Acapulco Beach borders the cool water of the Pacific Ocean. Its proximity to Viña del Mar’s city centre makes it popular with locals and tourists alike. Visit Acapulco Beach for swimming, sunbathing and relaxed walks. Explore pretty gardens, watch local fishermen cast lines into the ocean and admire marvellous sunsets.
Find a quiet spot on the golden sand, lay down a towel and engage in people-watching. Observe as children build sandcastles, sun worshippers enhance their tans and brave swimmers take a dip in the beach’s cool water. The water temperature remains low throughout the year, so be prepared for a chill, even in the hot summer months.
Walk to the northern end of the beach to see the historic pier, Muelle Vergara. Built in 1892, for many years it served as a docking area for freight ships. Investigate the old crane, which loaded and unloaded the cargo from the vessels.
Continue past the pier to the spot where Acapulco Beach merges with Playa el Sol. Discover a long sweep of sand, a children’s playground and a paved esplanade, which is a favourite gathering point for skateboarders and roller bladers. Be sure to check out the flower-filled gardens that line the beach and validate Viña del Mar’s Ciudad Jardín (Garden City) nickname. Browse for souvenirs at the artisan market, located between the beach and gardens.
A pleasant time to visit the beach is early in the evening, when you can follow the rapid movement of the sun as it drifts down behind the ocean horizon. Watch for local fishermen, who sit patiently waiting to reel in the day’s catch.
It’s easy to get to Acapulco Beach by foot, taxi and public transportation. The beach is less than a 10-minute drive from Plaza Vergara. Public buses stop on San Martin Street, which runs parallel to the shore.