Huatulco’s stunning coastline and lush surroundings make it a fantastic place for full-day tours. The region offers a wide variety of experiences, whether you want to cruise past multiple bays, snorkel in secluded beaches, or explore waterfalls and coffee farms. We particularly enjoy tours that combine authentic natural sights with a touch of adventure, like the Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco, which takes you through seven different bays, each with its own charm. Watching dolphins and turtles or marveling at the impressive Bufadero blowhole makes this a memorable experience.
Huatulco’s full-day tours tend to focus on bays, beaches, and marine life, giving travelers a well-rounded look at the area’s natural beauty. Whether you prefer boat rides, snorkeling, or exploring waterfalls, there’s a tour to match your interests. Our guide will help you decide which tour best fits your schedule, budget, and activity level.
1. Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco
At number one, this tour offers an immersive journey through seven different bays in Huatulco. It’s one of the most popular options, with a rating of 4.5/5 from 188 reviews and an affordable price of just $34.90 per person. The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, making it ideal if you want a comprehensive day out without breaking the bank.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to visit La Entrega beach, famous for its crystal-clear waters, and the Bufadero blowhole, which creates spectacular water spouts. The boat glides through Huatulco National Park, where you might see dolphins, turtles, or even whales in season. The itinerary includes a historic stop at Santa Cruz Bay, where you can hear stories about its importance in New Spain. The tour also visits the Maguey and Organo bays, known for their stunning scenery. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the value, although some mention limited drinks on the boat, so bringing your own is wise.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, well-rounded tour that offers a perfect introduction to Huatulco’s marine wonders and scenic bays.
2. Tour Full Day Guided Huatulco Bays + Pickup + Refreshments + Gift
Priced at $80 per person, this tour offers a more comprehensive experience with guided commentary, included pickup, and refreshments. With a rating of 4.5/5 from 23 reviews, it appeals to travelers wanting a more curated day. The tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours and covers seven bays, including the famous Cacaluta, featured in movies and TV shows.
This experience begins at Santa Cruz, where you’ll board a boat to explore seven of the nine bays. The highlight is the visit to Chachacual, a virgin bay where you can snorkel and relax for about 1 hour 45 minutes. The tour also spends roughly two hours at the Maguey Bay, giving ample time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. The trip is ideal for those who appreciate a guided experience with extra touches like refreshments and souvenirs. Several reviews mention how the crew is attentive, and the dolphins and turtles sightings are a bonus.
Bottom Line: Slightly more expensive, but well worth it for those wanting a guided, all-inclusive day with some added perks.
3. Full-Day Tour Llano Grande Waterfalls and Coffee Plantation
For travelers seeking a mix of nature, adventure, and local culture, this tour priced at $90 is a great pick. It lasts about 8 hours 30 minutes and has a rating of 4.0/5 from 5 reviews. It takes you away from the coast into the mountains of Oaxaca, with visits to Llano Grande waterfalls and a coffee farm.
Starting from the bays of Huatulco, the journey involves traveling through dirt roads in the Sierra Madre del Sur, where you’ll see the flora and fauna change as you ascend. Upon reaching the Llano Grande waterfalls, you have about 1.5 hours to swim in the crystal-clear pools and enjoy the scenic beauty. Afterward, the tour visits a coffee plantation, where you can learn about coffee production and taste fresh brews. The highlight for many is the chance to connect with nature and local culture away from the busy beaches. Reviewers note the long but rewarding journey, and the opportunity to see the lush landscape up close.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in nature, waterfalls, and coffee, and willing to handle a longer, more adventurous day.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and travel style. For a budget-friendly introduction to Huatulco’s bays, the Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco offers great value. If you prefer a more guided, all-inclusive experience with extra perks, consider the Full Day Guided Huatulco Bays. And for those craving mountain scenery, waterfalls, and coffee, the Llano Grande Waterfalls and Coffee Plantation provides a chance to escape the coast.
When booking, consider the season — whale migration season can enhance your chances of spotting marine life, especially on bay tours. Think about your fitness level as some trips involve walking or swimming, and your budget—all tours offer great experiences at different price points.
In summary, Huatulco’s full-day tours cater to a variety of interests, from scenic boat rides and marine wildlife to waterfalls and coffee farms. For a cost-effective scenic cruise, the Bays tour is hard to beat, while the guided and nature-focused options add extra depth and convenience. If you’re short on time but want a rich taste of the area, any of these tours will improve your Huatulco experience. To make the most of your trip, consider booking early — these tours fill up, especially in peak season.