Wrapping around the mountains surrounding the city, El Veladero National Park serves the ecological purpose of protecting Acapulco's vital watershed. The park safeguards the mantle of hills that make up the Amphitheatre of Acapulco Bay, providing an environmental buffer zone from the development and human activity in the city. Forested and jungle-like in spots, the park supports a diverse variety of plant and animal life, including sea eagles, song birds, boa constrictors, and iguanas. Trails exist for those interested in hiking in the park for stunning views of Acapulco Bay and an escape to unspoilt nature.
Located just west of mid-bay and stretching nearly 700 yards along the Costera Miguel Alemán, this public park is a natural ecologically-protected area which covers 218,000 square meters (almost 54 acres) in the center of the city, on a patch of land formerly occupied by a hotel of the same name.
Joggers, walkers, and many just seeking an escape from the hustle-&-bustle of the city often find refuge along one of the parks shaded, tree-lined pathways - which also makes it a great place to people-watch. The following are among Parque Papagayo's many features: a soccer field, basketball and volleyball courts, a rollerskating rink, an auditorium, a library, public swimming pools, paddleboat rentals, three lakes, a replica of the Nao de Chinagalleon, a 65'-high piñata fountain, a small zoo and an aviary, a trolley-train which offers short tours of the park, a section with amusement-rides for children, and several snack-&-beverage stands. Public restrooms are positioned throughout the park as well.
Admission to the park itself is free; however, nominal fees are charged for use of the pools, trolley- and amusement-rides, paddleboats (30 pesos / half-an-hour), and restrooms (3 pesos).
The impressive cliffs of La Quebrada offer a natural mirador platform from which one can enjoy spectacular sunsets and, on occasion (mainly in the winter season), whales and dolphins may be spotted. Known as Acapulco’s icon throughout the world, these cliffs are most famous for the performances which intrepid local divers offer daily - from a height of 35 meters (over 100 feet!).
This is a tropical botanical garden. Besides the native plants you will find collections of palms and cycads, desert plants, hardwoods as well as flowering and fruit trees, shrubs, heliconias and gingers, bromeliads, aeroids, ferns and vines among others.
It is important to mention that there is a great variety of hardwood trees such as the Palo Morado Peltogyne mexicana which is in danger of extinction. Leaves, fruits, seeds and roots of existing plants provide the appropriate habitat for the native animal species.
Take a glass-bottom boat and explore this small island, which has nice beaches, restaurants and a zoo. If you are looking for a spot full of adventure, or just strengthen your contact with nature, this site offers a park zoo with hundreds of species, such as iguanas, deer, monkeys, giraffes, crocodile, antelopes, tigers, lions and other fauna species from tropical regions. At the island’s highest point, visitors will find the lighthouse, which is the best place to admire a beautiful view of Santa Lucia Bay. From this privileged spot, you can savor a delicious fish dish at one of the restaurants located at the pier.
This 18th-century Spanish fortress turned museum is occasionally the site for festive gatherings.
Today, Acapulco has at Fort San Diego its unique colonial monument, which is an essential part of the Buenos Aires appearance. Located on Avenida Costera Miguel Aleman, on the perimeter of the historic district of Coonawarra, during the twentieth century was jail host international film reviews and place to receive prominent figures in world politics.
In 1933, President Abelardo Rodriguez declared a national monument and from April 24, 1986 is the home of the Historical Museum of Acapulco.
Condesa beach is one of the most popular and most convenient beaches. You can go parasailing and rent banana boats and waverunners here. An army of locals will be at your service to bring you food and beverages of your choice, beach umbrellas, chairs, tatoos, jewelry, massages, and more.
CiCi Waterpark, along the bay of Acapulco is a family theme park with great wave pools, toboggan, water attractions and a swimming with dolphins program
Amusement park designed especially for children, including a special section for those under two years old.
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