Acapulco isn’t just about sunbathing on sandy beaches or enjoying lively nightlife. It’s also a city where you can dive into local culture and culinary traditions through engaging workshops and classes. What makes Acapulco stand out is its vibrant food scene and the opportunity to learn directly from passionate professionals. Whether you’re interested in mastering Mexican cuisine, exploring local markets, or even trying your hand at golf, there’s something for every curious traveler. Our top picks include a well-loved Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour with a Professional Chef, a comprehensive Market Hands-On Cooking Tour with mezcal and coffee tastings, and a unique Lagoon Boat Ride & Cooking Experience. Each offers a chance to connect with the local culture in a fun, authentic way.
Quick Overview
This list covers cooking classes at different levels of hands-on participation, ranging from traditional Mexican dishes to market excursions that include tastings of mezcal and coffee. For those looking to enjoy a more leisurely experience, there’s even a boat ride combined with a cooking class in a small village. Lastly, for a different kind of activity, there’s a beginner-friendly fun golf lesson perfect for travelers wanting to try a new sport. Each of these experiences provides a different window into Acapulco’s local flavors and lifestyle.
1. Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour with a Professional Chef
At number 1 on our list, this half-day cooking class offers a genuine taste of Mexico’s culinary roots. You’ll visit Mercado Central and a tortilla factory to see the key ingredients—fresh produce, herbs, and handmade tortillas—that make Mexican dishes special. Once at the restaurant, professional chefs guide you through preparing beef fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole, all using family recipes that have stood the test of time. It’s a hands-on experience where you don’t just watch—you do.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized attention from seasoned chefs and the chance to enjoy the dishes you’ve cooked. The reviews are glowing, praising the guide Mario and Chef Daniel for their friendly approach and expert tips. Many also appreciated the thoughtful photos taken during the tour, adding a keepsake to the experience. For around $99.50, you get a comprehensive 6-hour experience that combines market exploration, cooking, and eating—a real value for food lovers and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: If you want to learn authentic Mexican recipes in a relaxed setting with plenty of tasting, this class delivers. It’s perfect for foodies eager to recreate traditional dishes at home.
2. Acapulco Market Hands On Mex Cooking Class Mezcal & Coffee
At number 2, this 6-hour tour dives deep into local markets and culinary ingredients, starting with a walk through Acapulco’s Municipal Market. You’ll pick out ingredients for a hands-on class where you’ll make guacamole and fajitas alongside the chef. But this tour isn’t just about cooking—it’s about understanding Mexican lifestyle and culture. You’ll also explore different neighborhoods, gaining insight into local life.
What makes this experience particularly appealing is the inclusion of mezcal and coffee tastings, giving you a broader taste of regional beverages. The tour is well-rated (4.8/5), with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the chance to learn about the area’s culinary traditions firsthand. The itinerary includes multiple stops, including scenic drives and market visits that enrich the experience. It’s priced at $89 per person and is ideal for those who want a more immersive cultural experience, combining food, drinks, and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who enjoy markets, beverages, and cooking, this tour gives a rounded picture of Acapulco’s food scene, all in one comprehensive package.
3. Acapulco: Cooking Class Lagoon Boat Ride & Lunch Experience
Number 3 offers a unique blend of culinary and outdoor adventure in a small village setting. For about $170, your day includes a cooking class in a rustic environment, a boat ride on Laguna de Tres Palos, and a baby turtle release at the Bonfil Surf Shop. The boat trip showcases the flora and fauna of the lagoon, adding a natural dimension to your experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of local wildlife encounters and culinary arts. After the boat ride, you’ll visit the Acutus Crocodile Sanctuary and learn about the regional wildlife. The cooking component allows you to prepare traditional dishes, which you’ll enjoy with a refreshing drink at a local restaurant. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a diverse, hands-on day that combines nature, wildlife, and food.
Bottom Line: If you love outdoor activities paired with authentic cooking and wildlife, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience.
$170 per person
4. Acapulco: Mexican Cooking Class and Market Tour Experience
At number 4, this 5-hour tour is perfect for those who want a focused culinary experience with a small group (max 10 people). Under the guidance of a professional chef, you’ll visit the local municipal market, learn to prepare several Mexican dishes, and leave with recipes to take home. The intimate setting allows for personalized attention and a deeper understanding of Mexican cuisine.
The highlight is the hands-on cooking, where you’ll learn to make dishes that you can replicate later. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the professional chef provides detailed instructions. This tour is especially suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate class and want to leave with practical cooking skills. The reviews emphasize the quality of instruction and the satisfaction of making a meal from scratch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies looking for a focused, small-group experience that results in new recipes and skills.
$139 per person
5. Fun golf lessons for beginners of all ages
Number 5 breaks the mold with a golf lesson designed to introduce beginners to the game. Priced at around $55.52 for an hour, this activity is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The lessons are led by a patient instructor, making it a relaxed way to pick up a new sport while enjoying the outdoors.
Golf can seem intimidating, but this experience simplifies the fundamentals and makes learning accessible. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with family or friends who want to try something different. The outdoor setting and personalized instruction make it a fun, low-pressure way to engage with local leisure culture. While there are no reviews yet, the focus on beginner-friendly instruction suggests it’s a solid choice for newcomers.
Bottom Line: For those curious about golf or looking for a casual outdoor activity, this lesson offers a practical introduction at an affordable price, perfect for a start.
$55.52 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these workshops and classes, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re passionate about authentic Mexican cuisine, the Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour with a Professional Chef offers a deep dive into regional flavors. For a broader cultural experience with beverages and market exploration, the Market Hands-On Cooking Tour with mezcal and coffee is ideal.
Outdoor lovers and families may prefer the Lagoon Boat Ride & Cooking Experience for its combination of wildlife, scenery, and food. Those seeking a more intimate setting should opt for the Mexican Cooking Class and Market Tour. If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed way to try a new sport, the golf lessons are affordable and beginner-friendly.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Think about how much time you want to dedicate and whether you prefer a culinary, outdoor, or sports activity.
Final Thoughts
Acapulco offers a variety of workshops and classes that can transform your trip into a rich, hands-on experience. From traditional Mexican cooking classes to fun outdoor activities like golf, there’s something to suit different interests and energy levels. If you’re a foodie, the cooking classes are top-notch for learning and tasting local flavors. For travelers looking to combine activity with scenery, the lagoon boat and wildlife encounter provides a memorable day.
If your trip allows for a full day of culinary adventure, the Cooking Class Lagoon Boat Ride & Lunch stands out for its diversity. For those who prefer smaller groups and practical skills, the Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour is an excellent choice.
Whatever you pick, these workshops are a wonderful way to connect with Acapulco’s local culture, learn new skills, and make your visit truly memorable. Be sure to book early and enjoy your hands-on adventure in this lively Mexican city!