9 Reasons to visit Huatulco
- 1) Abundance of beaches and bays With sparkling turquoise waters, the bays and beaches of Huatulco (also called Bahias de Huatulco) are the major lure. ...
- 2) Eco-friendly emphasis ...
- 3) Plenty of places for hiking and exploring the outdoors ...
- 4) Microclimates ...
- 5) Fit for foodies ...
- 6) Folk art traditions ...
- 7) Choice of hotels and resorts ...
- 8) Spa-worthy spots ...
Where is Huatulco?
WHERE IS HUATULCO? Located in the state of Oaxaca on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Huatulco was once a small fishing village but has long since transformed into a mainstream travel destination (local airport code HUX).
What's new in Huatulco?
Huatulco's new International Airport (HUX) has increased tourism not only in Huatulco, but in other nearby beaches like Mazunte and Zipolite. Every day flights arrive from Mexico City, bringing tourists to the local beaches.
What to do in Huatulco Mexico?
Though Huatulco is one of the best beach towns in Oaxaca Mexico, you have plenty of other options for things to do in Huatulco. There are canyons, rivers, hot springs, waterfalls, cooking classes, Spanish classes, shopping in local mercados (markets), and even some ancient ruins.
What was Huatulco like after the Spanish conquest?
After the Spanish Conquest, Huatulco thrived as a port under Hernán Cortés 's control serving as a vantage point for Spanish galleons and a distribution centre for supplies on the Pacific coast.
What are the best beaches in Oaxaca Mexico?
How to learn about Oaxacan food?
What is the name of the pueblo in Huatulco?
How many beaches are there in Huatulco?
What is the most beautiful beach in Oaxaca?
What is the foodie capital of Mexico?
How tall is Hagia Sofia?
See 2 more
What is the legend of Huatulco?
The legend reckons that during the first century A.D. a bearded, white man arrived on a small boat to the coast where nowadays lies Santa Cruz Huatulco. The man was carrying an enormous log, that somewhat resembled the shape of a cross.
Is Huatulco better than Cancun?
When it comes to how busy Cancun vs Huatulco is, there is no denying that Huatulco is a much quieter and less crowded destination. There is a clear cultural influence in Huatulco with more traditional architecture, cuisine and activities all-round.
What does Huatulco mean in Spanish?
Santa María Huatulco is a town and municipality in Oaxaca in south-western Mexico. It is part of the Pochutla District in the east of the Costa Region. The meaning of Huatulco, or Guatulco Coatulco is, "where they worship the tree", referring to an ancient legend. Santa María Huatulco.
Is Huatulco Mexico Nice?
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.
Can you swim in the ocean in Huatulco?
Huatulco's waters can be rough with strong rip currents so it's important to heed the advice of lifeguards and safety flags. While the waves can sometimes be strong depending upon the tides and do pick up in the afternoon, the waters at Playa Tangolunda, located east of Santa Cruz, are generally easy to swim in.
What is the best time to visit Huatulco?
October through February are the driest, sunniest and most pleasant months in which to visit Huatulco when tourists enjoy the balmy temperatures in the 70s. Avoid the rainy season from June through September when humidity is high, average temperatures are in the mid-80s, and most of the 40 annual rain days occur.
How is the crime in Huatulco Mexico?
Huatulco is considered a safest place to travel in Mexico. Huatulco's quiet, midwestern atmosphere makes it like visiting a small Canadian or American town. The people here aren't that concerned with crime – making this resort destination that much more inviting for travelers looking for safety.
Are there mosquitoes in Huatulco?
The location's weather patterns over the past several months can determine how many mosquitoes emerge. The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites. The risk for mosquito activity is high.
What is the temperature in Huatulco Mexico?
High 87F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Scattered showers and thunderstorms.
Can you drink the water in Huatulco?
It is safe to drink and use for personal use. The drinking water treatment system in Huatulco includes extraction, conduction, storage and distribution. The costs for this system are passed on to the consumers in regular billings. Extraction includes deep wells located on the banks of the Copalita River.
Is the water in Huatulco warm?
The water temperature in Huatulco today is higher than the average temperature of 29.85° C (85.73° F) and the temperature on this day last year, 18th October 2021, was 30.06° C (86.11° F). The actual nearshore temperatures may vary by several degrees and this can also be heavily affected by weather.
What is the nicest island in Mexico?
