Huatulco offers a wide range of activities both on the water and on land, from relaxing experiences to adventurous excursions. Whether you’re in the mood to take it easy or try something a bit more active, there are plenty of options to choose from, and sure to be something that suits everyone. These are some of the best experiences to consider during your trip.
Activities by Age
Fishing – Best for 12 +
Bay Tours – Best for 7+
Water Park – Great for young kids
Turtle Release – Great for all ages
Bay Tours
Exploring Huatulco’s nine bays by boat is one of the most popular activities in the area and a great way to see beaches that are only accessible from the water. Tours range from small private boats to larger group excursions, with most including snorkeling stops and a beach stop for lunch.
You can choose between a more flexible private experience or a larger, more social tour depending on your preference. It’s a great option for seeing more of the coastline, but choosing a calm day is important—especially if you’re prone to seasickness or travelling with kids.
Snorkeling
Huatulco offers some of the best shore snorkeling in Mexico, with several beaches allowing you to snorkel directly from the beach without needing a boat tour. Beaches like La Entrega and San Agustín offer calm waters, plenty of fish, and easy access for a full beach day.
For those looking for a quieter or more natural experience, beaches like Violín, Órgano, and Playa La India offer excellent snorkeling in more secluded settings. Whether you’re looking for an easy family-friendly beach or a more adventurous snorkeling spot, there are options for every type of traveller.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in Huatulco, with excellent Pacific fishing and a variety of options to choose from. Trips can be customized from half-day to full-day experiences, and private charters are often more affordable than in other destinations. No experience is needed, as your captain will guide you throughout the trip. Many of the fish caught are great for eating, and your catch can often be prepared for you to enjoy afterward.
Baby Turtle Release (Escobilla)
Releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean is one of the most memorable experiences you can have near Huatulco. Located in Escobilla, this activity allows you to safely release newly hatched turtles and watch them make their way into the ocean.
You can visit independently by reserving in advance, or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience with translation and transportation included. It’s simple, meaningful, and especially unforgettable for kids.
Waterfalls
Visiting the various waterfalls around Huatulco is a great way to experience a different side of the area, with lush scenery and cooler freshwater pools. There are several waterfalls to choose from, with varying levels of accessibility—most areas are easy to enjoy, while some sections can be a bit more challenging depending on the location.
While it’s possible to visit on your own, many people choose to book a guided tour that includes transportation, as the waterfalls are located inland and require some travel to reach. It’s a refreshing change from the beach and a great option if you’re looking to mix in a nature-focused day during your trip.
Laguna Ventanilla (Crocodile & Wildlife Tour)
Explore a peaceful mangrove lagoon by boat and experience one of the most unique wildlife tours near Huatulco. Laguna Ventanilla is best known for its crocodiles, but you’ll also see a variety of birds and natural scenery along the way. The tour includes a stop at a small island where you can walk around, interact with deer, and enjoy a drink or snack.
Located about 1.5 hours from Huatulco, this is a great activity to pair with the turtle release in Escobilla for a full day trip. It’s a memorable experience for nature lovers and families with older kids.
Water Park
Parque Acuático Arroyo is one of those spots you won’t find a lot of information about online, but it ended up being a really fun day—especially with kids. It’s located just outside of Huatulco and has a mix of pools, slides, and water play areas that make it a great change from beach days.
It’s a more local, laid-back experience, so it helps to plan ahead for things like transportation—but if you’re looking to mix things up, it’s definitely worth considering.