Off the Beaten Path Acapulco

Our Local Expert Says:

Built in the 30s this is one of Acapulco's classics. Breathtaking views. perfect place for relaxing in a poolside hammock.

Description:

The Flamingos, overlooking the famous Quebrada, is located in the traditional section of Acapulco. The hotel offers 47 rooms with a telephone, and television sets are available upon request. The hotel's swimming pool and gardens add to the enjoyment, as will a drink in the bar or a delicious candlelit dinner. The hotel is famous for its well-known onetime visitor, actor Johnny Weissmuller, the first big-screen Tarzan.

Description:

This is a very popular beach for both locals and tourists. Its sand is fine with gentle waves. There are many palm trees on this beach that offer shade to this area. You can watch the fishmermen preparing the morning catch after pulling in the net.

Description:

Approximately 28 square miles in size, this beautiful fresh water lagoon is a tropical landscape with palm trees and a great variety of flora and fauna. A boat tour showcases the bird sanctuary, home to many species of birds. The water here is generally clean and clear, which makes it perfect for fishing, sailing or water-skiing. On shore, there are restaurants that serve tasty fish and seafood delicacies.

Description:

Driving along Acapulco Bay to the west side of Pie de la Cuesta, you'll arrive to Coyuca Lagoon. This lagoon consists of fresh water accumulated by the river system of Rio Balsas and it covers a great area right next to the Pacific Ocean. The traditional Palapas and the natural landscape of the Sierra Madre make this an unforgettable experience. After a brief introduction to the kayaks, your professional instructor will lead the way so you enjoy a smooth one hour ride in the calm waters of Coyuca. You are going to be able to admire all the flora and fauna of the region and to discover the unspoiled jungle. Your guide will be taking care of you and showing you the most interesting things about this beautiful lagoon. Afterwards, relax and admire the extraordinary view at Pie de la Cuesta while you enjoy your lunch and your drink that you have included.

Our Local Expert Says:

Lots of locals go here. Decent prices. Stick to the Mexican cuisine here, although they do offer a variety.

Description:

Not fancy at all, Julio's is known for its good service and affordable prices. Clean, simple and pleasant, this establishment calls for casual, informal attire. Seafood happens to be their specialty and they serve Mexican and international cuisine, which tends to be seasonal. Hours may vary according to the tourist season.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is a fun place to go for Pozole on Thursdays when they have live mariachis! The patio has a beautiful view of the bay and wonderful a wonderful breeze.

Description:

Of all the Mexican food restaurants, this would be the least recommended, however on Thursdays, it is very nice to go and eat the traditional green pozole, accompanied by delicious pork rinds, fresh cheese, fried tacos and avocado, in a great atmosphere including a Mariachi band. The view offered from the terrace of its dining room is attractive, for it looks out onto most of Acapulco bay, and you can feel a fresh breeze. After enjoying the food, it is nice to have a drink in their piano bar.

Our Local Expert Says:

Visit this extraordinary house which was home to one of Mexico's great patrons of the arts. Outside the house is a spectacular mural of an Aztec God by Diego Rivera. The last work he did before his death. This is considered one of the most important cultural works in Acapulco. Diego lived here for 18 years and painted the inside walls with murals to show his appreciation to his host.

Description:

Visit this extraordinary house which was home to one of Mexico's great patrons of the arts. Outside the house is a spectacular mural of an Aztec God by Diego Rivera. The last work he did before his death. This is considered one of the most important cultural works in Acapulco. Diego lived here for 18 years and painted the inside walls with murals to show his appreciation to his host.

Our Local Expert Says:

Spectacular views. Well worth the trip for photos. The cross measure 42 meters high and can be seen from the city centre.

Description:

Spectacular views. Well worth the trip for photos. The cross measures 42 meters high and can be seen from the city centre.

Description:

This is an AJ Hacket Bungee! Located right on La Condesa it is hard to miss this impressive Bungee jump. Standing about 165 feet up this exciting jump is right beside the Paradise bar and always attracts hundreds of onlookers.

Our Local Expert Says:

High end art to purchase. Prices are quite high.

Description:

Galería Rudic is not be missed for those travelers wishing to take back home a contemporary work of art by a well known Mexican artist and specially by art collectors. This fashionable gallery, owned by Myrtille Rudic de Rullan, is commited to promoting contemporary art by talented exponents of Mexico's art scene. Galería Rudic is a very attractive and appropriate venue for displaying such a fine collection of Mexican paintings and sculptures. It is closed on Sundays.

Our Local Expert Says:

Not the prettiest beach due to the number of fishing boats, but it can be an interesting place to watch them come in.

Description:

This small beach (it comprises of just a short stretch of sand by the sea) lies in close proximity to the wharf. Hence it is a favorite spot of the villagers. The only drawback is the chain of boats parked along the coast. Since it is an important fishing center, one can spot several boats in the water at any hour.