12 Best Mexican IslandsCozumel. Chen Rio beach on Cozumel Island. ... Isla Holbox. Hammocks over the water in Isla Holbox. ... Isla Contoy. Tropical beach on Isla Contoy. ... Isla Mujeres. Playa Norte beach on Isla Mujeres. ... Islas Marietas. Hidden Beach, Islas Marietas. ... Isla Todos Santos. ... Espiritu Santo. ... Deer Island.More items...•
Is Huatulco hotter than Cancun?
Huatulco is hotter than Cancun, which can be a deterrent for some people. Oaxaca is the hottest state in Mexico and the Bahias of Huatulco are pretty much 30°c all year round.
What is the prettiest island in Mexico?
Top 5 Mexican Islands to Visit01 of 05. Marietas Islands, Jalisco. Cristian Frausto Bernal via Creative Commons. ... 02 of 05. Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo. Kiev Murillo. ... 03 of 05. Espiritu Santo, Baja California. Suzanne Barbezat. ... 04 of 05. Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo. Lauren Juliff. ... 05 of 05. Isla Cozumel, Quintana Roo.
What is the nicest island in Mexico?
12 Best Mexican IslandsCozumel. Chen Rio beach on Cozumel Island. ... Isla Holbox. Hammocks over the water in Isla Holbox. ... Isla Contoy. Tropical beach on Isla Contoy. ... Isla Mujeres. Playa Norte beach on Isla Mujeres. ... Islas Marietas. Hidden Beach, Islas Marietas. ... Isla Todos Santos. ... Espiritu Santo. ... Deer Island.More items...•
What is the nicest beach town in Mexico?
The 9 Best Beach Towns in Mexico You Must VisitTulum, Quintana Roo.Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur.San Pancho, Nayarit.Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo.Zihuatanejo, Guerrero.Yelapa, Jalisco.Cancun, Quintana Roo.More items...•
How many beaches are there in Bahias de Huatulco?
The Bahias de Huatulco are a series of nine bays and numerous small coves stretching along 26 kilometers of jagged coastline, including 36 white sandy beaches. The most centrally located bay is Bahía de Santa Cruz, which is just south of the town of La Crucecita.
How much of Bahias de Huatulco is foreign?
About 80% of all tourism in Bahias de Huatulco is domestic in nature. Only about 20% of Huatulco's tourism is foreign, mainly because international air access is limited. Bahias de Huatulco has a small international airport just 20 minutes from the main resorts in Tangolunda Bay.
Why is Huatulco so important?
Huatulco was the first sustainable tourist community in the Americas and the third worldwide, after Bali in Indonesia and Kaikoura in New Zealand, to receive this prestigious award because of its development programs for a culture environmentally friendly to conserve its natural resources.
What are the communities in Huatulco?
In addition to the beaches, there are small communities of Bahias de Huatulco, such as Santa Cruz, La Crucecita, or old Santa María Huatulco (the municipal seat).
Where is Huatulco located?
Location of Huatulco in Oaxaca. Huatulco ( Spanish pronunciation: [wa'tulko]; wah-TOOL-coh ), formally Bahías de Huatulco, centered on the town of La Crucecita, is a tourist development in Mexico. It is located on the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca. Huatulco's tourism industry is centered on its nine bays, thus the name Bahias de Huatulco, ...
What is the best beach in Huatulco?
Playa Santa Cruz is the best known of the beaches here. It is 250 meters long, with soft white sand and turquoise blue water. Heading east from Santa Cruz are the bays of Bahía Chahué, Bahía Tangolunda and Bahía Conejos. These are the more developed areas of Huatulco.
What people have passed through Huatulco?
Various people have passed through this area, including the Chatmos, the Zapotecs and the Mexicas. After the Spanish Conquest, Huatulco thrived as a port under Hernán Cortés 's control serving as a vantage point for Spanish galleons and a distribution centre for supplies on the Pacific coast.
Is Huatulco a good place to visit?
Huatulco gives us so many reasons to choose this destination. The weather tends to be a strong factor as most tourists venturing to the Oaxacan coast seek its incredible 330 days/year of sunshine! During the coldest months in North America's northern regions, Huatulco typically delivers hot and sunny weather 7 days a week...making it a reliable choice for those looking to escape the cold and dull weather! And what better thing to do in the warm and sunny weather than visit the beach?
What is the airport code for Huatulco?
To begin your trip planning, we can direct you to our flight page where you can access more details on airlines offering service to Huatulco's International Airport (Airport Code: HUX). Visit our Flight Information Page Here!
When is the whale fishing tournament in Huatulco?
