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Las Bahias de Huatulco (the Huatulco Bays), most often referred to simply as Huatulco (pronounced "wah-tool-ko"), is a beach destination made up of nine bays with 36 beaches. Located on the Pacific coast of the state of Oaxaca, 165 miles from the state capital of Oaxaca City , and 470 miles from Mexico City, this area was chosen in the 1980s by FONATUR (Mexico's National Tourism Fund) for development as a tourist resort area.

Huatulco stretches out over 22 miles of coastline between the Coyula and Copalito rivers. It is set within a beautiful natural area with the Sierra Madre mountain chain forming a stunning backdrop to the tourist development.

The lush lowland jungle vegetation is particularly verdant in the rainy season , from June to October. Its biodiversity and pristine landscapes make Huatulco a favorite destination of nature lovers.

Holy Cross of Huatulco

According to legend, in prehispanic times a bearded white man placed a wooden cross on the beach, which the local population then venerated. In the 1500s the pirate Thomas Cavendish arrived in the area and after looting, tried by various means to remove or destroy the cross, but was unable to do so.

The name Huatulco comes from the Nahuatl language "Coahatolco" and means a "place where the wood is revered." You can see a fragment of the cross from the legend in the church in Santa Maria Huatulco, and another in the cathedral in Oaxaca City.

The area of Oaxaca's coast has been inhabited since ancient times by groups of Zapotecs and Mixtecs. When FONATUR set its sights on Huatulco, it was a series of huts along the beach, whose inhabitants practiced fishing on a small scale.

When construction on the tourist complex began in the mid-1980s, the people who lived along the coast were relocated to Santa Maria Huatulco and La Crucecita.

The Huatulco National Park was declared in 1998. Later listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park protects a large area of the bays from development.

In 2003, the Santa Cruz cruise ship port began operations, and currently receives some 80 cruise ships each year.

The Huatulco Bays

Since there are nine different bays in Huatulco, the area offers a variety of beach experiences. Most have blue-green water, and the sand ranges from golden to white. Some of the beaches, notably Santa Cruz, la Entrega, and El Arrocito, have very gentle waves. Most of the development is centered around a few of the bays.

Tangolunda is the largest of Huatulco's bays and is where most of Huatulco's large resorts are located. Santa Cruz has a cruise ship port, marina, shops, and restaurants. Some of the beaches are completely pristine and only accessible by boat, including Cacaluta, the beach that was featured in the 2001 film Y Tu Mamá También directed by Alfonso Cuaron and starring Diego Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal.

Huatulco and Sustainability

Huatulco's development is proceeding under a plan to protect the surrounding environment. Some of the efforts made to make Huatulco a sustainable destination include reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and management of natural resources. A large part of the area of the Huatulco Bays is set aside as ecological reserves and will remain free from development.

In 2005, Huatulco was awarded the Green Globe International Certification as a sustainable tourist area, and in 2010 Huatulco received EarthCheck Gold Certification; it is the first destination in the Americas to achieve this distinction.

La Crucecita

La Crucecita is a small town located just a few minutes drive inland from Santa Cruz Bay. La Crucecita was built as a support community to the tourist area, and many of the tourism workers have their homes here. Although it is a new town, it has the feel of an authentic small Mexican town.

Shops and restaurants are abundant in La Crucecita, and it's an excellent place to do some shopping, have a meal, or an evening stroll. The church in La Crucecita, La Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, has a 65-foot tall image of the Virgin of Guadalupe painted on its dome.

A visit to Huatulco will offer an excellent opportunity to sample Oaxacan cuisine , as well as Mexican seafood specialties. There are numerous beachfront palapas where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Some favorite restaurants include El Sabor de Oaxaca, TerraCotta in La Crucecita, and L'Echalote in Bahia Chahue.

Things to Do

• Shop for jewelry and souvenirs in La Crucecita
• Take a boat tour of Huatulco's bays, which includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and lunch
• Play golf at the 18-hole Tangolunda golf course
• Visit Hagia Sofia, a beautiful ecological retreat located about 45 minutes away from the downtown area of Huatulco
• Tour the Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita
• Take a day tour to a coffee plantation, where you can learn about coffee production, visit a waterfall, and have lunch with the owners of the Finca Cafetalera

Where to Stay

Huatulco has a good selection of luxury hotels and resorts, most of which are situated on Tangolunda Bay. In la Crucecita you will find many budget hotels; some favorites include Mision de Arcos and Maria Mixteca.

How to Get There

By air : Huatulco has an international airport (airport code HUX). It is a 50-minute flight from Mexico City . The Mexican airline Interjet offers daily flights between Mexico City and Huatulco. From Oaxaca City, regional airline AeroTucan offers daily flights in small planes.

By land : Driving time from Oaxaca City is 5 hours to 6 hours on route 175 (stock up on Dramamine ahead of time).

By sea : Huatulco has two marinas that offer docking services, in Santa Cruz and Chahue. Huatulco is a port of call for cruises of the Mexican Riviera and receives an average of 80 cruise ships each year.

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Home » Travel Guides » Mexico » 15 Best Things to Do in Huatulco (Mexico)

15 Best Things to Do in Huatulco (Mexico)

A tropical dreamscape, Huatulco is a small resort in Oaxaca bordering its own national park. Until the airport was modernised in the 2000s there was no easy way down to Huatulco, and even today the only international flights come from Chicago and various airports in Canada.

The resort has nine Bays and 36 beaches along 30 kilometres of untouched coastline.

On land are waterfalls, canyons and coffee and tropical fruit plantations.

Four different sea turtles inhabit the ocean at Huatulco’s National Park, joined by a whole spectrum of other marine species like angelfish, butterfly fish, rays, dolphins, yellowfin tuna and whales that migrate here in winter.

A trip to Huatulco will be a whirlwind of snorkelling, diving, boat trips to deserted beaches and mountain adventures to villages and farms in primal jungle.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Huatulco :

1. Huatulco National Park

Covering almost 12,000 hectares, the National Park hosts three of Huatulco’s nine bays in a landscape of deciduous forest, mangroves, savannah, wetlands, thorn scrub, floodplains and coral reefs in the water.

This mosaic of ecosystems has incredible biodiversity, with more than 700 plant species, 130 mammal varieties, almost 300 bird species and 87 types of amphibian and reptile.

In the ocean are numerous marine and intertidal invertebrates as well as over 120 reef and demersal fish.