Our Local Expert Says:

Contemporary art gallery. Call first confirm that they are open as they tend to keep various hours.

Description:

One of several art galleries in Acapulco, Galería Abraham Ramírez features exposed pieces of sculpture in bronze and some pictorial works in oil and water colors. Though the gallery's exterior isn't impressive, the interior displays interesting works by contemporary and modernist artists. Sometimes one gets to visit exhibitions and auctions benefitting altruistic institutions.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is the heart of the old central neighborhood of Acapulco. While catering to tourists it also retains local authenticity, and is a showcase for some of the town's elderly characters of the "popular classes," as they are called here.

Description:

The Zócalo was the heart of Spanish Acapulco, founded on December 13, 1521, when Fernando Chico sailed into Acapulco Bay, and remains the most traditional section of the entire city. The busy neighborhood's vital center is a pretty tree-lined plaza between the Church of Nuestra Senora de la Soledad and the bay front avenue, La Costera. The church, built only in 1930, is unusual in Mexico: onion-shaped twin towers covered in blue and yellow tiles resemble those of a Russian Orthodox church.

The plaza's arcades contain restaurants and ice cream stores and if you explore the surrounding side streets you will find decent prices for souvenirs. The cruise ship terminal is within walking distance of the Zócalo and the sidewalks are frequently packed with passengers enjoying a day in port. Walk up the hill behind the church to La Quebrada and watch the cliff divers.

Our Local Expert Says:

Excellent place for the kids. Check out the little zoo with monkeys and rabbits and the little lake. A unique experience in dining.

Description:

La Granja offers a great variety of dishes which are typical of the coast and are served by a staff that is warm and friendly. As you enter La Granja, you will find yourself under a great sized thatched roof, to one side they have a playground and in the back there is a small lake where games are organised such as boat races, or a contest to see who can cross the lake by hanging on a rope. It also has a mini zoo where the lion, the racoon, the rabbits and monkeys are always an attraction.

Our Local Expert Says:

Built in the 30s this is one of Acapulco's classics. Breathtaking views. perfect place for relaxing in a poolside hammock.

Description:

The Flamingos, overlooking the famous Quebrada, is located in the traditional section of Acapulco. The hotel offers 47 rooms with a telephone, and television sets are available upon request. The hotel's swimming pool and gardens add to the enjoyment, as will a drink in the bar or a delicious candlelit dinner. The hotel is famous for its well-known onetime visitor, actor Johnny Weissmuller, the first big-screen Tarzan.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located close to the church in the Zocalo this is a very popular place. The shrimp are huge and if there is line up they are worth the wait.

Description:

This popular mid sized eatery is located close to the Zócalo and the Cathedral. It is a fast food restaurant known for its seafood menu, available at reasonable rates. Their decor is simple and wait staff very friendly. Some of the specialties include the Camarones Gigantes (Giant Shrimps) and Huachinango (a large tasty fish).

Description:

Taxco is a quaint colonial city located 170 miles north of Acapulco, in the mountains of the North Sierra. With a unique architectural style, the city is famous for its cobblestone streets and white stucco houses topped with red tiled roofs. Wrought iron balconies, a common adornment, are usually spilling over with beautiful flowers.

Taxco is a world known tourist destination and the friendly and hospitable character of its people has not changed. It has been declared a national monument to be conserved as it looked in the XVIII century. Taxco is also known as the silver producing capital of Mexico so there is a vast selection of silver available to purchase in its shops!

Enjoy free time to walk through the cobblestoned streets, visit the Santa Prisca cathedral and savour the atmosphere of this typical Mexican town. Lunch will be provided at a local Mexican restaurant (drinks not included).

Our Local Expert Says:

Built in the 30s this is one of Acapulco's classics. Breathtaking views. perfect place for relaxing in a poolside hammock.

Description:

The Flamingos, overlooking the famous Quebrada, is located in the traditional section of Acapulco. The hotel offers 47 rooms with a telephone, and television sets are available upon request. The hotel's swimming pool and gardens add to the enjoyment, as will a drink in the bar or a delicious candlelit dinner. The hotel is famous for its well-known onetime visitor, actor Johnny Weissmuller, the first big-screen Tarzan.

Description:

Located South of the Naval Base, these smaller beaches are at the foot of rock formations where abundant vegetation surrounds beautiful beach homes.

Our Local Expert Says:

No experience is required but it does require a fair bit of paddling so be prepared.

Description:

Descend 5 miles in inflateable rafts through the canyon and feel the rush as you pass through class 1 2 and 3 rapids. This takes place on the beautiful Papagayp river canyon. Professional guides take you through this exciting tirp. This runs from June to February depending on weather and river conditions.

Our Local Expert Says:

Ravioli is the favorite here, but try the pizzas too. Nice traditional Italian restaurant.

