Huatulco To Mazunte: 5 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Huatulco to Mazunte?

Even though they are only about 40 miles apart, it’s definitely worth planning your trip in advance. The last thing you want is to get an unpleasant surprise when you’re in-country and about to make the trip along the Oaxaca coastline.

The good news is that you’ve got a few options. You can rent a car, take the colectivo, get a private transfer or book a taxi. If you’re just looking to visit for the day, a tour is also an option.

I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Huatulco to Mazunte cheaply, simply and safely.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

Why Should You Visit Huatulco?

Huatulco, or Bahías de Huatulco as it is formally known, is one of the lesser known resort towns on the Oaxacan coastline.

While nearby Puerto Escondido is known to have great beaches for surfers, Huatulco is known for its many bays and secluded coves.

There are 36 beaches and nine bays in Huatulco in total, hence its name “Bays of Huatulco”. The colors of the waters are often a clear turquoise, and you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’re in the Caribbean.

Huatulco is jam-packed with things to do. You can take a boat tour of the bays and visit one of the many great snorkelling beaches like those in Bahia San Agustin. You can also book a tour to go out and watch the local dolphins and whales.

Like Mazunte, Huatulco has a laid-back atmosphere that seems to make your stress and worries just melt away. There are some great hotels in Huatulco where you can wind down with a cocktail between visits to the nearby beaches.

Huatulco is stunningly beautiful and offers you loads of options, depending on what you want to do. Whatever you’re keen on, you’ll have a wonderful time here.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

Why Should You Visit Mazunte?

Mazunte is another beautiful hidden gem on the Oaxacan coastline, known for its beautiful sunsets and Mexican laid-back beach vibe.

There are nearly a dozen beaches in Mazunte in total, of which Playa Mazunte is the best known. The beaches are often tucked in between rolling tree-covered hills that reach all the way out to the ocean on either side of the sands.

Mazunte has lots of things to do even beyond just enjoying the beautiful beaches. You can watch the sunset at Punta Cometa, take a yoga class, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even book a tour to visit the nearby crocodile sanctuary.

Mazunte has become more popular in recent times after having been designated a “pueblo mágico” or “Magic town”. Although there are over 100 pueblos mágicos in Mexico, Mazunte is the only beach town in Oaxaca to have received the distinction, and the result has been an uptick in popularity.

Partly as a result of the newfound fame, the offering of hotels has expanded, and there are plenty of highly-rated hotels in Mazunte for you to choose from.

Let’s take a look at how to get from Huatulco to Mazunte and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

1. Rental Car To Mazunte

A road trip from Huatulco to Mazunte 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 Huatulco To Mazunte

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 1 gallon to get to Mazunte.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

You can get a rental car in two places in Huatulco: at the airport, and La Crucecita.

At the airport, all of the rental booths are located in the arrivals hall at the airport. You’ll see directions to them when you arrive.

If you’d like to pick up your car in La Crucecita, there is a Europcar branch in the Plaza El Madero Shopping Centre on Calle Guamuchil, a few blocks to the east of the Zócalo.

You can use car rental websites to look for deals, just like when looking for flights. Try DiscoverCars.com to get you started.

What Is The Best Route From Huatulco To Mazunte?

The route from Huatulco to Mazunte is an easy one as you only need to really make one turn.

If you’re coming from Huatulco Airport, you’ll need to head west on highway 200 when you exit the airport. You then turn south on highway 175 at San Antonio and follow that for the last few miles into Mazunte.

If you’re picking up your car at La Crucecita, you’ll need to first head north-west along Boulevard Chahue to highway 200 and then turn west. At San Antonio, you also turn south and follow highway 175 into Mazunte.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

There are some great advantages of driving:

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 traveling 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 Huatulco to Mazunte

FAQs: Rental Car From Huatulco to Mazunte

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Huatulco to Mazunte using a rental car.

