Isla La Roqueta lies just off Acapulco's Caleta and Caletilla beaches, and it is the easiest escape from the busy bay. Boats leave daily from Caleta, the crossing takes about ten minutes, and some of the boats have glass floors so you can look down at the fish and at the submerged statue of the Virgen de los Mares, which sits roughly seven metres underwater. On the island there are soft-sand beaches with calm water, a few simple restaurants and toilets, and the option to rent a chair and umbrella or bring your own food. A walking trail of about three kilometres leads to El Faro, the island lighthouse, with wide views of the coast. The island is a protected natural area, which is why the tropical vegetation and the water feel so much cleaner and quieter than the mainland beaches. It suits a relaxed half day, or a longer one if you add snorkelling or paddling.
The guided option
This experience is a stand-up paddle and hiking tour of the island. It is a good fit for visitors who want more than a beach day, because a guide handles the logistics, leads the paddle in calm water and shows the trail across the island. Confirm the meeting point, the schedule and what is included when you reserve. The tour is rated 5.0 from 21 reviews on the booking page.
Planning
Going independently is easy. Take a boat from Caleta or Caletilla and agree the return time with the boat operator, because the last boats back leave before sunset, typically between five and six in the afternoon. Weather and sea conditions can change boat schedules, so check locally on the day. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water and shoes you can walk in, since the lighthouse trail is a proper walk rather than a stroll.
Make it a day
Start with breakfast near Caleta, cross in the morning when the water is calmest, and return in the early afternoon for a visit to the Fuerte de San Diego or a late lunch in the old town. If you want a deeper look under the surface, the beginner scuba experience also dives around the island. Take cash for food and chair rental on the island, and keep valuables to a minimum because the beach areas are open.
What to expect
The experience
A boat crossing from Caleta, then beach time, a paddle in calm water and a walk across the island toward the lighthouse.
Best time
Morning for calm water, a clear view and a comfortable return before the last boats.
How long
A half day is typical, depending on the tour you choose.
Tips
Bring water, sun protection and walking shoes, agree the return boat time and check the weather and sea conditions on the day.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a calm, scenic break from the main bay.
- Families
- The calm beaches suit families, though the lighthouse trail is long for small children.
- Couples
- A paddle and a quiet beach lunch make an easy active day.
- Pair with
- Caleta and Caletilla beaches, the Fuerte de San Diego and beginner scuba.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How do I get to La Roqueta?+
Boats leave daily from Caleta and Caletilla beaches, and the crossing takes about ten minutes. Some boats have glass floors for viewing the fish.
What is the Virgen de los Mares?+
It is a statue lying about seven metres underwater near the island, and glass-bottom boats pass over it. It is a popular stop on the crossing.
Can I hike on the island?+
Yes, a trail of roughly three kilometres leads to El Faro, the island's lighthouse, with broad coastal views. Wear walking shoes and carry water.
When do the last boats return?+
The last boats back leave before sunset, usually between five and six in the afternoon. Agree your return time with the operator before you go.
Are there facilities on the island?+
There are toilets and simple restaurants, and you can rent chairs and umbrellas or bring your own food. Carry some cash.
