December 25, 2024
26 Bucket List Things to Do in Huatulco, Oaxaca

26 Bucket List Things to Do in Huatulco, Oaxaca

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From zip-lining through the jungle to snorkelling secluded bays, there are so many things to do in Huatulco, Mexico you could easily stay a month and still have lots left to do.

Whether you’re planning a week-long vacation or are on a cruise and just have one day to take a Huatulco excursion, you don’t want to miss out on this beach destination’s incredible local experiences. 

View of Santa Cruz Huatulco on Three Levels TourView of Santa Cruz Huatulco on Three Levels Tour
View of Santa Cruz Huatulco on Three Levels Tour. (Credit: Michele Peterson) 

While living in Puerto Escondido researching Mexico’s Pacific Coast for Fodor’s guidebook and Lonely Planet’s Mexico from the Source, I’ve spent a lot of time in Huatulco. 

Since 2003, I’ve stayed in every major hotel and taken every Huatulco tour, some of them multiple times. I’m happy to share my advice on the best tours and excursions (and untouristy places to visit) to help you plan the best vacation possible. 

Although Huatulco is fast-growing in popularity, I’m convinced it’s still one of Mexico’s hidden treasures! 

Where is Huatulco?

View of Secrets Huatulco beach on Conejos Bay in Huatulco Oaxaca.View of Secrets Huatulco beach on Conejos Bay in Huatulco Oaxaca.
Conejos Bay is one of the more than 36 bays in the Huatulco area. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

The Bahias de Huatulco are located in the southern state of Oaxaca on Mexico’s west coast facing the Pacific Ocean. It’s south of Puerto Escondido and north of the border of Guatemala.

Huatulco is a clean, safe destination best known for its abundant sunshine, hot weather and sustainable tourism. It’s achieved Green Globe certification and Huatulco National Park is one of  the largest protected areas in southern Mexico. 

How do you pronounce Huatulco? It’s pronounced ‘wa-TOOL-ko’ with the emphasis on the second syllable. It’s sometimes spelled incorrectly as ‘watuka’ or ‘hua ulco’ but is officially known as the Bahías de Huatulco.  

If you look on a map (or a weather forecast), it’s important not to confuse Santa Maria de Huatulco (in Sierra Madre Sur mountains) with the resort destination of Huatulco. They’re totally different. 

Here are my top choices for the best things to do in Huatulco, Oaxaca whether you’re on a family vacation, holiday with friends, solo getaway or couples vacation: 

1. Go on a Snorkeling Tour or Scuba Diving Excursion

Snorkeling at San Agustin Bay is one of the top things to do in Huatulco MexicoSnorkeling at San Agustin Bay is one of the top things to do in Huatulco Mexico
A trio of snorkellers readies to jump into the waters at San Agustin Bay. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

Whether you’re interested in Huatulco snorkeling from shore or a boat excursion to one of its hidden bays, exploring the Pacific Coast’s extraordinary underwater life is one of the top things to do in Huatulco. 

Much of this coastline of Mexico is protected from development which helps support rich marine life and healthy reefs. Being located where the currents of the Gulf of Tehuantepec and the Pacific Ocean converge, and just 7 nautical miles from the deep waters of the Mesoamerican Trench contributes to an incredible diversity of species.  

On the best tours you can expect to see sea turtles, parrotfish,  needle fish, snapper, angelfish as well as manta rays, dolphins and whales. The best dolphin and sea turtle excursions are equipped with an underwater microphone so you can listen to dolphin sounds such as whistles, squeaks, and trills. It’s an amazing experience you won’t soon forget! 

Check prices and availability of a Small-Group Snorkeling Tour with a Marine Biologist on Viator.com. 

🌟 Read our complete Guide to Snorkeling in Huatulco for tips on the best beaches for snorkeling from shore and the best (and safest) Huatulco snorkeling tours.

