Have you ever wanted to explore a true hidden gem? Look no further than Huatulco beaches, Mexico! With its 16 mi of stunning coastline and 36 best beaches, including Barra de la Cruz, Playa Punta Santa Cruz, and Santa Cruz Marina, you are sure to find the perfect getaway.
Santa Maria Huatulco (also known as Huatulco or Wa-toOL-kah) offers a variety of activities to keep you busy, such as hiking, snorkeling and diving, ziplining, and sightseeing. Huatulco is known for its best beaches with hidden coves, blue waters, and quaint fishing villages.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure with friends, Huatulco is just the place for you. Join us on this journey as we explore all that Huatulco has to offer, from breathtaking beaches to luxurious resorts and tasty seafood restaurants!
Contents
- 1 Overview of Huatulco, Mexico
- 2 Explore the beaches of Huatulco
- 3 Beach activities in Huatulco
- 4 Best beaches in Huatulco: Playa La Entrega (The North End)
- 5 Huatulco beaches: Maguey Beach
- 6 Best beaches in Huatulco: Chahue Beach and Conejos Bay
- 7 Best beaches in Huatulco: Bahia Santa Cruz beach
- 8 Huatulco beaches: Punta Santa Cruz
- 9 Best beaches in Huatulco: Tangolunda Bay and beach
- 10 Best beaches in Huatulco: Playa Punta Arena (The Middle)
- 11 Best beaches in Huatulco: Playa La Bocana (The South End)
- 12 Beach Huatulco restaurants & attractions
- 13 Activities & attractions around the beaches
- 14 Tips for visiting Huatulco beaches
- 15 Water activities at the best beaches in Huatulco
- 16 What to do in Huatulco National Park
- 17 Unforgettable dining experiences near Playa Santa Cruz
- 18 Must-visit places in Bahias De Huatulco: Playa Ventura and beyond
- 19 FAQs
Overview of Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico boasts an incredible 16 miles of spectacular coastline with 36 pristine beaches spread across nine bays. This Mexican destination is known for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, beach clubs, beach restaurants, beach loungers, and picturesque scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, a nature escape, or some much-needed R&R, Huatulco has something to offer everyone.
Huatulco’s popular beaches are one of its main attractions. From Playa Entrega, Secret beach to Playa El Organo, you can find the perfect spot to relax in the sun or take part in water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.
There are also plenty of activities for those looking for a more adventurous experience – from cave exploration to horseback riding and zip lining – all within reach of popular hotels in Huatulco, like Las Brisas Huatulco Beach & Spa Resort.
If you’re looking for some sightseeing while in Huatulco, Mexico, make sure to check out some of the area’s most beautiful attractions, including La Entrega Beach and the nearby Copalita Eco-Archeological Park.
Here you’ll find archeological ruins that date back thousands of years, as well as a stunning natural landscape made up of mountains and exotic flora and fauna.
In addition, flights from Mexico City and Oaxaca arrive at Huatulco International Airport (HUX). No matter what your interests may be, there’s something special waiting for you in Huatulco Mexico!
From its beautiful beaches to its vast array of outdoor activities, this destination makes an ideal vacation spot for adventurers new and old alike.
Explore the beaches of Huatulco
Huatulco is home to 36 best beaches—including Chahue, Playa Punta Santa Cruz, Tangolunda, Chachacual, and San Agustín. From secluded coves to wide, open beachfront, the variety offers something for everyone. Each beach within the Huatulco region provides a unique experience for travelers.
Chahue Beach features calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. With its crystal clear waters and white sands, this Huatulco beach is lined with restaurants and bars that provide the perfect spot to kick back after a day of exploring.
Tangolunda Beach is renowned for its lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. This beach features an array of restaurants serving up spicy Mexican dishes alongside refreshing cocktails.
It’s also one of Huatulco’s longest beaches and provides picturesque views of the coast’s amazing sunsets. Chachacual Beach has been called “the diamond of Huatulco” due to its beauty and seclusion from other tourist destinations.
Its natural setting makes it an ideal spot for tourists looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re feeling adventurous, make sure to try snorkeling around the colorful coral reefs!
