode
Image credit: Omar Bermúdez
Rich, radiant, and world-renowned.
Acapulco Gold is more than just a legendary cannabis strain—it’s a cultural icon. Revered for its potency, flavor, and unmistakable appearance, Acapulco Gold has held a spot in cannabis history for generations.
But what exactly is Acapulco Gold? Where did it come from? And how did it get that unforgettable name?
Let’s dig into the golden legend of Acapulco Gold.
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What is Acapulco Gold?
Acapulco Gold is a sativa-dominant strain of cannabis originally cultivated in the hills surrounding Acapulco, a coastal city in southwestern Mexico. Known for its uplifting effects and sweet, earthy flavor, Acapulco Gold has long been prized by cannabis connoisseurs.
Its high THC content, combined with a smooth, cerebral high, made it a favorite during the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s—and helped cement its place as one of the most famous landrace strains in cannabis history.
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Why is it called Acapulco Gold?
The name “Acapulco Gold” comes from the strain’s distinctive golden hue. When grown in the sun-drenched climate of Mexico’s Pacific coast, the buds of this strain often took on a shimmering golden-brown color.
This coloration—along with its luxurious reputation—led smokers to nickname it “gold.”
Pair that with its origin near the resort city of Acapulco and you’ve got a name that practically sells itself: Acapulco Gold.
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How rare is Acapulco Gold today?
Once widely available across North America in the 60s and 70s, Acapulco Gold has become increasingly rare in today’s cannabis market.
That’s partly because it’s a true landrace strain—meaning it wasn’t bred in a lab or created through hybridization, but developed naturally in the wild.
As more modern hybrids have taken over dispensary shelves, strains like Acapulco Gold have become harder to grow and harder to find.
The strain’s best characteristics—its long flowering cycle and need for warm, bright growing conditions—also make it a challenge for indoor growers.
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What’s special about Acapulco Gold?
Fans of Acapulco Gold rave about its energetic, euphoric high. It’s known for producing a clear-headed buzz, making it a popular pick for daytime use.
Its flavor profile is just as impressive: expect earthy notes mixed with hints of toffee, spice, and sweet, woody undertones.
Combine that with its iconic golden color, and it’s easy to see why Acapulco Gold is considered one of the most luxurious cannabis strains ever grown.
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Does Acapulco Gold still exist today?
Yes! However, it’s often hard to find.
Authentic Acapulco Gold genetics can still be found, but many strains that carry the name today are hybrids or modern reinterpretations of the original.
Fortunately, cannabis preservationists and dedicated breeders continue to hunt for and maintain landrace strains like Acapulco Gold.
Where can I find Acapulco Gold?
Looking to experience Acapulco Gold for yourself? Whether you’re shopping in Redmond or browsing online, we’re here to help.
You can find our current menu here for Acapulco Gold flower, pre-rolls, or vapes—and ask one of our expert budtenders if you need help tracking it down.
Want to learn more about Cannabis?
Visit Hashtag’s Knowledge Stash for more deep dives into cannabis strains, extracts, and cannabinoids.
Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or just starting your journey, our friendly team is here to help you explore the world of cannabis—one legendary strain at a time.