There are many ways to experience this astounding environment, on boat trips to hard-to-reach bays, by bike, on hiking trails or on all-terrain bird-spotting expeditions to see crane hawks, red-breasted chats and Doubleday’s hummingbirds

2. Bahía San Agustín

Most people agree that the westernmost of Huatulco’s bays is the prettiest.

But because Bahía San Agustín is one of the trickiest to reach it never feels overrun.

You can visit by boat or along a dirt track through banana and papaya plantations, and will be met by a 1,500-metre horseshoe beach, backed by a continuous line of restaurants in palapas (palm beach huts).

You’ll be tempted not to move from the golden sand of the beach, but Bahía San Agustín has some of the best snorkelling in Huatulco, with crystal clear waters and a reef just metres from the shore with an abundance of life like sea urchins, rays and bright shoals of tropical fish.

3. Bahía de Cacaluta

The definition of a tropical paradise, Bahía de Cacaluta was chosen as a shooting location for Alfonso Cuarón’s 2001 movie Y Tu Mamá También.

Within the national park, the only way to visit this bay is by hiking or riding on an ATV through jungle for half an hour, or by boat.

Apart from any tourists who have made the journey, the one-kilometre beach will be a deserted swathe of golden sand traced by lush forest.

Off shore is an islet with high cliffs, and the currents caused by this landform have given the beach an “m” shape.

If you’re a strong swimmer you can push out to the island for some snorkelling and to see the many crabs in its rock pools.

4. Bahía Chachacual

Also in the national park, Chachacual is one of the least frequented bays, and the only practical way to approach it is from the water.

There are two beaches nestling in the bay: Playa Chachacual, the main beach at 1.3 kilometres long, and Playa la India to the east, 350 metres in length and edged by jungle and mangrove forests.

The water in the bay has mesmerising green and blue tones, although the currents can be quite powerful.

If you’re a stronger swimmer and fancy some snorkelling there are butterfly fish, puffer fish, angelfish and moray eels.

And sitting on the shore in winter you may see humpback whale pods passing by.

5. Cascadas Mágicas

A half-day excursion into the Sierra Madre del Sur, the Cascadas Mágicas is a set of beautiful waterfalls on a tributary of the Río Copalita.

The falls are ensconced in dense, remote jungle, you’ll travel in a 4×4 along a twisting mountain road.

After paying entrance and hiking through lush jungle you’ll forget all that effort, as you’re confronted by banks of dreamy cascades and emerald pools.

There’s a path leading up the side of the falls and through a cave, and you can dive into the clear water, which is wonderfully cool after that jungle trek.

6. Parque Ecoarqueológico de Bocana Copalita

Only ten kilometres from Huatulco’s bays is an archaeological site with vestiges dating between 900 BC and 1000 AD. The grounds, built on the alluvium from the Copalita River and igneous stone by the coast, have jungle teeming with wildlife and coursed by well-paved and signposted trails.

A tour of this massive site will take around two hours, and some of the monuments to check out are a large ballcourt, the main temple, a sequence of small plazas with dwellings and a sacrificial stone on a cliff-top.

The museum on site chronicles Oaxaca’s Zapotec and Mixtec cultures and has artefacts like ceramic vessels, steles, monumental sculptures and figurines.

7. Hagia Sofia

Another trip into the Sierra Madre del Sur will take you to this botanical garden and farm where you can immerse yourself in Oaxaca’s natural scenery, flora and agriculture.

Set in 130 hectares, Hagia Sofia is on the Río Magdalena and cultivates rare timber, fruits (80 varieties) as well as flowers native to Mexico and Southeast Asia.

As you’ll be spending a day, breakfast and lunch are included in the tour, comprising fresh fruit grown on the grounds and Oaxacan quesadillas with homemade salsas.

One of many highlights will be a walk up the Río Magdalena to the stunning Waterfall of the Bell.

8. Playa la Bocana

Below the archaeological site is a beach at one of the mouths of the River Copatila, changing dramatically with the seasons and tides.

Sometimes there will be just a sliver of sand, but usually there’s a large open space where a branch of the river snakes down to the ocean, leaving a lagoon.

Surfers hit the waves, and while the currents are too strong for leisurely swimming you can have a wild time bodyboarding.

The mud deposited by the river is rich in minerals, and you can ask to be slathered from head to toe, which will leave your skin feeling unusually soft for days after.

There’s a couple of beach-side restaurants for a shrimp taco or fish burger and cold beer while watching the surfers in action.

9. Boat Trips

There’s no doubt that if you want to get the best out of Huatulco you need to take to the water.

You can do this on a private charter or by opting for a group tour on a larger vessel.

The theme of your trip will depend on your taste.

You may be up for snorkelling, bird-watching, whale-watching (December to March), or keen on finding the most deserted beach possible to feel like a castaway for a few hours.

Quiet and intimate is the best way to experience the unspoiled beauty of the national park.

You can pick up facts about this ecosystem from an experienced guide, who will point out rays and sea turtles and drop you off at reefs.

On board some boats you’ll be able to catch fish like snapper that you can take to the restaurants to be cooked how you like it.

One of the things to note before you come to Huatulco is that Mexico’s Pacific coast is a different proposition to the more famous Mayan Riviera.

Sea temperatures fluctuate, even in summer, the currents can be strong and visibility can change from site to site.

But if you’re an advanced diver looking for once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters, Huatulco is all you could want.

Along 39 kilometres of coast there are more than 100 sites, at vibrant reefs, strange volcanic rock formations and epic drop-offs.

You could dive for a month and never see the same things twice.

Four of the seven known sea turtles inhabit these waters, along with four different dolphin species, rays and white tip, nurse and whale sharks.

Get in contact with the Huatulco Dive Center and Hurricane Divers for more details.

11. Surfing

As with diving, surfing conditions in Oaxaca can change from day to day, never mind season to season.

But when everything’s just there are world-class breaks.

The coast between Huatulco and Salina Cruz, 140 kilometres to the east, is heralded as one of the world’s upcoming surfing meccas.

The water temperatures are ideal and you’ll come by strong beach breaks and point breaks caused by the main rocky headlands.

Barra de la Cruz, 30 kilometres from Huatulco, sums the region up.

This has a perfect right point break and low-key development that will make you feel like an explorer.

12. Coffee Plantations

Before tourism came to these shores coffee was the main source of income in Huatulco, and several plantations are happy to show you around.

One, Ocean Spray, is often combined with a trip to the Cascadas Mágicas.

