About the Port
Set along the Oaxacan coastline, Huatulco is known for its nine bays, a series of coves separated by rocky headlands and backed by dry tropical forest. The town of Santa Cruz Huatulco serves as the main hub near the pier, with a small waterfront lined with shops and seafood restaurants, while La Crucecita, a short ride inland, offers a lively central plaza and church worth a look. Beaches here tend to be calmer and less developed than in Mexico's larger resort areas, appealing to travelers who prefer open water over crowds.
Beyond the shoreline, the surrounding hills and rivers offer opportunities for hiking, coffee-farm visits, and trips to nearby waterfalls. Snorkeling and boat excursions to the quieter bays are popular ways to spend time on the water. The pier area is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore the immediate waterfront independently before venturing farther into town or along the coast.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Huatulco.
Boat Tour of the Nine Bays
Hire a panga or small boat from Santa Cruz's marina to hop between secluded coves like Órgano and Maguey, ideal for snorkeling and photos. Half-day trips are widely available and best booked shortly after arrival.
Snorkel at Playa La Entrega
A short boat or taxi ride from the pier, this calm cove offers easy snorkeling over rocky reefs with visible fish life. Rental gear is available right on the beach.
Visit a Highland Coffee Farm
Head into the hills above town to tour a working coffee plantation, learning about shade-grown beans while taking in views of the surrounding dry forest. Trips typically run a few hours and often include tastings.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Huatulco
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 20, 2026 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $2,149 | |
| Sep 23, 2026 | Princess | Coral Princess | 22 | $2,239 | |
| Sep 27, 2026 | Holland America | Nieuw Amsterdam | 21 | $2,699 | |
| Sep 29, 2026 | Princess | Coral Princess | 16 | $1,929 | |
| Oct 2, 2026 | Holland America | Nieuw Amsterdam | 16 | $2,309 | |
| Oct 3, 2026 | Holland America | Eurodam | 21 | $2,499 | |
| Oct 4, 2026 | Holland America | Eurodam | 20 | $2,339 | |
| Oct 8, 2026 | Holland America | Eurodam | 16 | $1,699 | |
| Nov 6, 2026 | Princess | Sapphire Princess | 16 | $1,599 | |
| Dec 3, 2026 | Princess | Crown Princess | 16 | $1,084 | |
| Dec 12, 2026 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $1,294 | |
| Dec 19, 2026 | Holland America | Zaandam | 15 | $1,799 | |
| Dec 28, 2026 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $1,954 | |
| Jan 2, 2027 | Holland America | Zuiderdam | 14 | $1,549 | |
| Jan 5, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Quest | 145 | $102,099 | |
| Jan 6, 2027 | Princess | Coral Princess | 15 | $1,627 | |
| Jan 6, 2027 | Princess | Coral Princess | 129 | $23,790 | |
| Jan 13, 2027 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $2,294 | |
| Jan 29, 2027 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $2,159 | |
| Jan 30, 2027 | Holland America | Zuiderdam | 15 | $1,749 |
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