2. Take a Sightseeing Tour of the Seven Bays

Marina in Santa Cruz HuatulcoMarina in Santa Cruz Huatulco
Take a sightseeing tour from the marina at Santa Cruz Huatulco. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

No trip to Huatulco is complete without exploring the seven bays and 36 beaches along the stunning coast of Oaxaca. Many of the golden sand beaches are accessible only by water so they are especially pristine and beautiful. 

If you have time to take only one tour in Huatulco, this is the best full-day tour to take.

On a full day Seven Huatulco Bays tour. you’ll explore remote coves and bays, often seeing dolphins, sea turtles and even whales along the way. There’s generally a stop for lunch at a beach palapa and time for snorkeling.  

Another option is to hire one of the small boats known as lanchas at the ticket office located on the east side of the Plaza in the Santa Cruz marina. There is a taxi stand and bus stop directly in front of the ticket office.

For safety and comfort, it’s important to book a tour on a quality boat.

While it’s certainly possible to charter a boat independently in Santa Cruz marina or join a group of tourists on a large party boat, it’s important to consider that a luxury water craft offers shade and superior comfort. 

Check prices and availability of a Full Day Tour of Huatulco’s Seven Bays on Viator.com. 

🌟 Read our guide to the best beaches in Huatulco for more information about choosing a hotel set directly on a beach.

3. Relax on one of Huatulco’s Beautiful Beaches 

View of one of the bays in Huatulco Oaxaca.View of one of the bays in Huatulco Oaxaca.

Without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Huatulco is to relax on one of its stunning beaches. The beaches in Huatulco  consistently receive high marks for cleanliness by SEMARNAT, the government agency that monitors the water quality of the beaches in Mexico.

Rent a lounger and beach umbrella and enjoy a seafood lunch under a thatched roof palapa and you’ll be well on your way to the quintessential day in paradise. 

If you’re arriving in Huatulco by cruise ship, Playa Santa Cruz is the first Huatulco beach you’ll see. Located at the Santa Cruz marina, this small golden sand beach offers clean, calm waters suitable for families and children. 

Another one of the best swimming beaches is Playa Tangolunda. Although you’ll need to pay attention to water safety conditions (watch for a green flag) conditions are generally safe for swimming. Tangolunda Bay is dominated by major resorts so there aren’t as many beach bars and restaurants to choose from. 

If you want to  snorkel, do some people-watching and swim in relatively calm waters, be sure to make a stop at La Entrega, Huatulco’s most popular beach. Its shores are lined by palapa-style restaurants so it can get busy, especially on weekends. Go early to enjoy the clearest water.    

One of the best beaches in Huatulco (and my personal favourite) takes some effort to get to. Playa San Agustin is located at the end of a dirt road an hour outside of Huatulco. This means you need to book a taxi, rent a car or take a boat to get there.

Home to a large coral reef, there’s excellent snorkelling from shore and several seafood palapas. 

4. Soak up Some Wellness with a Mud Bath at La Bocana Beach 

La Bocana Mud Bath in Huatulco Mexico La Bocana Mud Bath in Huatulco Mexico
Enjoy a restorative all-natural mud bath at La Bocana Beach in Huatulco. (Credit: Sue Campbell)

If you’re looking for a wellness boost, one of the top things to do in Huatulco is to take a restorative mud bath at Playa La Bocana. 

Popular throughout the world, mud therapies are believed to absorb toxins out of the body and nourish the skin, relieving conditions such as headaches, sluggishness, exhaustion and constipation.

In Huatulco, the mud treatment is based on traditional Zapotec customs and takes place at La Bocana Beach.  This undeveloped beach features a powerful surf where the Copalita River enters the Pacific Ocean just past Secrets Huatulco Resort and Spa.

Mud bath at La Bocana Beach HuatulcoMud bath at La Bocana Beach Huatulco
Take a restorative mud bath at La Bocana Beach in Huatulco. (Credit: Sue Campbell)

At La Bocana, the mud therapy treatment begins with local women applying layers of cool, mineral-rich mud to your body and face. You then relax on one of the rocks and “bake” in the sun to activate the mud’s healing properties.

