Things to Do in Huatulco Oaxaca
Nine pristine bays, crystal-clear water, and barely a tourist in sight. That’s Huatulco.
Tucked away in southern Mexico, this coastal gem remains blissfully off most travelers’ radars. While Cancún and Cabo get all the attention, Huatulco quietly offers something far more authentic.
The region stretches across nine magnificent bays with over 30 beaches. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, or just want to plant yourself on a beautiful beach, Huatulco delivers without the crowds, hassle, or inflated prices of Mexico’s more famous destinations.
For general country-wide info visit the official Mexico tourism board website or official Huatulco website.
Let dive into the 30+ Best Things to Do in Huatulco Oaxaca.
1. Discover All Nine Bays on a Private Boat Tour
Huatulco has nine bays, not seven like some guides claim. A private boat tour lets you glide past hidden coves, secluded beaches, and snorkeling spots that don’t exist on any map.
Tours depart from Santa Cruz and run anywhere from 1,500 to 3,000 pesos depending on your group size. Book in the morning for calmer seas.
2. Snorkel With Sea Turtles at La Entrega Beach
La Entrega is where magic happens underwater. This protected cove sits just a short walk from Santa Cruz. The water stays calm year-round, making it suitable for beginners.
Sea turtles feed on the seagrass beds just meters from shore. Snorkeling in Huatulco is best at La Entrega, where visibility is excellent. Gear rentals cost about 150 pesos at the beach.
Wildlife Etiquette: Never touch or chase sea turtles. Maintain at least 3 meters distance and avoid flash photography. Learn more on Oaxaca’s official tourism site.
3. Swim at Maguey Bay – The Most Beautiful Beach in Huatulco
Ask locals about the best Huatulco beaches, and most will point you to Maguey Bay. Soft golden sand stretches in a crescent. The water glows that impossible shade of turquoise.
Families love it because the bay stays protected and calm. Water taxis from Santa Cruz take about 15 minutes. Or drive if you prefer.
4. Chase Waterfalls at Cascadas Mágicas de Copalitilla
Cascadas Mágicas de Copalitilla sits about 50 minutes from Huatulco in the lush Sierra Madre. Multiple waterfalls cascade into natural swimming pools.
Most tours from La Crucecita include transportation, a guide, and lunch for around 600 pesos. They recently added a zip line that soars over the falls.
5. Explore La Crucecita’s Vibrant Town Square
La Crucecita is where real life happens. This is one of the first things you should visit in Huatulco to understand the local culture. Street vendors sell elotes, families stroll with ice cream, kids chase each other around the fountain.
Live music often fills the air on weekends. The restaurants around the square serve incredible food at local prices.
6. Hike Through Huatulco National Park’s Coastal Trails
Huatulco National Park protects over 11,000 hectares of pristine coastline and jungle. The hiking trails wind through coastal scrub, tropical forest, and rocky outcrops overlooking the Pacific.
Wildlife sightings are common—iguanas, colorful birds, and the occasional coati. Some trails lead to isolated beaches.
Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. Start early to avoid midday heat. Inform someone of your hiking plans. Learn more about the park’s regulations and conservation initiatives.
7. Shop Fresh at the Huatulco Organic Market (Saturday Mornings)
Saturday mornings in La Crucecita mean the Mercado Orgánico Huatulco. Local farmers and artisans take over an entire street with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Oaxacan foods.
Grab a fresh juice made to order. Pick up organic honey or locally roasted coffee. Arrive by 9 AM for the best selection.
8. Surf the Waves at La Bocana Beach
La Bocana sits where the Copalita River meets the Pacific Ocean. This creates unique conditions for surfing—consistent waves without being overwhelming.
Several palapas rent boards and offer lessons. The sunset views are legendary.
Beginners should take lessons. River currents can be strong where it meets the ocean. Always surf with a buddy.
9. Scuba Dive Huatulco’s Protected Coral Reefs
Protected marine areas mean healthy coral reefs and abundant fish populations. Visibility regularly exceeds 20 meters. Dive sites range from shallow reefs for beginners to dramatic walls for advanced divers.
Local dive shops in Santa Cruz, Pidi and Tangolunda offer everything from single dives to multi-day certifications.
Diving Requirements: Valid certification required. Medical clearance recommended for first-time divers. Travel insurance with dive coverage strongly advised.
10. Watch Sunset From Santa Cruz Bay’s Boardwalk
At sunset, the boardwalk glows with gold light and the smell of grilled fish drifts from the restaurants. Fishing boats return with their catches. Pelicans dive for fish. Pick any waterfront restaurant, order fish tacos and a cold beer.
Santa Cruz is also where you’ll catch water taxis to other beaches and book most tours in Huatulco.
