Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco

If you’re planning a trip to Huatulco and want to see as much of its coastline and natural beauty as possible, a tour of the bays could be just the ticket. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve gathered plenty of honest insights from those who’ve done it, and it sounds like a well-rounded adventure that combines scenery, wildlife, and a taste of local flavors.

What really attracts people to this tour are the chance to visit seven different bays in one day, each offering its own vibe—from untouched beaches to impressive geological formations. Plus, the stops at iconic spots like La Entrega beach and the Bufadero blowhole promise some memorable moments. Another highlight is the opportunity to see dolphins, turtles, and even whales during migration season, which keeps the experience lively and exciting. On top of that, the tour includes a chance to learn cultural legends, snorkel in pristine waters, and enjoy fresh seafood, making it a good value for the price.

That said, it’s not perfect—be prepared for a long day and some extra costs along the way. If you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely pace or a fully customized experience, this might not be your ideal choice. Still, for those eager to explore the coast and enjoy a variety of activities, this tour offers a compelling blend of adventure and relaxation.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to see a mix of wildlife, landscapes, and local cuisine—all in one day. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of everything without fussing over the logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Visiting seven different bays offers an extensive look at Huatulco’s coastline in one trip.
• Wildlife sightings like dolphins, turtles, and whales are common, especially during migration.
• The tour combines natural beauty, cultural stories, and local food, making it versatile.
• It’s a long, full-day experience—from 9 am to late afternoon—so be ready for a busy schedule.
• Extra costs such as park entrance and snorkeling gear rentals are not included but are clearly outlined.
• Guides are generally appreciated for their knowledge and friendly attitude, enhancing the experience.
• The tour has generally positive reviews, with many calling it good value for what you get.
• Be prepared for additional fees at certain stops, and bring cash for tips, snacks, or optional rentals.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Santa Cruz Bay

Starting at Santa Cruz Bay, this historic port once played a significant role during Mexico’s colonial era. You’ll hear stories about legends like “La Cruz” and the pirate history that once made this spot a hub of activity. It’s a quick stop—just 15 minutes—but it’s enough to appreciate the scenic harbor.

Many reviews mention the historical vibe here. Rosie_A shared, “Our tour guide was great and the water was divine,” and missed the snorkeling because they had booked it elsewhere. Still, she noted it’s an all-day thing from 9 am to late afternoon, so plan to make the most of every moment.

Stop 2: Huatulco National Park and Bufadero Blowhole

The real highlight here is the Bufadero, one of the largest blowholes in the world. It’s an impressive natural feature where seawater shoots into the air through a hole in the rocks, creating a dramatic spectacle. You’ll have some time for photos and videos, which many reviews say are well worth capturing.

The national park itself is a protected area, so it’s a good place to see local ecosystems. As Leticia_M pointed out, the park stops include free admission, but you’ll need to pay a small fee of $3.50 per person for entry, which doesn’t seem like much for the chance to see such geological marvels.

Stop 3: Bahia Maguey and El Órgano

Next, the tour takes you to Bahia Maguey and El Órgano Bay. Maguey is famous for its “stone face”—a natural rock formation that resembles a face and is often cited as a fun photo spot. The virgin nature of these beaches means fewer crowds and more tranquility.

One reviewer, Stacey_M, appreciated the knowledgeable guide and the fact that they could skip snorkeling if they preferred to enjoy the beach. The beach is pristine, and the scenery is striking, with clear waters and rocky formations.

Stop 4: Bahia Cacaluta

Known for being a filming location for movies like “Y tu mamá también”, Bahia Cacaluta looks like a picture from a postcard—its shape resembling a heart or a bird depending on your perspective. It’s a quick stop—about 6 minutes—but many agree that the views are worth it.

Here, you can stretch your legs, take photos, and appreciate the rugged coastline. Some reviews note that the beach can get crowded with boats and vendors, so manage expectations if you’re craving solitude.

Stop 5: Chachacual

Chachacual is a virgin beach that used to be a turtle fishing spot, with makeshift structures built from trunks and palm leaves. It’s a very natural, undeveloped stretch of coast, appealing if you enjoy quiet, untouched beaches.