You can also arrange a day at Finca El Pacífico, which lies the end of circuitous upland road.

This massive plantation has around 200,000 coffee trees.

You can have a go picking the bright red coffee berries, find out what happens on the plantation on a typical day, and see how the beans are soaked, fermented and then dried on a concrete surface the size of a football pitch.

You’ll also get to meet the owner, Señor Gomez and be given an authentic Oaxacan meal at the family home.

13. Fishing

Sport fishing is big business in Huatulco and there are at least ten fishing charter companies operating out of the tourist marina.

These will take you out on pangas, small motorboats captained by someone with detailed knowledge of the coast and behaviour of Huatulco’s largest fish.

Most pangas will have heavy-duty rods and reels on board to catch gigantic yellowfin tuna, sailfish, dorado, pargo, marlin and grouper.

Refreshments will be provided and out on the open ocean you’ll have a good chance of sighting migrating humpback whales in the winter months, as well as sea turtles and dolphin pods all year round.

There will also be snorkelling gear if you feel like exploring a reef or two.

14. Outdoor Pursuits

A holiday in Huatulco will take a lot of planning, because it will be a challenge to pack in all the activities available.

In the resort are adventure sports companies ready to whisk you off on ATV tours, whitewater rafting, snorkelling, canyoning, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, guided hikes in the national park and zip-lining over gorges.

If a comfortable round of golf is more your speed, Las Parotas is an 18-hole course named for the giant elephant-ear trees (parotas) that frame its fairways.

Sustainability is at the heart of the course’s design, including natural hazards and existing woodland into the layout.

15. Local Food

Since a lot of the activities on offer in Huatulco are day-long organised tours into the wilderness, you’ll have ample opportunity to get to know authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

There are also tropical plantations all around, and these are incorporated into recipes like piña rellena con mariscos (pineapple stuffed with seafood). A traditional local way to prepare white fish like snapper is pescado empapelado, cooking the fish in leaves or baking paper and serving it with lime, coriander, chilli and rice.

Entomadas meanwhile are corn tortillas fried in oil, filled with some combination of chicken, beef, beans and cheese and submerged in a tomato sauce with chilli, onion, garlic and oregano.

For breakfast or lunch try chilaquiles, which are quartered corn tortillas in a mole sauce topped with queso blanco, raw onion rings, avocado and a fried egg.

15 Best Things to Do in Huatulco (Mexico):

• Huatulco National Park
• Bahía San Agustín
• Bahía de Cacaluta
• Bahía Chachacual
• Cascadas Mágicas
• Parque Ecoarqueológico de Bocana Copalita
• Hagia Sofia
• Playa la Bocana
• Coffee Plantations
• Outdoor Pursuits

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This Underrated Mexico Destination Is Set Across 9 Bays — With Laid-back Beach Towns, Bioluminescent Waters, and Charming Hotels

Huatulco is perfect for surfers, nature lovers, and foodies alike — here's how the plan the perfect trip.

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Huatulco, Mexico , is not so much a single destination as it is a region. The actual name for this area along the rugged Costa Oaxaquena is Bahías de Huatulco, or Bays of Huatulco. That's because this popular resort destination is spread across nine bays that carve the southern coastline of Mexico's state of Oaxaca . Each one has its own distinct energy and vibe, but together the region serves as the perfect jumping-off point from which to explore the rest of wild, untamed Oaxacan coast .

Bahías de Huatulco has always existed as an undulating stretch of coastline with golden, crescent-shaped beaches, thick groves of languidly swaying palms, and a backdrop of the green Sierra Madre del Sur and Sierra Madre de Oaxaca mountains. A ribbon of zigzagging highway zips up the rocky face to take travelers by bus to the mountain capital, Oaxaca City .

But Bahías de Huatulco as a resort destination is fairly new. It was constructed about four decades ago by Mexico's National Tourism Fund to become a tourist attraction, much like Cancun in Quintana Roo or Ixtapa in Guerrero. Though unlike both Cancun and Ixtapa, you won’t find high-rise hotels or luxury shopping malls in Huatulco. Instead, the vibe here is more low-key, with giant swaths of land remaining protected to preserve the lush jungle environment. 

After creating both the highways down the mountains from Oaxaca City and up the coast to fishing village-turned-surf mecca Puerto Escondido , it was decided that Bahías de Huatulco would be spread across nine different bays and feature 36 beautiful beaches , resorts, restaurants, boutiques, and ample outdoor adventures. The main bays of Huatulco include Santa Cruz, Chahué, Tangolunda, Conejos, San Agustin, Chachacual, Cacaluta, Maguey, and Órgano.

Today, it attracts everyone from surfers and backpackers to nature lovers, foodies, sailors, and those who never need more than a book and poolside chaise lounge. It's a well-equipped home base from which to get out into the wilder side of Oaxaca, whether it's exploring the many national parks in the area, swimming in bioluminescent bays, or exploring the bohemian beachfront villages nearby.

Here's how to plan the ultimate trip to Bahías de Huatulco.

How to Travel to Huatulco

For being on one of the more untraveled coasts in Mexico, Bahías de Huatulco is well-connected. The easiest way to get there is to fly into Bahías de Huatulco International Airport. It has direct flights from Mexico City, Tijuana, and Oaxaca, as well as seasonal direct flights from Dallas, Chicago, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver.

You can also opt for the scenic route and take the ADO bus from Oaxaca City down through the mountains. The journey is roughly 10 to 12 hours of sharp switchbacks at heart-pumping speeds. Rest assured, though, the buses are safe and comfortable, with wide, plush seats that recline. To break up the trip, you can stop in the mountain village of San José del Pacífico and rent a wood cabin overlooking the mountains and forest for a completely different side of Oaxaca.

Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Huatulco

The Bahías de Huatulco encompass nine bays, though there are a total of 36 beaches across each, and much to do off the sand as well. Some bays are practically vibrating with activity, from the sailboats and catamarans pulling in and out of the marina to the live music spilling out into the streets from various bars and cantinas. Others are peppered with all-inclusive resorts and condominiums for rent. And then there are those that are sleepy at best, with just a string of palapa-covered seafood shacks, a toes-in-the-sand vibe, and zero cell reception. Unless you're looking to go truly off the beaten path — and perhaps you are — the main bays are Bahía de Santa Cruz, Bahía Chahue, and Bahía Tangolunda. And if you're not staying in one of the all-inclusive resorts on the beach, many people opt to make the inland town of La Crucecita their home base.

