Cancún to Huatulco - Split View (Cancun Hotel Zone & Playa la Entrega in Huatulco)

Cancún to Huatulco: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Cancún to Huatulco?

Most people would immediately think of a commercial flight, but there are actually several options available to you.

The best way for you will depend on your budget, how long you’re going to spend in Mexico, and how quickly you need to be in Huatulco.

I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Cancún to Huatulco simply and safely in five fantastic different ways.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

Why Should You Visit Cancún?

If you’re wondering if Cancún should be on your list of places to visit in Mexico at all, I think the answer is definitely yes. It’s often referred to as the “Mexican Las Vegas”, and the description is accurate in that you’ll have a huge range of experiences to choose from.

For beach-lovers, Cancún is right on the shores of the Mexican Caribbean.  It has miles of white, sandy beaches where you can swim, snorkel, surf and do just about any other water sport you can think of.  

If you’re more interested in Mexican and Mayan culture, the Yucatán Peninsula is one of the best places to experience it.  Chichén Itzá is just a few hours away and there are also several other archaeological sites within Cancún itself.

And if you’re travelling with a family, Cancún is perfect.  There are a huge amount of family-friendly activities including adventure parks within easy reach that your kids will absolutely love.   

If you’re a Mexico purist, you might find the cultural attractions of places like Oaxaca more to your liking.  But if you’re looking for sheer number of things to do, especially with children, I think Cancún is pretty close to unbeatable in Mexico.

So let’s look at how to get from Cancún to Huatulco and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

Why Should You Visit Huatulco?

Beautiful azure waters of Playa La Entrega, one of the many beaches that you can visit following a trip from Cancun to Huatulco

Like Cancún, Huatulco is a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

If you love stunning beaches, awesome waves, and a relaxed vibe, you absolutely need to visit Huatulco. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a coastal paradise tucked away in the beautiful state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

Huatulco is known for having beautiful clear waters and some of the best beaches in Oaxaca. There are great surfing beaches like Playa La Bocana and Barra de la Cruz, beaches with a more tranquil vibe like Bahía Organo, and famous romantic beaches with sunsets you won’t forget like Bahía de Cacaluta.

You don’t need to love the beach to enjoy the lazy seaside atmosphere of Huatulco. Many of the best hotels in Huatulco have fantastic sun-decks where you just can relax on a sun lounge by the pool.

And for nature-lovers, Huatulco is a nesting ground for sea turtles. You can even participate in turtle releases, which is a heartwarming experience you won’t forget.

So let’s look at how to get from Cancún to Huatulco and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

1: Fly to Huatulco

If you think even briefly about how to get from Cancún to Huatulco, it won’t surprise you that flying is the quickest and most convenient option.

This is the case even when you add the time it takes to get to the airport before you fly and to get to your hotel afterward.

For those same reasons, it’s also one of the more expensive options.

Fast Facts: Flying From Cancún To Huatulco

  • Starts at around US$120 one way
  • Flight time is around 5 hours plus layover time
  • Several flights per day
  • Departs from Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Arrives at Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX)

Where Do I Book A Flight To Huatulco?

I recommend that you use Expedia.com to book your flights. They will be able to show you the best deals available on different dates and flying with different airlines.

You can check flights using the Expedia search box below:

How Do I Get From Cancún To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Cancún International Airport (CUN) from downtown Cancún.

I’ve set these out in detail below for you.

1. Rental Car

If you have a rental car already, you can usually drop it off at Cancún International Airport before you fly.

All reputable providers have kiosks at the airport, and you’ll just need to make sure that you return it to the designated parking area for rental cars.

2. Private Transfer

Your hotel should be able to arrange a private transfer to Cancún International Airport for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, I recommend using Viator, which has hundreds of different options.

Private transfers will start at around US$40 and will take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on where your hotel is located and the time of day that you need to travel.

3. Taxi

Taxis are easy to find in Cancún, especially if you’re staying at a large hotel. I recommend that you ask the front desk to book you a taxi before you check out, and it will be waiting for you as soon as you’ve settled up.

There’s nothing to stop you hailing your own taxi, although I think letting the hotel arrange it is better so that you focus on getting packed and ready to travel.