Fishing enthusiasts should consider participating in the annual fishing tournament (usually held in May ). There is also a whole world to discover beneath the surface of the water and for those of you who enjoy diving or snorkeling you may want to read through our Huatulco Scuba Diving Guide.
Is Huatulco a coastal town?
Our picturesque coastal town is one of Mexico's southern-most tourist destination s and offers a much lower-density experience than other mainstream travel hubs in Mexico. Its local vibe appeals to travelers looking for an authentic cultural experience that reaches beyond the big box stores and chain restaurants. Offering pristine coastal and mountain beauty, thanks to its eco-friendly/Green Globe Certified environmental standards, Huatulco brings you back to a place in time where travel connects people, making strangers feel like family.
Can you sample mezcal in Huatulco?
Traveler Tip: No trip to Huatulco would be complete without sampling Oaxaca's infamous Mezcal which can be found everywhere from specialized boutiques to the shelves in the grocery store! If you choose to stay in a My Huatulco Vacation rental property, we can bring the sampling experience to you with our Mexican Culinary Experience Night !
Why are the beaches in Huatulco so beautiful?
The beaches in Huatulco are immaculate because of the people, for the people to enjoy—not for the gratification of white tourists . In fact, many of the beaches and bays are under the control of Indigenous tribes and they care for them as their ancestors did in the past.
What is Huatulco National Park?
Besides a variety of beaches and bays, Huatulco and its surrounding area boasts a national park, nature reserves, mountains and waterfalls. It also possesses one of México’s largest ecosystems. The Bahías de Huatulco National Park is over 29,000 acres with more than 9,000 plant species; it is also home to over 700 bird varieties, 470 different reptiles, 260 fauna species and more than 100 sea species. One could spend all day searching for iguanas, geckos, snakes, salamanders, hawks, dolphins, whales, white-tailed dears and more.
What pride do Huatulco residents have?
The pride that residents of Huatulco have for their home is obvious , and their deep sense of ownership of it was empowering to witness. Often in travel and tourism, visitors forget that the purpose of a destination’s existence isn’t for their pleasure; countries and cities belong to the people who live in them.
What airline flies to Huatulco?
Interjet is another carrier based in México with affordable flights to Huatulco from the U.S. West Jet is a Canadian airline with great deals on flights from Canada. Larger airlines also have flights to Huatulco from the U.S., many via México City. There are also flights available from Oaxaca (city) and other parts of México.
How many bays are there in Huatulco?
Huatulco is home to nine major bays, many of which are protected and cared for by Indigenous tribes. Each bay is stunning and located in different areas around town. They are surrounded by beautiful beaches, and sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, swimming and surfing are popular activities to enjoy.
Where is Airbnb in Huatulco?
Santa Cruz Bay. Our Airbnb was right near Santa Cruz Bay. It’s one of the most popular areas of Huatulco, and we were near grocery stores, shopping, cafes and great beaches. Chahué Bay. Chahué Bay is filled with beautiful beaches and the marina is located in this area. Crucecita, the main square where many shops and restaurants are, ...
Which beach is the most secluded in Mexico?
Cacaluta Bay. Made famous by the film, “Y Tu Mamá También,” the beaches of Cacaluta Bay are gorgeous. These beaches are very secluded as they are hard to reach, but it’s worth the trip if you can make it. Conejos Bay. Conejos Bay is another secluded area that boasts four beautiful beaches.
What is the spa at Secrets?
The spa at Secrets, a freestanding contemporary structure with incredible views overlooking the ocean, is among the most beautiful in Mexico. In addition to yoga classes, guests can use the sauna, steam, a traditional cave-like sweat house (called a temazcal), and ten treatment rooms.
What is the purpose of the loom?
The whimsical animal figures are supposed to bring good luck. Loom used to make cotton textiles. Cotton is native to the area so colorful cotton goods, such as bedspreads, blouses, sundresses, scarves and popular men’s shirts called guayaberas, are woven and stitched by hand.
What is the best place to grow coffee?
High in the cloud forest, its conditions are perfect for coffee cultivation and production: The tasty and aromatic beans are “blessed” by high altitude, proximity to moist ocean breezes, shade from tall trees, acid soil, pure water, bright sun, and an artisan tradition that has been preserved for hundreds of years.
How high is Pluma Hidalgo?
In addition to its striking waterfalls, the tiny town of Pluma Hidalgo, some 4,400 feet above sea level and only an hour away (16 miles away as the crow flies) is a center for the production of high-quality organic coffee.