The mud bath experience wraps up with a rinse-off in the ocean. It’s definitely a unique, invigorating and relaxing way to spend a day in Huatulco. 

You can do this activity independently or take a Mud, Massage and Mezcal Tour that includes the mud bath experience, transportation and a mezcal tasting. 

5. Take a Cooking Class with Chiles & Chocolate

Cooking Class Excursion in HuatulcoCooking Class Excursion in Huatulco
Learn how to make cocktails, salsas and street food in this hands-on cooking class. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

The best way to experience a culture is to dive into its local cuisine. Chiles&Chocolate located in the pueblo of Zimitan on the outskirts of the Bahia de Huatulco’s hotel zone offers hands-on instruction on  Oaxacan cuisine.

Learn about local indigenous Zapotec culture and how to use regional ingredients such as nopal, chapulines (toasted grasshoppers) and Pacific Coast shrimp to make street food, party fare and traditional main dishes. The reasonably-priced tuition includes pick up and drop off at Huatulco hotels.

Jane Bauer also happens to be the publisher of The Eye, a local English-language magazine that’s a valuable source of insights into happenings around Huatulco and Oaxaca. 

6. Explore Bocana del Rio Copalita Eco-park and Archeological Site

For culture-lovers, one of the top things to do in Huatulco is visit the Bocana del Rio Copalita Eco-Archaeological Park.

This sprawling archeological zone features pyramids, ball courts and other ruins dating to 500 BC when the site was home to the ancient city of Copalitan.

Copalita Archeological site in HuatulcoCopalita Archeological site in Huatulco
Explore archeological ruins in this fascinating and under-visited eco-park. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

A top attraction in Huatulco, this recently excavated site features a small  but top quality museum as well as a vast protected zone dotted with ruins of pyramids, a ball court and temples.

The site was the ancient metropolis of Copalitan, occupied by the Zapotec and Mixtec people from 500 BC onward. It’s easy to visit this archeological site independently by taxi.

If you take a taxi to the site, be sure to ask the driver to return to pick you up at a specific time as there may not be taxis waiting when you complete your visit. 

If you’re interested in culture and history, this is definitely a bucket list activity to add to your Huatulco vacation.

Insider Tip: Be prepared for heat, humidity and insects. Pack insect repellent, wear long pants and bring lots of bottled water.

7. Explore La Crucecita on a Downtown City Tour

Mural of the Virgin of Guadalupe in La Crucecita HuatulcoMural of the Virgin of Guadalupe in La Crucecita Huatulco
Don’t miss seeing the Mural of the Virgin of Guadalupe in La Crucecita. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

One of the top things to do in Huatulco whether you’re on a cruise ship excursion or staying at an all-inclusive resort, is to visit La Crucecita, the economic hub and cultural heart of Huatulco.

It also serves as the downtown for Huatulco. The main attractions in La Crucecita are within easy walking distance of the zocolo or parque central (town square) so this activity is easy to do independently, allowing you flexibility and saving you money.

The top things to do in La Crucecita include shopping for souvenirs (such as Pluma Hidalgo coffee and vanilla), sampling mezcal and browsing for artisanal crafts.

Another major attraction is La Iglesia de la Crucecita (located on Gardenia St. across from the parque central). This pretty  Catholic church is a peaceful space that’s home to Mexico’s largest mural of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

While the church itself isn’t historic, the mural on the ceiling painted by Mexican artist José del Signo is very impressive as it seems to convey a comforting sense of peace and tranquility through its use of vibrant celestial blue tones. 

8. Release Baby Sea Turtles at the Mazunte Turtle Center

Baby olive ridley turtles ready to be releasedBaby olive ridley turtles ready to be released
Baby olive ridley turtles ready to be released. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

If you’ve read my post  7 Reasons to Love Mazunte  you’ll already know I’m a big fan of this small, eco-friendly town.