If you do hail a taxi on the street, you’ll need to agree the fare with the driver before you go, but you can expect it to be around US$40 to US$50, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

4. Uber

Uber is available in Cancún. If you don’t already have the Uber app installed on your phone, you’ll need to install it before you can call a driver using Uber.

The app works the same as it does in the US, so you’ll pay up front using a credit card and the driver will then pick you up. The app will send you the details of the driver and the vehicle picking you up ahead of its arrival.

An Uber from Cancún to the airport should cost you around US$40, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

One thing to be aware of is that Uber drivers aren’t allowed on hotel properties of a lot of hotels. This is because there have been cases of local taxi drivers attacking Uber drivers and damaging their vehicles. The violence is due to Uber disrupting the unionised taxi industry, even though a 2023 court ruled that Uber is allowed to operate in the city.

The end result is that you can still take an Uber, but the driver will need to pick you up on the street rather than on hotel property.

5. Public Bus

According to the Mexican government, Cancún had a population of 934,189 at the end of 2020, so it’s not surprising that the city has a great public bus network to help you move around.

ADO runs a service to and from the airport, which you can catch at the downtown ADO bus station in Cancún. You can take one of the local bus routes to reach the station.

The bus station is on Avenida Uxmal and once you board, it will take around 30 minutes to reach the airport. A one way trip will cost US$8 per person.

What’s Great About Flying?

Flying has a bunch of obvious advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Cancún to Huatulco is around 6 hours, which is a huge time saving compared with the minimum 27 hour long bus trip.

If you’re short on time, every hour you lose travelling is time that you could spend exploring Huatulco. I’d definitely recommend flying over driving or taking the bus if you’ve only got a few days in Mexico.

2. Great Views From The Plane

Even after years of flying, I still like to stare out the window of a plane at the city as we’re taking off and getting ready to land.

Flying will also give you the chance to see the forests, mountains and sprawling valleys of Mexico from above as you head south-west away from Cancún.

3. safest Way To Travel

Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel in the world, and this holds true in Mexico.

Since 1919, Mexico has only had 158 air travel deaths in total, an average of about 1.5 people per year. In 2022, there were around 107 million air passengers in Mexico.

That puts your chances of dying on a flight to Huatulco at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the WHO suggests based on 2019 data on Mexican road deaths that the odds of dying per year were 1 in 7,813.

That means that you are more than 9,000 times safer flying than taking the bus!

How to Get From Cancún To Huatulco

FAQs: Flying To Huatulco

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Cancún to Huatulco flying commercially.

But if I haven’t answered your question yet, take a look at the FAQs and their responses below.

How Much Is A Commercial Flight To Huatulco?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season, but are typically around US$120 from Cancún. Check out Expedia.com for the best deals available.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Cancún?

Volaris, VivaAerobus and AeroMexico fly to Cancún via Mexico City. There are currently no direct flights available.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around six hours with a good connecting flight. It can be longer, depending on the flight that you take.

What is the Flight Distance?

The direct flight distance from Cancún to Huatulco is approximately 715 miles (around 1,150 km). The actual distance flown will be longer, because you’ll need to fly via Mexico City.

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Cancún International Airport (CUN) to depart and you’ll use Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) in Huatulco when you arrive.

You’ll also need to get a connecting flight in Mexico City. You’ll use Mexico City International Airport (MEX) to get your connecting flight.

How Far Is It From Huatulco Airport To The City Center?

Huatulco International Airport is 10 miles outside of La Crucecita, the Huatulco city center.

How Can I Get From Huatulco Airport To The City Center?

You can get a taxi, a private transfer or a colectivo to La Crucecita.

Taxi

A taxi will cost around US$25 to US$30 depending on how far you need to travel. You can get one in front of the airport when you exit.

Private Transfer

If you’re staying in any of the major hotels, the concierge will be able to arrange an airport transfer service for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, check out your options on Viator.

Private transfers will start at around US$50 and will take about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on where your hotel is located and the time of day that you need to travel.

Colectivo

Another option is to use a colectivo, which is somewhere between a shared taxi and a public bus.

You won’t find much online about them, but they’re used by locals who need to travel around Huatulco. Basically, they’re a shared minivan or covered pick-up truck that makes stops like a bus along the way.

