Downtown beaches are often crowded
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Downtown beaches once made Acapulco world-wide famous. Although they have lost some of their luster since mass tourism, they are the best bet to mingle with locals.
All downtown beaches are walking distance from the Zocalo and of easy access. Palapa restaurants and beach vendors are as common as traffic jams on the main boulevard.
Playas Caleta and Caletilla
These 2 small protected beaches, sharing a cove on the southern side of the Peninsula de Las Playas, are a favorite spot for all kind of watersports. Very calm waters make it particularly popular with families with small children.
Most of the less expensive hotels in town are located around the Zócalo, so these beaches are popular with the more budget-conscious vacationers in town. They become crowded on weekends, and hopping between sunbathers is then the main sport in town.
Magico Mundo Marino Aquarium
On a tiny island joined to Caleta by a footbridge is Magico Mundo Marino, the town's largest aquarium. It features some of the world's more outlandish sea creatures, like sharks, giant eels and piranhas.
Tlacopanocha Beach
Just across the street from the Central Plaza is the always-crowded beach of Tlacopanocha. Its calm waters make this strand quite popular with many middle-class Mexican families with kids.
Playa Angosta & sunset view
Playa Angosta is the only beach with unobstructed sunset view.
This small breezy strand is sandwiched between two sandstone cliff beaches, one going to La Quebrada, and the other toward the Peninsula de las playas. Playa Angosta is best for scenery and picnics.
The last beach of Acapulco still ruled by fishermen.
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Playa Hamacas & Fishing Fleet
This narrow slice of sand, sandwiched between the bay and the Costera Boulevard, is home to what’s left of the local fishermen.
Nowadays, even the fishermen’s pier has been overtaken by tourism, and was converted into a mid-range bar-restaurant. You can see still real fishermen if you get up early enough: go to any beach and you will see them pulling in their nets with the catch of the day.
Handicraft Market & Shopping
The price of just about everything is negotiable in Acapulco: cab rides, room rates, souvenirs, silver necklaces. And never feel it is beneath your dignity to haggle: not only is it expected, it is often appreciated. I regularly buy handicrafts up to 5 time cheaper than the displayed price.
Silver is a good buy in this region, but do not buy silver that lacks the .925 stamp identifying it as sterling - and of course, always haggle. Be very cautious when buying silver or any expensive item from beach vendors. If you are serious about buying silver handicraft, consider doing a day-trip to Taxco.
Next: Boating to Roqueta Island 
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