Overview

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.

Where on earth