The best Mazunte tours from Huatulco combine a visit to the Mazunte Turtle Center (located on the site of a former turtle processing factory) with a boat tour of the mangroves of  La Ventanilla for some crocodile viewing.

If you take the 10-hour, full-day tour, there’s usually time to lounge at Zipolite beach as well as stop to shop for the natural cosmetics made by the Mazunte Natural Cosmetics Factory, a local women’s cooperative.

Check prices and availability of a 4-in-1 Tour to Mazunte, the Cacao Factory, La Ventanilla and Turtle Experience  on Viator.com 

9. Witness a Sea Turtle Nesting 

Hundreds of sea turtles nesting during a turtle arribada in Oaxaca Mexico.Hundreds of sea turtles nesting during a turtle arribada in Oaxaca Mexico.
A sea turtle arribada on the coast of Oaxaca. (Credit: WildCoast)

It’s definitely a bucket list experience to witness a giant sea turtle lay its eggs. However, if you’re really interested in witnessing a sea turtle nesting, you may be disappointed with the Mazunte Turtle Center.

It’s more of a research and education facility. 

The official sea turtle nesting period for olive ridley turtles  takes place between July and November. So if you’re visiting in January or February it’s very unlikely you’ll see any sea turtle nestings.

But you may get lucky. There are so many sea turtles laying eggs on this stretch of the Pacific coast, I’ve actually seen nestings in front of hotels such as Secrets Huatulco and Dreams Resort. 

But the absolute best way to see a sea turtle nesting or turtle release is by taking a tour to La Escobilla, one of the world’s most important nesting sites for olive ridley turtles.

During an arribada, you can see up to 5,000 sea turtles nesting on this protected beach. 

Read our article on 8 Incredible Outdoor Adventures in Puerto Escondido for information on this incredible event.

Check rates and availability of the Sea Turtle Tour on Viator.com.  

10. Make a Pilgrimage to a Holy Chapel 

One of the most unique things about Huatulco’s Santa Cruz Beach is that it has its very own chapel! The Capilla de Santa Cruz is an important pilgrimage site. It was erected on the spot where a holy tree shaped like a cross once grew. 

According to local legend, the tree was given by the god Quetzalcoatl and was being worshipped when the Spanish arrived. The name Huatulco is based on an indigenous word meaning “where they worship wood.”

Today, holy relics of the tree are stored within the chapel as well as in Mexico City.

The Capilla de Santa Cruz a chapel in Santa Cruz Huatulco. The Capilla de Santa Cruz a chapel in Santa Cruz Huatulco.
The Capilla de Santa Cruz overlooks the beach and cruise ship terminal in Santa Cruz Huatulco. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

The chapel also contains statues of the Virgin of Guadalupe and Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, the patron saint of Oaxaca and fishermen.

On Sundays you can attend a service and it’s actually possible to see the beautiful blue waters of Santa Cruz beach while seated in the chapel pews!

11. Shop at the Huatulco Organic Market 

Fresh flowers at the Huatulco Organic Market. Fresh flowers at the Huatulco Organic Market.
Pick up some colourful flowers at the MOH Organic Market in Huatulco. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

 One of the things I enjoy most about staying in the Bahia de Santa Cruz area is being able to walk over to the Mercado Orgánico de Huatulco (Huatulco Weekly Organic Market) on Saturday mornings.

Popular among locals and visitors alike, this sprawling but well-organized community event takes place in the main square of Santa Cruz (Google Map) from 8:00 am until 2 pm.

More than just a vegetable market, there’s quite a bit to do here from enjoying live music to shopping for crystals, coffee, artisanal crafts such as jicaras (carved gourds) and baked goods such as gluten-free bread. It’s the best place to purchase fresh flowers in Huatulco. 

Arrive early enough and you can also eat breakfast or brunch here. Food vendors serve up an incredible array of dishes from paella to tamales. 

