Huatulco, Mexico: Beaches, Bays & Travel Guide
Huatulco is a relaxed, eco-planned resort on Oaxaca's Pacific coast — nine bays and 35 uncrowded beaches, with great snorkeling, a national park and a calm, nature-first vibe.
Why visit Huatulco?
Huatulco is a low-key, eco-planned resort area on Oaxaca's Pacific coast, made up of nine bays and 35 mostly uncrowded beaches. It is calmer and far less built-up than Cancún or Puerto Vallarta, which is exactly its appeal: clean beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving on protected coral, a national park, and a relaxed pace. It suits travelers who want nature and quiet over big party scenes.
How to get to Huatulco from the US
Fly into Huatulco International Airport (HUX). Direct flights from the US are limited and mostly seasonal in winter (for example, United from Houston); year-round, most US travelers connect through Mexico City (about a 1-hour flight) or Houston on Aeroméxico, United or Volaris. Huatulco is about 230 km from the city of Oaxaca and 750 km from Mexico City.
Best time to visit Huatulco
The dry season, November to April, is ideal: sunny, warm and with very little rain — peak season for US and Canadian travelers. May to October is the rainy season, hotter and greener, with occasional afternoon storms but fewer crowds and lower prices.
The nine bays and best beaches
Huatulco's 35 beaches are spread across nine bays. The main ones for visitors are Santa Cruz (the marina, where bay tours depart), Tangolunda (the resort and golf zone), Chahue and Conejos, plus quieter, snorkel-friendly bays like Maguey, Órgano, San Agustín and the wild, protected Cacaluta.
Top things to do in Huatulco
Take a boat tour of the bays, snorkel or dive the coral reefs, and explore Huatulco Bays National Park (about 20,000 hectares, protected since 1998). Inland, visit the Copalitilla / Llano Grande waterfalls and coffee farms in the Sierra. In town, the La Crucecita plaza is the hub for restaurants and shopping, and the area is also known for sport fishing.
Where to stay in Huatulco
Tangolunda is the resort and all-inclusive zone. La Crucecita is the town, with restaurants and more affordable mid-range hotels. Santa Cruz puts you by the marina, and Chahue is quieter and central. Many travelers stay in La Crucecita and take day trips to the different bays.
Is Huatulco safe?
Huatulco is considered one of Mexico's calmer and safer beach destinations, and the state of Oaxaca carries a lower US State Department advisory level than many other states. Normal travel precautions apply. As always, check the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before you go.
Oaxaca's Coastline: Nearby Destinations
Huatulco is part of the Oaxacan Coast alongside Puerto Escondido, famous for its world-class surfing, and Zipolite, Mazunte and San Agustinillo, relaxed beach towns with a bohemian atmosphere. Combine your beach stay with a visit to Oaxaca City, a UNESCO World Heritage city with incredible cuisine and crafts. Check Oaxacan coast packages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Huatulco, Mexico?
Huatulco is on the Pacific coast of the state of Oaxaca, in southern Mexico, with about 35 km of coastline spread across nine bays.
How do I get to Huatulco from the US?
Fly into Huatulco International Airport (HUX). Direct US flights are limited and mostly seasonal in winter; most travelers connect through Mexico City (about 1 hour) or Houston.
When is the best time to visit Huatulco?
The dry season from November to April is ideal — sunny, warm and with little rain. May to October is rainier and hotter, but greener and less crowded.
How many bays and beaches does Huatulco have?
Huatulco has nine bays and 35 beaches, including Santa Cruz, Tangolunda, Chahue, Conejos, Maguey, Órgano, San Agustín, Cacaluta, Chachacual and Riscalillo.
Is Huatulco safe?
Huatulco is considered one of Mexico's calmer, safer beach destinations, and Oaxaca carries a lower US advisory level than many states. Use normal precautions and check the current US State Department advisory.