Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco

The Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco offers an engaging and comprehensive exploration of this stunning Mexican coastline. Priced at $34.90 per person, the tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it an excellent choice for those looking to see seven distinct bays and enjoy both natural beauty and local culture. The tour is highly booked, with over 10 bookings just last week, and maintains a strong 4.5/5 rating based on 188 reviews. It includes pickup services and offers mobile ticketing, which streamlines the experience from start to finish.

This tour stands out for its variety of stops, including the clear waters of La Entrega beach, the impressive Bufadero blowhole, and marine life sightings during the boat ride. While the tour emphasizes nature, sightseeing, and cultural stories, it also provides opportunities for snorkeling and tasting local seafood-stuffed pineapple. It’s best suited for those who want a full day of adventure with a mix of beach relaxation, wildlife, and cultural insights — but it is good to note the tour involves some extra fees and a relatively fast pace.

Key Points

• Price: $34.90 per person for a full-day experience
• Duration: 7 to 8 hours, including multiple stops and sightseeing
• Highlights: Seven bays, La Entrega beach, Bufadero blowhole, marine wildlife, and local cuisine
• Included: Air-conditioned transport, guides fluent in English and Spanish, water and soda
• Not included: Snorkel gear rental, beach umbrellas, entrance fees ($3.50 for the park, small taxes)
• Best for: Those seeking a full day of sightseeing, marine life, and cultural stories in Huatulco

Overview of the Tour Experience in Huatulco

The Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco begins at 9:00 am with convenient pickup services. It is designed to be a well-rounded day, combining natural wonders, historical insights, and culinary treats. The tour’s bilingual guides ensure clear explanations and friendly assistance, making the experience approachable for English-speaking travelers.

The tour’s main feature is the chance to visit seven different bays, each presenting its own scenery and charm. The stops include iconic locations like Santa Cruz Bay, notable for its historic significance as a 16th-century port, and the Huatulco National Park, home to one of the largest blowholes—Bufadero—which creates a dramatic water spout visible from afar.

Santa Cruz Bay’s Historical and Cultural Significance

The first stop at Santa Cruz Bay offers a glimpse into the area’s history, once the most important port in New Spain. The guide shares stories about General Vicente Guerrero, who was betrayed here in 1831. Visitors also learn about the legend of the Holy Cross, adding cultural depth to this scenic spot. The stop lasts about 15 minutes and is free of entrance fees, offering a quick but meaningful introduction to Huatulco’s past.

Exploring Huatulco National Park and the Bufadero Blowhole

A highlight of this tour is entering the Huatulco National Park, where visitors can witness one of the largest blowholes in the world, known as Bufadero. This natural feature creates a spectacular water spout when waves hit the rocks, perfect for photos and videos. The park visit lasts around 3 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, and learn about the local environment.

The park also hosts a marine sanctuary, where dolphins, turtles, and whales (during migration season) can sometimes be seen. The admission fee for the national park is $3.50 per person, and the guide explains the importance of preserving this protected area.

Visiting the Virgin Bays of El Organo and Maguey

Within the national park, El Organo and Maguey Bays showcase untouched natural beauty. The Stone Face at El Organo—a natural formation called La Cara Mizteca—serves as a striking visual highlight. The tour allows about 2 hours at these spots, where visitors can admire the crystal-clear waters and rock formations.

The Maguey Bay stop is notable for its secluded, pristine beach and the chance to snorkel. The guide provides snorkel gear for rent at 250 Mexican pesos (about $12.50 USD), and advises bringing personal water bottles and sun protection. The bay’s calm waters are ideal for relaxing or trying to catch glimpses of marine life.

Cacaluta Bay’s Film Fame and Its Unique Shape

Next, the tour visits Cacaluta Bay, famous for being the filming location of movies like “Y tu mama tambien”. Seen from above, the bay’s shape resembles a heart or flying bird, sparking imagination during the short 6-minute stop. Its scenic beauty makes it a perfect photo op, and the views showcase the dramatic coastline that makes Huatulco a popular filming destination.