What are the ruins of Chichen Itza?
Along the earthen walking paths carved out of the lush terrain are remains of an ancient temple, ball court, and civic plaza, predating the ruins of Chichen Itza. The protected area is filled with birds and wildlife, like iguanas and armadillos.
What is Huatulco famous for?
Located in the state of Oaxaca, famed for its nine moles (sauces ), there are other specialties worth trying in Huatulco: quesillo (a soft farm cheese), tamales wrapped in banana leaves, tasajo (dried beef), tlayudas (pizza-like baked flatbreads topped with black bean puree), chorizo (sausage), and chapulines (fried grasshoppers topped with salt and lemon).
What is the only place in Mexico where you can travel from coral reef to cloud forest?
The state of Oaxaca, about the size of Indiana, is considered number one in Mexico in terms of biodiversity. It is the only place where one can travel about 75 minutes from coral reef to cloud forest, says Alberto Espana Chavez, a tour guide with Amstar Tours Huatulco.
Where is Huatulco?
You’ll find Huatulco in southern Mexico along the country’s Pacific coast. The town of Huatulco Mexico is found in the southern state of Oaxaca, about five and a half hours south of Oaxaca city.
How many acres are there in Huatulco National Park?
Huatulco National Park is massive at over 20,000 acres and features hundreds of species of plants and animals.
How long is the flight from Huatulco to the airport?
It’s a quick flight, around one hour and ten minutes. The international airport is small but just a short 20 to 30 minute drive to your hotel, depending on where you are staying. Once you arrive, head over to the car rental center near the exit to pick up a car. Driving in Huatulco is extremely easy.
What is Huatulco known for?
Huatulco is famous for its nine bays, over 30 white sand beaches , and variety of luxury resorts. A Huatulco vacation is the perfect opportunity to relax while sipping fruity cocktails in the sand. The weather is warm, the water is clear, and travel is affordable. At the moment, the majority of tourism here is domestic, ...
How to visit Huatulco?
One of my favorite Huatulco things to do is to go boating. If you’re going to visit Huatulco, you need to get yourself on a boat and get in the water. Plan to spend at least one full day boating, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring all the beautiful Huatulco beaches.
Where is the marina in Huatulco?
Chahue Bay: This is where the marina is, there is also a small shopping center located here. Tangolunda Bay : This is the largest bay in Huatulco and the main hotel zone and tourist area with lots of water sports available. If you’re looking to find yourself a jet ski, this is the place to do it.
How to get on a boat?
The easiest way to get yourself on a boat is to speak to the front desk or concierge at your hotel. The front desk staff can make reservations for you to have a private boat or arrange for a boat tour. Don’t worry, you don’t have to drive the boat, you’ll have someone to do that for you.
How far is Huatulco from Oaxaca?
If you are traveling to Huatulco from Oaxaca City, be prepared for a bit of a drive! It is just over 230km between the two cities, through the state of Oaxaca. If you are driving yourself, the most direct route is along the Puerto Angel highway 175 and will take about 5 hours to complete.
What is the Bocana del Rio?
It is a really popular activity and a great way to learn more about the history of the region! The Zona Arqueológica Bocana del Rio Copalita is an archeological site with ruins that are presumed to be from a settlement back in 500 BC! It’s a fairly small site, but set in a beautiful landscape and fascinating to look around. It’s about 16km from Huatulco and costs $5 USD to get in. Book your tour to Copalita
What to do in Huatulco?
Snorkeling was one of my favorite activities to do in Huatulco! We were lucky to have snorkeling off the beach at the resort, and lots of other hotels and resorts will provide gear as well. If you are in a private home or your hotel doesn’t offer this kind of activity, there are plenty of tours that you can enjoy. Here below I have included some options. If you are a certified diver there are many dive centers where you can book your activity. The ocean water surrounding Huatulco is warm and clear – perfect for seeing some unique and colorful fish and coral!
How much sun does Huatulco get?
Huatulco weather is excellent, and it’s on the coast and has a humid climate. Good news: sun all year round – it averages 330 days of sun every year!
Where is the bus station in Huatulco?
The bus system in Mexico is also quite extensive and affordable. The main bus station in Huatulco is ADO Huatulco, in La Crucecita and connects Huatulco with the major cities in Mexico, the closest one are Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca and San Cristobal de Las Casas if you are touring around.
How many beaches are there in Huatulco?
