Huatulco

Location: Oaxaca State, on the Pacific coast, southwest Mexico
Distance from Mexico City: 370 miles southeast
Population: 50,000
Closest major airport: Bahias de Huatulco International Airport (HUX)
Time zone: Central Standard Time

Located on the Oaxacan coastline of Mexico with average temperatures of 82ºF and clear skies all year round, Huatulco is known for its nine bays of cerulean waters, powdery white sand and unique, private landscapes spanning 21 miles. The surrounding vegetation ranges from lush forests sheltering herons, pelicans and falcons to mangrove swamps quartering skunks, raccoons and armadillos. The city’s breathtaking vegetation coupled with the unspoiled beaches of Chachacual, Cacaluta, El Organo and Conejos make it one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico.

Huatulco offers activities for travelers of all ages and interests. Families can head to Club Mediterrannée for a special getaway, while golf enthusiasts and singles can try the majestic Golf Club and high-energy discotheques in Tangolunda Bay. The Tangolunda Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in Huatulco, featuring 18 holes, par 72, and a course measuring 6,851 yards.

Some of the best ways to explore Huatulco is via sea excursions, horseback riding and dune buggy. Several water sports such as coral reef diving, water skiing and sailing in San Agustín Bay and Isla Blanca are also available, along with exciting trips to coffee plantations in the mountains. Bicycles for rent in Santa Cruz and La Crucecita are ideal for experienced cyclists interested in long-distance rides and gorgeous sightseeing. More adventurous travelers can head to Huatulco´s whitewater rapids in Río Copalito for a thrilling ride.

Like all of Mexico’s major resorts, Huatulco Bay offers several places to have a drink or go dancing, including the Magic Circus and Polson discotheques. La Crucecita features a number of French restaurants at affordable prices; Tangolunda and the Casa Real, at the Sheraton Hotel, offers Oaxacan and European specialties; and the Cavendish restaurant bar in the Punta Tangolunda Mall is known for its Caribbean delights.

Shopping is another popular diversion in the city, with several places carrying craftwork from different parts of Oaxaca. The most popular place to find local artwork is the handicrafts market in the Plaza de Bahía de Santa Cruz, while shops in La Crucecita and Tangolunda, including Platería Malti, La Placita and El Arte Mexicano, carry fine art and trendy clothes.

Huatulco is a vacation paradise surrounded by wonderfully lush vegetation and dreamy Pacific beaches. The city is an ideal place for enjoying nature’s adventurous marvels and man’s ingenious creativity.