Santa Cruz Bay (Bahía Santa Cruz)

Overview

Santa Cruz Bay is a picturesque beach located in the Huatulco region of Oaxaca, Mexico. Known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, it offers a range of water activities and stunning views.

Santa Cruz Bay is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports due to its rich marine biodiversity.

Water Sports Scenic Views

Location

Address

Santa Cruz Bay, Oaxaca

Neighborhood: Huatulco Bay Area

Coordinates

15.825900, -96.281900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better visibility for snorkeling

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and sunny

• clear waters
• ideal snorkeling conditions

summer

hot and humid

• sunset views

autumn

warm and breezy

• cooler temperatures
• fewer crowds

winter

pleasant and cool

• holiday decorations
• festive atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book water activities in advance
Bring sunscreen and hat
Check tide schedules

What to Bring

essential

Swimwear Towels Sunscreen

seasonal

Light jacket for evenings Rain gear during off-season

not allowed

Glass containers Drones without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low

• strong currents in some areas

Medical facilities: first aid available at nearby facilities

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Mexican Peso

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $5

food $10

snorkel gear rental $15

Dress Code

casual, comfortable and breathable clothing, flip-flops or water shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• local tour operators
• 48 hours
• available for water activities

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Huatulco Beaches

Size: 30 MB

Features: Activity booking, Interactive map, Tide schedules

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Beach cafes, Visitor center

Charging Stations: Cafes and visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Huatulco International Airport (HUX)

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$20 20 min

shuttle

$10 25 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$1 15 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: pristine beaches and rich marine life

Historical Significance: part of the ancient trade routes

Insider Tips

Best snorkeling spots are less crowded early in the morning
Local beach shacks serve the freshest seafood

Local Recommendations

• Try local seafood at nearby beach restaurants
• Ask locals for the best snorkeling spots

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main beach area

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle shots of the beach and water

Result: Stunning beachscapes

#SantaCruzBay #Huatulco #MexicanBeaches

Rock formations near the shore

Best Time: Midday

Tips: Use the rocks as foreground for depth

Result: Dramatic coastal photos

#CoastalMexico #RockFormations #Nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas entire beach and public areas

prohibited areas private properties

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy permit required

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

La Bamba Beach

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Beach

Tangolunda Beach

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min