Things To Do
in Santa María Huatulco
Santa María Huatulco is a beautiful coastal town located in southern Mexico, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and outdoor activities such as snorkeling and surfing. The town is also home to vibrant markets, where visitors can shop for local crafts and delicious traditional cuisine.
With its warm climate and friendly locals, Santa María Huatulco offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for travelers.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at a seaside café. Spend your morning lounging on the soft sands of Playa La Entrega, enjoying the sun.
After lunch, explore the nearby coral reefs while snorkeling for a vibrant underwater experience. Take some time to shop in local artisan markets for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant with ocean views. Conclude the evening with a beach bonfire under the stars.
Kick off with a guided hike in the eco-friendly Huatulco National Park, enjoying the lush landscape. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and wildlife.
Post-hike, have lunch at a picnic spot in the park surrounded by nature. Continue exploring walking trails or relaxing by a tranquil waterfall.
Return to town and enjoy dinner at a local taqueria for an authentic taste of Oaxaca. Spend your evening strolling around the town square, enjoying local music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with clear waters and abundant marine life.
- Great weather year-round with a warm tropical climate.
- Less commercialized than some other tourist destinations, preserving its natural beauty.
- Rich local culture and traditions, providing an authentic experience.
- Variety of outdoor activities available such as hiking, diving, and water sports.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation may be less efficient, making travel around the area more challenging.
- Seasonal variations in tourist crowds can affect the overall experience, particularly in peak seasons.
- Higher costs for accommodations and dining compared to other regions of Mexico.
- Some areas may be less accessible for travelers with mobility issues.
Best Activities in Santa María Huatulco
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches of Santa María Huatulco, such as La Entrega, Santa Cruz, and San Agustin, for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities.
Discover the diverse marine life and coral reefs by snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Engage in various water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing along the pristine coastline of Huatulco.
Explore the natural beauty of Huatulco by hiking through the lush forests and trails, such as the Copalita Eco-Archeological Park.
Embark on boat tours to discover hidden coves, bays, and rock formations, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing in the Pacific waters.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santa María Huatulco with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santa María Huatulco
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline and bays in Huatulco. Great spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
Provides a bird's-eye view of the Santa Cruz Bay and the surrounding beaches. Ideal for capturing picturesque landscapes.
Overlooks the lighthouse and offers gorgeous vistas of the ocean and coastline. Popular for capturing the beauty of the sea and cliffs.
Food in Santa María Huatulco
Santa María Huatulco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Oaxacan dish featuring turkey or chicken smothered in a rich, spicy yellow mole sauce, served with rice and tortillas. One of the best places to savor this dish is at La Crucecita market.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish marinated in adobo sauce, typically served with a side of fresh salsa and tortillas. Don’t miss out on this dish at the beachside palapa restaurants in La Entrega and Chahue.
Large, crispy tortillas topped with a spread of refried beans, meat, cheese, avocado, and salsa. Experience the authentic taste of tlayudas at the local street food stalls in the town center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santa María Huatulco better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for a wide range of street food options including tlayudas, empanadas, and refreshing aguas frescas.
This market is a great place to sample local snacks like tamales, memelas, and tlayudas, as well as to shop for fresh produce and Oaxacan spices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santa María Huatulco, it is important to show respect for elders and people in positions of authority. This can include using formal titles and gestures of respect when addressing them.
People in Santa María Huatulco appreciate warm greetings and physical contact such as hugs and handshakes. It's common to greet people with a handshake and a friendly kiss on the cheek.
Showing an appreciation for the local traditions and customs, such as participating in local festivals and respecting cultural sites, is a key aspect of respectful behavior in Santa María Huatulco.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santa María Huatulco with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santa María Huatulco
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally appreciated in Santa María Huatulco, Mexico. In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if the service charge is not included. For other services such as tour guides, housekeeping, and taxi drivers, a small tip is also appreciated.
In Santa María Huatulco, Mexico, cash is widely accepted for payments, especially in smaller establishments. However, in larger restaurants, hotels, and stores, credit cards are typically accepted. It's always a good idea to confirm the accepted payment methods before making a purchase or booking a service.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santa María Huatulco.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The winter months offer pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for beach activities and water sports. The town may be more crowded due to holiday travelers.
Spring brings warm weather and clear skies, perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty. This season also marks the start of sea turtle nesting, offering a unique wildlife experience.
The summer months bring hot and humid weather, but the town is less crowded, making it a great time to enjoy secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.
Fall is the rainy season, with occasional tropical storms. However, this time of year also brings lush, green landscapes and lower accommodation rates.
Santa María Huatulco at Night
Hiking in Santa María Huatulco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains and the Pacific Ocean, popular for both hiking and bird watching.
This protected area features numerous hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including tropical forests and coastal areas, perfect for exploring nature and wildlife.
A hiking trail that leads down to Maguey Bay, offering picturesque views and the opportunity to enjoy the beach after a hike.
A coastal trail that connects various secluded beaches, providing a chance for quiet walks and incredible ocean views.
A lesser-known trail that winds through local flora and fauna, offering a peaceful hiking experience with stunning scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santa María Huatulco through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santa María Huatulco by plane.
The main airport serving Santa María Huatulco, Mexico, offering international and domestic flights.
Located approximately 75 kilometers from Huatulco, this airport provides connections to various destinations in Mexico.
About 170 kilometers away, this airport serves flights to and from major cities in Mexico and is the nearest larger international airport.
Located approximately 200 kilometers south of Huatulco, it serves as an international gateway to southern Mexico and Central America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Santa María Huatulco, blending Indigenous and European ancestry.
Includes local Indigenous groups such as the Mixtecs and Zapotecs, who have historic ties to the region.
Residents with direct European ancestry, primarily from early Spanish colonization.
A small but significant demographic group with African ancestry, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.
Includes expatriates and retirees from various countries, particularly from the United States and Canada.
The Soul of Santa María Huatulco
Discover the essence of Santa María Huatulco through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Santa María Huatulco is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent surf conditions, attracting surfers from all over the world.
The clear waters and rich marine life make Santa María Huatulco a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
Sport fishing is a common activity in the region, with many charters available for deep-sea fishing trips.
With its scenic landscapes and national parks, hiking is a popular outdoor activity among locals and tourists alike.
Many beaches in Santa María Huatulco have courts set up for beach volleyball, making it a favored sport for beachgoers.
Cycling along the coastal roads and through the surrounding hills is a popular activity for both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa María Huatulco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Oaxacan cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Santa María Huatulco offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes, such as vegan tlayudas, chile rellenos, and enfrijoladas.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free tamales, seafood, and rice-based dishes at various dining establishments in the area, including Casa Mayor and El Grillo Marinero.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Santa María Huatulco with these cultural adventures.