San Agustín Beach is considered one of Huatulco’s hidden gems with its turquoise waters, sandy stretches, and tranquil surroundings. This beach also has some of the best surfing waves in Huatulco and numerous restaurants scattered throughout its coastline.
Beach activities in Huatulco
Huatulco has a wide variety of activities for beach-goers to enjoy. You can try your hand at snorkeling, explore the caves, marvel at the aquatic life, or take a boat out for an unforgettable day trip. You can also fly down ziplines, rent kayaks, or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding.
Swimming & snorkeling
Huatulco has some of the clearest waters in Mexico, and you can enter the sea depths to explore its many coves and reefs.
The crystal clear waters are brimming with vibrant sea life and picturesque rock formations, providing exciting scenery that’s just waiting to be discovered. Experienced divers may even find themselves coming across sunken objects on their journeys!
Ziplining
If you’re looking for a new way to experience Huatulco’s natural beauty from a different perspective, then why not give ziplining a try?
The tour guides experienced in ziplining offer an array of exciting activities that will take you soaring above Huatulco from as high as 1,500 feet up!
Paddleboarding & kayaking
What better way to see Huatulco’s stunning landscape than by paddling along on a kayak or paddleboard? You can explore all nine of Huatulco’s bays on your own, or join one of the guided tours available.
Whether you’re out for leisurely exploration or seeking adventure with some whitewater rapids, there’s something here for everyone.
Best beaches in Huatulco: Playa La Entrega (The North End)
Welcome to Playa La Entrega, Huatulco’s premier north-end beach. This small beach is located in the Bahia de La Entrega and is known for its white sand and crystalline waters, making it a great spot to sunbathe and relax in the sun.
The shallow waters here make it perfect for swimming, while its unique rocky texture also makes it a popular spot to take some memorable photographs.
With a pathway leading from the beach that extends up to the nearby cliffs, you can explore the natural surroundings while taking in stunning views of Huatulco.
Playa La Entrega is also home to a variety of water sports like banana boat rides, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.
If you’re looking for an even more adventurous experience, you can rent a boat and head out onto the open waters for an unforgettable day of snorkeling or deep-sea fishing.
After your adventures on land and sea, be sure to stop by one of our nearby restaurants, where you can savor mouth-watering dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from our local farms!
Huatulco beaches: Maguey Beach
Located on the Southern coast of Huatulco, Maguey is a perfect spot for exploring the sights and sounds of the region.
Start your morning on the beach’s white-sand shores, before grabbing your snorkeling gear and diving into its crystal-clear waters.
Explore the unique rock formations that make up this beautiful beach, before taking a break from your swimming adventures to sunbathe in the soft sunshine.
For those looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of water sports available to explore too!
Take a canopy tour through Huatulco’s jungle and seascapes, or surf along its stunning coastline.
Or, if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, head over to Maguey Beach’s zip line course and soar high above its coastal waters!
No matter how you choose to spend your day at Maguey Beach, it’s certain to make for an unforgettable experience.
So don’t miss out – hop on over to Huatulco’s southern shores and start exploring the beauty of Mexico today!
Best beaches in Huatulco: Chahue Beach and Conejos Bay
Huatulco is a beautiful destination with crystal clear waters and white, sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and various water sports.
It is also known for its tranquil waters and offers plenty of beach bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as beachfront hotels.
In addition to swimming and boating, both Chahue Beach and Conejos Bay offer a variety of activities to complete the perfect beach getaway, such as fishing, boat tours, ziplining, and zip line rides.
Whether you’re interested in swimming in crystal clear waters or exploring new heights with a thrilling zip line ride, Huatulco has it all!
Best beaches in Huatulco: Bahia Santa Cruz beach
If you’re looking for golden sand and a chill scene, then Bahia Santa Cruz beach could be the one for you. Located between Chahue and Tangolunda, it’s sometimes nicknamed the ‘Golden Beach’, thanks to its distinctive sand. It’s also one of the longest beaches in Huatulco, measuring 0.62 mi of coastline.
What will I find?
Bahia Santa Cruz is a popular destination for a day out on Huatulco’s gorgeous beaches, offering a variety of activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, boat trips, and zipline courses.
The water is warm and calm most of the year, making it ideal for swimming with family or taking a leisurely dip during sunset. You can also take a boat tour to nearby bays like Maguey or Cacaluta, or see the beautiful rock formations scattered across the coast.
