Acapulco's Top Water Activities
Acapulco Water Activities: Your Guide to Adventure on the Water
Acapulco is the ultimate beach destination, offering an exciting array of water sports and activities for everyone. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking to relax on the waves, there's something for every beachgoer. From jet skis and parasailing to surfing and water skiing, Acapulco’s beautiful coastline is the perfect place to make a splash. Here’s a guide to the top water-based activities you can enjoy in this iconic Mexican city.

Jet Skis & Wave Runners
For those seeking speed and excitement, renting a jet ski or wave runner is a must! The Hotel Zone (including areas like Condesa and Icacos) is home to several rental spots where you can race across the waves. Rentals are available by the half-hour or hour, with prices ranging from $25 to $30 for 30 minutes of fun. Whether you’re zipping around the bay or exploring the coastline, riding a jet ski is a thrilling way to experience Acapulco’s stunning waters.
Parasailing & Paragliding
For a unique and breathtaking perspective of Acapulco, take to the skies with parasailing. At all hours of the day, you’ll see colorful parachutes soaring above the bay. You’ll be harnessed to a boat as you glide high above the water, taking in spectacular views of the city and coastline. Parasailing excursions typically cost around $30 USD. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline pumping while enjoying the beauty of Acapulco from above.
Surfing & Boogie Boarding
Though Acapulco Bay itself isn’t known for massive surf, there are still plenty of opportunities for surfing and boogie boarding. For better surf conditions, head to nearby spots like Diamond Point, Revolcadero Beach, or Bonfil Beach. These locations offer good waves for both beginners and more experienced surfers. Boogie boards are also a great option if you're looking for some fun, smaller waves right in the bay. Rentals are easily available at these beaches.
Water Skiing
Acapulco offers some excellent water skiing opportunities, particularly in the serene waters of Coyuca Lagoon and Pie de la Cuesta. Located about 20 kilometers north of Acapulco, Coyuca Lagoon is a freshwater paradise ideal for water sports, including water skiing. Its calm, expansive waters make it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned skiers, while the surrounding lush landscape adds to the experience. The lagoon is also home to diverse wildlife, including over 250 bird species, making it a nature lover's haven. Visitors can access the lagoon through Pie de la Cuesta, a peaceful beach town known for its calm waters and spectacular sunsets. In Pie de la Cuesta, you can enjoy water skiing, along with other activities like boat rides and fishing, all set against a tranquil backdrop.
For those interested in water skiing, several clubs and operators in the area, such as Club de Ski Chuy in Pie de la Cuesta, offer equipment rentals and guided tours. The calm waters of both locations provide the perfect setting for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Best visited during the dry season from November to April, these spots are ideal for anyone looking to try water skiing or simply enjoy the beauty of Acapulco's natural surroundings. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, Coyuca Lagoon and Pie de la Cuesta offer an unforgettable water skiing experience in a relaxed, scenic environment.
Windsurfing
If you're looking for a challenge, windsurfing is one of the most exhilarating water activities you can try in Acapulco. The Costa Club Hotel and Hornos Beach are popular spots for windsurfing, thanks to their favorable winds. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, the clear waters and steady breezes create perfect conditions for this exciting sport.
The Banana Boat
One of Acapulco’s most iconic water activities, the Banana Boat offers a fun, group-friendly experience. A large, inflatable banana is towed by a speedboat as you and your friends or family try to stay on while being bounced around in the waves. It’s a fantastic, lighthearted way to enjoy the water, and it’s especially popular with kids. Don’t forget to snap a photo—riding the banana boat is a quintessential Acapulco experience!
River Rafting & Kayaking
For those seeking more of an adventure, river rafting and kayaking around the Papagayo River offer thrilling outdoor experiences. Several tour companies in Acapulco organize excursions that include kayaking through scenic rivers and rafting down exciting rapids. This is the perfect option if you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to explore Acapulco’s natural beauty.
CICI Water Park
For families or those looking to enjoy a day of water fun in a more relaxed setting, the CICI Water Park is a fantastic choice. Located in the Hotel Zone, this park features water slides, wave pools, and dolphin shows, making it a perfect option for a day of family-friendly entertainment. CICI is great for younger children and those who want a mix of thrills and relaxation on the water.
Why Try Water Activities in Acapulco?
Acapulco’s beaches and variety of beaches, bays, lakes and lagoons make it the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're speeding across the water on a jet ski, gliding through the air parasailing, or simply enjoying the waves while boogie boarding, there’s no shortage of options for water lovers. With beautiful scenery, professional guides, and a wide range of activities to choose from, Acapulco guarantees an unforgettable experience on the water.
Additional Water Fun
If you’re craving even more water-based entertainment, Acapulco offers additional options like boat tours, fishing charters, and scuba diving. You can explore the stunning underwater world of Acapulco’s beaches or take a scenic tour around the bay, all while soaking up the sun and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone just looking to relax in the sun, Acapulco’s water activities are guaranteed to make your vacation unforgettable. From parasailing and surfing to water skiing and the iconic banana boat ride, Acapulco offers everything you need for an exciting day on the water.