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

A rental car that you pick up in Huatulco cost you around US$30 a day plus gas. Most providers don’t charge you per mile traveled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

One thing to bear in mind, though, is that there is nowhere in Mazunte to drop your car off if you weren’t planning to drive it back to Huatulco. The closest alternative is Puerto Escondido Airport, but it’s over 40 miles away.

On that basis, I recommend that you plan to take it back with you to one of those two airports when you’re ready to fly out.

Tip: If you decide you want to return the car to Puerto Escondido Airport rather than drive it to Huatulco, you’ll have to pay a one-way fee of around US$80 when you return it.

What is the Route From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The route from Huatulco to Mazunte follows highway 200 before turning south onto highway 175 at San Antonio.

After making the turn south, you follow it for about 5 miles into Mazunte.

What is the Travel Time?

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

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The total distance is approximately 38 miles (60km) from Huatulco to Mazunte.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Huatulco?

Europcar, Keddy and Fox each have branches in the terminal at Huatulco Airport. You can also rent a car from the Europcar branch at La Crucecita.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

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

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

How is the road to Mazunte?

Highway 200 is well-maintained and very safe to travel.

However, the average speed limit is about 35 miles an hour, as the road passes through lots of small towns and villages, so don’t expect to travel fast like on a US-style highway.

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, traveling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

Be aware that there are also speed humps on highways 175 and 200 when you pass through towns and villages, so make sure you keep an eye out for them.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

2. Private Transfer To Mazunte

If you’re keen on a road trip from Huatulco to Mazunte but aren’t so keen to do the driving, you can arrange a private transfer.

It’s more expensive than renting a car and driving yourself, but it lets you relax and enjoy the scenery or even catch up on some sleep.

Fast Facts: Private Transfer From Huatulco To Mazunte

Where Can You Book A Private Transfer From Huatulco To Mazunte?

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Guatego.

If you would prefer to meet your driver in person before booking, speak to your hotel and ask for a recommendation and then go and visit them at their offices in Huatulco.

What’s Great About A Private Transfer?

Although it is more expensive than a rental car, there are some benefits of getting a private driver rather than driving yourself.

1. No Need To Focus On The Road

The best thing about being chauffeured is that you don’t need to worry about driving.

Even watching the road for an hour can be tiring and it means that you won’t be able to completely relax until you reach Mazunte.

2. Great For Groups

A private transfer is great if you’re traveling as a group.

You get to share the cost and just focus on having fun and let the driver bring you to Mazunte.

3. Capped risk

The other big benefit of having a private driver is that you don’t bear the risk of having an accident and damaging the car.

Your insurance would likely cover any damage, but having a driver just avoids the risk altogether.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

FAQs: Private Transfer From Huatulco to Mazunte

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

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

A private transfer starts at around US$135 per trip for a group of up to 4.

Most services cap the number of passengers, so make sure you check this before you book.

What is the Route From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The route from Huatulco to Mazunte by private transfer will follow the same route as you would take if you rented a car.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for about one hour, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The total distance is approximately 38 miles (60km) from Huatulco to Mazunte.

Are The Private transfer Cars Comfortable?

Yes, the private transfer services offered on Guatego use comfortable modern vehicles.

Is It Safe To Travel By Private Transfer?

If you travel with a reputable provider such as those arranged via Guatego, you will be perfectly safe traveling by private transfer.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

3. Taxi To Mazunte

Another great option to mention is the good old taxi.

While not quite as comfortable as a private transfer, once you agree the price with the driver, it’s one of the best options if you haven’t planned in advance.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Huatulco To Mazunte

Tip: Make sure that you agree the price with the driver before setting off so that there are no misunderstandings.

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Huatulco To Mazunte?

If you want to book a taxi, the best way to do it is to ask your hotel to book one for you. It’s especially helpful if your Spanish isn’t great, as they can confirm the pick-up time and price and there’ll be no misunderstandings.

If you’d prefer to hail a taxi on the street for whatever reason, there’s nothing stopping you and it’s perfectly safe to do so. You’ll just need to confirm the price upfront.