11. Sip Mezcal at Traditional Oaxacan Distilleries
Several family-run distilleries near Huatulco welcome visitors for tastings and tours. These authentic palenques show you agave varieties and traditional roasting processes.
From smooth and sweet to smoky and intense, each mezcal tells a story. Many distilleries sell bottles directly at better prices than shops.
12. Visit Ancient Ruins at Copalita Archaeological Zone
The Copalita Archaeological Zone preserves Zapotec ruins dating back over 1,000 years. Located north of Huatulco near the Copalita River, the site includes pyramids, tombs, and a ball court. For more information, check out INAH’s official site.
A small museum displays artifacts—ceramics, jewelry, and tools. The site sits on a hillside with views down to the coast.
Pro tip: Minimal shade available. Bring hat, sunscreen, and water. Go early morning to avoid heat.
13. Take a Coffee Farm Tour in the Sierra Madre Mountains
Tours to farms around Pluma Hidalgo reveal the entire coffee production process. The farmers explain how the state of Oaxaca’s volcanic soil and mountain climate create distinctive flavors.
These tours usually include transportation and last about six hours. An excellent activity in Huatulco for coffee enthusiasts.
14. Kayak to Secret Coves Around Huatulco
Exploring by kayak lets you move at your own pace, poking into hidden coves and rocky outcrops. The water’s so clear you can see fish swimming below.
Guided tours depart from several beaches. Early morning provides the best conditions.
15. Release Baby Sea Turtles Into the Pacific
Conservation programs protect endangered sea turtle species. During nesting season (July through December), they organize hatchling releases.
Your participation supports vital conservation work. Contact hotels or the National Park office for schedules.
16. Relax at Chahué Beach – Perfect for Families
Chahuéé Beach has bathrooms, restaurants, and lifeguards, but isn’t overdone. Gentle waves make it suitable for kids. Perfect for spending a day in Huatulco with family.
The beach sits conveniently between Santa Cruz and Tangolunda. Several restaurants serve fresh seafood at reasonable prices.
17. Find Hidden Playa El Violín by Boat Only
Boat access only means no crowds at Playa El Violín. Just pristine sand, crystal water, and jungle vegetation.
Arrange transportation with boat operators in Santa Cruz. Pack everything you need—there are no facilities.
18. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Calm Bay Waters
The calm conditions in protected bays make paddleboarding easy for beginners. Early morning offers glassy smooth water and active wildlife.
Rental shops on several beaches offer boards and basic instruction.
19. Experience Authentic Oaxacan Cuisine in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Huatulco restaurants showcase incredible culinary heritage. Fresh seafood meets traditional moles, creating unique dishes.
Try fish prepared a la talla or mole negro served over fresh fish. Ask locals for the best in town recommendations.
20. Photograph Cacaluta Bay’s Untouched Beauty
Cacaluta Bay achieved international fame in the film “Y Tu Mamá También.” The bay stretches in a crescent, backed by dense jungle.
Photographers love golden hour here. Most boat tours include a stop at Cacaluta. This is one of the best things to photograph in this region of Mexico.
21. Zip-Line Through Jungle Canopy Near Huatulco
Adventure parks outside of Huatulco offer thrilling zip line courses through the treetops. Multiple lines provide excitement for different courage levels.
Most tours include transportation from major hotels.
Pro tip: Weight limits apply (usually 120kg maximum). Closed-toe shoes required. Follow all harness and safety instructions.
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22. Stroll La Crucecita’s Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe dominates La Crucecita’s skyline. This modern church features stunning architecture and an enormous ceiling painting.
The plaza surrounding the church is ideal for people-watching. Grab a café con leche and observe life unfolding.
23. Day Trip to Puerto Escondido’s Famous Surf Beaches
Puerto Escondido sits about 70 kilometers up the coast—a popular day trip from Huatulco. The famous Zicatela Beach hosts international surfing competitions.
Calmer beaches like Carrizalillo offer swimming. The drive takes about 90 minutes through scenic mountains. Nearby Puerto Ángel is another charming coastal village worth exploring.
Here is a detailed Puerto Escondido Oaxaca travel guide for first timers.
24. Discover the 36 Beaches of Bahías de Huatulco
The Bahías de Huatulco system includes nine bays and 36 beaches. Each offers something different. You could spend a week beach-hopping and still not see many of the beaches.
This is your guide to the best beaches in the area of Huatulco. Maps available in Santa Cruz help plan your strategy to explore the bays of Huatulco.
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25. Stay at Tangolunda Bay’s Luxury Huatulco Resorts
Tangolunda Bay hosts several high-end resorts in Huatulco offering all-inclusive packages. Multiple restaurants, pools, spa services, and beach access provide complete comfort.
Many travelers split their trip to Huatulco—a few days in a resort, then move to La Crucecita for cultural exploration. Cruise ship passengers also dock at the marina here.
