More than 20 years ago, the resort area known today as Huatulco (hwa-toolkoe) consisted of 34,000 hectares of largely uninhabited forest reserve and nine pristine bays of soft brown sand, whose shores were gently kissed by the sparkling, clear blue waters of the Mexican Pacific. The sole inhabitants were situated in a humble fishing village known as Santa Cruz Huatulco made up of small, pastel colored adobe huts on the same site that once held an ancient Zapotec settlement and, in the 16th century, was Mexico’s most important Pacific port.
Today, despite the fact that many luxury resorts have been developed along these magnificent bays, little has changed; and such is the appeal of Huatulco. Recognizing the ecological importance of this entire region, it has been designated a national wildlife preserve, and all development has been planned and carried out with the preservation of the territory in the forefront. In fact, several of the bays remain wholly undeveloped today and can only be accessed by boat.
The town of Santa Cruz Huatulco remains the main marina from which excursions for boat tours embark. Several beachfront hotels, restaurants, cafes and colorful artisan shops have sprouted along its coast, but it maintains much of its authentic look and feel. Tangolunda Bay is considered to be the most beautiful and inviting of its eight lovely sisters, and has therefore attracted the more luxurious resorts. Made up of five superb beaches, each more pleasing than the last, it is replete with every conceivable water sport.
There is also an 18-hole golf course. Both the town of Santa Cruz and the quaint and colorful little village of La Crucecita are within easy access of Tangolunda. In addition to the many water sports offered through the various resorts, there are daily Bay cruises available to explore some of the more isolated and still undeveloped bays; there are a number of horseback riding or hiking excursions, there are a variety of levels of difficulty of rafting, from novice to white-knuckle, offered; rock climbing is an option for the more adventuresome and, of course, there are an assortment of organized coach tours to nearby sites.
Language spoken in Huatulco
Spanish. English widely spoken in most areas. Currency and exchange used in Huatulco
The Mexican Peso is the local currency, although US dollars are recommended. Most hotels have a money exchange office on site. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards. ATM's are not easy to find and the Cirrus system is not compatible everywhere. Voltage in Huatulco
110V (same as Canada and US) Vacation packing checklist Click here for a vacation packing checklists
Weather in Huatulco
The average temperature in Huatulco is 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit) with seasonal fluctuations of 4 – 6 degrees depending on the month. While on vacation in Huatulco, most months of the year visitors should pack clothes for swimming and warm weather. For December and January some nights may require a light garment. While the average temperature in Huatulco makes this an ideal vacation destination we recommend that you apply plenty of sunscreen, drink lots of water and relax.
Avg.
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
High
27.8°C
28.9°C
29.4°C
30.6°C
30.0°C
30.6°C
30.6°C
31.7°C
30.6°C
30.0°C
28.3°C
27.8°C
82.0°F
84.0°F
85.0°F
87.0°F
86.0°F
87.0°F
87.0°F
89.0°F
87.0°F
86.0°F
83.0°F
82.0°F
Low
20.0°C
20.0°C
20.0°C
22.2°C
22.8°C
23.3°C
23.3°C
23.3°C
23.3°C
22.8°C
21.7°C
20.0°C
68.0°F
68.0°F
68.0°F
72.0°F
73.0°F
74.0°F
74.0°F
74.0°F
74.0°F
73.0°F
71.0°F
68.0°F
While on vacation in Huatulco
Sunwing suggests the recommendations below while traveling on vacation to Huatulco to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Resort Check-in Information
Please have your Sunwing hotel voucher ready for check-in at the hotel's reception. Based upon your arrival and check-in time, it is possible that your room may not be ready. Pack your bathing suit, shorts and sunscreen in your carry-on so that you can enjoy the facilities until your room is available.
Welcome Briefing
Our welcome briefing provides valuable information on Huatulco, your hotel services, money exchange, shopping, and excursions. We will also inform you about the departure procedure and answer any questions you may have. Make sure to attend yours.
Help in Destination
Your friendly Sunwing destination representative is available in Huatulco should you require assistance. Please check the Sunwing Vacations information boards or binders located in your hotel for a schedule of when your Sunwing destination representative is available.
Drinking Water
It is recommended that you drink bottled water while in Huatulco. Most hotels offer bottled water in your hotel room and can also be purchased in the hotel's shop and in grocery stores. The ice and drinking water served in the hotels are generally made from purified water.
Long Distance Calls
Long distance telephone charges in Huatulco can be quite expensive. It is recommended to make a collect call or use your calling card. Service charges may apply when calling from your hotel room.
Safety Deposit Boxes
Please use your safety deposit box for all your valuables, cash and travel documents. Some hotels in Huatulco provide safety deposit boxes free of charge while others may require a nominal fee. You will be required to pay a penalty fee if you lose the key.
Resort Safety
Traveling to foreign destinations can be very exhilarating. Tourists must be aware that potential problems and risks to your personal safety could exist anywhere. Please use the same personal safety precautions and common sense on your vacation that you would at home e.g. apply sunscreen frequently, do not swim alone and do not display cash. Avoid venturing out alone and beware of dark or isolated areas.
Taxes and Tipping
Generally, taxes are automatically added to purchases. The tipping percentage is similar to that at home. If you receive good service, please express your gratitude and offer a tip.
Your Flight Home
Please check the Sunwing Vacations information boards or binders located in your hotel to reconfirm your flight from Huatulco and its departure time. As a friendly reminder, make sure that you have packed your flight documents, medication, or any articles that you must have with you at all times in your carry-on luggage. Seat selection is on a first come, first serve basis at the airport, unless previously booked and paid for prior to your departure.
Documents needed to visit Huatulco Canadian Citizens please click here Non-Canadian citizens please contact the Mexican consulate or embassy for information.
