Things to Do in Huatulco
Cacaluta Bay was made famous in the movie “Y Tu Mama Tambien,” where the mangroves, quiet shores and tropical climate of this heart-shaped bay served as a stunning backdrop to the dramatic blockbuster. Today, travelers frequent Cacaluta Bay to enjoy cooling breezes, and explore its rich biodiversity. Two distinctly different beaches make up this scenic bay. The white sand and blue-green ocean views of Cacaluta Bay attract sun worshipers and water sports enthusiasts in search of strong waves and calm shores. While the smaller, pebbly Arroyo Beach at the bay’s opposite end proves to be less welcoming, its impressive array of wildlife and lots of indigenous birds still make it well worth a visit.
More Things to Do in Huatulco
Copalita River (Río Copalita)
Copalita River, or Río Copalita, is a river in Huatulco that is popular with surfers and river rafters. During Huatulco’s rainy season from May to October, the Copalita River swells, becoming an ideal spot for river rafting excursions. Río Copalita empties into the ocean several miles northeast of Tangolunda. On the beach, you are likely to find local surfers and boogie boarders hanging out. The surfing is so popular here that there is an annual Huatulco surfing and boogie board championship that dates back to 2003. Rafting along the Copalita River takes rafters through a series of adrenaline-pumping rapids – everything from Class I to Class IV rapids. Class I rapids are considered easy with fast moving water, but few obstructions and small waves. Class IV rapids are advanced, with intense turbulent water and a risk of unavoidable obstacles and waves. Tours that include river rafting typically require rafters to travel between 5 to 7 miles (8 to 11 km) on the Copalita River.
Finca La Gloria
This family-owned coffee plantation just outside Huatulco is known for its fertile green farms and fantastical butterfly sanctuary. Travelers can tour the working facility in the heart of a Mexican jungle and learn about the process of turning fresh berries into a cup of one of the most-loved morning beverages.
La Gloria was opened by German ex-pats who escaped to Mexico after World War II. During harvest season, visitors can watch as laborers transform crops into drinkable brews and sample the finished product straight from the roaster. A trip to Finca La Gloria is a true farm to table (or in this case, cup) experience.