Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico

Huatulco (or, Bahias de Huatulco) is a gorgeous destination located on the pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico.

There are nine stunning bays and 36 beaches that make up the coastline of Huatulco. Most of the beaches in Huatulco are pristine, and mostly undeveloped. 

Playa Tangolunda

The climate here is tropical, with warm temperatures year round. The dry season runs from November to May.

Huatulco offers a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities.

View to the mountains in Sector H

Fun fact: Huatulco is one of Mexico's most eco-friendly destinations. The city puts a lot of effort into sustainable tourism, including waste management, water conservations and energy efficiency.

Arriving at Huatulco Airport

Navigating Huatulco

Getting around in Huatulco is fairly easy. If you're staying in La Crucecita or near Bahia Chahue you can basically walk everywhere you need. There are tons of restaurants and shops in town and along the coast.

If you want to travel to the further bays (and you will want to!), then taxi is the best and most convenient way. You can also walk, but it's far and it can be HOT.

We took a taxi out to Tangolunda but failed to organize for a pickup later in the day. So we were forced to walk back. It's not a particularly difficult walk, but if you're carrying all your beach stuff in the heat... well, it's less than pleasant.

We also walked from La Crucecita to Playa Entrega. There are some really pretty views along the way. You do have to walk up and over a hill, so if you choose to walk, just keep that in mind. Always bring more water than you think you'll need. 

Sitting at a restaurant at Playa Entrega

One thing that we've learned is to make friends with your taxi drivers and get there phone numbers! That way if you're in a pickle you can call them for help. Even if they can't come, they probably have a friend who can. It's helped us more than once.

Is it safe?

Absolutely. 

Obviously if you're walking alone in the middle of the night you might find yourself getting into trouble - but that would be true anywhere in the world. 

We walked just about everywhere, during the day and in the evenings and never had any trouble at all. 

Food culture

We love Mexican food. It is so flavourful, and there are so many dishes to try. 

You can even try grasshoppers if you're game...

Eating out in Mexico is fairly inexpensive. We have friends that live there and only eat out - they never cook at home. 

If you're more like us and prefer to have some meals at home, there is a large grocery store in La Crucecita, called Chedraui. 

We always bring backpacks and just walk to the store. But there are plenty of taxis around too. 

If you're looking for recommendations, check out Huatulco Food Club's Instagram account. They're a Canadian couple that have been living in Mexico for a few years.

Things To Do

1. Beaches 

Huatulco is a tropical beach destination - so the first thing on your list should be to visit the beaches! 

Each of the nine bays has it's own unique vibe, so try to visit them all!

Playa Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz has the old marina, and a dock for the cruise ships. You cannot walk out onto the dock, but it was fun to watch the cruise ships come in every day. The photo above was taken from the balcony of our airbnb. 

Playa Santa Cruz

The water is very calm, with few small waves. We liked to take the paddleboard out here. The water isn't quite as nice as the other bays (though still great!), but it's close to town and convenient if you just want to go for a quick dip. 

Playa La Bocana

Playa La Bocana has bigger waves, and is popular with surfers.

Some of the resorts sell a day pass. That's an option if you're looking for a relaxing pool day. 

Quinta Bella Hotel, Huatulco

2. Snorkelling 

The water is so crystal clear, and the coral is amazing. 

Next time we visit we will be bringing an underwater camera.

Fish at Playa Tangolunda

Coral visible from a boat

3. Take a Boat Tour

There are many different boat tours available. You won't need to find the vendors - they'll find you. 

There are tours that go all day and take you to all nine bays. 

We did a dolphin tour, which also took us to Playa Riscalillo for snorkelling and lunch. 

If you take a dolphin tour, you can jump in and swim with the dolphins. That's a really nice experience.

There are also a range of other tours and experiences available, like diving and fishing. You will find the vendors along the beach, and in the town centre. 

4. Explore the town

La Crucecita has a laidback atmosphere.

It is a tourist hub, and so offers a range of restaurants, shops and services. You do not need to speak Spanish to get by... though a few phrases could be helpful. 

The town square is a vibrant area where people gather - especially at night. The park is lit up, and there are often pop up markets with local arts and crafts. It's so much fun to walk through. 

a store where you can watch them make and embroider clothes

You can also visit stores and sample mezcal and other local liquors.  We brought a couple bottles home to Canada with us. 

If you haven't already, we hope that you get the chance to visit Huatulco some time. You won't regret it. 

Dean & Kay

PS - there are a bunch of resorts in Huatulco that you could opt to stay at, if that's more your travel style.