Check the MOH Facebook Page for details on hours and special events. During high season November to April, the organic market is open weekly on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm. From May to October it’s open the first and third Saturdays of the month.  

12. Swim Under a Jungle Waterfall at Cascadas Magicas de Copalitilla 

Cascading waters of the Copalitilla waterfall in Huatulco. Cascading waters of the Copalitilla waterfall in Huatulco.
Splash your way through the cascading pools of the Copalitilla waterfall.

In the rainy seasons, dozens of misty waterfalls cascade through the jungle in the foothills above Huatulco National Park, a protected zone established in 1998.

The best waterfall to visit is the Copalitilla Magical Waterfalls where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in cool waters, swing on a jungle rope and hike into secret caves. 

On this easy day trip, expect to spot iguanas, hummingbirds and orioles along the way. Many group tours also include a stop at a coffee plantation and a lunch of regional foods such as chicken mole, rice and tortillas.  

Check rates and availability of the Copalitilla Magical Waterfalls Tour on Viator.com. 

13. Get Wet and Wild with Whitewater Rafting

If you love outdoor adventure and crave an adrenaline rush, one of the top things to do in Huatulco is to go whitewater rafting.

Local tour operator Aventura Mundo provides certified guides who’ll lead you on a full day outdoor adventure on the Copalita River, a waterway known for its steep drops and valleys.

Whitewater rafting Huatulco Excursion Credit Aventura MundoWhitewater rafting Huatulco Excursion Credit Aventura Mundo
Go whitewater rafting on this exciting Huatulco excursion. (Credit: Aventura Mundo)

Thrill seekers will want to opt for the upper section of the river, an adrenaline-pumping descent through 22 kilometres of Class III and IV rapids but other more leisurely options are available.

Their Floating Tour is an ideal day trip for birdwatchers as you’ll drift peacefully along the river, arriving at La Bocana beach where you can swim and chill out for a few hours.

Check rates and availability of an Easy Rafting Tour Floating to La Bocana on Viator.com.

14. Learn about Mezcal Production and Sample Mezcal 

The state of Oaxaca is the birthplace and heart of mezcal production in Mexico. So one of the top things to do in Huatulco is to sample this artisanal agave-based product at its birthplace.

The easiest place to sample mezcal in Huatulco is at La Probadita in the heart of La Crucecita. They have wide selection of aged, cream and flavoured mezcals to taste and purchase. 

Mezcal production in OaxacaMezcal production in Oaxaca
Traditional mezcal production in Oaxaca. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

But to really learn about how mezcal is made and sample it at its source, take a guided tour to one of the local mezcal distilleries. Here, you can witness ancient production methods and sample mezcal straight from the still. 

If you’re keen to delve deeply into the traditions of distilling mezcal, the best multi-day mezcal tours are offered by Alvin Starkman of Mezcal Educational Tours in Oaxaca City.

A local option is to take a private mezcal experience tour. It includes a tutored  tasting of scorpion-infused mezcal, coffee mezcal and various premium wild agave mezcals such as cuishe, tobala and tepextate.    

15. Sample Authentic Oaxacan Cuisine in Huatulco

Chapulines (toasted grasshoppers) in a bowl of guacamole. inChapulines (toasted grasshoppers) in a bowl of guacamole. in
You can expect to find chapulines (toasted grasshoppers) in many traditional Oaxacan dishes. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

Oaxaca is world-famous for its distinctive cuisine, regional ingredients and indigenous cooking techniques.  So, another must-do activity in Huatulco is sampling delicious traditional Oaxacan cuisine.

Here’s what to look for and where to find it. 