A colectivo will cost around US$0.50 (8 Mexican pesos), and you’ll see them waiting outside the airport. Make sure you bring Mexican pesos as the drivers won’t accept credit cards or US dollars.

Can I Rent A Car At Huatulco International Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

2: Private Jet to Huatulco

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Cancún to Huatulco.

And yes, it is monstrously expensive, but can’t be beaten for comfort and convenience.

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Cancún to Huatulco

  • Starts at around US$13,300
  • Flight time is around 2 hours direct
  • Departs from Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Arrives at Bahías De Huatulco International Airport (HUX)

Where Can I Book A Private Jet To Huatulco?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend taking a look at AlbaJet, which sets out various options for the Cancún to Huatulco route.

How Do I Get From Cancún To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Cancún International Airport (CUN) from Cancún.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying privately as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a private jet below.

1. Glamour

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive in Huatulco than in a private jet.

If you want to feel like a rockstar when you arrive, there’s no better way to do it.

2. Convenience

If you need to travel urgently on short notice, flying on a private jet is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Special Occasions

If you’re travelling as a group for a wedding or for a stag or hens night, a private jet is a great way to ensure that everyone arrives at the same time.

With a large group, the prices per person aren’t quite so eye-watering, although your wallet will still take a good beating.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

FAQs: Flying From Cancún to Huatulco by Private Jet

If you still have questions about how to get from Cancún to Huatulco by private jet, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Private Jet To Huatulco?

If you want to fly privately to Huatulco, you’re looking at around US$13,300 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$40,000 for a larger jet seating up to 16 people.

Extremely glamorous and wonderfully convenient, but not for those of us with weak wallets.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a private jet is around 2 hours.

You’ll also get through security faster and will be able to board and get off more quickly than on a commercial flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 715 miles (1,150 km) to Huatulco International Airport (HUX) from Cancún International Airport (CUN).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Cancún International Airport (CUN) to depart and you’ll use Huatulco International Airport (HUX) in Huatulco when you arrive.

How Far Is It From Huatulco Airport To The City Center?

Huatulco International Airport is 10 miles outside of La Crucecita, the Huatulco city center.

How Can I Get From Huatulco Airport To The City Center?

The options are the same as for a commercial flight, which I’ve set out in detail in the section above.

Can I Rent A Car At Huatulco Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Cancún To Huatulco

3: Helicopter to Huatulco

If you would consider taking a private jet from Cancún to Huatulco, a similar option is to take a helicopter. Helicopter taxi services are definitely the transport of the future, so if you can afford it, why not start now?

While a helicopter is slower than a private jet and not as luxurious due to the limited space, you’ll have much more time to sightsee on your way to Huatulco. On that basis, I definitely think it is an option that you should have on your list.

Fast Facts: Helicopter From Cancún to Huatulco

  • Starts at around US$12,000
  • Flight time is around 7 to 8 hours
  • Departs from Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Arrives at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX)

Where Can I Book A Helicopter To Huatulco?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend starting with Patriot Aviation or Meicer Aviación, each of which can offer you a personalized quote on request for the Cancún to Huatulco route.

How Do I Get From Cancún To The Airport?

In most cases, you’ll take off from Cancún International Airport (CUN) in Cancún when you’re flying by helicopter.

The options and prices for getting from downtown Cancún to the airport are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying By Helicopter?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying by helicopter as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a helicopter below.

1. Better For Sightseeing

While flying by helicopter is much faster than travelling by land in a car or a bus, it is still a lot slower than flying commercially or privately.

That might be a downside if you’re in a hurry, but if you’re not, you’ll have a much better opportunity to enjoy the scenery as you fly.

Basically, because you’ll be flying lower and slower, you’ll see more for longer.

2. Convenience

As with a private jet, if you want to travel quickly, a helicopter flight is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Better if You Fear Flying

It might sound like an odd thing to say, but if you’re keen to fly yet have a fear of flying, a helicopter flight is likely to be a better bet than a flight on a jet.

Helicopters take off vertically so there’s no dramatic acceleration that bothers many people when flying. They also fly lower and don’t use pressurised cabins, which means that you won’t have the discomfort from the change in pressure like you do in a plane.