Zipline courses offer stunning views over Bahía Chahué, with two large ziplines over 1600 ft in length and six smaller ones between 65 and 100 ft long.
Huatulco beaches: Punta Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is one of the most visited beaches in Huatulco, with regular visits from national and international tourists.
It is a wide Huatulco beach of golden sand and clear blue waters, backed by cliffs of volcanic rock, with plenty of shady areas to relax. It also offers adventure, such as ziplining tours through the mountains or jumping off the cliffs into secluded coves.
There are also boat trip tours and kayaks available for rent to explore further down the coastline or out at sea. This exclusive beach has something for everyone, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for adventure or just eager to relax.
Best beaches in Huatulco: Tangolunda Bay and beach
Tangolunda Bay is the longest and widest bay in Huatulco, offering a variety of attractions, a few restaurants, beach clubs, and hotels for all budget levels. The main attraction is diving, with coral reefs, shipwrecks, and other underwater wonders.
There are also plenty of activities to experience during your visit to Tangolunda Bay, such as live music performances, pub crawls, ziplines, horseback riding tours, boat trip tours, and ATV tours.
The calm, tranquil beach is located within Tangolunda’s hotel zone, so you will frequently see guests from the surrounding hotels lounging right alongside you.
Best beaches in Huatulco: Playa Punta Arena (The Middle)
Punta Arena is the middle child of Huatulco’s beaches, located on the way to Santa Cruz Bay. It is a great place to relax, snorkel in its crystal clear waters, or explore the area.
It is accessible by car or moto concho, but it can be tricky to get there. Activities/amenities include kayaks and paddle boards, scuba diving, beach umbrellas, beach chairs, and restaurants. Safety is important, so be aware of your surroundings and ask for directions before heading out.
Best beaches in Huatulco: Playa La Bocana (The South End)
Head south and you’ll reach La Bocana, Huatulco beach. This tan and white sand beach has a wide tide pool that’s great for swimming, and the water is shallow and crystal clear — perfect for kids! Plus, the beach is backed by beautiful palm trees that shade you from the sun.
Playa La Bocana is a great spot to relax, away from other tourist crowds. You can find plenty of spots to sunbathe here or go snorkeling to explore the stunning coral reefs that line the shore.
Also, you can find excellent seafood restaurants nearby with access to great amenities like kayaking, jet skiing, and boat tours.
So if you’re looking for a quiet corner to enjoy some quality time with your friends or family, take a trip down south and explore Playa La Bocana!
Beach Huatulco restaurants & attractions
Beach Huatulco is a tropical paradise with 36 beaches spanning nine different bays. There are plenty of activities to choose from, such as zip lining through the mountains, snorkeling in its crystal clear waters, or diving beneath the surface of the bay.
Take a break and relax at one of the beaches, or find your private oasis and spend your days swimming in its warm waters and admiring its coastline beauty.
Activities & attractions around the beaches
Huatulco offers a variety of activities to explore, from ziplines and watersports to local sightseeing spots.
There are aquatic sports centers that offer activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving, as well as unique opportunities like parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and more.
If you want to stay dry, you can explore the area through hikes or visit local attractions like La Crucecita. You can also visit the archeological site of Copalita Hacienda Grande near Playa Santa Cruz Huatulco to get an insight into the region’s fascinating past.
Tips for visiting Huatulco beaches
If you’re planning a trip to Huatulco, here are some excellent tips for making the most of your vacation and getting the most out of the beaches:
- Pack lightly – Many Huatulco beaches are remote, so it can be hard to carry a lot of supplies with you. Make sure you pack light and only bring enough supplies for the day.
- Look into local attractions – Explore what else Huatulco has to offer besides its beautiful beaches. There are plenty of activities, including zip-lining and snorkeling that make for unforgettable experiences.
- Ask a hotel concierge – Most hotels have excellent concierge services that can provide invaluable information about local attractions and things to do in Huatulco that tourists might not find on their own.
- Try local food – Don’t forget to sample some of the delicious food that Huatulco has to offer, from street tacos to fresh seafood dishes.
- Respect wildlife – Remember to practice responsible tourism when visiting Huatulco’s various ecosystems and respect the wildlife as well as private property while visiting the beaches or other areas in Huatulco.