  • Oaxaca is known as the Land of Seven Moles, so many restaurants in La Crucecita and Huatulco feature mole on the menu. Mole negro is the most popular. This rich, mildly spicy and smoky-sweet sauce is made from tomatoes, almonds, raisins, chocolate, plantain and chilies, including the rare chilhuacle variety, grown only in southern Mexico. Try a sampler platter of stringy quesillo cheese, grilled meats and tamales topped with mole negro at El Sabor de Oaxaca (Guamuchil 206).
  • Chapulines (toasted grasshoppers tossed in chile salt and lime) add a boost of protein and flavour to many Oaxacan dishes. 
  • Known as the Mexican truffle, huitlacoche, a unique black corn fungus, is revered for its earthy flavour. Try it stuffed in a savoury crepe at Terra-Cotta restaurant in Mision de los Arcos in La Crucecita. 
  • To cool off in Huatulco’s heat try an icy paletas, made by freezing purified water with sugar and fruit. Expect to find watermelon, guava and mango along with exotic creations like gooseberry or jicama with chili and gardenia petals.
  • Look for nopal cactus at La Crucecita’s Mercado Municipal. Watch Zapotec vendors remove the spiky spines, peel the rind and then slip the paddle-shaped leaves into plastic bags to go. Sample it in a salad or drink it in a smoothie. Nopal is full of antioxidants and soothing on the stomach.
  • Pluma Hidalgo coffee beans are hand-picked, shade-grown, Arabica beans grown at a high altitude in the Sierra Madre Sur mountains of Oaxaca. The coffee plants are dusted by ocean breezes, which adds minerality to the flavour of the coffee. To buy pluma hidalgo coffee in Huatulco, visit the coffee vendors located near the intersection of Bugambilia and Guanacastle in La Crucecita. 

16. Spend an Evening Eating Street Food 

Street food vendors in la Crucecita at night.Street food vendors in la Crucecita at night.
At night, do as the locals do and sample some Oaxacan street food. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

Among the top things to do in Huatulco at night is to do as the locals do and get out on the streets. This is the best time to enjoy La Crucecita.

The air is cooler, there’s less traffic and you’ll see families listening to mariachi music in the town square, couples strolling the cobblestone streets and everyone lining up to enjoy a taste of the local street food.  

Don’t miss trying the Oaxacan tlayuda. It’s the most popular street food in Huatulco. This Oaxacan version of pizza features a  giant sized corn tortilla toasted on a comal (grill) and topped with tasajo (beef), refried beans and white cheese. 

You’ll sample a tlayuda among the seven traditional Oaxacan snacks on this Walking Food Tour of Huatulco hosted by Chiles & Chocolate.  

17. Sip Coffee at a Coffee Plantation in Pluma Hidalgo

Santa Maria Huatulco in OaxacaSanta Maria Huatulco in Oaxaca
Santa Maria Huatulco in Oaxaca. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

If you’re interested in exploring beyond the beach, one of the top things to do in Huatulco is to spend a day in the Sierra Madre Sur mountains.  

At 1350 meters (over 5,000 feet) above sea level, the fresh air is a welcome relief from the hot temperatures along Oaxaca’s coast.

The full day Three Levels Tour (which goes to Santa Cruz, Santa Maria Huatulco and Pluma Hidalgo . Don’t do this day trip  independently as the roads can be poor.  

18. Go Zip-lining at Hagia Sophia Eco Park and Gardens 

Ziplining excursion Ziplining excursion
Ziplining is a popular outdoor adventure. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

One of the top things to do in Huatulco is to spend the day at Hagia Sophia Sabiduria Sagrada, an eco-park, adventure park and botanical gardens set in the still-wild Sierra Madre Sur mountains.

Founded by Armando Canavati Nader and set on an expansive nature preserve, this sustainable attraction is well worth visiting either independently or as part of an organized Huatulco excursion. 

While there, stroll a botanical trail, hike across a suspension bridge and go zip-lining across a series of four zip lines while surrounded by birdsong and hundreds of butterflies. You might even see clouds of blue morpho butterflies if you’re lucky!

Choose from a full-day excursion (includes breakfast and lunch featuring regional ingredients and seasonal fruit). Or create your own package by selecting from one of the many activities available onsite.

