Water Sports

You can arrange to water-ski, rent broncos (one-person Jet Skis), parasail, and windsurf at outfitters on most of the beaches. Parasailing is an Acapulco highlight developed here in the 1960s; a five-minute trip costs $60. Waterskiing is about $40 an hour; broncos cost $40–$95 for a half hour, depending on the size. You can arrange to windsurf at Playa Caleta and most beaches along the Costera, but the best place to actually do it is at Bahía Puerto Marqués. The main surfing beach is Revolcadero.

Although visibility isn't as good as in the Caribbean, scuba diving is also an option. It's best from November through February, when the water is the most transparent. In summer, from June through October, rains bring mud from the hills down the rivers and into the bay. A Canadian warship was actually scuttled in the bay to make a diving trip more appealing.

Acapulco Scuba Center. The center leads four-hour snorkeling and scuba outings for beginners and certified divers. All tours include gear and round-trip transportation from your hotel, and cost $75 with lessons and lunch included; snorkeling costs $38. The center also arranges deep-sea fishing excursions. Paseo del Pescador 13 y 14, near the zócalo, Old Acapulco, Acapulco, Guerrero, 39300. 744/482–9474; www.acapulcoscuba.com.