Situated on Acapulco Bay, Acapulco is probably the most famous beach resort in Mexico. The town stretches for over 16km (10 miles) round the bay. It has many beaches as well as numerous top-class hotels. The malecón (seaside promenade) runs along the beaches. There is a square in the center of the old town to the west of the Bay. This lively and fashionable resort offers skindiving, angling, parachute sailing, water-skiing, golf, tennis, riding and the unique spectacle of the Quebrada divers. The waters of the Bay are famous for their calmness and safety, though the beach of La Condesa has rougher waters and good surf for those who want it. The two beaches nearest the center of the town are Playa Caleta and Playa Caletilla; the sun on these is considered to be at its best in the morning. The late afternoon sun is thought to be best on Playa Hornos, which is further around the bay to the east. Scuba-diving lessons can be arranged on request. Nearby is Roqueta Island, visited regularly by glass-bottomed boats, from which the underwater image of the Virgin of Guadalupe can be seen. The island itself is popular for family trips.
Fort San Diego, in the middle of the town, is where the last battle of the Mexican War of Independence was fought. Admission is free but it is closed on Thursdays. Behind the town of Acapulco rise the Sierra Madre Mountains, a favorite location for photographers who relish the greenery, the rocky cliffs and the breathtaking views over the bay.
16km (10 miles) away is Pie de la Cuesta which has a lagoon and several large beaches. The surf is rough.