26. Horseback Ride Along Virgin Beaches
Several ranches near Huatulco offer guided rides along empty coastlines and through jungle trails. Sunset rides are magical as horses splash through shallow waves.
Tours typically last two to three hours.
27. Visit Hagia Sofia Eco Park for Jungle Adventures
Hagia Sofia Eco Park near Santa Maria de Huatulco packs multiple activities into one location. Hiking trails wind through different ecosystems with natural swimming pools.
The park emphasizes environmental education and sustainable tourism. Several trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes.
28. Sample Tlayudas and Mole at Local Food Markets
Food markets throughout La Crucecita and Santa Cruz serve authentic Oaxacan cuisine. Tlayudas—massive crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, meat, and vegetables—are essential.
The mole sauces that made Oaxaca famous appear everywhere. Markets also offer fresh tropical fruits and traditional sweets.
29. Take Sunrise Photos at Órgano Beach
Órgano Beach faces east, providing unobstructed sunrise views. Natural rock formations and scattered palms make interesting foreground elements.
Few people visit at dawn—the beach belongs to you and the seabirds. A peaceful way to start your time in Huatulco.
30. Book a Sunset Sailing Cruise Along the Coast
Boats depart from Santa Cruz Bay in late afternoon. You’ll sail past several bays as the sun approaches the horizon.
Most cruises include open bar and snacks. As the sun drops lower, the sky transforms into oranges, pinks, and purples. This is one of the best ways to appreciate the coast of Huatulco.
Planning Your Huatulco Vacation: Essential Tips
Best Time to Visit Huatulco
November through April offers ideal conditions—sunny days and calm seas. This is peak season in Huatulco, so expect higher prices.
The rainy season (June through October) brings afternoon showers but mornings often stay clear. Hurricane season overlaps (June-November), though direct hits are rare. May and September offer decent weather with fewer crowds.
Weather Advisory: Always check forecasts before booking. Consider trip insurance during hurricane season.
How to Get to Huatulco From Oaxaca City
By Bus: Comfortable 7-hour journey through mountains. ADO and OCC offer various service levels (200-400 pesos). The best way to get here on a budget while enjoying scenery.
By Air: Flights from Oaxaca City and Mexico City to Huatulco International Airport take 45 minutes. Limited schedules but fastest option.
By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility to explore. Highway 175 is scenic but has sharp curves. Allow 8-9 hours with stops.
Where to Stay in Huatulco
Luxury: Tangolunda Bay resorts offer all-inclusive packages (150-400 USD/night).
Mid-Range: Santa Cruz hotels provide beach access with town amenities (50-120 USD/night).
Budget: La Crucecita hostels and hotels offer authentic atmosphere (20-50 USD/night).
Alternative: Many places in Huatulco offer vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb.
Getting Around the Bays and Beaches
Taxis: Negotiate fares before entering (50-200 pesos typical). Official taxi stands have posted rates.
Water Taxis: From Santa Cruz to various beaches (30-100 pesos per person).
Local Buses: Cheapest option (10-20 pesos) but limited schedules.
Car Rental: Provides flexibility (400-800 pesos/day). Check insurance coverage carefully.
Colectivos: Shared vans along main routes (15-30 pesos).
Essential Information for Travelers
Safety & Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services: 911 (works throughout Mexico) Tourist Police: +52 958 587 0316 Red Cross: +52 958 587 0190 Hospital Huatulco: +52 958 587 0600 US Consular Agency (Oaxaca): +52 951 514 3054 Canadian Consulate (Oaxaca): +52 951 513 3777
For more information, visit the official website of the Mexican Ministry of Tourism.
General Safety:
- Keep copies of passport and documents separate from originals
- Use hotel safes for valuables
- Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night
- Beach flag system: Green (safe), Yellow (caution), Red (dangerous – no swimming), Black (hazardous conditions – beach closed)
Here’s the U.S. government’s travel advisory for Mexico.
Health Precautions:
- Drink only bottled or purified water
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
- Bring insect repellent for evening and jungle areas
- Pack basic first aid kit with anti-diarrheal medication
- Current vaccinations recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine immunizations
Banking & Money
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). USD widely accepted but at poor rates.
ATMs: Available in La Crucecita, Santa Cruz, and Tangolunda. Use machines inside banks during business hours for security.
Credit Cards: Accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants. Small businesses prefer cash.
Tipping Guide:
- Restaurants: 10-15%
- Taxi drivers: Round up or add 10%
- Tour guides: 100-200 pesos per person
- Hotel housekeeping: 20-50 pesos per day
- Beach vendors: Not expected but appreciated
Language & Communication
Spanish Basics: Essential. English spoken at tourist hotels but limited elsewhere.
Useful Phrases:
- ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much?)
