Looking for a full day of coastal adventure in Huatulco? This 7-hour boat tour offers an excellent way to explore some of the most scenic and secluded spots along Mexico’s Pacific coast. For just $47 per person, you’ll cruise through crystal-clear waters, discover hidden beaches only accessible by boat, and enjoy time snorkeling among vibrant marine life.
What we love most about this tour is the chance to visit Chachacual Bay, a secret beach within Huatulco National Park, and the relaxed vibe of Maguey Beach, where you can unwind with a cold drink. Plus, the boat’s friendly bilingual guides make sure you’re well-informed and comfortable throughout.
That said, a couple of considerations are worth mentioning. Some travelers have expressed frustration about extra costs at the stops—like snorkeling gear rental and beachside umbrellas—and the cost of food and drinks at the restaurant. If you’re looking for a completely transparent, all-inclusive experience, this might not be it.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic coastal scenery, marine activities, and a laid-back pace. If you’re okay with some optional extra expenses and enjoy discovering less crowded beaches, this could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Secluded Bays: Visit Chachacual Bay, a pristine, private beach accessible only by sea.
- Snorkeling and Marine Life: Explore reefs and see exotic fish and marine fauna.
- Relaxed Pace: Two main stops for swimming, snorkeling, and leisure, plus time for lunch.
- Viewpoints and Nature: Enjoy stunning vistas of Rostro Mixteco rock formations and turtle-shaped islands.
- Cost Considerations: Be aware of optional charges for snorkeling gear, umbrellas, and food.
- Guidance and Safety: Bilingual guides ensure you get local insights and safe snorkeling.
An In-Depth Look at the Huatulco Boat Tour Experience
If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Huatulco’s natural beauty. Starting from Santa Cruz Pier, you’ll meet your guide—wearing a recognizable blue shirt with the Paraiso Huatulco logo—and set sail around 09:30 am. From there, the journey unfolds with a mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing on quiet beaches.
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The First Stop: Chachacual Bay
One of the standout features of this tour is the visit to Chachacual Bay, a hidden beach tucked within Huatulco National Park. This spot is only reachable by boat, making it a true escape from the crowds. The waters here are calm and inviting, perfect for a swim or just lounging on the soft sands. One review notes that “the scenery is amazing and the crew were nice”, highlighting the overall positive atmosphere.
However, some travelers have been surprised by additional costs—around 250 pesos—for snorkeling gear or umbrellas on the beach. While the reefs are mentioned as vibrant and worth exploring, it’s useful to remember that you’ll need to rent gear if you want to snorkel more than once or stay comfortably on the beach.
Snorkeling and Marine Wildlife
The snorkeling experience here is a highlight. The guide provides instruction and helps you explore local reefs, where you might see a variety of marine species. Several reviews mention the guides as helpful and lively, making the snorkel session enjoyable even for beginners.
One traveler from Canada said, “we loved the snorkelling”, which suggests the marine life is lively and worth the effort. Keep in mind, however, that the snorkel gear rental is $15 USD for a new mouthpiece, so budget accordingly if you want to snorkel multiple times.
The Second Stop: Maguey Beach at Cacaluta Bay
After the morning’s adventure, the boat makes its way to Maguey Beach, near the famous Rostro Mixteco rock formations—an iconic natural sculpture that makes for fantastic photos. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours to relax, swim, or enjoy a meal.
The tour includes a recommendation to visit a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood or tropical drinks. Some reviews mention that the food is good, but prices can be high—starting around 300 pesos for a meal—and the cocktails are pricey, with some noting a $250 peso cocktail at the restaurant.
This part of the trip is ideal if you want a break from water activities and simply soak up the scenery with a cold drink in hand.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return Cruise
In the late afternoon, the boat heads back, giving you more chances to enjoy views of the coast, including unique rock formations and the turtle-shaped island. The total cruise time adds up to around 2.5 hours, with a short van transfer back to your hotel, usually in Tangolunda.
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What’s Included and What’s Not
The cost of $47 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat tour, and a bilingual guide. Also included are liability insurance, 4 beers per person, and bottled water or soda—which adds a nice touch of refreshment on a warm day.
Extras to budget for include snorkel equipment ($15 USD), park entrance fee ($4 USD), and pier fees ($1 USD). Food and drinks at the beach restaurant are not included, and some travelers feel these costs can add up quickly—especially since some mention the expensive menu.
What Travelers Say
Feedback from recent guests paints a mixed but mainly positive picture. Many praise the friendly guides, “helpful and lively,” and the stunning scenery. One traveler from Mexico said, “the staff is very good and trustworthy”, emphasizing the overall sense of safety and reliability.
However, some reviews highlight disappointments with costs—notably, the additional fees for snorkeling gear and umbrellas, which can feel like hidden expenses if not anticipated. A traveler from the UK confessed that “we felt we were being ripped off” because of extra charges not initially clear when booking.
Others appreciated the quality of the snorkeling and views, with one guest commenting “the walk through the reef is very good”, and praised the helpful staff.
Tips from Reviews
- Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
- Be prepared for extra costs at the beach—umbrella rentals, additional snorkeling gear, and food.
- A waterproof camera will be handy for capturing the scenic vistas and marine life.
- Make sure to arrive early and wear comfortable water shoes and swimwear for maximum enjoyment.
- If you’re a foodie, consider the value of the restaurant; it might be worth bringing some snacks for the boat or planning a leisurely lunch.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers seeking authentic beach beauty and marine activities without an overly commercial feel. It’s well-suited for adventurous souls who don’t mind some optional expenses and enjoy exploring less crowded, pristine beaches. It’s also ideal for those who value guides that are knowledgeable and friendly and want a balanced mix of cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing.
If you’re after a picturesque day of natural scenery with a touch of local flavor, this tour offers a worthwhile adventure. Just be aware of the potential for extra costs, and plan your budget accordingly.
The Sum Up
This boat tour in Huatulco offers a genuine peek into some of Mexico’s most beautiful coastal spots. The combination of secluded beaches, snorkeling, and scenic views makes it a memorable experience for many. While some reviews mention extra charges that could catch you off guard, the overall value remains solid, especially considering the friendly guide service and the stunning backdrop.
If you’re comfortable with a flexible budget for optional expenses and enjoy discovering quiet beaches and vibrant marine life, this tour delivers a very authentic taste of Huatulco. It’s particularly suited for those looking to escape crowds, enjoy a relaxed pace, and explore nature’s best offerings along the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, including pickup, cruising, stops, and return.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat tour, bilingual guides, and some drinks (4 beers per person, water, soda).
Are there additional costs?
Yes, snorkeling gear ($15 USD), park tickets ($4 USD), pier fees ($1 USD), and food at the restaurant are extra.
Can I snorkel more than once?
You can, but snorkeling gear is rented per session—there’s a fee if you want additional time or gear.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s mainly designed for able-bodied travelers; those with mobility impairments might find the boat or beach stops challenging.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses, towel, sandals, waterproof camera, biodegradable sunscreen, water shoes, cash, and swimwear.
Will I see marine life?
Yes, the reefs are lively, and guides will help you spot marine species. The snorkeling is a key highlight.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at a beachfront restaurant and is paid on your own. Prices vary, and some reviews mention it’s on the expensive side.
What is the best time of year to go?
While not specified, good weather and calm seas are typical from late fall to early spring.
In summary, this tour combines the beauty of Huatulco’s hidden beaches with the fun of snorkeling and scenic cruising. It’s a great way to make the most of a day in the area, especially if you’re ready to embrace some additional expenses for a more authentic, crowd-free experience.
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