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Things to Do in Acapulco

Things to Do in Acapulco

Acapulco Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Acapulco’s beaches, specifically Playa Condesa and Playa Icacos, provide a wide range of water activities.

Water Sports & Tours

Jet Skiing & Parasailing

Rentals on popular beaches offer speeding across the bay.

Boat Tours

Bay Cruises: Evening cruises with dinner and music offer an unique perspective of Acapulco Bay by night. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: To Isla de La Roqueta for marine life and the underwater Virgin of Guadalupe shrine.

Snorkeling & Diving

Clear waters for marine life viewing around Isla de La Roqueta. Many operators offer boat trips with snorkeling stops.

Adventure Sports & More

  • Bungee Jumping: Often available at Playa Condesa, providing a classic Acapulco thrill.
  • Ziplining: XTASEA Park (Diamante Zone) boasts the world's longest over-the-ocean zip line.
  • Horseback Riding: Available at Revolcadero Beach and Pie de la Cuesta, especially popular at sunset.
  • Golf: Several championship golf courses, specifically in the exclusive Diamante Zone (e.g., Turtle Dunes Golf Course).

Lagoon Tours

  • Boat tours on Laguna de Tres Palos.
  • Through serene mangroves.
  • Some tours offer mud baths.
  • A peaceful escape from the city.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

  • Available at some resorts.
  • Rental shops on calmer beaches.
  • Like Caleta y Caletilla.
  • Offers a peaceful way to explore the bay.

Banana Boat Rides

  • A fun group activity.
  • Often available on the main tourist beaches.
  • Good for families and friends.
  • Adds to the lively beach atmosphere.

Booking Ahead

To secure your spot for popular activities like zip-lining or evening bay cruises, book them in advance, especially during high season.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Acapulco’s culture beyond the beaches and resorts for a understanding.

Cultural Sites

  • Visiting Mercado Central: Explore Acapulco’s bustling main market, practice Spanish, interact with vendors.
  • Fort San Diego Museum: Learn about Acapulco’s pivotal role in the Manila Galleon trade and rich colonial history.
  • El Zócalo (Main Square): Spend time at the Zócalo in Old Acapulco, observe locals, enjoy coffee, soak in the authentic atmosphere.
  • Cultural Performances: Look for local dance or music performances, sometimes held at hotels or public venues.

Interactive Learning

Cooking Classes

Learn to prepare traditional Mexican or Guerrero dishes. These hands-on experiences teach about local ingredients and techniques, like Pescado a la Talla or Pozole.

Local Workshops

Seek out artisan workshops to see traditional crafts being made, like silver jewelry or pottery, providing insight into local artistry.

Community Events

Check local listings for community events or festivals that offer authentic cultural experiences, from parades to religious celebrations.

Language Practice

Opportunities to practice Spanish with locals in markets or small eateries. A few phrases will go a long way.

Local Interaction

Engage respectfully with residents. Their stories and perspectives can deepen your travel experience.

Explore Local Areas

Venture into residential neighborhoods to see daily life away from the tourist zones. Always prioritize safety.

Relaxation & Wellness

Acapulco provides ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst its atmosphere.

Spa and Wellness

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Most luxury resorts (Banyan Tree, Princess Mundo Imperial, Las Brisas) have high-end spas.
  • Treatments: They offer a range of treatments, massages, and hydrotherapy circuits.
  • Independent Spas: Several independent spas are also available in the city.
  • Traditional Healing: Less prevalent in main tourist zones, but you might find traditional remedies in local markets.

Relaxation Spots

Yoga and Meditation

Some hotels or independent studios may offer yoga classes, providing a calm setting for practice and mindfulness.

Beach and Pool Clubs

Many hotels along the Costera have beachfront clubs or large pool areas where you can relax, swim, and enjoy food and drinks. Some offer day passes to non-guests.

Hot Springs

While Acapulco itself is a coastal resort, some natural hot springs might exist in the broader Guerrero state, but they are not a main tourist attraction within the city.

Finding Inner Peace

Morning Yoga

Start your day with a yoga session, often available at resorts or studios, for a peaceful beginning.

Beach Walks

Take serene walks along the quieter parts of the beach during sunrise or sunset for reflection.