- ¿Dónde está…? (Where is…?)
- No entiendo (I don’t understand)
- Ayuda (Help)
Cell Service: Major carriers work in populated areas. Consider purchasing local SIM card or international plan.
WiFi: Available at most hotels and restaurants. Can be unreliable in remote areas.
Rainy Day Alternatives
When weather doesn’t cooperate, including the best options:
Cultural Activities:
- Visit Copalita Archaeological Museum
- Cooking classes featuring Oaxacan cuisine
- Mezcal tasting sessions
- Church tours in La Crucecita
- Browse artisan shops and galleries
Indoor Entertainment:
- Spa treatments at resort hotels
- Shopping at Plaza Chahué
- Local cinema in La Crucecita
- Coffee roasting demonstrations
- Oaxacan textile workshops
Covered Markets:
- Mercado Municipal for local food
- Artisan markets with covered stalls
- Shopping centers in La Crucecita
Important Travel Logistics
Entry Requirements
Visitors from US/Canada/EU: No visa required for stays under 180 days. Tourist card (FMM) provided on arrival.
Documents Needed:
- Valid passport (6 months validity recommended)
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
Travel Insurance
Strongly Recommended Coverage:
- Medical emergencies (hospitals may require payment upfront)
- Medical evacuation
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost luggage
- Adventure activities if participating
Note: Regular health insurance may not cover you while traveling in Mexico. Verify coverage before departure.
What to Pack
Essentials:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen damages coral)
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- Quick-dry clothing
- Rain jacket (if visiting May-October)
- Reusable water bottle with filter
- Basic Spanish phrasebook
- Copies of important documents
- Prescription medications (in original containers)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Huatulco?
Four to five days covers highlights. That allows time for beaches, a tour of Huatulco bays, town exploration, and adventure activities. Beach lovers might want a full week.
Is Huatulco safe for tourists in 2026?
Yes. Huatulco is a safe place and consistently ranks among Mexico’s safest tourist destinations. Standard travel precautions apply—don’t flash valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and secure belongings. Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone.
What is Huatulco most known for?
Huatulco is known for nine bays, 36 pristine beaches, and being one of the best places in Mexico for sustainable tourism. It’s Mexico’s first certified sustainable tourism destination with protected marine areas. When traveling in Mexico, Huatulco offers an authentic alternative to more commercialized destinations.
Can you swim at all Huatulco beaches?
Most allow swimming, but conditions vary. Protected bays like Maguey and Santa Cruz offer calm waters year-round. Open-ocean beaches like La Bocana have stronger currents. Always check local conditions, observe beach flag warnings, and ask lifeguards about current safety.
Which is better – Huatulco or Puerto Escondido?
Depends on your style. Huatulco is a great place for calmer beaches, better infrastructure, and family-friendly options. Puerto Escondido attracts surfers with intense waves and bohemian vibes. They’re only 70 kilometers apart—consider visiting both as a place to visit in southern Mexico.
Are there activities near Huatulco for adventure seekers?
Yes. Zip-lining, rappelling, whitewater rafting, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, and parasailing. The diverse landscape supports everything from mild to extreme activities. Always book with licensed operators and verify insurance coverage.
What attractions in Huatulco are free?
Walking beaches, the central plaza in La Crucecita, hiking in accessible National Park areas, swimming and snorkeling from public beaches, sunset viewing, and browsing the Saturday organic market. Many of the best experiences cost nothing.
How do you explore Huatulco on a budget?
Stay in La Crucecita instead of beach resorts. Eat where locals eat. Use local buses instead of taxis. Many beaches are free. Visit during shoulder season (May or September-October) for lower prices on hotels, tours, and meals. Cook some meals if you have kitchen access.
Make the Most of Your Huatulco Adventure
This coastal paradise rewards those who venture beyond the obvious. Nine bays. Thirty-six beaches. Endless possibilities.
You’ll leave with stories about sea turtles and secret coves. Memories of sunset sailing and morning coffee in mountain villages. Photos that seem unreal.
This is Mexico at its finest—beautiful, accessible, and refreshingly authentic. The crowds haven’t arrived yet. The development remains measured. The magic persists.
Go now, while Huatulco still feels like your own discovery. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this destination in southern Mexico delivers. Huatulco is located in one of the most biodiverse and unspoiled regions on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Safe travels, and enjoy your time in Huatulco.
DISCLAIMER: All prices, contact information, and conditions listed in this guide are accurate as of October2025. Prices are approximate and subject to change based on season, exchange rates, and local conditions. Tour operators, restaurants, and attractions may modify hours, prices, or services without notice. Always confirm current details directly with service providers before making plans. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Beach and weather conditions can change rapidly—always prioritize safety and follow local guidance. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional travel advice or medical consultation.
Last Updated: October 2025