Hotels in Santa Cruz Huatulco

Santa Cruz Huatulco: Nine Bays on Oaxaca's Pacific Coast

Santa Cruz Huatulco anchors the nine-bay resort corridor that Fonatur developed along the Oaxacan Pacific coast starting in 1984. The Santa Cruz bay holds the area's main marina and central market, while neighboring Chahué and Tangolunda bays host larger all-inclusive resorts. The Sierra de Huatulco Biosphere Reserve covers 51,900 hectares immediately inland, keeping development concentrated and forest cover intact. Water temperatures average 27 °C year-round, making the bays workable for snorkeling, kayaking, and sport fishing in every season.

Where to Stay

Accommodations range from small posadas on Calle Mitla in Santa Cruz village to 5-star properties facing Tangolunda Bay, roughly 4 km east of the marina. Chahué Bay suits travelers who prefer quieter beaches within walking distance of restaurants. Most hotels cluster within a 6 km stretch of the coastal highway, Carretera Federal 200.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) is 18 km north; taxis run about MXN 200 to Santa Cruz bay.
• Currency: Smaller hotels and market stalls prefer cash; ATMs are available near the marina plaza.
• Seasons: November–April is dry season and peak occupancy; book at least six weeks ahead for December holidays.
• Water sports: Bring reef-safe sunscreen — protected biosphere waters prohibit chemical sunscreens at some dive sites.