The stop lasts about 1 hour 50 minutes, which many reviews say is enough time to relax, swim, or explore. Be mindful of extra costs like umbrella rentals (about 250 pesos). It’s a lovely spot to unwind and enjoy the ocean without the hustle of more developed beaches.

Food, Drinks, and Additional Costs

The tour includes bottled water and soda, which is a nice touch for staying hydrated. However, many reviews highlight that snorkeling gear is an optional rental costing around 250 pesos (~$12.50 USD), and beach umbrellas are an extra 250 pesos if you want shade at Chachacual.

In terms of food, the tour suggests a restaurant at Maguey Bay for lunch, but each person is free to choose elsewhere. The seafood stuffed pineapple is a highlight, with some reviews praising the delicious local flavors. That said, expect to pay extra for meals and drinks at the restaurants, with some reviews mentioning a total meal cost of around 900 pesos for two, excluding tips.

Additional fees include $3.50 for the national park entrance and $0.30 for Santa Cruz Bay. These small fees are clearly outlined, which is helpful to plan ahead.

The Experience and Group Size

Most travelers seem to have positive impressions of the guides, often describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. Several reviews mention the guides helping with photos or teaching snorkeling basics, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience.

The tour operates with a maximum group size of 60, which keeps things lively but not overly crowded. The vehicle used for pickup is air-conditioned, making the early morning start more comfortable in the warm climate.

The Long Day and Pacing

One common theme is the length of the tour—it runs from 9 am to late afternoon. While many say it’s packed with activities, some felt it could be a bit slow or too beach-heavy, especially if you’re not a fan of long stops at restaurants or beaches. If you prefer a shorter or more customized experience, this might be too structured.

Summing Up the Value

For $34.90 per person, the tour offers quite a bit: scenic boat rides, wildlife sightings, cultural stories, and delicious food. It’s especially good if you want a comprehensive day exploring Huatulco’s coastal gems without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. The positive reviews about guides, stunning scenery, and good value make this a solid choice.

However, be ready for some additional costs—snorkel gear, umbrellas, and park fees add up—and the schedule can be long and packed. If you’re after a relaxed day or have limited mobility, you might want to consider other options.

Who is this tour best for?

This tour appeals primarily to adventurous travelers who love beaches, wildlife, and scenic boat rides. It suits those eager to see multiple bays in one day and enjoy a mix of natural beauty and cultural stories. It’s a good pick for families or groups that don’t mind a full, active day, but not so much for anyone seeking a low-key, leisurely experience. If you’re comfortable with optional extra costs and long hours, this tour will give you a memorable taste of Huatulco’s coast.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9 am and concluding in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Not exactly—lunch at Maguey Bay is suggested, but you’ll be responsible for paying at restaurants, with an average meal costing around 900 pesos for two, plus extra for drinks and optional items.

What extra costs should I expect?
Expect to pay for snorkeling gear rental (~250 pesos), umbrellas (~250 pesos), park entrance fee ($3.50), and Santa Cruz bay access tax ($0.30).

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
No, rentals are optional, but gear can be rented at the marina if you wish to snorkel.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is around 60 travelers, so it’s a lively but manageable crowd.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed and scenic nature of the tour could appeal to families with kids comfortable on boat rides and beaches. Just keep in mind the long hours and optional costs.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for extra fees and tips, a swimsuit, sun protection (SPF and hats), and a towel. If you plan to snorkel, consider bringing your own gear or be prepared to rent.

Final thoughts

This Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco offers a diverse sampling of the region’s natural and cultural highlights—all packed into a well-organized day. The combination of scenic vistas, wildlife encounters, and local flavors makes it an appealing choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning everything themselves.

While the long duration and extra costs are worth noting, most reviews agree that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the scenery is unforgettable. If you’re someone who loves being on the water, exploring different beaches, and soaking up local stories, this tour will likely meet your expectations—and maybe even surprise you.

Final recommendation

If you’re willing to spend a full day immersed in ocean views, wildlife, and local culture, and you’re comfortable with some optional expenses, this tour offers solid value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see multiple bays in one go and don’t mind a busy schedule. For those seeking a quieter, more flexible day, you might want to consider other options or a private tour where you can customize stops and pace.

Enjoy your trip to Huatulco—this tour is a fantastic way to get a true taste of the coast!

Source: Viator