Spa Treatments

Indulge in a relaxing massage or wellness treatment at one of the city's many spas.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Acapulco comes alive after dark with a array of entertainment and nightlife choices.

Nightclubs and Dancing

  • Mandala: Popular with tourists, known for its open-air terrace and electronic music.
  • Baby’O: An iconic, exclusive club famous in the 1980s and 90s, still drawing a crowd.
  • Palladium: Perched on a cliff with a glass wall, offering panoramic bay views, known for light shows.
  • Hannah Sun Club: A modern, open-air beach club with a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.

Bars and Live Music

Bar Districts and Pub Crawls

La Costera features numerous bars, from casual beachfront spots to lively pubs. Some tour operators organize pub crawls, which are a good way to experience multiple venues safely.

Live Music Venues

Many restaurants and bars, especially along the Costera, feature live music. Expect Latin rhythms, mariachi bands, or cover bands performing popular hits.

Late-Night Entertainment

Beyond clubs, some establishments offer live shows, comedy acts, or other forms of late-night entertainment to round out your evening.

Safe Transport

Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps for transport when enjoying nightlife. Avoid walking alone late at night.

Stay Aware

When enjoying nightlife, stay aware of your surroundings. Do not accept drinks from strangers.

Event Listings

  • Check local publications.
  • Ask hotel concierge for current event schedules.
  • Explore online event calendars for Acapulco.
  • Many venues announce special nights.

Safety Precaution

Always prioritize your safety when out at night. Travel in groups or with trusted companions.

Shopping & Markets

Shopping in Acapulco ranges from bustling traditional markets to modern malls, providing souvenirs, crafts, and luxury goods.

Traditional Markets

  • Mercado Central: The largest and most authentic market, offering everything from fresh produce to clothing.
  • Mercado de Artesanías (Arts & Crafts Market): Best place for souvenirs and handicrafts near Diana roundabout.
  • Bargaining: Practice respectful bargaining at artisan markets for crafts and souvenirs.
  • Artisan Workshops: Look for specific shops specializing in local crafts like Taxco silver, pottery, or textiles.

Shopping Categories

Souvenir Recommendations

Silver jewelry (especially from Taxco), handicrafts (pottery, textiles, wood carvings), local sweets (coconut candies), Acapulco-themed items, Mezcal or local coffee.

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

La Isla Shopping Village (Diamante Zone): Open-air mall with international and national brands, department stores, cinema, restaurants. High-end resorts also have boutiques.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Support local artisans directly at markets for fair compensation. Avoid items from endangered species like sea turtle products or coral, which are illegal and unethical.

Bargaining Tips

  • Polite bargaining is common for souvenirs.
  • Start by offering about half the asking price.
  • Work towards a mutually fair deal.
  • Maintain a friendly and respectful demeanor.

Unique Finds

  • Look for handcrafted goods that tell a story.
  • Support small local businesses.
  • Discover one-of-a-kind items.
  • These make memorable gifts.

Shipping & Customs

  • Inquire about shipping for large items.
  • Keep receipts for high-value purchases.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs.
  • Understand duty-free limits upon return.

Smart Shopping Practices

Market Observation
  • When shopping at markets, polite bargaining is common.
  • Start by offering about half the asking price.
  • Work towards a mutually fair deal for souvenirs and crafts.
Quality & Authenticity
  • Look for "Hecho a mano" (handmade) signs to verify authenticity.
  • Be mindful of purchasing items made from endangered species, which are illegal.
  • Support artisans directly to ensure fair compensation for their work.

Support Local Artisans

Your purchases from local artisans contribute directly to the community's economy and culture.

Activity Planning Summary

Must-Do Activities

  • Witness the La Quebrada Cliff Divers performance.
  • Take a bay cruise for evening views.
  • Savor Pescado a la Talla at a beachfront restaurant.
  • Explore Fort San Diego and its historical museum.

Seasonal Considerations

  • Book popular tours and activities in advance during high season (Dec-Apr).
  • Beaches are more crowded during peak holidays; explore quieter options like Caleta.
  • Low season (Jun-Oct) might offer fewer crowds but also potential for rain.
  • Check local event calendars for festivals or cultural events that might align with your visit.