Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour: Snorkel Chachacual, Spot Dolphins & Lunch in Maguey Bay
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: must be able to board a small boat, swim short distances, and handle light up-and-down movement on deck.
Overview
Glide across the bays of Huatulco to snorkel a shallow reef, scan for turtles and dolphins, and linger over a seafood lunch in Maguey Bay. This full-day boat tour pairs short swims with coastal panoramas and bilingual commentary about the park’s marine life.
Bays of Huatulco Boat Tour: Snorkel Chachacual, Spot Dolphins & Lunch in Maguey Bay
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The boat eases out of Santa Cruz as the morning sun tracks across a pale Pacific. Wind fingers the canopy of the low-deciduous jungle on the shore, and the bays of Huatulco begin to step into view—rocky points, hidden coves, and beaches that slope into water so clear it seems to be holding its breath. Onboard, the engine settles to a measured hum; the guide points toward a stone cliff nicknamed Rostro Mixteco, and the group leans forward as if to read the coastline like a map.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens harm coral—use mineral-based sunscreen and reapply before boarding to protect skin and reefs.
Secure a snug snorkel mask
A well-fitting mask prevents fogging and water leaks, making the short Chachacual stop far more enjoyable.
Carry small cash for lunch and tips
Maguey Bay eateries usually accept cash; bring pesos for seafood dishes and crew gratuities.
Protect electronics from spray
Use a small dry bag or waterproof phone sleeve—boarding and open-sea stretches can be unexpectedly wet.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green and hawksbill sea turtles
- Bottlenose dolphins and schooling reef fish
History
Local Mixtec and Zapotec groups have fished these bays for centuries; colonial trade later used nearby bays as sheltered anchorages.
Conservation
Parts of Huatulco are protected as a national park—visitors are urged to use reef-safe products, take trash back to shore, and avoid disturbing nesting sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in Santa Cruz Huatulco (La Crucecita)
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects both skin and the marine environment during sun-heavy outings.
Snorkel mask (personal)
A personal mask fits better and minimizes fogging during the Chachacual snorkel stop.
Light dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet, and a light layer dry through splash-prone sections of the trip.
Water shoes or strap sandals
Provides traction on rocky beaches and comfort when entering or exiting the boat.
summer specific