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~ Laguna de Tres Palos ~
For a taste of Mexican wilderness,
visit the swamp around Laguna de Tres Palos, where some of the early Tarzan films were made. The huge freshwater lagoon,
32km (20mi) southeast of central Acapulco is home to many species of tropical vegetation and native fauna, and is a particular
haven for nesting birds such as herons and other waterfowl. Here you can rent boats and row through the mangroves or try your
hand at fishing along with the locals.
Where the calm lagoon meets the crashing surf of the Pacific
is Barra Vieja, a long stretch of clean, palm-fringed beach. There are several restaurants along the beachfront, and
it's simply not possible to get seafood fresher than this. The specialty of the region is pescado a la talla (spit-roasted,
spicy fish). While the beach is a great place to escape the tourists, it is a very popular spot with the Mexicans.
~ Pie de la Cuesta: shown above ~
About 10km (6mi) northwest of Acapulco,
Pie de la Cuesta is a narrow strip of land bordered by the beach and ocean on one side and the large, freshwater Laguna de
Coyuca on the other. Compared to Acapulco, it's quieter, cleaner, closer to nature and much more peaceful. Swimming
in the ocean at Pie de la Cuesta can be dangerous, however, due to a riptide and the shape of the waves. Laguna de Coyuca,
three times as large as the Bahía de Acapulco, is better for swimming. Its smooth waters are also good for water-skiing;
several clubs provide the equipment. Boat trips on the lagoon can take you to three islands, one of which is a bird
sanctuary, or you can cross to the jungle where Sylvester Stallone filmed Rambo. Horse riding on the beach is
also popular.
Pie de la Cuesta has many beachside restaurants specialising in
seafood, and it's the traditional place for sunset-gazing (the name translates as 'foot of the sunset'). There's no
nightlife, but the sunset atmosphere is a great precursor to an evening's partying back in Acapulco. Buses marked 'Pie
de la Cuesta' leave regularly from La Costera.
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