Things To Do
in Santa María Huatulco
Santa María Huatulco sits on Oaxaca's southern Pacific coast, known for its nine pristine bays and lush green hills. The town blends resort development with eco-friendly vibes, offering snorkeling, boat trips, and lush hiking through protected areas. Visitors can stroll the palm-fringed shorelines, savor fresh seafood, and witness dramatic sunsets over turquoise waters.
Accessible by the regional airport and a network of coastal roads, Huatulco provides a relaxed base to explore coastal Oaxaca.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and fresh fruit. Wander through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the colorful buildings and vibrant murals that tell the story of Huatulco's culture. Visit the main square, where you can relax and enjoy the morning atmosphere while sipping on a refreshing coffee.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Museo de las Culturas de la Costa. Discover the rich history of the region and its indigenous communities through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample fresh seafood caught from the Pacific Ocean.
As the sun begins to set, take a stroll along the beach promenade, taking in the stunning views of the coastline. Choose a beachfront restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in freshly caught fish while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. End your evening with a leisurely walk under the stars, feeling the warm ocean breeze on your skin.
After breakfast, head to Playa La Entrega, one of Huatulco's beautiful beaches known for its clear waters and calm waves. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, building sandcastles, or swimming in the gentle surf. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to explore the coastline from the water.
Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant, where you can relish fresh ceviche and a refreshing cocktail. In the afternoon, try your hand at snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater world filled with colorful fish and coral reefs. A guided tour will enhance the experience, providing insight into the marine life you encounter.
As the day winds down, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading back out for dinner. Choose a local eatery known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine, indulging in dishes like mole and tlayudas. After dinner, consider catching a live music performance at a nearby venue to enjoy the vibrant local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pristine bays and scenic coastline
- Relaxed, family-friendly vibe with abundant outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Ground travel between bays can be spread out and may require taxis or tours
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias/Muchas gracias" - Thank you / Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Santa María Huatulco
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, palm-fringed bay with turquoise water and boats; ideal for sunrise and harbor scenes.
Clifftop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the bay systems at sunset.
Rustic fishing pier with activity-portraits of locals and morning light on the water.
Colorful streets and a church framed by hills and sea beyond; great for street photography and twilight shots.
Calm turquoise water with palm-lined shores; long-exposure seascapes work well here.
Food in Santa María Huatulco
Santa María Huatulco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Garlic shrimp sautéed with lime and chili, often served with rice or tortillas.
Must-Try!
Whole fish marinated in a spicy chile paste and grilled to smoky perfection.
Soft corn tortillas with fresh Oaxaca cheese and cream; a simple, delicious accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market with fresh produce, seafood stalls, and local snacks.
Grilled pescado, ceviche, and fruit cups offered along the bayside.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; use 'por favor' and 'gracias'; speak in a calm tone in public spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or traditional villages; reserve swimwear for beaches and pools.
Safety
Tipping in Santa María Huatulco
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Mexico; 10-15% at restaurants; small tips to hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers; consider rounding up small fares for street vendors.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; cash is essential for markets and smaller shops. ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; lush vegetation and strong sea breezes; sea conditions can become rough—swim with caution.
Dry-season perfection: sunny days, cooler nights, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities; whale watching may be possible offshore during certain periods.
Santa María Huatulco at Night
Hiking in Santa María Huatulco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails along the Copalita River with archaeological ruins and diverse birdlife.
Moderate coastal hikes offering panoramic ocean views across multiple bays; best with a guide.
More challenging rainforest hikes with vistas of the coastline and inland valleys.
Airports
How to reach Santa María Huatulco by plane.
Santa María Huatulco’s own airport with domestic and some international routes; taxis and shuttles readily available.
Located in Oaxaca City, about a 4-5 hour drive; serves international flights and is a common transfer point.
Smaller international/national hub about a 2-3 hour drive south; provides additional flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Mestizo with Indigenous Zapotec heritage; renowned for warmth and family-centered culture.
Seasonal influx of Mexican and international travelers; a notable retiree and expat presence in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on the Pacific coast, with beginner-friendly waves at La Bocana and several surf schools.
Calm bays offer clear waters and abundant marine life; operators provide gear and guided trips.
Several courses in the Tangolunda and Santa Cruz areas cater to both amateurs and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa María Huatulco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based options like beans, corn, grilled vegetables, fresh fruit; ask for no fish stock in soups; many seafood-focused places can accommodate with cheese or veggie dishes.