Huatulco To Puerto Ángel: 5 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel in Oaxaca, Mexico?

Even though they are only about 33 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 Puerto Ángel cheaply, simply and safely.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel

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 Puerto Ángel

Why Should You Visit Puerto Ángel?

Puerto Ángel is a small beachside town set in and around the hills overlooking a large sheltered cove about 33 miles west of Huatulco on the idyllic Oaxaca coastline.

The sheltered cove is called Bahía Puerto Ángel and it has a great beach called Playa Panteón where you can go swimming and snorkelling. A little further to the west, you’ll find Playa Estacahuite, another equally beautiful but more secluded beach with some great hotels like Casa Bichu nearby.

About three miles to the west is Zipolite, which most famous for Playa Zipolite, Mexico’s only legal nude beach. It’s also known for having some fantastic hotels, such as Hotel Nude, which offer rooms that open right up onto the beach.

While Puerto Ángel is known for being laid-back and attracting visitors interested in wellness and yoga activities, Zipolite is known for its party vibe and great nightlife. Everything is within a stone’s throw of the beach, and there’s usually no cover charge unless there’s a live act performing.

Puerto Ángel has some great places to eat and drink like El Rincon Del Café and Brisas del Mar, and if you’re looking for more options, you can also get a taxi and check out the great bars and restaurants in Zipolite.

If you’re staying for a few days, you can a little further west to Mazunte, which is the next beach area after Zipolite. You can watch the sunset at Punta Cometa, visit beautiful Playa de Amor, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even book a tour to visit the nearby crocodile sanctuary.

All in all, Puerto Ángel is a great base for you to explore the Oaxaca coastline. It’s great if you’re looking a relaxed atmosphere but still want to be close enough to enjoy the nightlife and party atmosphere of Zipolite if you want to. You really can’t go wrong.

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

How to Get From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel

1. Rental Car To Puerto Ángel

A road trip from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel

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

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 Puerto Ángel?

The route from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 Pochutla and follow that for the last few miles into Puerto Ángel.

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 Pochutla, you also turn south and follow highway 175 into Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel

FAQs: Rental Car From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

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 Puerto Ángel 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 about 45 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 Puerto Ángel?

The route from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel follows highway 200 before turning south onto highway 175 at Pochutla.

After making the turn south, you follow it for around six miles into Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel?

The total distance is approximately 33 miles (53km) from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel?

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 Puerto Ángel

2. Private Transfer To Puerto Ángel

If you’re keen on a road trip from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel

Where Can You Book A Private Transfer From Huatulco To Puerto Ángel?

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 Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel

FAQs: Private Transfer From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

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 Puerto Ángel?

The route from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel?

The total distance is approximately 33 miles (53km) from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel

3. Taxi To Puerto Ángel

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 Puerto Ángel

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 Puerto Ángel?

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 Puerto Ángel

FAQs: Taxi From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

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

You can expect to pay anywhere from US$40 – US$70, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

The route from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 – 1.5 hours.

What is the Distance From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

The total distance is approximately 33 miles (53km) from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel. 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 Puerto Ángel

4. Colectivo To Puerto Ángel

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

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 Puerto Ángel

Where Can I Get The Colectivo From Huatulco To Puerto Ángel?

To get from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel

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

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 – 45 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 Puerto Ángel.

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

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

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 Puerto Ángel

FAQs: Taking The Colectivo From Huatulco To Puerto Ángel

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

How Much Is The Colectivo From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

Prices really are 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 Puerto Ángel?

There are a few different providers that offer colectivo services from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel. 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 Puerto Ángel?

The route is approximately 33 miles (53km) from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel

5. Travel To Puerto Ángel With A Tour

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

Clearly if you need to stay in Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel

Where Can I Book A Tour To Puerto Ángel?

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

I recommend checking out Viator, which has a few different tours from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel and its surrounds.

What’s Great About doing a Tour?

If you’re only planning on doing a day-trip to Puerto Ángel, 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 Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel

FAQs: Tours to Puerto Ángel

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

How Much Is A Tour From Huatulco to Puerto Ángel?

Tours vary in price but start at around US$60 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, which has a few different tours from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel 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 Puerto Ángel

Final Thoughts

So, you now know how to get from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel using various methods. Traveling from Huatulco to Puerto Ángel is an experience you won’t quickly forget, especially if you take the colectivo!

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 Puerto Ángel.

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 Puerto Ángel!