La Crucecita

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Though not technically one of the bays of Huatulco, La Crucecita is one of the area's main beating hearts. It's closest to Bahía Chahue and Bahía de Santa Cruz. For all intents and purposes, La Crucecita is the primary meeting place for the Bahías de Huatulco. Here's where you'll find the majority of tour offices, the widest selection of restaurants and bars, a main town square, and many locally run boutique hotels. It's easily walkable, and taxis are readily available to shuffle travelers back and forth to the farther-flung bays and beaches. La Crucecita is also one of the main entrances to Huatulco National Park, made up of tropical jungle, dry forest, and marine park. It's a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a wonderful spot for kayaking, bird-watching, hiking, and horseback riding.

Where to Eat and Drink in La Crucecita

From backpacker bars slinging cheap shots of mezcal to refined haute Mexican cuisine on air-conditioned patios, La Crucecita is fairly good at catering to both ends of the spectrum.

Rocoto , for example, is a hidden gem serving up fresh seafood highlighting traditional Mexican flavors with a surprising Asian twist, like the tuna poke and mango Thai curry. 

For succulent and hearty moles of every color, El Sabor de Oaxaca hits the spot. Sitting at simple tables on a floor of terra-cotta tiles, colorful plates swirl with ropes of stringy Oaxacan cheese, crispy tlayudas , and bean-smothered sopes .

Or, you can blend in with the backpacker scene at La Crema Bar , washed aglow with black lights, and plastered with rasta-inspired decor. People come for the supremely strong drinks, a lengthy menu of affordable and tasty pizzas, and a nightly roster of live music.

Those seeking a vegan-friendly, juice-forward restaurant will find what they're looking for at Agave, which serves healthy smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and abundant açaí bowls.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bahía de Santa Cruz, Bahía Chahue, and Bahía Tangolunda

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At the entrance of Marina Chahue, the mobile Marea Alta draws visitors in for its stunning views over the marina. What keeps them, however, is the menu of delightfully fresh seafood.

For those wanting to sink their teeth into a seriously good steak, Finca de Vaqueros makes waves with its marinated flank steak, grilled sausages, and heaps of sides. For a taste of everything, the parrillada ensures you won't leave hungry.

After three decades, Ve El Mar on Playa Santa Cruz has become nothing if not an institution. An all-day dining venue, this spot is humming with patrons snacking on succulent and regional recipes like chilaquiles, grilled octopus, fresh ceviche, and a whole fish that could feed the entire family.

Not far from the beaches of Bahía Chahue, Bladu'Yú focuses its entire menu on southern Oaxaca traditions from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (picture corn tamales, fried chicken with onions and potatoes, and garnachas topped with meat, cheese, and pickled cabbage). The restaurant walls are splashed in bright vermillion and decorated with brilliant, larger-than-life paintings that feature scenes from traditional Oaxacan life.

Where to Stay in La Crucecita, Bahía de Santa Cruz, Bahía Chahue, and Bahía Tangolunda

If you're fine foregoing beachfront resorts, La Crucecita has dozens of charming boutique hotels that are within walking distance of all the activity in town. Mision de los Arcos is one of the classic options, just a few blocks from the main square. The bright rooms range from standard to junior suites, and many offer small terraces. It's not exactly five-star luxury, but you can't beat the location and comfort of the rooms for the price.

If you do prefer to stay beachfront, or at least overlooking the water, you may want to consider one of the resorts closer to Bahía Chahue, Bahía Tangolunda, or Bahía de Santa Cruz. Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa sits on a picture-perfect stretch of golden sand. Its 421 rooms are all-inclusive, and each one has a balcony and plenty of natural light. Ask about which rooms offer ocean views and whirlpools. Other amenities include six pools, three of which have an infinity edge. The beach is also one of the resort's most popular features, with a string of thatched palapas shading chaise lounges.

Perched atop the sugary stretch of Playa Chahue, with mounds of green carpeted mountains, Quinta Bella Huatulco has 44 rooms, seven restaurants, a spectacular oceanfront spa, and a full-service fitness center. Quinta Bella is not directly on the beach, but lies a short five-minute ride away. 

Overlooking Playa Tangolunda is the beachy and elegant Quinta Real Huatulco . The intimate resort, known for its lofty dome tops and handmade palapas, has only 27 rooms and spectacular ocean views. It's not directly on the beach — a free shuttle provides service — but the rooms are simply stunning, with gorgeous marble bathrooms featuring relaxing hot tubs. Some rooms even have private pools.

Hotel Binniguenda Huatulco is much more centrally located to La Crucecita, though it's technically in Bahía de Santa Cruz. The all-inclusive resort has 77 guest rooms, a long list of restaurants, a private beach club, and a spa.

Huatulco’s Other Bays and Beaches

While Bahías de Huatulco has its mainstays and more popular areas, none of its bays are particularly far away. Taxis are safe and affordable, making it easy to hop from beach to beach. Bahía San Agustín, for example, is little more than an undeveloped stretch of gorgeous beachfront with a few seafood shacks and modest accommodations. You won't find signature services here, unless all you're looking for is a plate of supremely fresh ceviche and a cold cerveza . 

Bahía Conejos is one of the furthest from La Crucecita, though a taxi ride is still just roughly $5 USD. Be sure to mention you're going to the public beach, not the Secrets resort. A short unpaved path leads to one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Oaxaca. You won't find much in the way of services here, but its undeveloped ruggedness is what makes it one of the region's most stunning.

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If you've got the time and energy to keep the exploration going, the beach towns and natural attractions up the coast along Highway 200 are certainly magical. Towns like Mazunte and Zipolite continue to draw a bohemian-chic crowd to an endless array of beachfront restaurants, crystal shops, yoga studios, tattoo parlors, and juice bars. 

Two hours from Huatulco is the thriving surf town of Puerto Escondido, which started as a bare-bones fishing village and is on the verge of exploding into one of the next hot spots for design hotels, gastronomy, and nightlife. 

Beyond Puerto Escondido, natural wonders like the Laguna de Manialtepec are known for its bioluminescent bay, while the remoteness of Lagunas de Chacahua National Park beckons nature lovers to get lost on a boat ride through the thick mangrove canals.

