Playa San Agustín is one of our favourite beaches in Huatulco for snorkeling.
It takes a little more effort to get to than beaches like Santa Cruz or La Entrega, but that’s part of what makes it special. The atmosphere feels quieter, more local, and a little more removed from the busy resort areas.
We’ve visited both by taxi and by rental car, and while getting there requires a bit more planning, we’ve always felt it was worth it. The snorkeling is some of the best we’ve found directly from shore, and the beach still has that relaxed, laid-back feeling that can be harder to find at the more central beaches.
If you’re looking for a beach where you can spend the entire day snorkeling, eating fresh seafood, and enjoying a slower pace, Playa San Agustín is hard to beat.
Best For: Snorkeling, full beach days, local atmosphere
Water Conditions: Generally calm and clear, best on low-wind days
Vibe: Relaxed, local, slower-paced
Amenities: Beachfront restaurants, vendors, small shops
Accessibility: Further from town, requires planning
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What to Expect
Playa San Agustín feels very different from beaches like Santa Cruz or La Entrega.
The beach is wider, quieter, and less developed, with a more local atmosphere. Most people come here specifically for the snorkeling, but even if you’re not planning to spend the day in the water, it’s a beautiful place to relax.
The beachfront restaurants are simple and laid-back, and it’s easy to spend an entire day moving between snorkeling, lunch, and relaxing under an umbrella.
Because it takes more effort to reach, it generally feels less crowded than many of Huatulco’s more central beaches.
Getting There & Back
Getting to Playa San Agustín takes a bit more planning than some of Huatulco’s other beaches, but there are a few good options.
By Taxi
We’ve visited Playa San Agustín by taxi several times.
Because cell service is limited in the area, it’s important to have a plan for getting back before you’re dropped off.
Option 1: Arrange a pickup time
The simplest option is to have your driver drop you off and agree on a return time before they leave.
For example, you might arrange to be picked up at 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM. The downside is that you’re committed to that schedule, even if you decide you want to leave earlier or stay longer.
Option 2: Have the driver stay
Some taxi drivers are willing to stay while you spend the day at the beach.
If you choose this option, it’s common to buy your driver lunch and offer an additional tip for their time. We like this option because it gives you the flexibility to stay as long as you want without worrying about a pickup time.
The last time we looked into this, the cost was roughly 1,000 pesos round trip, although prices can change and should always be confirmed directly with the driver.
By Rental Car
Parking was easy, and we parked directly at the restaurant where we planned to spend the day.
We’ve also driven ourselves to Playa San Agustín, and honestly, it was very straightforward.
The road becomes rougher as you get closer to the beach, with some dirt sections and uneven pavement, but it’s completely manageable if you take your time and drive carefully.
Food & Drink
One of the things we like about Playa San Agustín is that it’s easy to spend the entire day there without feeling like you need to leave for food or drinks.
There are several beachfront restaurants where you can order fresh seafood, drinks, and snacks while sitting right by the water.
Like many beaches in Huatulco, seating is generally included when you order food and drinks from the restaurant.
The restaurants feel a little more local and laid-back compared to some of the busier beaches, which fits perfectly with the overall atmosphere of San Agustín.
Activities & Vendors
Snorkeling is the main attraction here, but there are still a few vendors and small businesses around the beach.
Along the road leading into Playa San Agustín you’ll find small tiendas, fruit stands, and shops selling drinks, snacks, beach toys, swimwear, and other essentials.
We actually found this really convenient because if you forget something, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to buy it on the way in.
Compared to beaches like Santa Cruz, there are fewer vendors walking directly along the sand, which helps maintain the quieter atmosphere.
Snorkeling
PlayIf snorkeling is your priority, Playa San Agustín is one of the best beaches in Huatulco.
The snorkeling can be excellent directly from shore, especially on calm days when visibility is good.
On very clear days, you can often identify the best snorkeling areas simply by looking at the different colours in the water from the beach.
If you’re unsure where to go, look for the large rock formation visible offshore. The best snorkeling is generally found to the left of this area.
We’ve also found that the restaurant staff are usually happy to point visitors in the right direction.
Try to visit on a day with lower wind and calmer water, as visibility can change significantly depending on conditions.
Tips
- Plan your transportation before you arrive.
- If taking a taxi, decide ahead of time whether you’ll arrange a pickup time or have your driver stay.
- Visit on a calm day for the best snorkeling visibility.
- Bring cash just in case.
- Don’t worry too much if you forget something — there are shops and vendors along the road into the beach.
- Consider combining Playa San Agustín with Playa Riscalillo if you have a rental car.
Who This Is Best For
Snorkeling Enthusiasts
If your goal is snorkeling directly from shore, Playa San Agustín should be near the top of your list.
Visitors Looking for a Slower Pace
Compared to some of Huatulco’s busier beaches, San Agustín feels more relaxed and less commercialized.
Full-Day Beach Trips
Because of the drive and the effort required to get there, this is the kind of beach where it makes sense to settle in and spend the entire day.
Families with Older Children
Families who enjoy snorkeling, exploring, and spending long days at the beach will likely love Playa San Agustín.
Nearby: Playa Riscalillo
Just past Playa San Agustín, you’ll see signs for Playa Riscalillo, which is a short drive further along.
While we haven’t personally visited, it’s known for:
- Excellent snorkeling
- Clear water
- A quieter setting with a few beach restaurants
If you’re driving, it’s a great idea to visit both Playa San Agustín and Playa Riscalillo in the same day to make the most of the trip.