Located in the state of Oaxaca at the edge of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Huatulco (wah-TOOL-co) spans 20 miles of dramatic Mexican coastline. The Pacific Ocean laps the shores of Huatulco's stunning beaches, spread across nine bays. Although not as well-known as some of the country's megaresorts, this tropical paradise boasts a world-class tourism infrastructure of luxury hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, a golf course, the charming and authentic town of La Crucecita, and the small port of Santa Cruz. 

Some bays are accessible only by boat but all are noted for their golden sand and clear, warm water. The calm bays are ideal for a full range of water sports, including swimming, snorkeling, jet-skiing, windsurfing, and sailing. Or pick a remote and expansive beach you can have to yourself. If you're a diver or snorkeler, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the area’s rugged shoreline. Many coral reefs create pockets of diverse undersea life just waiting to be explored. Farther from shore, excellent deep-sea fishing awaits.