All in all, a helicopter flight is a “lighter” version of flying, if you like. So if you’re not really keen on flying but need to travel quickly, this is a great option for you.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

FAQs: Flying From Cancún to Huatulco By Helicopter

If you still have questions about how to get from Cancún to Huatulco by helicopter, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Helicopter To Huatulco?

If you want to fly by helicopter to Huatulco, you’re looking at around US$12,000 for a helicopter seating six to eight.

The price will go up for the larger, heavier models that require more crew members to pilot them.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time on a helicopter will be around 7 to 8 hours in total.

You won’t be able to fly that in one journey, because the maximum range of most helicopters is around 400 miles. You’ll need to either stop and refuel at Ciudad de Carmen or split up your trip into two or more flights.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 715 miles (1,150 km) to Huatulco International Airport (HUX) from Cancún International Airport (CUN).

As mentioned above, that’s too far for a helicopter to fly in one journey, so you’ll need to stop and refuel at Ciudad de Carmen or split your trip into two or more flights.

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Cancún International Airport (CUN) to depart and you’ll use Huatulco International Airport (HUX) in Huatulco when you arrive.

How Far Is It From Huatulco Airport To The City Center?

Huatulco International Airport is 10 miles outside of La Crucecita, the Huatulco city center.

How Can I Get From Huatulco Airport To The City Center?

The options are the same as for a commercial flight, which I’ve set out in detail in the section above.

Can I Rent A Car At Huatulco Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Cancún To Huatulco

4: Rental Car To Huatulco

Rental car parked before the sea before a trip from Cancún to Oaxaca

A road trip from Cancún to Huatulco is a great option that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Cancún to Huatulco

  • Starts at about US$1,000 plus gas, driving one-way
  • Travel time is about 21 hours
  • Cancún (various locations)
  • Huatulco International Airport, if driving one-way

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. Assuming you’re driving one way and dropping off your car in Huatulco when you arrive, you can expect to pay around US$1,000 plus gas.

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Cancún, then you’ll pay around US$100 per day plus gas.

What Is The Best Route From Cancún to Huatulco?

Despite being a long drive, the route from Cancún to Huatulco is quite straightforward.

You’ll set off west on highway 180 and stay on it as you pass through Merida, Campeche, Ciudad del Carmen and Villahermosa.

About 15 miles after you cross the border from Tabasco into Veracruz, you’ll take highway 1800 further east until a town called Minatitlán, where it becomes highway 1450.

Around 25 miles after you leave Minatitlán, you’ll need to turn south on highway 185, which will take you south to Salina Cruz on Oaxaca’s Pacific coast.

From there, you take highway 200 west and follow that the last 75 miles into Huatulco.

What’s Great About Driving to Huatulco?

There are some great advantages to renting a car and driving to Huatulco.

1. Freedom

Of all of the options, driving literally and figuratively puts you in the driver’s seat.

You get to choose every aspect of your journey, from departure time to the speed you travel to how often and where you stop.

2. Privacy

One of the best things about driving is that you don’t have to share your journey unless you want to.

If you’re travelling as a family, driving also means that you can have your familial privacy whilst you travel.

3. Convenience

Driving is the ultimate convenience. All you’ll need to do is book the car and pick it up whenever you’re ready to go.

This is particularly helpful if you have a family and it might take a little longer than expected to get everyone ready.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

FAQs: Rental Car From Cancún to Huatulco

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Cancún to Huatulco by rental car.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Cancún to Huatulco?

A rental car that you pick up in Cancún and drop off the next day in Huatulco will cost around US$1,000. The price is high because it includes a one-way fee. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Cancún, then the rate is much cheaper (around US$100 per day) and you’ll just pay the daily rate and the gas.

Most providers don’t charge you per mile travelled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

What is the Route From Cancún to Huatulco?

The route from Cancún to Huatulco starts off heading west on highway 180 before turning onto highway 1800 shortly after crossing from Tabasco into Veracruz.

At a town called Minatitlán, highway 1800 becomes highway 1450. From there, you continue for another 25 miles before turning south on highway 185 until you reach Salina Cruz on the Pacific coast.

