Acapulco Outdoor Recreation

Guides are available for hire, and fishing trips also can be arranged through your hotel or the Pesca Deportiva, near the dock across from the main plaza. Rates are negotiable; look for a reliable outfitter with equipment that looks like it's in good, safe condition, and make arrangements ahead of time. A boat plus experienced crew for a deep-sea excursion can be rented by the day; these trips usually leave in the early morning and return in the early afternoon. Make arrangements ahead of time. A Mexican fishing license is required, but the outfitter often will take care of this for you.

Almost every type of boating can be enjoyed. Sailboats, speedboats, catamarans and other pleasure craft prevail on the bay. Yachts and deep-sea fishing vessels can be rented as well. Arrange boat rentals through your hotel or a travel advisor. For larger vessels complete with crew, make reservations in advance. Canoes, paddleboats and other small craft can be rented at Caleta and Caletilla beaches.

Swimming in Acapulco Bay is popular due to the enticing hue of its waters. The rougher surf at Playa Revolcadero is favored by surfers. Pay particular heed to any warning flags posted, which can indicate hazardous water conditions or an occasional shark sighting. And almost every hotel has a pool, if not several. Some of them are huge, set against a backdrop of rustling palms and tropical plantings, and have swim-up bars. Luxury hotels provide their guests private or semiprivate pools.

All of the major hotels offer scuba diving lessons and equipment. The waters off Roqueta Island are especially conducive to dive explorations. The Acapulco Scuba Center, on Boulevard Costera Miguel Alemán at the eastern end of Acapulco Bay, offers dive packages with English-speaking instructors; phone (744) 482-9474.

Boats for water skiing can be booked at hotels as well. The gentler waters at Coyuca Lagoon are good for beginners. Surfing is not permitted at beaches along Acapulco Bay; the best place to surf is Revolcadero Beach, near Puerto Marqués.

Another popular sport is parasailing, although it is not without risks. From a standing position, a speedboat hauls a “sailor” to a high altitude. Many parachute operators set up at Playa La Condesa. Windsurfing is good at Puerto Marqués and also can be arranged at Caleta Beach. Horseback riding is popular along Playa Revolcadero.