Things to do in  Huatulco

The region of Huatulco, in the Mexican state of Oaxaca on the Pacific Coast, is home to more than 35 beaches and bays. The town of Santa Maria de Huatulco is a beach town renowned for wildlife-rich waters and Huatulco National Park, where you can spot whales from December–March.

Three days in Huatulco gives you time to enjoy the region’s natural attractions. Spend one day snorkeling in the pristine bays of Huatulco National Park. Then, travel to Lake Manialtepec to swim among bioluminescent plankton. Finally, enjoy local delicacies such as chapulines (deep-fried grasshoppers) at the local market.

Whales migrate to the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean from December through March. Alongside dolphins and several species of turtle, you can spot whales in Huatulco during this period. Humpback and blue whales are the most common species to see, with orcas and grey whales more rarely sighted.

It depends on your interests. Huatulco offers a laid-back vibe, while Cancun is more developed and nightlife-centric. Huatulco retains a more rustic, beachside charm and offers a glimpse into a more authentic side of Mexico. Also, the waves of the Pacific Ocean are considered better for surfing than the Caribbean.

Yes, Huatulco is a safe place for tourists, as long as you take usual precautions, such as taking taxis after dark. Avoid walking on the beach at night and keep a close eye on your belongings if you’ve left them on the beach to swim in the Pacific Ocean.

Yes, Huatulco is worth visiting for its natural beauty and wildlife. Huatulco has nine bays and beaches, so crowds are more dispersed than in other parts of the coast. These sheltered bays are much calmer than other parts of the Oaxacan coast, which makes them ideal for swimming and snorkeling.