Description:

From its name you can guess that this is a restaurant serving Italian fare. Its menu is as varied as can get, and the service is good. Giancolo has managed to position itself as a restaurant with high quality food and low prices. It serves pastas, prepared in the traditional Boloñaise way, and gratinadas with cheese and shrimps. Start by requesting for Ravioles, which is another notable dish, or the pizzas, which have authentic homemade seasonings. The decor is simple and the seating is comfortable, ideal for a romantic evening.

Our Local Expert Says:

Small hotel with basic rooms some with a beautiful view makes it more interesting.

Description:

Its name describes this hotel perfectly, as Lindavista, which means nice view in Spanish, one can enjoy the lovely panorama of the sea from any of its 50 rooms. There is a large swimming pool, cable television in the lobby-bar, and a secured parking lot. A great advantage of this hotel is that it is very close to the beach, where one can rent boats, tour La Roqueta and other sea attractions.

Our Local Expert Says:

Small hotel with basic rooms some with a beautiful view makes it more interesting.

Description:

Its name describes this hotel perfectly, as Lindavista, which means nice view in Spanish, one can enjoy the lovely panorama of the sea from any of its 50 rooms. There is a large swimming pool, cable television in the lobby-bar, and a secured parking lot. A great advantage of this hotel is that it is very close to the beach, where one can rent boats, tour La Roqueta and other sea attractions.

Our Local Expert Says:

Because this is open ocean it can be dangerous to swim

Description:

This area combines the immensity of the open sea and its intense surf with the peacefulness of the lagoon. Visitors have the choice of swimming in either; this is where fresh and salt-water come together. Talla-style Fish is a recipe which originates from this area—just walk into any of the restaurants here and order it. Many visitors to this beautiful location choose to rent horses, or to rent small boats and row through the mangrove swamps.

Description:

Located in the mountains surrounding Acapulco, this zone presents an interesting collection of petroglyphs with a variety of images, among which stand out human figures in different positions. The structures are related to a ceremonial center. It belongs to the Middle PreClassic and Classic Period.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is the place to go after the bars close. Excellent taco el Pastor. Try the Queso Chicharron!

Description:

Located in La Condesa on prime real estate, the food and beverages here are a bit more expensive than they should be. That said, the tacos are good, and what better to wash them down with than a Mexican brew? Open late for post bar noshing (and drinking).

Our Local Expert Says:

Small hotel with basic rooms some with a beautiful view makes it more interesting.

Description:

Its name describes this hotel perfectly, as Lindavista, which means nice view in Spanish, one can enjoy the lovely panorama of the sea from any of its 50 rooms. There is a large swimming pool, cable television in the lobby-bar, and a secured parking lot. A great advantage of this hotel is that it is very close to the beach, where one can rent boats, tour La Roqueta and other sea attractions.

Our Local Expert Says:

Superb atmosphere from 2 p.m. onwards on weekends and Mexican feast-days, with live musicians (one-man-band, a Trío) wandering in and out -- always entertaining but also often of extraordinary quality.

Description:

This traditional family restaurant is part of classic Acapulco, inexpensive and frequented more by Mexicans than foreigners. There are three branches, the one of the beach being more "touristy" while this one, in the heart of town, has an authentic feeling, especially enjoying oysters by night on a weekend, surrounded by local folk. Different fish and shellfish will be in season depending on the time of year, and the best thing is to point to your neighbor and ask what they are eating, and get the waiter to show you what it is in the menu.

Description:

Enjoy a relaxing day in the sun snorkeling from the stunning La Roqueta Island, one of Acapulco's main attractions. With plenty on offer including a range of restaurants, secluded spots and colorful marine life, La Roqueta Island is sure to be a hit with the entire the family.

Depart Acapulco and cruise across the beautiful ocean waters to snorkel off one of the nine gorgeous island beaches of La Roqueta, which is just off the coast of Las Playas.

Take advantage of sun, sand and sea of La Roqueta Island. Relax on the beach, explore diverse tropical aquatic life and enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants before allowing us to return you to your Acapulco hotel.

Our Local Expert Says:

Popular beach due to its location. Some good restaurants here.

Description:

On these beaches, the surf is calm and the sand is fine. The atmosphere ensures you will relax comfortably under countless palm trees that provide shade. If this is not enough, and you need something a little cooler, parasols and tents are available for rental. All across the beaches, vendors sell food, beach clothes and various gifts and trinkets. Most of the activity here occurs in the mornings, as this is the main operation center for fishermen. These beaches are perfect to practice your favorite water sports.

Our Local Expert Says:

A favorite place for mole. All of the locals go here. A little out of the way but a nice family atmosphere.

Description:

7 Leguas draws in the crowds with its tasty Mexican fare. The music is soothing, the decor is simple, the prices are reasonable, and the wait staff is friendly. Some of the specialties are El Mole de Teloloapan (a combination of several chili peppers and spices) and La Cecina (salty meat). Though it is far from the regular tourist area, the food makes it worth a visit.