The 11 Best Huatulco Tours You Can’t Miss on Your Trip

Ready to book your Huatulco excursions?

You’re in the right place because the Top 10 best Huatulco tours are all listed here. While Huatulco is a resort town in Mexico, it has more to offer than just its 36 beautiful beaches.

The town is famous for the bahías de Huatulco, or nine bays in Huatulco. The best way to explore is on one of the Huatulco boat tours so you get to see the bays in Huatulco National Park, which are best accessed by boat. 

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best Huatulco tour is this Snorkel the 7 Bays of Huatulco Tour, with a near-perfect Five Star rating.

Along with its sunny weather and gorgeous crystal clear waters, Huatulco and the surrounding region is home to turtle sanctuaries, archeological sites, waterfalls, canyons, and coffee plantations.

Are you ready to learn about some of the best tours Huatulco, Oaxaca has to offer? Click the links as you scroll for details, like the tour Huatulco precios (that’s Spanish for “prices”).

Top 10 Best Huatulco Tours

1. Snorkel the 7 Bays (Best Huatulco Snorkeling Tour)

⏰ Tour time: 3 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Limited in time? Looking for a Huatulco cruise ship excursion? Want to take one of the best boat tours Huatulco Mexico has? You’ve found it!

Enjoy one of the best premium Huatulco snorkeling tours, Snorkel the 7 Huatulco Bays, that takes you to some of the most beautiful bays in the area. 

Snorkel through crystal-clear turquoise blue waters, explore colorful corals, play with the fishes and soak in the beautiful landscapes on this half-day bay tour Huatulco.

Hosted by an experienced guide, this tour allows guests to experience the Oaxacan coast from an underwater perspective. You’ll not only snorkel in some of the best places, but you’ll also learn more about the wildlife in the area. 

Be aware that this is one of those Huatulco bay tours that is not a boat tour or Huatulco catamaran tours. The method of transportation to all the different locations is via land.

This is one of the best tours Huatulco Bahías has, and is suitable for individuals of all ages. It is also the perfect family experience and includes transportation to and from your Huatulco resort or hotel, as well as light snacks.

This is also one of the best Huatulco tours and excursions for anyone limited on time, as it’s only a half-day tour — but you still get to snorkel in some of the most beautiful waters in Mexico. 

Best Huatulco tours

2. Street Food Cooking Class in Huatulco

⏰ Tour time: 3.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 👩‍🍳 Book now

Learn how to cook a variety of Mexican classics in this Street Food Cooking Class, which includes a souvenir recipe book you can take home. 

In this hands-on and authentic cooking class, hosted in the Village of Zimatan, you’ll discover Oaxacan cooking. Some dishes and drinks you’ll prepare include tacos with handmade tortillas, salsas, empanadas, and margaritas.

Your host, Jane, is a local cook and storyteller who will provide you with so much information about Mexican food, culture and history. She’ll also teach you some tricks, tips, and techniques for recreating each dish back home. 

Once all the dishes are done, you’ll be able to sit down and taste the fruits of your labor. At the end of the tour, Jane provides you with a souvenir recipe book so you can replicate these dishes. 

This tour is the perfect foodie experience for any traveler looking to learn a little more about traditional Mexican cuisine and traditional Oaxaca food, and take home a couple of recipes as well.

Best Huatulco tours

3. Huatulco Turtle Release & Bioluminescent Bay Tour

⏰ Tour time: 9 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🐢 Book now

See Oaxaca’s top three natural attractions all in one day on this Turtle Release & Bioluminescent Bay Tour. The first stop is at the Santuario La Escobilla.

Oaxaca is home to several major turtle nesting beaches, including La Escobilla Beach, a waterfront sanctuary for sea turtles, and one of the world’s most significant nesting grounds for the Olive Ridley turtle. 

Here, you’ll be able to chat with volunteers at a turtle camp and help release turtles back into the wild. After a couple of photos, the next stop is Playa Zicatela.

On one of the main beaches in Puerto Escondido, you’ll pause and appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround the beach before going to the tour’s last stop, Laguna Manialtepec, a bioluminescent lagoon.

Famous for its bioluminescent plankton, Laguna Manialtepec is one of the few places in the world where you can swim in the water with this phenomenon. It is one of the most unique excursions Huatulco, Mexico has, so don’t miss out. 

The plankton in the lagoon only emits light when they are disturbed so you’ll need to jump into those waters to see them glow in the dark. As a result, remember to bring a towel and a bathing suit. 