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14 Reasons You’ll Love Visiting Huatulco, Mexico (full travel guide)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: October 29, 2022  - Last updated: October 30, 2022

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Relatively few tourists, quiet golden beaches, the best sunsets, jungle landscapes and dry air, the friendliest locals…these are just a few of the many reasons Huatulco, Oaxaca is one of my new favorite places in Mexico.

If you’re considering a visit to Mexico, Huatulco is absolutely worth checking out.

With secluded resorts, secret beaches, plenty of waterfalls, coffee plantations and one of the best places in to the world to watch baby turtles hatch, you definitely won’t run out of things to do here!

In this post, you will find an overview and travel guide to visiting Huatulco Mexico and the top 14 things to do while you’re there.

( This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust! )

Related Post: The 3 Best Huatulco All Inclusive Resorts – Reviewed and Compared to Help You Choose Where to Stay

Tips for Visiting Huatulco Mexico

On the Pacific coast, with the looming Sierra Madre mountain range as its backdrop, Huatulco is a region made up of nine bays and over 30 beaches.

Huatulco is pronounced like: “wah-tool-co.”

Where is Huatulco Mexico?

Huatulco is in the State of Oaxaca, in the very south of Mexico on the Pacific Ocean.

It’s located in one of the southern states called Oaxaca ( “wah-haak-kah”).

You’ll notice there isn’t really a town called Huatulco if you google it. It’s simply the name for the small area in the state.

It’s one of Mexico’s most recent regions that was designated to be developed for tourism.

A lot of people describe Huatulco as how Cancun was in the early 90s.

A lot of cruise ships visit the area at the Santa Cruz port, which is close to the town of La Crucecita. This is the most populated town in the area and worth a visit, more on that below.

Huatulco Airport: What You Need to Know

The modest palapa-style airport will get you through in no time.

Then, it’s only about 30 minutes to the beach-lined strip of all-inclusive mid-range and luxury resorts.

Tip: be sure to get a pic with the beautiful butterfly mural! It’s in the departures area!

Looking for more hidden gems in Mexico? Read This – Visit Mérida, a Hidden Gem City in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

What’s the Weather like in Huatulco, Mexico?

Huatulco gets very hot since this area is much closer to the equator than other more popular areas like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun.

When I visited during the month of March, I was surprised how dry and arid it was!

So if you’re searching for somewhere to visit in Mexico with low humidity, Huatulco is a dry-air lovers’ paradise!

May is the hottest month and January is the coldest month in Huatulco.

Weather in High Season (Winter)

November through March is the best time to visit Huatulco. These months have the most hot sunny days and minimal rain.

Inside tip: the sun’s rays are very powerful here. If you have skin that’s used to the northern hemisphere, be cautious. Don’t skimp on the sunscreen, at least for the first few days.

Weather in Low Season (Summer)

Huatulco rainy season typically runs from May to October, although the rain tends to not last very long and most days will still be sunny.

Sun Protection is Extra Important in Huatulco

When traveling to places like Mexico, it’s important to make sure your sunscreen is biodegradable and safe for the ocean and reefs.

We want to make sure we don’t damage the beautiful natural environments we get to swim in!

Try a mineral-based sunscreen that’s also reef safe, free from most nasty chemicals and is carry-on sized!

I would recommend bringing a rash guard for the pool.

My sunburn in Huatulco was so much worse than my previous trips to Mexico (you are so close to the equator here).

Most people get a pretty bad sunburn from the pool on the first day , and then spend the rest of the time in the shade.

Bring a long-sleeved rash guard with you, as the ones at the resort gift shop usually run for close to $100 (Amazon is way cheaper lol)!

Is Huatulco Safe for Tourists?

Huatulco is completely safe for tourists. As a relatively secluded and less-visited part of Mexico, there is minimal (if any at all) dangerous activity that occurs here.

Since there’s no big city, it’s a small, rural feel where the locals you do meet are very laid back and friendly.

Read Next: 26 Practical Travel Tips for Mexico You Are Guaranteed to Use

13 Best Things To Do in Huatulco

Wondering what to do in Huatulco besides hanging out at an all-inclusive resort?

Whether you elect to stay on a resort or in your own villa, there are endless activities, several places to visit and fun adventures to be had down the coastline.

Some of my favorite Huatulco activities were the waterfalls, mudbaths and natural jacuzzi water!

Here’s my list of list of the best things to do in Huatulco Mexico:

1. Try the Mezcal

First thing’s first, get your drink on! Mezcal is the local drink down here. While very similar to its cousin, Tequila, it’s a little different.

Have some fun trying the different flavors wherever you end up, it’s always on the menu!

I recommend taking this tour early on in your trip.

On the tour, you’ll go for a mezcal tasting and be brought to several scenic overlooks in the area and browse through the shops of La Crucecita.

View tour info & prices here .

Don’t forget to pack a few of these bottle protectors for your trip!

If you’re planning to bring home any bottles of mezcal (or anything else), these sleeves protect your bottles in your luggage.

They’re also leak-proof on the rare chance that they do break.

I’ve used these for several trips now, and my bottles always come home safe!

2. Find the Secret Natural Jacuzzi Bath

One of the most fun things in Huatulco that I discovered was this hidden lagoon that was basically a natural hot tub!

Complete with ‘jets’ and everything!

It’s easiest to get here if you’re staying at the Huatulco Secrets Hotel , since it’s located at the end of the beach.

But, you can still access it through the public trail to get to this beach.

If you’re standing on the beach looking at the ocean, look all the way to the right and find the big rock formations.

You will have to climb over a few to get into the little pool area.

The waves from the ocean constantly splash over into this small cove, but the large rocks keep everything protected and calm so that you can lounge.

Since it’s pretty shallow, the water stays a perfect warm bath temperature.

3. Take a Street Food Cooking Class

Learn how to make some of the most flavorful cuisine in Mexico.

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Huatulco, this cooking class will fit the bill.

Not only will you be fully immersed in learning how to make local dishes, the instructors teach you about the history and significance of the ingredients and dishes.

We’re talking homemade (real) salsa, tortillas and tacos and hibiscus margaritas!

After participating in this hands on experience you leave with your own recipe book!

4. Visit the Hagia Sofia Ecological Park

This is a botanical garden and ecological paradise. Up in the mountains, you’ll be greeted by incredible species of flora and views of the bays.

Tranquility surrounds you as trails lead you through the many different gardens.

You’ll pass streams and bridges that eventually lead you to a waterfall among vast boulders. A must visit in the area.

Find more information here .

