Best Things To Do In Acapulco Mexico in 2024

Sightseeing Tours

One of the best things to do in Acapulco for first time visitors with families is to take one of the several sightseeing tours. These excursions are wonderful for introducing you to the area whether you are interested in beaches, architecture, history, nature or the culture of Acapulco. Tours will have you viewing incredible places such as Tres Palos Lagoon, the Chapel of Peace, Fort San Diego and several beach areas like Playa Contesa and Playa Icacos. Other fascinating places you will visit are the local markets, the Mural Diego Rivera and the Zocalo where you will see the unique Spanish Moorish architecture of Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church. You can add options such as watching the cliff divers at La Quebrada while having lunch or you can even visit a local shaman for a cleansing ritual of your body.

Cliff Divers Show - La Quebrada

The most popular and a must thing to do in Acapulco is to watch the artistic cliff divers at La Quebrada. You will be stunned as these cliff divers perform incredible leaps of faith from a height of more than 150-feet into a pool of water that is only 13-feet deep. Cliff divers have been a tradition at La Quebrada since the 1920s and begin their ritual by saying a prayer to the Virgen of Guadalupe. The precision of their dives is amazing as they before twists, somersaults and flips before entering the water. There are several places to view this magnificent event that happens throughout the day and night at a leisurely viewing platform or within one of several restaurants such as La Perla and Belle Vista. The most interesting performance of the day is the final dive where these skilled performers dive into a fire lit sea.

Fort of San Diego

If you are interested in learning more about the importance of Acapulco 300 years ago and the history of the surrounding area then a must thing to do in Acapulco is to plan a trip to El Fuerte de San Diego also known as Fort San Diego. Located near Playa Hornos, Fort San Diego is an excellent example of Spanish military architecture that was constructed to fend off the numerous attacks of British pirate ships. This beautifully restored 1616 fortress has five unique arms that were fortified with cannons and manpower to ensure the safety of this deep water port and now affords incredible views of the bay. Your whole family will enjoy this historical experience which is aided by the numerous interactive exhibits which can be viewed within the Museo Historico de Acapulco that now resides within the walls of the fort.

Snorkeling

When you want to explore the fascinating underwater world that exists in the Pacific Ocean then a superb thing to do in Acapulco for all types of adventurers is to try a snorkeling tour. These tours are ideal for novice to expert snorkelers who want to view the incredible marine life that lives in the Pacific Ocean. When you are snorkeling an expert guide will inform you of the various conservation efforts that are taking place in the area that are keeping the beautiful waters teaming with marine life. Choices include a trip to La Roqueta Island where you will find interesting sea caves and the Acapulco Bay has several reefs which provide shelter to thousands of tropical fish. Other exciting options include a standup paddleboard experience, a boat ride and there is a kayak option that is sure to please everyone looking for underwater adventure.

Coyuca Lagoon

When you want to relax in a surreal natural environment that is just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the busy beaches then the ideal thing to do in Acapulco is to visit the Coyuca Lagoon. Located just 6-miles northwest of Acapulco, the Coyuca Lagoon occupies more than 28 square miles of area with plenty places for you watch incredible wildlife including numerous bird species that call this freshwater lagoon home. Once you arrive at Coyuca Lagoon you will understand why this place was instrumental in the filming of the African Queen, Rambo and several Tarzan movies. There are a variety of ways to enjoy the lagoon from a boat ride to lounging on the shores and most excursions include a complimentary lunch. You can even take a few hours and relax at Playa Pie de la Cuesta or ride a horse along the golden beach at sunset.

La Roqueta Island

One of the most popular things to do in Acapulco is to take a trip to La Roqueta Island where you will find a variety of activities for the whole family. Located 10-minutes offshore from Caleta and Caletilla Beach areas, La Roqueta Island is a treasure chest of pleasure waiting to be discovered. People are amazed at the wide variety of activities around the island that range from swimming to snorkeling to scuba diving to relaxing on the golden sands. There are a few restaurants serving local cuisine and beverages as well as numerous vendors with unique souvenirs. There are nature trails that will take you to the top of the island where you can experience wonderful vistas of the built and natural environment. Don’t forget the added bonus of a boat ride from shore that can even include a unique glass bottom boat adventure.