For a complete experience that includes transportation and tickets to the main natural attractions of the area, the Turtle Release & Bioluminescent Bay Tour is one of the best Huatulco tours.

Best Huatulco tours

4. Copalitilla Waterfalls in Huatulco Tour

⏰ Tour time: 8 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 💧 Book now

Take an amazing full day trip to the magical waterfalls of Copalitilla on this Huatulco Waterfall Tour to the small town of Copalitilla Oaxaca Mexico.

Located about 1.5 hours from Huatulco Bay, the popular Copalita Huatulco Waterfall Tour is separated into three sections — the Llano Grande Waterfalls, Copalitilla Magic Waterfalls, and Las Brisas Waterfalls.

On this tour, you’ll visit these spectacular waterfalls to swim, take photos and enjoy the stunning natural landscapes. Untouched beauty, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical forests await at these magical waterfalls.

Once you’ve had your fill of the waterfalls, the tour isn’t over. You’ll then head to a coffee farm for a traditional meal and coffee. Prepared by community cooks, you’ll be able to enjoy mole with chicken accompanied by handmade tortillas. 

After the meal, you’ll learn how coffee was made on the farm, and learn more about medicinal plants from a herbalist. 

For a truly unforgettable experience at one of the most beautiful Mexican bucket list locations, book this Copalitilla Waterfalls in Huatulco Tour. It is also one of the most memorable Huatulco day tours.

Best Huatulco tours

5. Huatulco Canyoning Tour in Zimatán River Canyon

⏰ Tour time: 4 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🌳 Book now

Abseil from rocks, float downstream, and jump off cliffs on this epic Canyoning Experience in Zimatán River Canyon.

If you didn’t know, canyoning is a type of mountaineering that involves exploring canyons using various techniques. On this tour, enjoy the adrenaline rush as you slide, float, abseil (rappel), jump and scale down Zimatán Canyon.

But don’t worry — this is a Huatulco Mexico tour that is fully customizable, so you choose your comfort level and go at your own pace. Whether you just want to float around or try cliff jumping, you can select your adventure. 

After canyoning, you’ll be able to enjoy lunch, including water and Mexican beer. On the way back, there is also a stop at Playa la Bocana, famous for the mud massages you can get on the beach.

One of the best Huatulco, Mexico tours for adrenaline junkies, this canyoning Huatulco experience is perfect for anyone looking for something unique and adventure-packed. 

Remember to bring water-friendly shoes, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen. Safety equipment, including a helmet and life jacket, is included, but the tour company recommends guests are in moderate physical condition. 

Best Huatulco tours

6. Huatulco ATV Tour in the Jungle & Copalita River

⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⛰️ Book now

Zip through rugged trails that lead you through the beautiful lush tropical jungle, on this small-group Huatulco ATV Tour with Jungle Visit & Copalita River.

The tour starts with a hotel pick-up, where you’ll be taken to the Tangolunda Ranch. Here, you’ll learn how to handle an ATV before heading out. One of the best Huatulco adventure tours starts when you turn the key.

Then it’s off to explore the jungle. At one point you’ll reach the Copalita River in Huatulco, where you will have the chance to go swimming. Note: Make sure to pack a swimsuit and a towel.

Once the swim is over, you’ll head back to the ranch on your ATVs. Back at the farm, you’ll also have the opportunity to have lunch (extra cost). Food and drinks are not provided on this tour, so bring a backpack filled with essentials.

Best Huatulco tours

7. Huatulco Boat Tour to the Seven Bays

⏰ Tour time: 7 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Huatulco National Park aboard this Huatulco 7 Bays Tour. In total, there are nine bays in Huatulco, so you’ll set sail to see the majority of them in just one day.

The bays are mostly located within Bahias de Huatulco National Park, the jewel of the Huatulco region. This giant park and protected natural area is known for its flora, fauna, gorgeous bays and beaches.

Board your boat at the Santa Cruz dock before pushing off. From there, you’ll visit several bays in Huatulco, including the Bahía Chachacual, Bahía Cacaluta, and Bahía Maguey.

At each location, you’ll be able to explore some of the region’s most stunning natural attractions. You can snorkel, explore the gorgeous beaches and get up close and personal with the wildlife. 

On the last stop, there is also the option to enjoy some fresh seafood, including butter lobster, shrimp gratin, and stuffed pineapple. Note: The meal is not included in the price.

For the ultimate seven bay tours Huatulco has, to some of the most stunning bays in the Huatulco National Park, don’t miss out on this Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour. It’s truly one of the best Huatulco National Park tours.