After that, you take highway 200 west for the last 75 miles to Huatulco.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 21 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are some great places to stop along the way, including Merida, Campeche, Ciudad del Carmen and Villahermosa, where you rest for a few hours or try some amazing local food.

What is the Distance From Cancún to Huatulco?

The total distance is approximately 907 miles (1,460 km) from Cancún to Huatulco.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Cancún?

There are several places in downtown Cancún where you can rent a car. There are Hertz branches on Avenida Xcaret, Avenida Yaxchilán and in the Plaza Las Americas.

You can also rent a car at Cancún International Airport.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

The short answer is yes, you will be able to rent a comfortable modern vehicle in Cancún. However, the level of luxury that you enjoy depends very much on your budget.

The car rental providers in Cancún have a range of vehicles that you can choose from, ranging from compacts up to luxury limousines.

Is It Safe To Travel By Car?

Yes, it is safe to travel by car provided you take basis precautions such as wearing your seatbelts, travelling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

5: Bus To Huatulco

If you can’t or don’t want to fly and don’t want to drive yourself from Cancún to Huatulco, the bus is a great option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Cancún to Huatulco

  • Starting at around US$175
  • Travel time is 27 – 28 hours, depending on the trip
  • Multiple trips per day
  • ADO Terminal, Cancún
  • Terminal ADO, Huatulco

Where Can I Book A Bus From Cancún to Huatulco?

The two biggest providers of bus routes from Huatulco to Cancún are OCC (Ómnibus Cristóbal Colón) and ADO (Autobuses de Oriente).

I recommend using ClickBus or Busbud to find the best deal.

What’s Great About Taking The Bus?

Okay, so it’s not a private jet and never will be. Still, there are some positives to taking the bus.

1. The Bus Is Cheaper

Taking the bus will usually work out a little cheaper than flying.

That’s especially the case if you are planning to take a taxi to and from the airport each time.

2. Buses Take Their Time

It might seem like a strange thing to say, but buses are a bit like slow-food.

As you travel the approximately 907 miles (1,460 km) from Cancún to Huatulco through the forests, mountains and valleys, you’ll get to soak in the diverse natural beauty of Mexico.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off In The City Center

If you take the bus from Cancún to Huatulco, you’ll be dropped off in downtown Huatulco.

When you get off the bus, if you’re staying in the town center, you can walk the few blocks to your hotel or take a short taxi ride.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Cancún to Huatulco

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Cancún to Huatulco by bus.

How Much Is The Bus From Cancún to Huatulco?

Prices start at around US$175 per person per trip.

Which Buses Run From Cancún to Huatulco?

OCC and ADO are the two largest operators.

I recommend using ClickBus or Busbud to check availability for your dates and to find the best deal.

Is There a direct Bus from Cancún to Huatulco?

No, there is no bus service that can take you the whole way from Cancún to Huatulco without a stop in between.

All of the routes from Cancún to Huatulco travel via Veracruz before heading south towards the Pacific ocean. You’ll need to change at Salina Cruz before taking a second bus the rest of the way.

If you prefer to travel through Chiapas, it is possible to get a bus from Cancún to Tuxtla Gutiérrez and then taking a second bus to Huatulco, but it’s slower than travelling via Veracruz.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 28 hours, depending on the time of day you’re travelling and the provider you use.

What is the Distance From Cancún to Huatulco?

The bus route is approximately 907 miles (1,460 km) long.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Cancún, the pick-up point is ADO Terminal on Avenida Uxmal for all services.

When you arrive in Huatulco, you’ll use Terminal ADO in La Crucecita, the downtown area of Huatulco.

Are The Buses Comfortable?

The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the seats are comfortable semi-recliners.

There is no WiFi, though, so download everything you need before you leave the hotel.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basic precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

What Are The Best Things To Do In Huatulco?

Seaside pathway between different parts of Hotel Las Brisas Huatulco in Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico
Image credit: Expedia.com

Huatulco is home to nine separate bays and 36 beaches, so as you might imagine, there are plenty of great things to do.

One of the best things to do is definitely a tour of the beautiful bays and beaches.  Some of them, like Playa La Entrega, are a little harder to access by land, so a tour is a practical as well as fun way to see the area.