Cruises

One of the best things to do in Acapulco for travelers who like to get on the water and explore the crystal blue waters of the Pacific Ocean or the mangroves in the local jungle is to take a cruise. You will be amazed at the choices you have to spend the day on the water whether you want to sail on a luxury yacht in the Acapulco Bay or take a boat ride at one of the local lagoons like Tres Palos or Coyuca. You have the choice of a private excursion within the bay or perhaps a party boat sail which includes drinks and dancing. For a more surreal day in nature try a cruise at one of the lagoons where you can glide through a mangrove forest and finish with some relaxing beach time.

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Nature and Wildlife tours are a perfect thing to do in Acapulco when you are ready to engulf yourself in the great outdoors while viewing the pristine landscape which is teaming with wildlife. These excursions are ideal for families who like to learn about their natural surrounding as well as about interesting wildlife that calls the jungle and waterways of the area home. You can visit places such as the Coyuca Lagoon and enjoy a relaxing boat ride or perhaps you can partake in a soothing natural Temazcal sauna. Many of the excursions include stops where you will witness baby turtles being released into their natural environment at Sunset Beach and Playa Pie de la Cuesta. Your experience may include watching a local shaman perform ancient ritual to Mother Nature and some excursions even visit the Witch Doctor’s Market to make for a thrilling day of adventure.

Historical, Architectural and Archaeological Tours

One of the more popular things to do in Acapulco for people that like to learn about the history and the historic built environment of the area is to take a historical, architectural and archaeological tour. There are a wide variety of excursions for you to choose from which will have you viewing some of the most remarkable aspects of the built environment from ancient to present day periods. Opportunities to walk through archaeological ruins at Xochicalco or Tehacalo and you can visit the petroglyphs at Palma Sola. While you are learning about unique building techniques your expert guide will inform you of interesting facts about the historical value of each location. Some tours include a stop at the Witch Doctor Market in Acapulco while other will add value with a stop at hacienda Vista Hermosa.

Day Trips to Taxco

When you need to get out and explore the countryside as well as watch the finest jewelry artisans in Mexico, then the only thing to do in Acapulco is to plan a day to Taxco. You will be delighted with your expert guide who will explain the intricacies and history of the surrounding countryside as you travel to Taxco and the surrounding areas. Once you arrive in Taxco you will have plenty of time to watch artisans create special one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry from the finest silver in the world. There will be ample time for you to shop the markets as well as indulge in the local cuisine while you relax. Other fascinating day trips from Acapulco include a trip to Mexico City and you can even visit a Mezcal distillery where you will learn about the process of making this hardy Mexican alcoholic beverage.

Cooking Classes

One of the best things to do in Acapulco for foodies and travelers that want to learn more about the interesting culture is to try one of the many cooking classes. During these excursions you will learn about the local cuisine while you follow expert chefs through the process of combining the perfect ingredients that make for a special culinary treat. You will have the opportunity to visit one of the local markets with your expert cooking instructor who will also inform you of interesting cultural and historical facts as you walk through the streets. After choosing the freshest ingredients for your meal you will head back to the kitchen where you will learn how to cook the perfect Mexican dish. Other added bonuses on these excursions are relaxing on the beach after eating your delicious food and complimentary pick-up/drop-off service from your hotel or cruise port.

Dining Experiences

If you are searching for an entertaining thing to do in Acapulco in the evening you should plan to take an exciting dinner experience. These tours are fantastic for families and couples who want an easy night out with interesting entertainment and great local cuisine. You will be delighted with the local cuisine that ranges from tacos to a 3-course gourmet meal at some of the best restaurants of Acapulco like La Perla and Belle Vista. The variety of entertainment makes for a perfect evening of fun watching acrobatic divers jumping from the 100-feet high cliffs of La Quebrada into the illuminated waters of the Pacific Ocean or a Lucha Libre wrestling event. There are several options that you can choose to make for a perfect evening of fun and your life is made easier with free hotel/cruise port pick-up and drop-off service included in these excursions.