Best Huatulco tours

8. 4-In-1 Tour: Mazunte, La Ventanilla National Park, Cacao Factory & Turtles

⏰ Tour time: 12.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🐢 Book now

Looking for the ultimate tour to see all the main attractions in the area? Don’t miss out on this 4-In-1 Huatulco Tour that includes stops at Mazunte, La Ventanilla eco-park, a cacao factory, and turtle sanctuary.

The tour starts at the Artisan Chocolate Factory, owned by the Franco García family.

The family uses authentic, traditional tools to create their chocolate. While tasting some of it, you’ll learn more about this delicious sweet treat what’s known as one of the top Huatulco chocolate tours — though that’s not all you’ll do.

Next it’s off to the Mazunte Co-Op, founded by local women, and Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop. The co-op sells natural, organically grown beauty products made by locals on the Oaxacan Coast.

You’ll then have time to explore Mazunte Mexico before heading to a local restaurant for lunch. Mazunte, a small town located right on the beach, is one of the Oaxaca pueblos magicos (magic towns).

After lunch at one of the best Mazunte restaurants, you’ll visit La Ventanilla. This is a small fishing village famous for its charm, conservation efforts, wildlife (like crocodiles and deer), and boat tours in the mangroves.

As the sun sets, you’ll head to a turtle sanctuary to see baby turtles being released back into the wild — a perfect ending to one of the best day trips from Huatulco.   

This action-packed full-day tour is the perfect experience for anyone looking to see everything that Huatulco tourism has to offer. It truly is one of the best Huatulco, Oaxaca tours available.

The tour is operated by Tao Travel 365, which has been running tours around Oaxaca for the past 20 years. They offer this unique all-in-one cultural and nature tour for anyone looking to see it all.

Best Huatulco tours

9. Tour the Ancient Ruins in Huatulco National Park

⏰ Tour time: 3 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🥾 Book now

Explore one of the only archaeological sites in Mexico on the water in this Tour the Ancient Ruins of Copalita in Huatulco.

While Copalita Ecological Park and Ruins are still relatively unknown to tourists, this area is home to ancient structures that are more than 2,000-years-old. They are the only ruins in Huatulco, so don’t miss these ruins in Mexico.

At Copalita Ecological Park, you’ll see remnants of temples, pyramids, a ball court, and a pre-Hispanic lighthouse. There’s also a large stone that may have been once used for sacrifices.

On this tour, you’ll explore the ruins with a local tour guide who will share stories of the region’s history. If you are interested in archeological sites, this is the perfect tour in Huatulco for you.

Best Huatulco tours

10. Hagia Sofia Botanical Park Tour with Lunch

⏰ Tour time: 7 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🌵 Book now

Visit this natural sanctuary for butterflies and birds while relaxing in paradise on this Hagia Sofia Huatulco Botanical Park Tour.

Hagia Sofia Park is located just 40 minutes outside Huatulco in Santa Maria Huatulco Mexico. This 300-acre botanical park is home to thousands of plants and trees native to Mexico and Southeast Asia. 

On this tour of Hagia Sofia EcoPark, you’ll see unique plants and animals, hike through trails, and swim underneath waterfalls. You’ll also enjoy a delicious meal prepared in an outdoor kitchen with ingredients gathered from the land. 

For one of the best eco-tours Huatulco offers, look no further than this Huatulco day trip to a beautiful botanical park. It’s also the closest you’ll get to safari tours Huatulco — perfect for more adventurous travelers.

Best Huatulco tours

11. Huatulco Coffee Plantation Tour

⏰ Tour time: 6 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ☕️ Book now

Do you love coffee? Then you have to learn where it comes from and how it’s made on this Huatulco Coffee Plantation Tour.

Led by a biologist guide, you’ll visit Pluma Hidalgo, one of the best Mexico coffee regions. This Huatulco coffee tour combines history, culture, and nature to provide you with an unforgettable journey into the world of coffee. 

You’ll learn about the biodiversity of Huatulco and how coffee is made within three separate towns. In them, you’ll meet the locals who plant, grow, pick and roast the coffee — an authentic glimpse into their artisanal work. 

You’ll then get a chance to taste some world-class gourmet coffee and enjoy a marvelous lunch with a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes. 

Huatulco Mexico Travel Guide & FAQ

🗺️ Huatulco Map

🏨 Need a place to stay? Check out all the best Huatulco Mexico resorts and best hotels in Huatulco!

You can easily travel from Oaxaca City to Huatulco by private shuttle, plane, rental car or bus. From Mexico City to Huatulco, the best way to get there is on the TAR Airlines flight; it is a short 1.5-hour flight.

