Huatulco

Nestled on Mexico's Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca, Huatulco offers a unique diving experience centered around its nine picturesque bays and the protected Huatulco National Park. Unlike the limestone cenotes of the Yucatán, this region boasts a dramatic volcanic underwater topography with rock formations, swim-throughs, and small caverns. With over 35 dive sites, most of which are located within the sheltered bays, divers can explore a thriving marine ecosystem that benefits from the area's strong conservation efforts and relatively low-key tourism footprint, making it a refreshingly tranquil alternative to Mexico's more crowded dive hubs.

Diving in Huatulco is accessible and rewarding for all experience levels, from beginners making their first descent in calm coves to advanced divers exploring deeper sites. Conditions are generally mild, with boat rides to most sites being short and pleasant. Divers should visit for the incredible biodiversity, including encounters with turtles, rays, and vast schools of fish against a backdrop of healthy coral plates and sea fans. The combination of easy logistics, rich marine life, and stunning coastal scenery makes Huatulco a premier, off-the-beaten-path dive destination.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Huatulco, Mexico?
La Montosa Island is arguably the most popular dive site in Huatulco, Mexico. It's renowned for its versatility, offering something for every diver. You can find shallow areas perfect for training, gentle slopes, and deeper sections with interesting rock formations. It's known for reliable sightings of turtles, moray eels, and large schools of tropical fish. Its accessibility and consistent marine life make it a go-to spot for most local dive operators.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Huatulco, Mexico?
Well-known sites in Huatulco, Mexico include the vibrant Cacaluta Island and the expansive reefs of San Agustin Bay. For a less-crowded experience, ask your dive operator about visiting 'El Organo', known for its unique rock formations, or the more remote 'Copatlillo' canyons. These hidden gems are just as rewarding, often boasting pristine conditions and a greater sense of exploration away from the main dive groups.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Huatulco, Mexico?
Water temperatures in Huatulco, Mexico vary seasonally. From May to November, the water is warm, typically ranging from 28-30°C (82-86°F). During the winter months, from December to April, seasonal currents and upwellings can cause temperatures to drop significantly, ranging from a cool 21-25°C (70-77°F). These cooler periods often bring clearer water and different marine life.
When is the best time to visit Huatulco, Mexico?
The best time for diving in Huatulco, Mexico depends on your preference. For the warmest water and calmest surface conditions, visit between May and November. For the best visibility and the chance to see migrating humpback whales, plan your trip between December and March. This winter period has cooler water but is also the dry season, offering pleasant weather topside for your entire vacation.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Huatulco, Mexico?
Yes, the main seasonal event in Huatulco, Mexico is the humpback whale migration. These majestic creatures can be seen and heard underwater from December through March as they visit the coast to breed and calve. While giant manta rays and whale sharks are not common, divers frequently encounter large groups of eagle rays and stingrays year-round. Several species of sea turtles also nest on local beaches at various times of the year.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Huatulco, Mexico?
Visibility when diving in Huatulco, Mexico is generally good but changes with the seasons. During the dry season (December-April), visibility is often at its best, frequently exceeding 20 meters (65 feet) and sometimes reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). In the warmer, wetter summer months (May-November), plankton blooms can reduce visibility to around 10-15 meters (30-50 feet), but this also attracts more marine life.
What marine life can I expect to see in Huatulco, Mexico?
The waters of Huatulco, Mexico are teeming with life. Common encounters include several species of sea turtles (Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Green), eagle rays, stingrays, and giant moray eels. You'll dive amongst huge schools of jacks, snappers, and goatfish. The volcanic reefs are also home to lobsters, octopus, nudibranchs, and a wide variety of colorful tropical fish like pufferfish, boxfish, and angelfish.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Huatulco, Mexico?
Wetsuit choice for Huatulco, Mexico is seasonal. For the warm summer months (May-Nov), when water is 28°C (82°F) or warmer, a 3mm shorty or even a dive skin is often sufficient. During the cooler winter months (Dec-Apr), water temperatures can drop to 21°C (70°F) due to thermoclines. A full 5mm wetsuit is highly recommended during this period to ensure you stay comfortable for multiple dives.
How do I get to Huatulco, Mexico?
To get to Huatulco, Mexico, you will fly into Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX). The airport receives direct flights from major hubs in Mexico like Mexico City, as well as seasonal direct flights from cities in the United States and Canada. From the airport, it is a short 20-30 minute taxi or shuttle ride to the main tourist areas of Santa Cruz or La Crucecita, where most hotels and dive shops are located.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Huatulco, Mexico?
You should plan to stay on shore when diving in Huatulco, Mexico. The area is not a liveaboard destination. All 35+ dive sites are clustered around the protected bays and are easily reached via short day-boat trips from dive centers based in Santa Cruz or Tangolunda. This shore-based setup allows you to enjoy the local culture, cuisine, and beautiful beaches in between your dives.
All Dive Sites in Huatulco (35)
Cacaluta Coral GardenCacaluta EastCacaluta WestChachacual West PointEl TigreEl ViolinJicaralJicaral PointLa BlancaLa Blanca ChannelsLa BlanquitaLa GrietaLa IndiaLa JeringaLa Montosa IslandLa RajadaLabirynthLas Dos HermanasMaguey PinaclesMedregal PointMorro TejonMorros MagueyPunta ArrocitoPunta MagueyPunta TejonPunta TooShark CoveStagustin Island EastStagustineSusies CoveTejnViolinViolin PinacleVuelta De Gato Cats TurnWhale Rock