Huatulco Destination Guide
Huatulco Information
"Nine Bays of Perfection" Discover secret coves and hidden lagoons in and around the nine sparkling bays of Huatulco (wah-tool-co). As the hemisphere's first eco-tourism resort, Huatulco remains pleasingly primitive. Explore 22 miles of nearly virgin Pacific coastline, exotic wildlife and fantastic hiking, or enjoy a variety of traditional land and water sports. In Huatulco you'll find that unique combination of deluxe accommodations and modern amenities in an unspoiled, natural setting.
Contact a Travel Agent Specializing in Mexico Vacations for assistance choosing the best resorts and vacation opportunities in Huatulco, Mexico.
Weather in Huatulco
Warm semi-humid, with a year-round average temperature of 82°F. Winter temperatures are never below 57°F, whereas late Spring and Summer's maximum temperatures increase to 100°C.
Tipping in Huatulco
Tips in Mexico generally follow the 15 to 20% rule, luggage porters normally receive $1.00 per bag.
Wedding Requirements for Huatulco
There is a two day waiting period, and couples require a passport/driver's license, birth certificate, certified copies of both parents' birth certificates or valid passports, four witnesses, and blood tests not older than 15 days.
Airport Information for Huatulco
Travel to and from Huatulco uses the Huatulco International Airport.
Rental Cars in Huatulco
Rental Cars are available from the major rental companies. To rent a car, you must be at least 25 years of age, hold a valid driver's license, and a major credit card.
Activities in Huatulco
Cascadas Magicas de Copalitilla
Located 65 km (40 mi) from Huatulco along the Copalita River. These majestic waterfalls are an excellent place to relax. For a truly unique experience, you can go swimming at these waterfalls in a magical atmosphere with lush vegetation.
Bahias de Huatulco National Park
Located in the town of Santa Maria Huatulco, west of Santa Cruz Huatulco. This is an important protected area. This park covers 11,890 hectares (29,368 acres) and has some 9,000 lowland jungle plant species in its gallery forest and mangroves. Near the coast, there are 264 mammal species, including armadillos and white-tailed deer, and 701 bird species, such as hummingbirds, pelicans and hawks. The park also has 470 reptile species, including black iguanas, salamanders and snakes. Off the coast you can spy dolphins, whales and turtles, depending on the time of year.
Punta Celeste del Parque Botazoo
Located 8 km (5 mi) from Huatulco, near the mouth of the Copalita River. This park has a 45-meter (148-foot) cliff with a fully vertical inclination. At the top of the cliff you’ll get a breathtaking view. The park has guides that will teach you safe and proper ways to climb. Currently the park is closed, but it will reopen soon.
Cascadas Magicas de Copalitilla
Located 65 km (40 mi) from Huatulco along the Copalita River. These majestic waterfalls are an excellent place to relax. This waterfall has a 50-meter (165-foot) drop and a 90 percent inclination. It’s ideal for those seeking a challenge, as the wet rocks are a slippery climb.
Scuba Diving Hot Spots
Playa Santa Cruz. Located 4 km (2.5 mi) from Tangolunda. Thanks to the abundant marine life in the waters of the Pacific Ocean and the pleasant climate, this beach is excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling. Here you’ll find a large marine park and coral reefs about 100 meters (330 feet) off the coast.
Playa San Agustin. Located 35 km (22 mi) west of Santa Cruz Huatulco. This beach of fine sand stretches about 1,500 meters (4,950 feet). In its crystalline waters you can go diving and snorkeling along a white reef. You also can see the remains of a sunken ship.
Playa La Entrega. Located 2 km (1 mi) from the town of Santa Cruz. In the calm crystalline waters of this beautiful beach you can observe yellowtail, skipjack and pardo. The beach has restroom facilities, showers and rentals for free-diving gear.
Playa Arena. Located on the western end of the Conejos Bay, about 200 meters (660 feet) from Blvd. Benito Juarez. This white-sand beach with clear green-blue waters is a great spot to observe sailfish, dorado and roosterfish. You can rent snorkeling and scuba diving equipment on the beach.
Punta Celeste archaeological zone
Located 8 km (5 mi) from Huatulco, inside the Botazoo Ecological Park, near the mouth of the Copalita River. These ruins are still relatively unexplored, yet the beautiful jungle landscape makes it well worth the visit. Here you can learn about the magic and mystery of the Zapotec culture. The site was closed for research, but soon it will be open to the public.
Shopping
In Huatulco you’ll find many places to go shopping, including plazas, malls and markets selling a wide array of products. If you’re looking for crafts, you’ll find them at tourist markets in La Crucecita and Santa Cruz. There you can purchase all kinds of souvenirs and hand-made regional crafts. At the Tangolunda Bay, you’ll find various shopping centers, such as the Plaza las Conchas, Plaza Oaxaca and Plaza Tamarindo. These malls have jewelry and shoe stores, as well as shops selling beachwear. In addition, in Huatulco’s main hotels, you can shop at various boutiques.
Club de Golf Tangolunda
Huatulco has one of the best golf courses on the Pacific coast. The course’s designer, Mario Schjetnan, went to great lengths to assure that golfers can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view. The course also has three lakes, where you’ll see migratory birds.
Located at the Tangolunda Bay. The greens have a 750-sq meter putting area; some holes have double greens. This 18-hole, par 72 championship course is 6,851 yards and it’s very challenging. The club offers a restaurant, bar, professional tennis courts, a swimming pool, restrooms, dressing rooms and electric-powered carts. Opens daily at 7:00 a.m.
White Water Rafting at Rio Copalita
Huatulco has two important river routes where adventure-sport enthusiasts of all skill levels can do rafting, kayaking and canoeing. To assure that your outing is as pleasant as possible be sure to take the proper safety measures and rent all the necessary equipment so that you can fully enjoy the experience.
Located 65 km (40 mi) from Huatulco. This river is lined with lush lowland jungle vegetation and has narrow trails covered with underbrush. There are two river routes that you can take departing from Huatulco: De la Ceiba to Puente Copalita, which is ideal for beginners; and La Hamaca to La Bocanada, a 43-km (27-mi) run with seven class III rapids and one class IV, which is for more experienced rafters.
