A long layover in Huatulco is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at BahÃas de Huatulco International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of HUX:
- Can you legally enter Mexico? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Huatulco
For a layover visit to Huatulco, we’d suggest BahÃa Santa Cruz and La Crucecita Town Center & Parroquia. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Huatulco.
If you’d rather stay inside HUX — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops
- Airport Bar & Cafe
Food & Dining Options
For food in Huatulco, local travelers recommend Terra Cotta. If you have time for a second stop, El Sabor de Oaxaca is another popular pick.
Back at HUX, Restaurante y Bar El Faro is the go-to. Café Punta del Cielo rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Huatulco from HUX
The most straightforward way into Huatulco is the local transport, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Huatulco layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at HUX
Dedicated luggage storage at HUX may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Huatulco’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HUX for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Huatulco or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Need a Nap? Options at HUX
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HUX, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Huatulco is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Huatulco.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.