Enjoying the Virgin Beach at Chachacual

The Chachacual stop offers a virgin beach that was traditionally used by turtle fishermen. Visitors can explore this untouched shoreline, which offers a peaceful environment free from large crowds. The stop lasts about 1 hour and 50 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax, swim, or explore the area. The construction of small huts made of trunks and palm leaves for shade preserve the area’s natural and cultural vibe.

Culinary Delights at Maguey Bay

The tour concludes with a tasting of seafood-stuffed pineapple at Maguey Bay, a local specialty that combines fresh seafood with sweet pineapple. The restaurant here is recommended as a gathering spot for the group, but travelers are free to choose other dining options if desired. While the included snacks are limited, the delicious seafood, along with large, tasty drinks like piña coladas and limonadas, leaves a memorable culinary impression.

Practical Details: Transportation, Fees, and Tips

Transportation during the tour is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the group size is capped at 60 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. The tour includes water and soda but excludes optional snorkel gear rental (250 pesos), umbrella rental (250 pesos), and small entrance fees ($3.50 for the park and $0.30 for Santa Cruz Bay tax).

Most reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, with Victor frequently praised for his patience and storytelling. Travelers are advised to bring cash for extra expenses, such as food, drinks, and gear rentals, since some vendors do not accept card payments.

Pacing and Group Size

The tour’s pace is brisk, with a focus on covering all seven bays in one day. While most stops are brief, the longer visits to beaches and the national park balance the schedule. For travelers who prefer more leisure, a private tour option is available to customize the pace and stops. The group size of up to 60 people can mean some busy moments, but overall, the experience is well-organized and smooth.

Review Highlights and Overall Value

The tour consistently receives high praise for excellent guides, stunning scenery, and value for money. Multiple reviews mention dolphin, sea turtle, and whale sightings, adding excitement to the boat ride. While there are some extra fees for certain activities and beach amenities, the full-day adventure offers a wide variety of sights, wildlife, and cultural stories.

Some guests note that timing at stops can feel lengthy or that food options at the last stop may be limited or expensive. Still, most find the balance of activities, sightseeing, and relaxation satisfying for the price.

The Sum Up: An Engaging Full-Day Exploration of Huatulco’s Bays

The Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco provides a comprehensive look at the area’s natural beauty, marine life, and local charm. Its well-organized schedule, knowledgeable bilingual guides, and diverse stops make it an appealing choice for those seeking an active, scenic day. The $34.90 price point, combined with multiple photo-worthy locations and snorkeling opportunities, offers solid value—especially for those interested in wildlife and coastline vistas.

While some may find the pacing a bit fast and the extra fees a minor inconvenience, most will appreciate the variety of experiences packed into this full-day adventure. It’s a great option for travelers eager to cover a wide area, enjoy marine wildlife sightings, and indulge in local cuisine. This tour truly captures the essence of Huatulco’s scenic coastlines and cultural stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $34.90 per person, which includes transportation and guided commentary.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, including all stops and sightseeing.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Santa Cruz Bay, Huatulco National Park with Bufadero, El Organo and Maguey Bays, Cacaluta Bay, and Chachacual.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling gear is not included but can be rented for 250 pesos. The tour offers guidance and equipment rental if desired.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, entrance fees to the national park ($3.50), Santa Cruz Bay tax ($0.30), and optional beach umbrella rental (250 pesos) apply.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
Most travelers find the tour appropriate for all ages, especially those interested in sightseeing and marine wildlife. However, the pace is brisk, so very young children should be prepared for a busy day.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring cash for extra expenses, sun protection, personal water bottles, and snacks if desired, especially for the initial stops.

Is food provided during the tour?
There is a seafood-stuffed pineapple tasting at Maguey Bay, but lunch and additional food are not included. There are restaurant options at Maguey Bay for those who wish to purchase a meal.

How big are the groups?
The group size is capped at 60 travelers, making for a lively but organized environment.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, a private tour option is available to modify stops or timing according to preference.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.