When planning a Huatulco getaway, it's easy to focus solely on those stunning Pacific beaches. But here's what makes this destination special: La Crucecita, the charming town that sits just minutes from the coast and feels like stepping into authentic Mexican life.
Book your Huatulco escape with WestJet Vacations and discover the perfect balance between beachfront relaxation and authentic cultural exploration.
Why La Crucecita should be on your Huatulco itinerary
This isn't your typical tourist trap. La Crucecita is where locals live, work and gather - all within walking distance of the beachfront resorts. Family-run restaurants serving recipes passed down through generations. Neighbourhood cafés buzzing with conversation. Markets overflowing with local crafts. And somehow, despite all the activity, the atmosphere stays calm and welcoming.
Just 10-15 minutes from major resorts:
Whether you're staying at Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa, Secrets Huatulco Resort and Spa, Barceló Huatulco or Las Brisas Huatulco, La Crucecita is an easy day trip offering authentic Oaxacan culture between beach days.
What you'll discover at Mercado 3 de Mayo
After splitting time between beach days and town exploration, an afternoon at Mercado 3 de Mayo reveals where Huatulco's cultural soul truly lives. Here's what you'll find:
Barro Negro pottery showcasing true Oaxacan craftsmanship
Handwoven textiles made by local artisans
Locally roasted coffee (grab some to take home)
Fresh fruit that tastes nothing like what you get back home
Best time: Morning (8 a.m. to noon) for freshest selection. Bring cash in pesos.
Getting to La Crucecita
La Crucecita is well-connected to all the beachfront resorts in the Huatulco area, making it an easy day trip or evening adventure from wherever you're staying.
Transportation: Taxis (100-150 pesos from Tangolunda), local buses (10-15 pesos) or hotel shuttles from Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa, Secrets Huatulco Resort and Spa, Barceló Huatulco and Las Brisas Huatulco. WestJet Vacations guests can arrange transportation through their resort concierge.
La Crucecita is Huatulco's main town center, located 10-15 minutes inland from beach resorts like Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa and Barceló Huatulco. It's where locals live and work, offering authentic Oaxacan culture, Mercado 3 de Mayo market, Parque Central plaza and family-run restaurants.
Taxis are readily available at Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa, Secrets Huatulco Resort and Spa, Barceló Huatulco and Las Brisas Huatulco. WestJet Vacations guests can ask their resort concierge about shuttle schedules and trusted taxi services.
Morning (8 a.m. to noon) for market shopping. Evening (6 p.m. to 10 p.m.) for Parque Central atmosphere with live music and street food.
Barro Negro pottery, handwoven textiles, locally roasted Oaxacan coffee, fresh fruit, traditional chocolate, handcrafted jewelry, embroidered clothing and regional mezcal.
The beauty of Huatulco isn't just in its pristine beaches - it's in the authentic moments found in places like La Crucecita. Between the beach lounging and resort relaxation, carve out time to explore this charming town. It's where you'll discover the heart of Oaxacan culture and create the kind of travel memories that stay with you long after you've returned home.
Book your Huatulco escape with WestJet Vacations and experience both beach paradise and authentic Mexican culture at Dreams Huatulco, Secrets Huatulco, Barceló Huatulco or Las Brisas Huatulco.
Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico
The prices shown are subject to change at any time without prior notice. To confirm availability and final pricing you MUST proceed to the checkout page. The price shown in the booking summary on the checkout page constitutes the final guaranteed price and prevails over any other price.