Playa Esmeralda, a crescent-shaped
beach protected by a small, gently sloping cliff dotted with luxuriant tropical
vegetation, is perfect for swimming and other water sports, including scuba
diving.
The other beach, in Guardalavaca, 2 km (1¼
mi) farther east, is considerably longer and thus scores more points with tourists who
enjoy lengthy, barefoot walks in the sand. Here, too, the water is good for swimming and
other water sports. Numerous hotels line the beach, and promenades have been laid out
beneath the palm trees. The nightlife is particularly lively.
If you want to see more marine life, head to the Acuario of
Guardalavaca. Located in the magnificent Bahía de Naranjo, it uses one of the many
islets in the large bay as the base for a natural aquarium whose occupants remain free
in their natural environment in the midst of grandiose scenery, rather than being
restrained in artificial pools. Twice a day, the dolphins put on a show after the seals
amuse the crowd with their antics, and you can jump in and swim with the
dolphins.
In Guardalavaca, you'll find at least two
good night spots: lively La Dulce Vida, a hotel nightclub, and La Roca, an outdoor
nightclub on Playa Esmeralda that is perfect for a wonderful night out under the stars.