Bear in mind that your taxi probably won’t have air conditioning. If you’re looking for a little more comfort, a private transfer might be a better bet.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

FAQs: Taxi From Huatulco to Mazunte

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

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

You’ll need to negotiate your fare, and you should always do this upfront.

You can expect to pay anywhere from US$45 – US$75, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The route from Huatulco to Mazunte should be the same as you would take if you rented a car or booked a private transfer.

However, you should confirm the route with the driver before you set off.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 1.5 hours.

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The total distance is approximately 38 miles (60km) from Huatulco to Mazunte.

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Taxis aren’t made for long distance passenger travel like a bus or a plane, and they’re unlikely to have air conditioning.

If you’re looking for more comfort, you might be better served renting your own car or arranging a private transfer.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

Yes, you will be safe enough traveling by taxi from Huatulco to Mazunte. This is particularly the case if you are traveling in a group.

If possible, I’d recommend asking your hotel to book the taxi, as they’ll have a record of the booking, which the driver will know. I would also recommend that sole female travelers avoid taking the taxi at night.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

4. Colectivo To Mazunte

It’s possible to take the colectivo from Huatulco to Mazunte, but there isn’t a direct service. You’ll need to get off in San Pedro Pochutla (about 10 miles to the north of Mazunte) and get the next colectivo into Mazunte.

While there’s nothing wrong with travelling with the colectivo, it isn’t the most efficient or comfortable.

On that basis, I’d recommend one of the other options set out above unless you’re on a very tight budget.

Fast Facts: Colectivo From Huatulco To Mazunte

Where Can I Get The Colectivo From Huatulco To Mazunte?

To get from Huatulco to Mazunte with the colectivo, you’ll need to make one trip from Huatulco to San Pedro Pochutla, and then a second trip from San Pedro Pochutla to Mazunte.

I’ve set out below how you can go about doing this.

Colectivo From Huatulco to San Pedro Pochutla

You can get the first colectivo in La Crucecita, the main town area of Huatulco.

You’ll need to go to a depot area called Central Camionera Huatulco Altamar. It’s on the outskirts of La Crucecita to the north-west, and you can easily find it on Google Maps.

Tickets will cost you around US$2.50 per person, and the trip will take around 1.5 hours.

Colectivo From San Pedro Pochutla to Mazunte

The second leg of the journey is from San Pedro Pochutla to Mazunte. The colectivo here heads south and passes through Puerto Ángel and Zipolite on its way to Mazunte.

You can get the colectivo here at Camionetas Pasajeras Mazunte, which is just to the west of highway 175 near the center of San Pedro Pochutla. You can also find this one on Google Maps.

Tickets here will also cost you around US$2.50 per person, and the trip will take around 30 minutes.

Tip: Make sure that you have cash with you (i.e. Mexican pesos), because the colectivo driver won’t accept credit cards and may not want to accept US dollars.

What’s Great About Taking The Colectivo?

While it clearly isn’t as freewheeling as renting your own car, there are still some positives to taking the colectivo.

1. The Colectivo Is Cheap

The colectivo is dirt cheap. Obviously you get what you pay for, but if you have a low budget, this is the option for you.

Don’t expect the lap of luxury, and if you get a passenger truck rather than a shared van, make sure you hold on tight!

2. Travel Like The Locals

If you want to get a local experience, taking the colectivo is the way to do it.

If you speak Spanish, it could also be a great opportunity to hear about the lives of the people you’re traveling with on your way to Mazunte.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off At In The Center Of Town

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

You can also speak to the driver and ask him to drop you off on the highway if that is closer to your hotel.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

FAQs: Taking The Colectivo From Huatulco To Mazunte

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Huatulco to Mazunte with the colectivo.

How Much Is The Colectivo From Huatulco to Mazunte?

Prices are really rock-bottom. You can expect to pay US$5 for the full one-way trip.

It’s an absolute bargain if you’re travelling light and don’t want to pay extra for a little more luxury.