Water activities at the best beaches in Huatulco
Huatulco, Mexico is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise! Whether you’re a water bug or a land lover, there is something to keep you busy. The warm, crystalline waters of Huatulco are perfect for all sorts of water adventures.
For the adventurous at heart, try your hand at sailing, snorkeling, diving, or surfing. You can take a boat tour around the bay or sunbathe and relax on the beach.
Not one for wild water explorations? That’s okay, too! Fishermen can spend the day searching for the big catch. Or if leisure is more your style, lay out on one of Huatulco’s 36 beautiful beaches and soak up some sun.
Get up close and personal with nature by kayaking and canoeing around Huatulco’s hidden coves, lagoons, and bays–it’s simply breathtaking!
What to do in Huatulco National Park
Are you an outdoorsy type? The Huatulco National Park is the place for you! Home to a variety of wildlife, it’s the perfect place to experience all the unique flora and fauna that Mexico has to offer.
There are plenty of activities and adventures waiting for you if you would like to explore the park:
Hiking
There are several trails throughout hidden coves and beaches, as well as lesser-known jungle paths.
Horseback riding
Take a guided tour through Huatulco National Park and enjoy the breathtaking views along the way.
Birdwatching
With over 200 species of birds in the area, Huatulco is a great place for birdwatching enthusiasts. Whether it’s colorful parrots, toucans, or hummingbirds, there’s something for everyone.
Snorkeling and diving
There are numerous dive sites around Huatulco, which offer stunning underwater views like hidden caves and canyons.
Ziplining
Enjoy an adrenaline-filled adventure through the jungle canopy with various zip-line tours around Huatulco National Park.
Sightseeing
Admire some of Mexico’s most beautiful landscapes including lagoons, rivers, waterfalls, and volcanoes all within reach in Huatulco National Park!
Unforgettable dining experiences near Playa Santa Cruz
Looking for a unique dining experience? Huatulco has it all! From beachside bars and restaurants to fine dining and traditional Mexican food, Huatulco has something for everyone. The restaurants offer something more than just delicious food—they provide a unique setting unlike any other.
You can find the perfect place, no matter your taste buds. If you’re looking for traditional Mexican cuisine, try the local seafood specialties served up at La Fragata or enjoy traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients at one of the many beachside tacos stands.
For something more upscale, visit Le Chevalier Restaurant—it’s known for its gourmet French-Mexican fusion dishes and spectacular views of the bay.
No matter where you choose to dine, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in gorgeous Santa Cruz Bay!
Must-visit places in Bahias De Huatulco: Playa Ventura and beyond
Huatulco is a beautiful city with hidden gems that offer picturesque views, seclusion, and outdoor activities. Playa Ventura, located 2,4 mi outside the city, is known for its crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and abundance of sea life.
For a more thrilling adventure, take a boat tour around Bahias de Huatulco and explore beaches such as Santa Cruz and Barranca. If you’re feeling more adventurous, take a hike through the nearby jungle trails. Here are just some of the highlights:
Playa Ventura
This stunning beach is 2,4 mi from downtown Huatulco and offers crystal-clear water and lots of wildlife for snorkeling or scuba diving.
Bahias de Huatulco Boat Tour
Explore beaches such as Santa Cruz and Barranca on a boat tour around Bahias de Huatulco.
Las Minitas & La Entrega
Head further up the coast to explore smaller sections of the coastline, such as Las Minitas and La Entrega.
Jungle Trails
Explore nearby jungle trails for an adventure experience like no other!
Read about The best beach La Paz, Mexico: detailed overview of top 8 beaches!
FAQs
Are Huatulco beaches swimmable?
Huatulco’s waters can be rough, with strong rip currents, so pay attention to lifeguards and safety flags. While the waves at Playa Tangolunda, located east of Santa Cruz, can be strong at times depending on the tides and do pick up in the afternoon, the waters are generally safe to swim in.
How are the beaches in Huatulco?
The Huatulco Mexican beaches, like Playa Riscalilla, have some of the best tranquility in America. Alternatively, go to Playa Riscalillo to get some more rest from Bahia San Agustin. This road was a relatively new development because, before 2020, Riscalillo beaches could only be reached by boat.