The airport in Huatulco Mexico is a small airport, and very easy to navigate. If you’re booking a flight to Huatulco, make sure you’re flying into HUX Airport.

🚌 Best Huatulco Airport Transfer

🚌 How to get to Huatulco from Oaxaca City

Traveling from Oaxaca to Huatulco? I have a very detailed guide that outlines all your Oaxaca City to Huatulco Transportation Options, so head there to see the ways you can get to this amazing Mexico beach town.

If you want to stay right on the beach, there are a few distinct areas, but if you want to stay in town, opt for a place in La Crucecita.

🏝️ Staying on Huatulco Beach

There are a few areas on Huatulco Beach where you can stay. These include Bahía Tangolunda Bay, where you’ll find most of the Huatulco all-inclusive resorts and Bahía Santa Cruz, the beach closest to downtown Huatulco.

If you want to stay at an all inclusive Huatulco resort, Tangolunda is the place — and also one of the most beautiful and best beaches in Huatulco. If you want to stay in this area, opt for any of these great places:

• Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa
• Barceló Huatulco Resort
• Camino Real Zaashila Huatulco

Also, if you want a lot of nightlife options, Puerto Escondido works better.

If Puerto Escondido sounds like it’s more up your alley, check out this Puerto Escondido travel guide to help you plan your trip.

As far as Huatulco Mexico safety, just take the same measures here as you would when traveling anywhere else on Earth.

If you want to network with locals to get a better feel for Huatulco before and during your visit, join some Facebook groups, like these:

• Huatulco What’s Up
• Huatulco Gringos
• Bahias de Huatulco Expats

🚗 renting a Car in Huatulco Mexico

As one of the safest cities in Mexico, you’ll be safe while driving in Huatulco Mexico. The streets are well-maintained and people are relatively calm drivers.

When it comes to Mexico rental cars, I recommend and also use Discover Cars. Their search tool checks both international companies and local Mexican companies so you get the best rates.

🚙💨 For more info, head to Renting a Car in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know.

You can use them to get from Point A to Point B, but some drivers will also negotiate a day rate for you, and they’ll take you all over town for the day.

🚌 Public Transportation in Huatulco Mexico

Huatulco public transportation is frankly, not great and not readily available. Also, unlike taxis, don’t expect bus drivers to speak English, so make sure you have at least basic Spanish to navigate Huatulco public transportation.

Also, if you do want to use public transport in Huatulco, make sure you have change and small bills to pay the driver — as many won’t make change for large bills.

Since I barely used the public transportation and buses in Huatulco, I’ll refer you to the best guide I’ve seen on the subject, How to Travel in Huatulco. It was written by Shev, one of my fellow Mexico bloggers.

You’ll have no rain (or very little), low humidity, and no mosquitoes (or very few). With perfect weather, however, comes larger crowds and higher price tags.

🌡️ Huatulco Weather: Yearly Averages

If you’re traveling to Huatulco on a budget, you’ll want to visit during the slow summer season.

For the best value, but still nice weather, plan your visit during what’s called the “shoulder season,” a magical time right in-between the high season and low season in Huatulco.

• Huatulco Busy Season: November to March
• Huatulco Slow Season: May to September
• Huatulco Shoulder Season: October and April
• Huatulco Rainy Season: April to September 
• Huatulco Dry Season: October to March

🧳 Not sure what to pack for Huatulco Mexico? Check out this guide to Packing for Mexico, and for outfit inspiration, head to Cute Outfits for Mexico.

During this time, you can take this Huatulco boat tour and venture into the Pacific Coast to (hopefully 🤞) see everything from Pacific gray whales and orcas (killer whales) to humpback whales.

Final Thoughts: Best Huatulco Tours in Oaxaca Mexico

Though Huatulco is one of the best resort towns in Mexico, there’s more to do than just relax on the beach. We’ve featured the best tours in Huatulco Mexico here, and all of them make for a great excursion during your vacation.

From Huatulco fishing tours to Huatulco city tours, there’s plenty to do for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a foodie, adventurer, history buff, or just looking for a memorable family activity, there’s Huatulco tours for you.

If we had to pick just one tour, this Snorkel the 7 Bays of Huatulco Tour is the best Huatulco tour. It has a near-perfect Five Star rating and free cancellation policy (as long as you cancel 24 hours in advance).

Huatulco Travel Tip: If you’re going to Huatulco from the United States, or prefer an English-speaking tour guide, let the tour operator know when you book. Many tour guides are bilingual in both English and Spanish.