19. Shop for Quality Oaxacan Textiles 

Oaxaca is rich in cultural diversity. So one of the top things to do in Huatulco is to shop for Oaxacan handicrafts. Oaxacan weaving is rare, beautiful and highly-prized by collectors.

One of the reasons the local weavings are so valuable is due to the natural dyes being used.

The remote bays along the coast of Huatulco are the habitat for the tixinda snail. This rare purpura sea snails is a source for the “royal  purple” dye used by the Mixteco weavers of Oaxaca. 

 

Demonstration of traditional backstrap weaving in OaxacaDemonstration of traditional backstrap weaving in Oaxaca
Demonstration of traditional backstrap weaving in Oaxaca. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

It can take the milk from 1000 snails to dye one reboso (shawl). The  women of the Tixinda Cooperative weavers create magic on their backstrap looms.

They wave colourful huipils (tunic dresses), bed linens, table cloths and smaller items such as wallets, purses and pillows.  

Stop into the Museo De Artesanias Oaxaquenas and browse a fine selection of quality artisanal crafts. 

Read more: Quest for Oaxaca’s Sacred Sea Snail 

20. Support Local Artisans by Shopping for Oaxacan Crafts   

Close up of a hummingbird alebrije in Oaxaca.Close up of a hummingbird alebrije in Oaxaca.
A hummingbird alebrije in Huatulco. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

In addition to its textiles, the state of Oaxaca is also famous for its crafts. Watch for barro negro (black pottery), alebrijes (brightly painted wooden figurines) and wooden masks. They’re all top souvenirs to keep a lookout for while you’re in Huatulco. 

One of the best places to shop for Oaxacan arts and crafts is at El Sueño Zapoteco A.C. This fascinating store and education centre is located in Tangolunda Bay across from the Barcelo and Dreams Resort & Spa.  

You can feel good about shopping for souvenirs here. All of the handicrafts are made of natural materials and created by local artisans. Established by the Bacaanda Foundation, proceeds of each sale go to support local indigenous communities and rural schools. 

🌟 Insider Tip: Plan to eat breakfast or brunch at Juanita’s Cafe located above El Sueño Zapoteco A.C. This cheerful restaurant is famous for its traditional breakfasts and Sunday brunch. 

21. Bask in Luxury at a Beach Club or Huatulco Resort Day Pass 

Loungers and beach palapas at Barcelo Resort in Huatulco Mexico.Loungers and beach palapas at Barcelo Resort in Huatulco Mexico.
Loungers and beach palapas at Barcelo Resort in Huatulco Mexico. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

If you’re only in Huatulco for one day it’s still possible to enjoy all the perks of a luxury resort without paying for an overnight room. This can be handy if you’re on a cruise or staying at a budget hotel.

Many of Huatulco’s five star resorts offer day passes outside of peak holiday periods. And a day pass can be a very reasonable option when you factor in the all-inclusive dining, drinks and amenities. 

Sea soul swimming pool at Chahue Beach. Sea soul swimming pool at Chahue Beach.
You’ll enjoy a sparkling clear infinity swimming pool with a view at Sea Soul Beach Club. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

These are my favourite places for a day pass: 

22. Go Surfing in Puerto Escondido or La Bocana Beach 

A popular day trip from Huatulco is to head to the beaches of Puerto Escondido, famous for its surfing scene. 

Located 2.5 hours northwest from Huatulco, Zicatela and La Punta beaches are renowned for surfing due to their powerful waves and consistent swells, with Zicatela known for the “Mexican Pipeline,” attracting experienced surfers from around the world.

Barrel Surfing at Puerto Escondido Credit ZicaztecaBarrel Surfing at Puerto Escondido Credit Zicazteca
Go Barrel Surfing with lessons in Puerto Escondido. (Credit Zicazteca)

It’s best to stay overnight and enjoy its eclectic bars and restaurants..

But if you only have one day in Puerto Escondido, it’s possible get there and back on a day trip.  Read our complete Guide to Puerto Escondido for details about the city.