Which Colectivos Run From Huatulco to Mazunte?

There are a few different providers that offer colectivo services from Huatulco to Mazunte. Each of those will first take you to San Pedro Pochutla, and you can get another service for the final leg.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 2 – 2.5 hours.

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Mazunte?

The route is approximately 41 miles (65km) from Huatulco to Mazunte.

Which Colectivo Stations Do I Use?

In Huatulco, you’ll use the Central Camionera Huatulco Altamar just off Boulevard Chahue in the outskirts of La Crucecita.

In San Pedro Pochutla, I recommend you use Camionetas Pasajeras Mazunte just off highway 175 near the center of town.

Are The Colectivos Comfortable?

They’re clearly no limousine, but actually the colectivos are comfortable enough, unless they’re too busy.

They’re essentially public transport, so they’ll fill up during busy times, and then it might get a little crowded. But if you’re travelling in the colectivo, that’s all part of the fun!

Is It Safe To Travel With The Colectivo?

Yes, you will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

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

However, I would recommend that single female travelers don’t travel alone at night on the colectivo.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

5. Travel To Mazunte With A Tour

If you’re only intending to visit Mazunte for the day, you could book a tour rather than booking your own transport.

Clearly if you need to stay in Mazunte longer than a day this option won’t work for you, but for day-trippers this can be a great way to outsource the trip-planning.

Fast Facts: Tour From Huatulco To Mazunte

Where Can I Book A Tour To Mazunte?

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

I recommend checking out Viator and Guatego, which have a few different tours from Huatulco to Mazunte and its surrounds.

What’s Great About doing a Tour?

If you’re only planning on doing a day-trip to Mazunte, there are a few great reasons that you should consider doing a tour.

1. No Planning Required

I think the best thing about booking a tour is that you don’t need to worry about planning the trip, the transport and the destinations. All of that is done for you by the tour organisers.

You can think of part of the price of the tour as an exchange for saving all that time in planning.

2. Focus On Enjoying The Trip

If you go with a tour, you can let go of the wheel and just enjoy the trip.

That’s particularly helpful when you’re traveling with your family or with a group and you’d rather not be distracted.

3. Local Knowledge

Another benefit of having a tour take you to Mazunte is that you’ll visit places that you might have missed if you’d planned your own trip.

That inside knowledge can be priceless if you end up having an amazing experience.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

FAQs: Tours to Mazunte

If you still have questions about taking a tour from Huatulco to Mazunte, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Tour From Huatulco to Mazunte?

Tours vary in price but start at around US$40 per person.

What is the Travel Time?

Most tours are half or full day tours. A full day tour usually starts early in the morning and you’ll come back in the evening.

How Do I find Tours

Check out sites like Viator and Guatego, which have a few different tours from Huatulco to Mazunte and its surrounds.

Is It Safe To Book A Tour In Huatulco?

Yes, platforms like Viator carefully check each of the guides advertising on their sites to ensure that they are appropriately licensed.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

What Are The Best Things To Do In Mazunte?

Mazunte is loaded with brilliant things to do, and you’ll have no problem occupying your time.

As a beach town, spending some time at Mazunte’s beautiful beaches is a must, and you have a few to choose from. The main beach in Mazunte is Playa Mazunte and most of the major hotels like Zoa Hotel and Casa Pan de Miel look right onto it. The western corner of it is known as Rinconcito (literally, the little corner), and it is a little more sheltered than the main part of the beach.

If you’re looking for an option with fewer tourists, nearby Playa Mermejita is much longer and is great for walking. It’s known for having very distinctive windswept-looking sand dunes, but bear in mind that those features are due to strong currents, so it isn’t safe for swimming.

Between Playa Mazunte and Playa Mermejita is Oaxaca’s southern-most point, a rocky outcrop jutting out into the Pacific Ocean called Punta Cometa. It’s known for being one of the best places in Oaxaca to see the sunset, and you’ll see people making their way down toward it from Playa Mazunte of a late afternoon.