Horseback Riding and Baby Turtle Release

One of the more ideal things to do in Acapulco for families and travelers who want to learn about nature and explore the beautiful beaches is to try a horseback riding and baby turtle release tour. You will be delighted with these excursions that will have out in the natural environment while you soak up the sun and tropical scenery of coconut palms as well as the Pacific Ocean. During these tours you will first take a short drive to the Vallarino Turtle Camp where you will learn about the conservation efforts that are helping save these marine animals. Then once you are fitted with the right type of horse based on your riding ability you will trot along the pristine beaches. Families will like the quality time spent with each other and these excursions include complimentary hotel/cruise port pick-up and drop-off service.

Walking Tours

One of the more popular things to do in Acapulco that will allow you to visit several of the many iconic spots of the area is to take a walking tour. During these excursions you will have the opportunity to visit iconic places within Acapulco such as the Zocalo where you can view the incredible Spanish Moorish architecture of Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church. Other great sightseeing options during these excursions include watching the spectacular cliff divers at La Quebrada as they gracefully jump from the cliffs into the crystal blue waters below. Your tour will also take to Fort San Diego where you can walk through this historic fortress that is packed with marvelous interactive exhibits that explain the history of the area. An added bonus for these excursions is an expert tour guide as well as complimentary hotel/cruise port pick-up and drop-off service.

Kayaking

One of the best things to do in Acapulco that combines exercise and sightseeing is to take a kayaking tour. You will be pleased with these excursions that will have you paddling around Roqueta Island which is one of the more iconic areas within Acapulco Bay. The Roqueta Island is strategically placed within the bay and separates Caleta as wells Calellita Beaches in Acapulco. As you paddle your expert guide will inform you of the surrounding ecosystem and the highlights of Roqueta Island. You will be able to learn more about outstanding landmarks that dot city skyline such as the Chapel of Peace while you are viewing the incredible marine life that lives in the bay. An added bonus is that most tours include a relaxing lunch on the beach where you lounge and take in the sun after a relaxing day of exercising and marine life viewing.

Scuba Diving

If you like to explore the beautiful and interesting underwater world that thrives in the Pacific Ocean then the only thing to do in Acapulco is to go on a scuba diving tour. You will be thrilled whether you are a novice or a certified scuba with the choices of places you can view under the water. There are opportunities for shallow and deep dives that will take you through channels, walls as well as shipwrecks. There are numerous places within the Acapulco Bay and around Roqueta Island which offer the excitement of underwater adventure. Some of the marine life species that thrive in this portion of the Pacific Ocean are flutefish, octopus, blennies, morays, boxfish and eagle rays. An added bonus while scuba diving is the view of the built environment and tropical landscape that dots the coastline.

Standup Paddleboarding

If you want to experience one of the newest trends in watersport then a superb thing to do in Acapulco is to take a standup paddleboard tour. These excursions are fantastic for families and type of adventurers who are seeking a peaceful way to explore the surrounding bays of Acapulco and Santa Lucia. During your adventure you will be able to view marine life in their natural habitat as well as view the beautiful coastline of tropical landscape and the built environment. As you standup paddleboard your expert instructor will give you tips on how to maneuver and paddle correctly whether you are a novice or expert at this new watersport. You can choose to take a lesson, a more strenuous paddle or just a relaxing time exercising on the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. When you are finished there is always some relaxing beach time included so you can unwind before heading home. Some tours include lunch, a spectacular snorkeling option and all excursions include complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Playa Pie de la Cuesta

When you are seeking a more secluded beach area that is perfect for relaxing then the best thing to do in Acapulco is to go to Playa Pie de la Cuesta. Located 6.5-miles northwest of Acapulco, Playa Pie de la Cuesta stretches for 10.5-miles separating the Pacific Ocean from the Coyuca Lagoon and allows for plenty of solitude. Playa Pie de la Cuesta has a nice tropical backdrop with the mangroves that surround Coyuca Lagoon and the long stretch of sand is ideal for beach games such as soccer and volleyball. There are numerous eco-friendly establishments that offer shaded hammocks for lounging and beachside drink service which is perfect for couples looking for more seclusion. Many beach goers will take advantage of the strong waves for surfing, boogie boarding or bodysurfing and sailing is also a favorite watersport at this beach. Other popular activities at Playa Pie de la Cuesta are sunset walks, ATV travel and horseback riding along the coastline. Beach goers at Playa Pie de la Cuesta can also take a peek into the past by viewing rock paintings and petroglyphs from around 1,200 B.C. which have been discovered in the area.

