Huatulco

A planned coastal resort town offering nine stunning bays with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and excellent diving opportunities. It combines beach relaxation with water sports and a more upscale feel than neighboring Puerto Escondido.

Things to do

• Snorkeling at Coral Reefs — Explore vibrant coral formations and tropical fish in the shallow reefs off Bahía Tangolunda and Bahía Santa Cruz, accessible via boat tours from the marina.
• Zip-lining Through Jungle Canopy — Navigate multiple zip-line courses suspended above the tropical forest canopy with views toward the Pacific, offered by outfitters near the main beach areas.
• Bay Tour of Nine Bays — Take a guided boat excursion visiting multiple bays including Bahía Organo, Bahía Maguey, and Bahía Chachacual to see the region's most scenic coastal landscapes.
• Scuba Diving — Descend to deeper reef systems and underwater rock formations with certified dive operators departing from Bahía Santa Cruz, suitable for all skill levels.
• Playa Entrega Beach Day — Relax on this protected, calm bay with shallow turquoise waters ideal for families and swimmers, located near the town center.
• Waterfall Hike to Cascada Copalita — Trek through riverside vegetation to reach a refreshing freshwater cascade in the nearby Río Copalita valley, accessible via organized eco-tours.

Food to try

• Ceviche Huatulqueño — Fresh local white fish cured in lime juice with tomato, onion, cilantro, and a touch of habanero, served as an appetizer at beachside restaurants.
• Grilled Red Snapper (Huachinango a la Sal) — Whole red snapper baked in a salt crust to retain moisture, a specialty at waterfront establishments highlighting the day's catch.
• Tlayudas — Large crispy corn tortillas topped with refried beans, chorizo, lettuce, and cheese, a beloved Oaxacan street food available at local markets and comedores.
• Shrimp Enchiladas in Mole Negro — Plump Gulf shrimp wrapped in corn tortillas and smothered in complex Oaxacan mole negro sauce with chocolate and chiles, found in established restaurants.
• Octopus Salad (Ensalada de Pulpo) — Tender boiled octopus tossed with lime, olive oil, tomato, and cilantro, typically served chilled as a light lunch at seafood-focused spots.
• Fresh Tropical Fruit Juices — Freshly pressed juices from local mangoes, papayas, and zapote available at markets and juice bars throughout town, often blended with agua fresca.

Local customs & good to know

• Spanish is Primary Language — While English is spoken in tourist areas and resorts, learning basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance interactions with local vendors and restaurant staff.
• Respeto for Beach Environment — Locals and tourism operators take pride in conservation; visitors should follow guidelines about reef protection, use reef-safe sunscreen, and take waste with them.
• Siesta Hours are Real — Many small shops and services close between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, so plan activities or shopping before midday to avoid inconvenience.
• Informal Dress Code — Casual beach attire is standard except at upscale resort restaurants, where slightly dressier clothing is appreciated but not strictly required.