MEXICO'S NEWEST RESORT AND BEST KEPT SECRET ON THE SOUTHERN PACIFIC

Bahias de Huatulco, Oaxaca, located on Mexico's southern Pacific coast, was initiated in 1979 by Fonatur; a government employed agency, which dedicates to the development of touristic resorts. As you may imagine, the task has not been an easy one. Not long ago, the Bays of Huatulco consisted of small fishing villages along the coast with its county seat of Santa Maria Huatulco twenty minutes inland and the largest major city two hours away. The history of the area documents a prosperous port during the mid 1500's due to Cortes' interest at the time, later replaced by Acapulco, and converting into a pirates hideaway. Many legends exist around this period.

Now Huatulco boasts five major five star hotels, numerous smaller hotels, and growing. Clean, new and unspoiled, visitors feel safe exploring the 36 beaches (some of them only accessible by boat) within the nine bay interlocking system, surrounded by tropical vegetation.

The configuration of the coastline lends itself to intimacy, and the backdrop of the Sierra Madre Mountains creates a splendor beyond description. Huatulco is located between two major rivers, the Copalita and the Coyula, both of which offer adventurous exploration via rafts, kayaks, and canoes, not to mention other nearby rivers and streams. And ecology is a priority focus for the growth of Huatulco. Numerous nearby coffee plantations welcome visitors to come to know the majesty of the environment along the Old Royal Road and sample their fine Oaxacan coffees. Just down the coast one can explore the more mature Mexican resorts of Puerto Angel and Puerto Escondido, more of a backpacking/bohemian flavor. The state of Oaxaca boasts the most extensive varieties of flora and fauna of the Mexican Republic.

 Bird watchers will want to check it out.

Roseate Spoon Bill (platalea ajaja)

 seen at Río Copalita

La Crucesita, the downtown area, in which is located the Main Plaza with its gazebo (zocalo) and the beautiful cathedral with artist, Pepe Del Signo's magical interpretation and rendering of the Virgin Guadalupe on its ceiling, consists of about a 10 block radius, which feels intimate and safe for visitors, who will find much within walking distance. A taxi ride of ten to fifteen minutes to beaches and the hotel zone, taxis are easily accessible and an inexpensive, easy way to get around.