You might also like: The Best Waterfalls and Hot Springs in the Mexican Pacific

5. Get Up Close to Crocodiles and Turtles

This is definitely a hidden gem activity in Huatulco.

Hope on an eco tour and see the preservation efforts of the area and view these exotic animals in their natural habitat.

On this tour you will cruise through the mangroves and search for crocs.

Then you will head to a turtle sanctuary.

On the way back you will pass through a couple rural communities to observe their way of life and have a chance to visit local shops and support the local economy.

6. Hike to Cascadas Mágicas (Magic Falls)

If hiking in Huatulco is on your list of things to do, this is definitely a place you want to check out.

Here, you will trek through the jungle in a 4×4 vehicle until you come to a river.

Through the jungle and up the mountainside a hidden river will take you to Cascadas Magicas.

After passing mini waterfalls, you will come to the main one and can splash around in the clear lagoon!

This tour company will bring you there and will also take you to a nearby coffee plantation where you can taste the freshest coffee you’ve ever had!

7. Get a Mud Bath at La Bocana Beach (This Was My Favorite Activity in Huatulco)

Of all the Huatulco beaches, Playa La Bocana is my favorite, and a real hidden gem that you won’t read about anywhere else.

If you’re staying at Secrets Resort, it’s about a 20 minute walk from the complex.

Or you can grab a taxi for less than $10usd. If you arrive by taxi, you’ll turn off the highway onto a cobblestone road.

You’ll pass by local shops and restaurants, one even boats homemade banana bread, a must try.

The beach here is gorgeous, usually quiet and the water is shallow and safe enough to play in the small waves.

Pack your sand-free beach towel (if you’re like me and hate getting sand all over your stuff) and Bluetooth speaker and hang out!

On arrival, you will be dropped off at the entrance to the beach; it looks like a small scale malecon or promenade.

Chances are, you’ll be met by the mud bath ladies!  They are descendants of the Zapotec people who created this ancient healing technique.

The Mud Bath Experience

This is seriously the most underrated attraction in Huatulco!

In their clay pots they carry a special mud.

It’s a mixture of sand from the beach, saltwater and fresh water.

For about 100 pesos per person, they cover you from head to toe in this mud.

In the process of covering you with mud, they use a massage-like technique; so you get a mini massage and an exfoliating treatment all at once!

Once you’re completely covered, you dry out in the sun.

As it dries, it acts like a natural sunscreen.

Under the hot and direct equatorial sun, you’re completely cool and comfortable.

After about 10 minutes the clay is now dry and the mud ladies then rub it off.

It’s another round of massage and exfoliation, completely different sensations from the first application.

After it’s all removed they direct you to take a dip in the ocean. Time to wash off all remaining dried mud.

What you’re left with is the softest smoothest skin you’ve has since you were a baby.

No word of a lie, my skin stayed this smooth for 4 days!

Related post: Heal Your Soul With These Natural Mud Baths Around the World.

8. See Gardens and Ruins at Copalita Ecological Park

If you’re still up for more adventure, about ten minutes passed La Bocana is the Copalita ecological park and ruins.

This site is about 35 hectares in size; it includes a network of trails throughout the lush jungle and some amazing views of jarring cliffs overlooking the copalita river.

These ruins are interesting because they are one of two ruins in Mexico located located on the coast.

The other Mexico beach ruins are in Tulum.

This tour will provide you with a knowledgeable local guide of this archaeological site.

A must do activity in Huatulco for those interested in the fascinating history of the ancient cities of Mexico.

9. Release Baby Turtles in Mazunte

Now we head a little north of Huatulco.

If you can manage a full day trip away from the resort area, or if you’d like to spend several days up along the cost, I highly recommend a visit to the town of Mazunte.

Well known for being a laid-back hippie town, this is the perfect destination for those interested in slow travel.

It’s also a creative mind’s paradise!

Time is slow here, it’s not high tech or fancy, but there’s a small beach town charm that draws any visitor in.

Tip: Eat at La Empanada and stop for a smoothie at El Tiburon.

Next, be sure to pay a visit to the National Turtle Centre in Mazunte (Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga).

Here you can learn about the conservation work the government has been doing to protect the dwindling turtle population in the area.

You will learn how they protect these important creatures from when the adults bury their eggs in the beach to when the eggs hatch.

The baby turtles make the dangerous run from their nest to the water and survival rates are usually quite low in unprotected areas.

And if you’re visiting during hatch season you can help them get safely to the ocean .

Want more hiking while you’re in the Huatulco area?

You can also head over to Punta Cometa and climb up for some of the best views of the bay.

It’s about a 10-15 minute hike up, with a few trail head options.

The easiest is from the southwest end of Playa (beach) Rinconcito.

You can also get there from the other beach, Playa Mermejita.

TRAVEL TIP: plan a visit to watch the sunset, so bring a flashlight for your return back to town.

Also, there’s another small beach area with a natural jacuzzi, don’t miss this hidden gem when you’re there.  

10. Chill Out at Zipolite Beach

Just west of Puerto Angel is Ziploite Beach, about 45 minutes from the Huatulco airport.

The draw here is that it’s one of the few remaining beaches in Mexico that allow nudism.

It’s also quite liberal about other recreational activities (for those who enjoy the Cannabis variety).

The word is starting to get out about this small Mexican town.

For now, however, the charm and allure of the beach bum barefoot backpack yogi traveler still projects.

Check out this post by Along Dusty Roads about this perfect beach bum town.

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11. Visit Puerto Escondido for Adventure

In your travel research you might also come across the question as to whether or not you should visit Huatulco or Puerto Escondido.

While I love Huatulco for it’s quiet and unassuming vibe, for the adventurous traveler type, you might get a little bored here.

When compared to Huatulco, Puerto Escondido is much busier and has more of a party atmosphere.

Puerto Escondido is better known for it’s lively nightlife and busy beaches for the best surf.

12. Canyon River Slide and Hike Experience

On this tour, you’ll hike along the river bank, float down the river (including going down natural waterslides) and then find the natural whirlpools for free hydrotherapy!

You’ll also learn how to rappel down into the canyon to reach a calm swimming area. Lunch is included!

View tour & prices here.

13. Nine Bay Boat Tour

One of the most impressive natural features of this area is the 9 bays, all with different beaches.

On this full day boat tour, you’ll glide through the different bays, catch glimpses of incredible rock formations and stop at hidden beaches and go snorkeling.

