Santa Maria Huatulco City Guide

Taste Oaxacan dishes like tlayudas and mole, plus fresh seafood. Plenty of international food in tourist spots. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Late-night eats are limited outside high season.

Nightlife is relaxed with bars and live music mainly in La Crucecita and Santa Cruz. Not a party town.

Decent coffee scene with local Oaxaca beans. Few third-wave cafes but good quality.

Tipping is expected. 10-15% in restaurants, 20% for great service. Taxi drivers usually get rounded-up fares.

SIM cards are sold at official stores like Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar in La Crucecita. Telcel has the best coverage. ID or passport required. eSIM depends on provider and device.

The town keeps clean, especially tourist areas, thanks to eco-tourism efforts.

24/7 options are limited. Some Oxxo stores open late but pharmacies and clinics usually close at night.

Chedraui and Soriana supermarkets stock international goods. Local markets offer fresh produce and meats. Supermarkets usually open early till late. Smaller shops close on Sundays. Bargaining is only for markets.

Credit cards work at big hotels and restaurants, but cash is needed for markets, taxis, and small shops.

ATMs are in La Crucecita and Santa Cruz at banks like Banamex, Bancomer, and HSBC. Fees apply for non-local cards.

Local schools are mainly public Mexican schools. Few international or English-language options.

The nomad community is small but growing. Meetups and co-living are limited.

Lots of green spaces in the Huatulco National Park and natural areas around beaches.

Running routes along bays and boardwalks. Safe and clean with good air quality.

Gyms are mostly in La Crucecita, with some hotel facilities.

Some resorts have tennis courts, but public options are limited.

Padel courts are rare or nonexistent.

Yoga studios exist, often for tourists and expats. Drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors available.

Limited info on martial arts classes; some gyms might offer basic options.

No skiing available due to tropical location.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are common in calm bays. Rentals and guided tours available.

Surf spots at La Bocana and Barra de la Cruz. Warm water year-round. Swell season from April to October. Options for beginners and advanced surfers.

Good diving and snorkeling with clear waters and marine life. Popular sites include La Entrega and San Agustín. Rentals and certification centers available.

Hospitals like Hospital General de Huatulco and Hospital Naval serve the area. Private clinics with English-speaking staff exist. Pharmacies are common and well stocked.

Tap water isn't safe to drink. Bottled water is widely sold and recommended.

Good for families with playgrounds, kid-friendly resorts, beaches, and parks. Baby supplies available in supermarkets.

Generally safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ people, especially in tourist spots.

Pet-friendly with some accommodations and restaurants welcoming pets. Vet services available. Outdoor areas good for dogs.