Highlights
- Shop, eat, and admire the architecture around Huatulco
- Hike along the shores of Huatulco's bays for spectacular views
- Snorkel in San Agustín Bay and Huatulco National Park
- Take an evening boat ride through glowing bioluminescence
- Attend a home cooking class and learn to make Oaxacan ice cream
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Huatulco, City Tour & Views of Huatulco Bays | Huatulco Bays |
| Day 2 | San Agustín Bay Snorkeling, Night Sailing with Bioluminescence | Huatulco Bays |
| Day 3 | Traditional Food Experiences with the Local Community | Huatulco Bays |
| Day 4 | Sailing & Snorkeling in Huatulco National Park | Huatulco Bays |
| Day 5 | Depart Huatulco |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Huatulco, City Tour & Views of Huatulco Bays
Welcome to Huatulco, Mexico! A hidden gem of quiet beach towns and resorts in the southern state of Oaxaca, this unspoiled region is located right on the beautiful Pacific. Start your trip with an elevated walking tour along Paseo Punta Santa Cruz, where you'll catch incredible views of the Bahías de Huatulco (Huatulco) at each stop. From the Faro de las Bahías de Huatulco (Lighthouse Bays of Huatulco) to the Mirador Santa Cruz, admire the beaches of Bahía Chahué and Playa La Bocana below. Then, continue on until you reach the colorful Huatulco sign and Bahía Tangolunda viewpoint.
Once you've gotten your fill of panoramic views, you'll head back down and into the small town center known as La Crucecita. Here, you can people-watch in the bustling streets around you. Don't forget to look up at the stunning architecture above and pop into one of the many handicraft shops to get a visual of Oaxaca's many colorful wares. And, of course, grab a tlayuda at one of the food stalls or have a bigger meal at one of the many restaurants around the area. Finally, return to your hotel to rest—you'll have a long day tomorrow!
Day 2: San Agustín Bay Snorkeling, Night Sailing with Bioluminescence
Pack your coral-safe sunscreen, hat, and swimsuit! Today, your local guide will pick you up for a scenic drive along the coastal road, taking you to Bahía San Agustín (San Agustín Bay) in about two hours. This bay boasts one of the Oaxacan coast's most impressive coral reefs and is renowned as a top-notch snorkeling destination in Mexico.
Upon arrival, entrust your belongings to the guide and gear up for a day of snorkeling. Explore the vibrant underwater world, spotting coral formations and marine life like sea turtles, pufferfish, manta rays, and sea urchins. After exploring various spots in the bay, return to the shore for a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant. Recharge while soaking in all the natural beauty around you.
As the sun sets, embark on an enchanting evening sailing adventure. Take a minute to appreciate the sparkling stars above before being wowed by the bioluminescence illuminating the waters around you. Finally, return to your hotel in Huatulco City for a restful night.
Day 3: Traditional Food Experiences with the Local Community
Your guide will pick you up this morning for the drive to Arroyo Xuchitlb, a local community in rural Oaxaca, for a hands-on look at a staple of the local cuisine. When you arrive, Josefa will welcome you to her home with delicious Oaxacan coffee. You'll meet her family (animals included) and hear their stories of growing corn and cooking with it. Lend a hand by shucking the fresh corn as Orlando explains the journey from seed to cob. You'll then help turn fresh tortillas that will accompany today's delicious breakfast, which includes other traditional corn-based foods like atole and tamales.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Sailing & Snorkeling in Huatulco National Park
Your last day in Huatulco will be one that you won't forget. This morning, your local guide will pick you up and take you to the pier, where you'll board a small boat with a few other adventurous travelers. Then, you'll sail around the glistening Costa Esmeralda until you enter Huatulco National Park, a protected natural area that encompasses the nine bays of Huatulco.
Once you're officially in the park, you'll sail through five of these pristine bays, seeing what flora and fauna you can spot along the way. Keep your eye out for some of the diverse endemic bird species found here, like the golden-cheeked woodpecker or red-breasted chat. At various points throughout the experience, you'll get to hop off and do some more snorkeling or swimming as you discover rock formations and coral reefs, colorful fish, and spectacular marine life, all beneath the ocean's surface.
Once you've had your fill of sun and sea for the day, you'll head back to the shore, disembark, and spend the remainder of the day entirely at your leisure—perhaps relaxing on one of the many golden beaches or finding a local café for some late lunch and people-watching.
Day 5: Depart Huatulco
It's time to head home! Depending on your schedule, there may be time for you to head to the beach one last time, sample some local flavors for lunch, or grab some last-minute souvenirs. When the time comes, a private transfer will take you to the airport to catch your departing flight. Safe travels!
More Great Mexico Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Mexico? Check out these other Mexico itineraries, explore different ways to spend five days in Mexico, or discover the best time to visit Mexico.
Map
