Cacaluta Bay (Bahia de Cacaluta)

The Basics

Two distinctly different beaches make up this scenic bay in Huatulco. Cacaluta Beach is the larger of the two, with soft white sand and blue-green water that stretches around a secluded cove. The bay’s smaller, pebbly Arroyo Beach is just as pretty, but with gentler waves. Visit Cacaluta Bay independently or on a Huatulco Bays sightseeing cruise. Tours typically visit five or seven of the nine bays and include stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Huatulco’s Bahia de Cacaluta is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.

• Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.

• Plan to carry enough food, water, and supplies for a day at the beach, as there are no amenities here.

How to Get There

The easiest way to visit Cacaluta Bay is by boat. You can also hike for about 20 minutes along a well-marked trail that leads from the main road to the beach. Taxis can drop you at the entrance to Cacaluta, but you’ll need to walk to the taxi stand at Maguey Beach, about half a mile (1 kilometer) away, to get a ride back into town.

When to Get There

Cacaluta Bay is lovely year-round; mornings offer better conditions and calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling. The rough, unpaved road that connects Cacaluta Bay with Huatulco’s other bays can be difficult to navigate during rainy season (May to October).

Cacaluta Bay Wildlife

Cacaluta Bay is home to an impressive array of wildlife and lots of indigenous birds, including several different kinds of sea birds. Many of the birds and other small animals make their home in the jungle surrounding the bay. In addition to bird-watching, the bay’s clear waters and ease of snorkeling from shore make it one of the best spots to see tropical fish and rays.