You’ll stop at a small beach town for lunch, and bring a bag or backpack because you can bring your own drinks on board!

View tour info and prices here .

14. Huatulco Beaches

Huatulco is most famous for its 9 different bays, all of which have pristine beaches – dozens of them!

Because these beaches are all found tucked away in bays, the water is shallow and calm – perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Here are some of the best beaches in Huatulco.

Playa La Entrega

Playa La Entrega is one of the most popular beaches in Huatulco because its large, is good for young swimmers, has plenty of restaurants and is very accessible to get to. The water is clear and full of beautiful, bright colored fish.

Bahía (Playa) Maguey

This beach has clear turquoise water and soft golden sand. It’s large and wide and lined with several palapa-roof restaurants.

Orgáno Bay

Head to Orgáno Bay if you want a secluded beach with perfect water and not many other tourists or locals.

There are no facilities here, so bring your own drinks and snacks. Despite this, the views and tranquility are worth it!

You can even walk here from Centro de Bahías de Huatulco in about 15 to 20 minutes, but it’s not really accessible by car.

Playa Chahué

Playa Chahué is known for its beach clubs in which you can buy day passes for.

The beach is beautiful but the undertow is very strong and not ideal for swimming.

Come here if you want great views and your toes in the sand while you sip tropical drinks.

Playa Tangolunda

Playa Tangolunda is where the Barcelo and Dreams Resorts are located, but the public can access the beach.

If you’re not a guest at these resorts you can also buy a day pass to access the beach and amenities.

As far as swimming goes, the beach drops off fast and the water gets deep, so only strong swimmers are advised to go in the water.

If you want to visit a few of these beaches, I recommend this bay tour .

Your guide will bring you to several of the best beaches throughout the bays of Huatulco, where you’ll be the first to show up before the crowds.

Where to Stay in Huatulco

Huatulco has a variety of different types of accommodations to choose from, including all inclusive resorts, hotels and vacation rentals.

All-Inclusive Resorts in Huatulco

Most people choose to stay at one of the all-inclusive resorts located on the beach.

The nice thing about Huatulco is that the many bays allow the resorts to be spread out.

They are all far enough apart that you feel like you’re the only resort in the area, nothing like Cancun.

Most of them are situated on their own little piece of one of the nine bays.

So, any resort you choose in Huatulco will have plenty of calm water for swimming and playing around in the ocean.

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa

I loved my stay at Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa , an adult-only resort more on the luxurious side, but it was worth the extra few hundred dollars.

What I loved about this resort was that every room has a view of the ocean.

Also, the sky lounge was the most amazing place to have a sunset cocktail overlooking the bay at dusk.

Tip: Spice , the Asian-fusion teppanyaki-style restaurant, is the most popular dinner spot here. Be sure to make reservations on your first or second day to get a chance to dine here.

View rooms and prices here.

Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa

Dreams Huatulco is another fantastic all-inclusive option which offers great value. It’s perfect for families with young kids, but also has an adult-only section.

There are three massive pools that face the ocean and almost feel like infinity pools.

And the pristine beach is very swimmable, with nice sand and calm water since it’s in an alcove bay.

For more information, read my in-depth guide which compares the top 3 all-inclusive resorts in Huatulco .

Read Next: 17 Things You Should Always Pack for an All Inclusive Vacation

Vacation Rentals

If you’re the type of traveler who prefers to get off the beaten path, you have plenty of options.

There are many villas tucked away in the hills of the Huatulco region.

Anywhere between La Crucecita and La Bocana would be a great choice to plan your base camp.

Like this condo with 360 degree views from the balcony.

Or some stunning cliff-side views from your infinity pool at places like this :

Need a rental car?

Discover Cars compares prices across all major car rental companies (including the ones at the Huatulco HUX airport).

Since Huatulco is a small airport, it’s best to reserve your car in advance.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Huatulco and What You Can Do There

I am most definitely a sun-seeker and love getting away to hot climates. I’m not a huge fan of humidity though, so the weather is one of the main reasons I loved this part of Mexico so much.

It’s a dry heat which makes it perfect for those who struggle with humidity. Also, I love cacti and this place is full of them. You get tropical and desert all in one!

For a tourism and resort area, Huatulco seems just that much more authentic compared to other destinations on the Pacific coast.

Since there’s a large population in the state of Oaxaca, many locals travel to this area for their own family vacations.

So that means there are tons of authentic things to do that you won’t find in other parts of Mexico.

And not only is this place perfect for families, I’d say it’s a perfect honeymoon destination as well. Each resort is a little more secluded from the others and the sunset are stunningly romantic.

Plus, there’s a great selection of adult-only resorts that would make for a perfect couples’ getaway.

Since this is such a special part of Mexico to visit with unique geography, it provides lots of opportunity for those who like to try out and discover new activities.

But, if I had to pick my top 3 best things to do in Huatulco, I would recommend:

getting a mud bath at La Bocana Beach, taking a cooking class and visiting the Magic Waterfalls and coffee plantation tour.

Don’t Forget Your Beach Vacation Essentials!

If you’re planning to do any snorkeling, it’s best to bring your own gear. That way you can head out on your own whenever you want, and you also avoid the used masks they provide you on tours.

This set from Amazon is a full face mask with an attached snorkel (and a GoPro attachment), so it’s way more comfortable than those traditional suction goggles! A pair of fins are always useful, too.

And this lightweight low profile beach chair folds up in to a perfect carrying bag. Plant yourself in the sand and enjoy!

And an insulated beach tote to pack a few beers, coolers and bottled water to stay hydrated!

Thanks for reading! If you’ve been to Huatulco I’d love to hear about your personal favorite places, as I know I will be heading back sometime soon!

Before you go…

If you want to stay up to date, get behind the scenes content, or connect with me directly – you can follow my YouTube channel , Facebook Page , Instagram or Twitch channel !

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Monday 6th of February 2023

I love Huatulco Mexico

Sandy Leonard

Saturday 14th of January 2023

Stopped here on a Princess Cruise. Loved the place. Would comeback in a heartbeat!

Satisfaction Rating

$150 per person, travel protection plan, huatulco, mexico all inclusive resorts.

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Huatulco all inclusive resorts invite you to indulge in luxury by the sea. You’ll be spoiled with lavish amenities in your room or throughout the resort to feel completely relaxed. Mouthwatering international cuisines and endless drinks satisfy every craving while a host of land and water activities will create lasting memories. You can also book an offsite tour or excursion through your resort’s concierge desk so you never miss an opportunity to experience the best of Huatulco.

