La Quebrada – Acapulco’s Iconic Cliff Divers
World-renowned for its daring cliff divers, La Quebrada has become Acapulco’s most iconic symbol. There’s nothing like the breathtaking view of the ocean crashing against the jagged rocks below or the lush green mountains opening up to the vibrant cityscape.
Most visitors flock to the mirador (viewpoint) near the cliffs, where they can witness the breathtaking dives firsthand. Alternatively, guests dining at the nearby Hotel Mirador can enjoy the view while meeting the brave divers before their jumps (and perhaps show their appreciation with a tip for these courageous performers).
However, don't limit yourself to just this one spot. La Quebrada has several scenic walking paths along the avenue, offering stunning views that stretch all the way to Pie de la Cuesta. Along these paths, you'll find secluded inlets where you can get close to the ocean and feel its power. Beautifully maintained sidewalks beckon visitors to stroll all the way to Acapulco's seaside amphitheater, Sinfonía del Mar, or venture further to the lesser-known Playa Angosta.
As the day turns to night, the locals gather along the streets, enjoying drinks with friends, while lovers share quiet moments. The sunset at La Quebrada is an experience unlike any other – the sun sinks into the Pacific, often accompanied by a fleeting green flash before disappearing beyond the horizon.
Cliff Divers of La Quebrada
No matter how many times you witness the daring feats of the La Quebrada cliff divers, the spectacle never loses its magic. Each dive is a unique display of precision and bravery—sometimes featuring impressive moves like swan dives with full somersaults, night dives with blazing torches, or even synchronized tandem jumps. The divers must perfectly time their leap with the ebb and flow of the ocean current, all while avoiding the jagged rocks below. It’s an extraordinary combination of skill, bravery, and timing. The cliffs at La Quebrada in Acapulco are approximately 35 to 40 meters (about 115 to 130 feet) high.
These fearless athletes start training at a very young age. Their craft is honed through years of dedication, with each dive requiring immense concentration and strength. Even the climb to the top of the cliffs is perilous—one misstep could send a diver tumbling down the rugged mountainside. On any given night, you might witness four or five divers taking the plunge, but there are many more behind the scenes, working in shifts to minimize the risk of injury from the repetitive impact of each jump.
The cliff divers of Acapulco perform nightly shows at La Quebrada with several shows scheduled every evening. The first performance begins at 1:00 pm, but the most dramatic and breathtaking displays are during the evening, with shows at 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:30 pm, and 10:30 pm.
Getting to the cliffs is easy: you can take a short taxi ride or enjoy a leisurely 10-minute walk from the Zócalo, Acapulco’s main square.
Sinfonía del Mar – Acapulco's Seaside Amphitheater
The Sinfonía del Mar is a small but captivating amphitheater nestled into the cliffs near La Quebrada. Imagine watching a performance while the ocean crashes against the rocks below, creating a dramatic, natural soundtrack that enhances the experience. However, in reality, the amphitheater is mostly frequented by local Acapulco kids, enjoying beers and playful moments as they gather here for a laid-back night out.
The area surrounding La Sinfonía and La Quebrada has been recently renovated and offers some of the most striking ocean views along the entire west coast of North America. Describing it simply as romantic or awe-inspiring doesn’t quite do it justice—it’s a location of grandeur and beauty that should not be missed.
Why Visit La Quebrada and Sinfonía del Mar?
Whether you're visiting during the day to witness the brave cliff divers or strolling at sunset to enjoy the magical views, La Quebrada is a must-see. And don't forget to stop by the Sinfonía del Mar for an unforgettable, panoramic ocean view and an authentic local experience.