Huatulco beaches are amazing. There are nine bays in the area with over 30 beaches! Most beaches are easily accessible by car and it’s fairly easy and cost effective to get there by taxi. Here are some of the best Huatulco beaches (playas) to visit:
Where to go surfing in Mexico?
A lot of people traveling in Mexico will likely arrive in Huatulco from Puerto Escondido, a small beach town about 100km away from Huatulco. Its name means “hidden port” and is relatively hidden from most tourists! It’s a great place to go surfing, too!
What are the best beaches in Oaxaca Mexico?
Though Huatulco is one of the best beaches in Oaxaca Mexico, you have plenty of other options for things to do in Huatulco. There are canyons, rivers, hot springs, waterfalls, cooking classes, Spanish classes, and ancient ruins. Ready to discover all the fantastic sites in Huatulco Mexico? Let’s get to it!
How to learn about Oaxacan food?
The best way to learn about Oaxacan food is to first cook it and then eat it! There are numerous Huatulco cooking classes available in town and the nearby town of La Crucecita. You can expect to prepare things like mole, tlayudas, tamales, memelas, and empanadas in classes.
What is the name of the pueblo in Huatulco?
When it’s time for escaping the crowds in magical Huatulco Mexico, head to the next town over, called La Crucecita. This is a small pueblo, named for a crucecita, or “little cross,” high atop one of the hills in town.
How many beaches are there in Huatulco?
There are 36 Huatulco beaches and nine bays to choose from — so you could spend a month in Huatulco Mexico and still not run out of places to explore. The main beach is Playa Principal, but some other visitor favorites include Playa Maguey, Playa Organo and Playa la Entrega.
What is the most beautiful beach in Oaxaca?
San Agustinillo is known to have some of the most beautiful beaches in all Oaxaca. It is a laid back town, popular with travelers seeking a nice mix of posh accommodations and near-empty beaches.
What is the foodie capital of Mexico?
While many think Mexican food is just tacos, burritos, and nachos, but Oaxaca food is totally different. In fact, the state’s capital of Oaxaca City is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico because this cuisine is so beloved and incredibly delicious.
How tall is Hagia Sofia?
You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the biodiversity of fauna in this park from a maximum height of 325-feet in the air.
Overview
Geography
Bahias de Huatulco is divided into four main districts. Tangolunda is the area where the large upscale resorts are located; Santa Cruz is a small town with the main marina and Santa Cruz beach; La Crucecita, is another small town just inland from the beach area which provides support services to the area, and Chahué is an area between Santa Cruz and Tangolunda.
The Bahias de Huatulco are a series of nine bays and numerous small coves stretching along 2…
History
Legends say the Toltecs and Quetzalcoatl came from this area. Quetzalcoátl, according to a later legend, set an enormous and indestructible cross. Various people have passed through this area, including the Chatmos, the Zapotecs and the Mexicas.
After the Spanish Conquest, Huatulco thrived as a port under Hernán Cortés's c…
Gastronomy
In Huatulco there is a wide diversity of seafood along with traditional foods such as tlayuda, mole Oaxaqueño, cecina, and the exotic chapulines (edible insects). Local seafood is available for purchase and consumption on most of the nearby beaches, especially La Entrega and Maguey. In La Crucecita, the downtown area and the area near the main park has many local restaurants.
Education
The Universidad del Mar has its campus in Huatulco.
Bocana del Río Copalita
The Bocana del Río Copalita is a 2,500-year-old archaeological site located about ten kilometers from the bays, which is open to the public. The name means "place of copal" and covers an area of about thirty five hectares. It is believed to have been on the border between Zapotec and Mixtec dominions. Landmarks of the site include a main temple, a temple dedicated to a serpent god, a Mesoamerican ball court and a site museum.
Climate
Sunshine can be expected about 330 days a year with the average temperature of 28 °C (82.4 °F). The dry season extends from December to May and the rainy season is from June to November. The amount of precipitation has a definite effect on the local vegetation, being brownish in the dry season and very green in the rainy season.
Coffee plantations
There are a number of coffee plantations which are still in operation and give tours, including Finca (farm) Las Nieves, Finca Monte Carlos, Finca Margaritas, Finca El Pacífico and Finca La Gloria. Finca El Pacífico is known for the organic coffee it produces called "Pluma Hidalgo," and it is surrounded by waterfalls and ravines. Finca La Gloria is known for the butterfly sanctuary "Mariposorio Dain Biguid", where dozens of species of butterflies can be seen and the "Llano Gra…