Then, consult our transportation guide for details on getting from Huatulco to Puerto Escondido by bus. It’s easy and inexpensive. 

You can also rent a car in Huatulco, which gives you the freedom to make stops along the way. Get information about the types of cars available, tips on saving money on your rental car and reserve online at Discovercars.com

If you don’t have time to get to Puerto Escondido, you can surf at La Bocana beach near La Copalita River. It’s home to several surfing tournaments and has a powerful surf.  

23. Shop the Weekly Market in Pochutla 

Dried chiles in the market in Oaxaca.Dried chiles in the market in Oaxaca.

There’s no better way to experience Mexican culture than to spend time in one of its bustling food markets. They’re a snapshot of local life. 

While the municipal market in Huatulco (La Crucecita) is quite small, Pochutla’s weekly market is big, busy and fun.

You’ll meet vendors who’ve brought their vegetables, chiles and fruit down from the mountains, women riffling through mountains of new and second hand clothing, campesinos with live animals to sell and lots of street food. 

It takes place on Mondays. Pochutla is located 50 minutes from Huatulco. It’s easy to do this trip independently.

The Sur bus goes to Pochutla hourly and the market is within walking distance from the bus station in Pochutla.  Or you can rent a car and combine it with a trip to Zipolite or Mazunte.  

24. Explore the Monte Albán Archaeological Site

Further afield, it’s worth a road trip to Monte Albán, an archeological site built by the Zapotecs.

This impressive site is one of  exico’s most important ruins. You’ll need at least two days for this trip as it’s a 5-6 hour drive from Huatulco to Monte Alban, Oaxaca (each way). 

Monte Albán is an outstanding pre-Columbian ceremonial centre in OaxacaMonte Albán is an outstanding pre-Columbian ceremonial centre in Oaxaca
Monte Albán is an outstanding pre-Columbian ceremonial centre in Oaxaca

You can cut that time if you fly to Oaxaca City via AeroTucan and overnight. 

Another option is to take an organized tour to Monte Alban with private driver and guide or rent a car in Huatulco or Puerto Escondido.

25. Kayak and Enjoy Water Sports in the Bahías de Huatulco  

People kayaking in Huatulco on a sunny day..People kayaking in Huatulco on a sunny day..
Go kayaking, ride a banana boat or do some SUP on one of Huatulco’s quiet bays. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Huatulco is to go kayaking on one its quiet bays. You can also go stand up paddle boarding or sail a Hobie Cat.  

Virtually every major all-inclusive resort includes complimentary access to non-motorized water sports. You can explore secret coves and circle picturesque rocky outcroppings with only the seabirds for company.  

26. Soak up Mexican Culture With Live Music and Food 

Umbrellas in Bahia Santa Cruz.Umbrellas in Bahia Santa Cruz.
Soak up some culture at the restaurants in Santa Cruz or central park in La Crucecita. (Credit: Michele Peterson)

No matter how you plan to spend your vacation in Huatulco, make time to soak up some culture at the restaurants and park in Santa Cruz or central park in La Crucecita.

Evenings,  the zócalo of La Crucecita is the place to be.Locals and visitors alike gather around the gazebo surrounded by benches and lofty trees to enjoy the atmosphere of street vendors selling food and crafts, musicians playing traditional mariachi tunes and nightlife at popular Huatulco bars and nightclubs.  

Be sure to pick up a frozen treat from Paleteria Zamora, a popular ice-cream shop (Flamboyan 302) where you can sample popsicles, ice-cream, nieves and icy  drinks in unique flavours such as rompope (eggnog),, horchata de coco and chamoy. 

This post was originally published in 2019 but was substantially updated with new photos and information in 2022 and late 2024. 

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Top Things to Do in HuatulcoTop Things to Do in Huatulco

 

Things to Do in HuatulcoThings to Do in Huatulco

Mud Bath in HUatulco Credit Sue Campbell Mud Bath in HUatulco Credit Sue Campbell

 

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