All inclusive dining is available at Dreams Huatulco and the Barcelo Huatulco Beach. Local cuisine can be found at numerous dining venues throughout the area.

Nightlife is available on resort properties.

Sightseeing

Huatulco all inclusive vacations provide perfect opportunities to see the region’s sites and landscape. The nine bays that make up Huatulco are natural beauties of crystal-clear waters and flawless beaches (perfect for snorkeling or sunbathing). Take a guided tour through Hagia Sofia where gardens of organically grown plants are certainly a sight to see. The Village of Capulalpam features intricate architecture, authentic meals, and a rich culture to anyone who makes a visit. And attractions like Copalita Waterfalls, La Bocana Lagoon, and Rio Copalita are exotic adventures that make Huatulco a stunning vacation destination for all travelers.

Sport fishing, golf, surfing and scuba are some of the area's sporting attractions. 

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The Best Hotels in Huatulco, Mexico

With nine bays and more than 30 beaches crammed into this scenic stretch of the Oaxaca coastline, there’s no shortage of Pacific -facing places to stay, seaside restaurants and poised pools with a view in Huatulco.

The town of Huatulco rests alongside the sweeping Sierra Madre mountains on Oaxaca state’s pristine Pacific coast. Here you’ll find the pre-Hispanic ruins of the Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita and the bountiful bays, chalky white sands and sapphire waters of the protected Huatulco National Park, also known as Bahias de Huatulco National Park. All of this makes the area a great choice for those who want to combine culture with a Mexican beach break. Here are the best places to stay, in and around town – all bookable with Culture Trip.

1. Casa Mauna

Boutique Hotel

Casa Mauna is a boutique hotel best-suited to courting couples, a short walk from the sand of Salchi beach. There are only six luxurious suites here so you’ll be guaranteed attentive service and a stay away from the crowds. The beautiful, minimalist rooms all have views out over the ocean, as does the infinity pool and its luxurious loungers. The restaurant offers uniquely plant-based, vegan dishes bursting with flavors, like potato curry samosas and cucumber pineapple ceviche.

2. Hotel Princess Mayev

Hotel Princess Mayev looks out onto the white sand and blue water of Chahué Bay. The bright and airy rooms, veiled in crisp, white sheets, are the perfect place to wake up before a day of exploring. Choose from a golf session or a more rigorous expedition of white-water rafting, quad biking or horseback riding on the beach, before kicking back by the pool to wind down on return. The hotel’s tour desk is on hand for trips to spy turtles and dolphins, waterfalls and coffee farms.

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4. Barceló Huatulco

Barceló Huatulco is a reliable all-inclusive resort with 351 rooms that looks out onto the ocean at Tangolunda Bay. With six restaurants, two buffet-style and four with gourmet à la carte offerings, like the Kyoto Sushi Bar, you’re never likely to go hungry. It’s also the only hotel in the area with its own water park, ideal for families seeking slide-side fun.

5. Quinta Real Huatulco

Chain Hotel

Quinta Real Huatulco is a beautiful fusion of Mexican and Moroccan-inspired architecture, sitting oceanfront at Tangolunda Bay. There are only 28 suites, all decorated with hand-painted, locally crafted furniture, marble bathrooms and individual balconies with supreme bay views. La Cuija Beach Club is a swanky place to relax poolside by day and by night, you’ll want to head to the Sky Lounge Bar, set around a picturesque fig tree, adorned with twinkling lights.

6. Hotel Quinta Bella

Hotel Quinta Bella sits in exquisite Chahué Bay, right on the beach. The classic, spacious rooms all have their own balconies and petite private pools so you can soak up the ocean breeze while taking a dip. Foodies, this is the place for you – since there are five restaurants offering deluxe cuisine from salmon tartare at the Terrazza del Mar to marinated meats on Japanese Shinpo grills at the Asian-inspired Restaurante Uno.

7. Dreams Huatulco

Chain Hotel, Resort

Dreams Huatulco is a luxurious all-inclusive resort, ideal for a family vacation. With kids’ pools, adult pools and two infinity pools, it’s safe to say you won’t be without bathing options. There are plenty of excursions to try, too, like kayaking, exploring the nearby Sierra Madre waterfalls or even chartering your own private boat to see more of the coastline. When you want to wind down, there’s the beautiful Dreams Spa by Pevonia where you can treat yourself to treatments like a Swedish massage or a seaweed body wrap.

8. Villas Fa Sol Huatulco

Boutique Hotel, Apartment

Villas Fa-Sol Huatulco comprises 17 oceanfront suites, all decorated in bright whites with soft wooden furnishings for that ultimate beach-villa feel. With private access to two of Huatulco’s scenic beaches (there are over 30 in total), you can enjoy simply sunbathing on the beach or snorkeling to see some of the Pacific Coast’s underwater creatures. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of dolphins, turtles and pelicans along the way.

9. Agua Azul La Villa

Bed and Breakfast

If big resorts aren’t your thing, head to the more intimate, adults-only Agua Azul La Villa, set up as a bed and breakfast with traditional palapa palm-thatched roofs. The charming and cozy rooms are named after local wildlife, from the orca to the marlin, and the virgin beach of Punta Arena is a short stroll away – best seen at daybreak. An abundant continental breakfast is served each morning and includes freshly squeezed juices, granola, baked goods and locally grown Oaxacan coffee.

Extend your Mexico vacation by staying in nearby Oaxaca. Book one of the best places to stay in town for a truly local experience now via Culture Trip. Fill up your itinerary using this guide for how to spend five days in Oaxaca , as well as cool and unusual things to do .

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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At Dreams now....ask away! - Huatulco Forum

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At Dreams now....ask away!

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Just in case anyone has any questions. I may be able to answer them.

4 replies to this topic

Hi SteelTownGirl, I'm coming with my family next Monday. Just curious how busy the resort is right now and if all the restaurants are open. I had a friend go there two weeks ago and they had mentioned it got really busy at the end of their trip because of Spring Break. They also mentioned that not all the restaurants were open every night. Thanks!

There have been 2 buffets. Outside. Tuesday and Thursday. We got here Tuesday . So. Portofino...himitsu and el patio have been open from what I can see. Oceans is the one that varies!

And it is busy. Super busy with kids. Holy week ends today...so? Should be a lot less busy

Thanks! Hopefully it won't be too busy when we get there.

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