Santa Cruz Bay is the front door to Huatulco. It is the bay closest to the town of La Crucecita, it has the marina where most boat trips leave, and it has a long cruise dock that the state tourism board says can take up to three ships at a time. That makes it the busiest of the nine bays, and the one with the most services. The beach itself is a plain, practical town beach rather than a hidden cove, with beach stands that sell or rent sports gear, restaurants and hotels close by and taxis that run at all hours from La Crucecita. The tourism board lists a long menu of activities here, including jet ski rental, banana boat rides with safety gear, paro, a sport in which you steer a large board with a paddle, beach volleyball, football, snorkelling and offshore sport fishing. Visiting costs nothing apart from what you choose to rent or eat. If you are staying nearby or arrive early for a boat tour, a walk along the front and a swim before the departure is an easy way to settle in, and it gives you a base to compare with quieter bays you will see later in the trip.
Why it matters
For most visitors, Santa Cruz is where the trip starts and ends. The bays boat tour, the snorkel eco tour and the dolphin and whale cruises all use the marina area, so you will almost certainly pass through even if you never plan a beach day here. Restaurants and cafes along the front make it a handy place for breakfast before a boat departure or a cold drink afterwards.
When to go
The tourism board notes that the bay is very busy in the holiday season and still draws many visitors at other times because of the cruise traffic. If you want space, go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and avoid days when several ships are in port. In the quieter parts of the year the beach is relaxed and the water is calm enough for a casual swim, but always check the flags and the sea conditions before you go in, because swell can change quickly on the Pacific coast.
How to get the most from it: take a taxi from La Crucecita, which is the easiest way to arrive, and agree the fare before you set off. Bring a hat, reef-safe sunscreen and a little cash for rentals and snacks. Prices for jet skis and banana boats vary, so compare a few stands and confirm what is included before you pay.
If you want a quieter swim with clearer water, treat Santa Cruz as your starting point and move on to Playa La Entrega, Maguey or Cacaluta on another day. Families with small children will find it easy and convenient, though it is more of a social, working beach than a secluded one.
A few extra ideas
If you have an hour to spare, walk along the waterfront to the marina and watch the boats prepare for the day, then stop at a cafe for fresh fruit or a coffee. In the evening the area has a more social feel, with bars and restaurants open and families strolling by the water.
Remember that jet skis and other motorised craft share the bay, so swim within the marked areas and keep children close to the shore. If the bay feels too busy, the quiet coves a short boat ride away offer a very different mood.
What to expect
The experience
A busy town beach and marina area with beach stands, restaurants, water-sports rentals and taxis from La Crucecita.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, outside the holiday season and on days with fewer cruise ships in port.
How long
One to three hours for a swim and a meal, or longer if you rent equipment.
Tips
Agree taxi fares first, compare rental prices, check the flags and carry a little cash.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Easy first-day swims and anyone catching a boat tour from the marina.
- Families
- Convenient and well served by restaurants and rentals, though it can be crowded.
- Couples
- A quick swim and a drink on the front before or after a boat trip.
- Pair with
- The bays boat tour, the snorkel eco tour or the La Crucecita food walk.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
Is it free to visit Santa Cruz Beach?+
Yes, the beach is open to the public at no charge. You pay only for rentals such as jet skis, banana boats and equipment, and for food and drink.
What can I do there?+
The state tourism board lists jet ski rental, banana boat rides, paro, beach volleyball, football, snorkelling and offshore sport fishing, with beach stands selling or renting equipment.
How do I get there from La Crucecita?+
Take a taxi. The tourism board notes that taxis serve the beach at all hours, and the ride passes gardens, hotels and restaurants. Agree the fare before you go.
Is it crowded?+
It can be. The bay has a cruise dock and is very busy in the holiday season, so go early or late if you want space.
Where do boat tours leave from?+
Most bay tours depart from the marina area in Santa Cruz, so you may well visit even if you do not plan a beach day.