Playa Revolcadero

If you like to surf or watch surfers carve some incredible waves then an ideal thing to do in Acapulco is to take a trip to Playa Revolcadero. Located 4.6-miles south of Acapulco in the Diamante zone, Playa Revolcadero is an impressive stretch of grey sand beach area that is perfect for lounging and sunset walks. The greyish sands at Playa Revolcadero are created by the Lagoon of Tres Palos which is approximately 2.5-miles away to the east of the beach area. Playa Revolcadero is a favorite spot for novice to intermediate level surfers with both right and left breaks of the waves. Many people will also enjoy boogie boarding and body surfing at Playa Revolcadero but swimming is highly not advised because of the extreme rip currents. Other recreation opportunities exist with horseback riding, ultralight airplanes from the cliffs as well as ATV travel. Playa Revolcadero boasts a tremendous amount of luxury accommodations along the coastline with several restaurants in the area serving splendid local seafood specialties.

Playas Caleta y Caletilla

When you are searching for a beach area that is ideal for swimming with children then the perfect thing to do in Acapulco is to plan a trip to Playas Caleta and Caletilla. Located in the Tradicional zone of Acapulco Bay along the Costera Miguel Aleman Avenue, Playas Caleta and Caletilla are separated by the islet of Isla de la Roqueta which also provides for excellent protection of Pacific Ocean waves making these beach areas a favorite for swimming. Playas Caleta and Caletilla have plenty of space to relax on the sand with numerous vendors that supply beach equipment as well as other watersport equipment such as kayaks, standup paddleboards and snorkeling equipment. Scuba divers will be thrilled with the Piedra de Elefante and Piedra de Hierbabuena where they can view incredible marine life within these two reefs. There are numerous restaurants that line the shoreline offering local cuisine and entertainment. Another interesting aspect at Playas Caleta and Caletilla is the Virgin of the Seas underwater chapel that is located on La Yerbabuena which is a small rocky islet separating Playa Caleta and Isla del Roqueta.

Playa Icacos

Playa Icacos is one of the largest stretches of beach area that is a must thing to do in Acapulco for all types of beach goers including families. Located adjacent to Playa Condesa in the Acapulco Dorado area, Playa Icacos is a Blue Flag beach which comprises almost 1.25-miles of coastline along the Acapulco Bay and is generally not as crowded as Playa Condesa. Playa Icacos is an ideal beach for sunbathing, beach games and swimming is generally good because of Cerro El Guitarron which offers protection from crashing waves. Once at Playa Icacos you will find a variety of vendors with beach equipment as well as watersport activities that range from banana boat rides to parasailing to standup paddleboarding. Playa Icacos boasts numerous restaurants along Costera Miguel Aleman Avenue as well as several small beachfront establishments. The beach area at Playa Icacos is wide which affords great opportunities for beach volleyball and beach soccer throughout the day. The beach area is also home to several festivals throughout the year.

Playa Condesa

When you are looking for an entertaining beach area that is ideal for families and all types of beach goers, then the best thing to do in Acapulco is to go to Playa Condesa. Located northeast of Acapulco Bay, Playa Condesa is situated in the Acapulco Dorado area along Costera Miguel Aleman Avenue. Playa Condesa stretches for more than 2,140 feet and is a very busy as well as popular beach area in Acapulco where you will find plenty of space to lounge on the sand, good swimming when the current permits and lots of watersport activities that range from parasailing to jet skiing to windsurfing as well as snorkeling and sailing. Playa Condesa also offers great vantage points to view Farallon del Obispo also known as El Morro towering above the water. One of the more interesting attractions at Playa Condesa is a 150-feet bungee tower that will please adrenaline junkies. Playa Condesa is also a favorite with members of the LGBT community where many members will congregate in a specific section of the beach area. Playa Condesa does not sleep at night and you will find numerous discotheques, restaurants and several live music venues as well as a plethora of entertaining street performers.