Mazunte is also known for being a breeding ground for sea turtles. In the 60s and 70s, the sea turtles were killed for their meat and shells, but in the 90s steps were taken to protect them and the Mexican Turtle Center was opened. The center cares for adult turtles, incubates eggs, and carries out baby release programs. You can visit to learn more about these fascinating creatures and can even take part in a heart-warming turtle release down on the beach.

There are also lots of things to do just outside Mazunte. Neighbouring Zipolite is known for having Mexico’s only legal nude beach and also for a beautiful hidden beach called Playa del Amor, which is tucked in between a few lumpy hills that remind you a little of smaller versions of the Brazilian sugarloaf mountains. In the nearby mountains, you can also go white water rafting or visit a nearby crocodile sanctuary (yes, you read that correctly).

Even though it is a small beach town, you can rest assured that you won’t be short on entertainment in Mazunte.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Mazunte?

When you make it from Huatulco to Mazunte, the next obvious question is where do you stay?

Even though Mazunte is a very small beach town, it still has some great hotels for you to choose from. Whatever your budget, you’ll find something great in Mazunte.

The most exclusive hotel in Mazunte is Casa Pan de Miel. It’s been rated one of the top luxury hotels by Tripadvisor for the last few years and has an infinity pool with a prime position right on Playa Mazunte. It’s so exclusive that you’ll have to actually contact the hotel to book, as they don’t take bookings through any major hotel portals.

Also at the luxury end of the spectrum, the adults-only Zoa Hotel is right next to Casa Pan de Miel. It has an onsite restaurant, Amarte Mar, as well as a private mini-beach nestled amongst the rocky outcrop on which the hotel is built. A little farther along the beach to the west is Hotel Casa Lu, which is also adults-only and has a lovely open air pool shaded by palm trees with private access to the beach.

If you’re looking for options that aren’t as rough on the wallet, there are a few great spots near Playa Mermejita, just a half mile from Playa Mazunte. Casa Mermejita (pictured above) is a great arty hotel on the hill above the beach, and Casa Ofelia is a pretty 8-room boutique hotel right behind the beach that also has its own on-site restaurant.

For hostels, La Playa Hostel has a great location right behind Playa Mazunte and won’t break the bank.

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

When is the Best Time to Visit Mazunte?

The best time to visit Mazunte is in the dryer, cooler months from December to April.

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 Mazunte, there are really only two distinctive seasons, which are a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season runs from November to the end of April and the rainy season runs from May through to October.

The average maximum temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year.  You can expect a fairly constant maximum of 86°F to 88°F (30°C to 31°C), although it cools down more in the evenings in 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 and there’ll be far fewer Mazunte. 

How to Get From Mexico City to Mazunte

What Should I Pack To Go To Mazunte?

Your packing list will depend a little on the time of year that you’re going to visit Mazunte.

Mazunte has warm days all year round, averaging a maximum of 88°F (31°C) for most of the year. However, the average low temperature in the evenings fluctuates a little depending on the season. It will get down to 72°F (22.0°C) in January, but in May it will be a fairly warm 79°F (26.0°C) at its lowest.

So if you’re visiting during November to March, you might want to bring a light jacket for the evenings. Otherwise, you can leave any warm clothes that you packed in your suitcase. 

If you travel during the rainy season from June to October, you can expect a fair amount of rain, so you’ll want to bring a fold-up umbrella or buy one 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.

If you’re planning on doing a bit of sightseeing while you’re in Mazunte, you should bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes. In any case, definitely bring a hat for the sun in addition to your swimwear, because you’ll spend at least a few days just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

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

How to Get From Huatulco to Mazunte

Final Thoughts

So, you now know how to get from Huatulco to Mazunte using various methods. Traveling from Huatulco to Mazunte is an experience you won’t quickly forget.

You’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially as you inland toward the mountain ranges and past the national park just before reaching Mazunte.

Your options to get there are many, and all of them viable. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Mazunte!