There are lots of other fun things to do on the water.  In addition to swimming, you can go snorkelling, scuba-diving, kayaking or stand-up paddle-boarding on the water in the bays.  

Outside of the water, you can explore La Crucecita, which is essentially downtown Huatulco, and Santa Cruz Huatulco, which is where the large cruise ships dock.  There are great local markets where you can shop for textiles and fresh local food, and there are also some lovely old churches as well.

You can also do day-trips to nearby Zipolite and Mazunte.  Playa Zipolite is Mexico’s only nude beach, if that is your thing, and Mazunte has several things to offer.  You can watch a beautiful sunset at Punta Cometa or help to release baby turtles and watch them make their way into the sea.

Almost all of the activities available are suitable for children, so it’s also a great place to visit as a family. For a small beach town, Huatulco really is full of great things to do and you’ll have no trouble filling the hours.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Huatulco?

A key-shaped blue swimming pool at Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa in Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico
Image credit: Expedia.com

When you make it to Huatulco, the next obvious question will be where do you stay? Even though Huatulco is quite small in terms of population, it has a great range of accommodations in its various bays.

If you’re looking for luxury resorts, you have lots of options. There are several different bays where large resort complexes have been developed.

If you’re travelling as a couple, I think the adults-only Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa is one of your best options. It’s set in the beautiful Bahía Conejos and has a stunning pool area leading right down onto a huge beach.

If you’re travelling with a family, you have a few great options in neighbouring Bahía Tangolunda. Both Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa and Hotel Las Brisas Huatulco are family-friendly all-inclusive hotels with fantastic facilities.

For options in Santa Cruz Huatulco that are a little cheaper, Hotel Villa Blanca Huatulco and Quinta Bella Huatulco are both beautiful and very centrally-located.

As to budget options, the most popular hostel is Hostal Azul y Blanco. It offers dorms and private rooms, a communal kitchen, a salsa night, movie night, and can also connect you with local tour operators to help you see Huatulco.

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

When is the Best Time to Visit Huatulco?

Sunset over the Pacific Ocean as seen from Hotel Las Brisas Huatulco in Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico
Image credit: Expedia.com

If you live in northern latitudes, you’re probably used to four defined seasons.  However, the more equatorial parts of the world like the state of Oaxaca don’t really follow this model. 

Instead, in Huatulco, there are really only two distinctive seasons, which are a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season runs from December to the end of April and the rainy season runs from June through to October.

The average maximum temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year.  You can expect a fairly constant maximum of 85°F (30°C), with lower temperatures during the dry season.

Unsurprisingly, the dryer, cooler weather of the dry season means that it’s the most popular time for tourists. If you can put up with the occasional deluge, you’ll get better rates in the rainy season. 

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

What Should I Pack To Go To Huatulco?

Before you travel from Cancún to Huatulco, you’ll need to know what to pack.

Huatulco has warm days all year round, averaging a maximum of 85°F (30°C) cooling off to 69.5°F (20.5°C) at night. On that basis, other than a jacket for the evenings, I’d leave the warm clothes at home. 

If you travel during the rainy season from June to October, you can expect some rain, so you’ll want to buy a fold-up umbrella when you arrive.  After a downpour, it can get a little humid, so you should also have a few more changes of clothes in case you get sweaty.

You’ll do a lot of walking in Huatulco, so bring or buy a comfortable pair of walking shoes and a hat for the sun.  It should go without saying, but obviously bring your swimwear, because you’ll want to spend at least a few days enjoying the beautiful beaches.

You should also be aware that there are also mosquitoes in Huatulco and it will be too hot to cover up entirely.  Mosquito repellent can be hard to come by, so I recommend that you bring some with you.  

How to Get From Cancún to Huatulco

Final Thoughts

Thanks for reading, and I hope I’ve been able to help you with some ideas for travelling from Cancún to Huatulco beyond just taking a commercial flight.

There’s obviously nothing wrong with doing that, and it’s frankly probably your best bet most of the time. But I think it’s helpful to understand the other options so that you don’t miss out on a great experience you wish you’d had.

Your options to get from Cancún to Huatulco are many, and all of them are great. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Huatulco!

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