Smart Travel: Huatulco, Mexico, on verge of tourism explosion

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Linda and Dr. Don Overend are principals in The Travel Group, a full-service travel agency.|ret||ret||tab|

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Tourists all over the world converge on Acapulco, Mexico, but those in the know quietly slip away to Huatulco where they can relax on a secluded beach far from the crowds of the developed resort areas. The Bahias de Huatulco, the nine distinct bays of the area, are in the process of major development by the Mexican Tourist Authority and are planned to be a premier beach destination of the future.|ret||ret||tab|

There are more than 30 perfect beaches scattered among the nine bays, some lined with natural boulders and protected by unspoiled shallow coral reefs. These calm bays are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing and sailing. The water is crystal clear and supports a wide variety of marine species. |ret||ret||tab|

The water is also shallow and warm, heaven for those who love sun and sand. A variety of seashells can usually be found along the beach. |ret||ret||tab|

These were the original attraction for developers who are now building hotels, resorts and condominiums behind the beach, particularly Tangolunda Beach with six shiny new resorts completed. Dining and nightlife opportunities are being rapidly developed as well as sightseeing to a major archeological site, Punta Celeste, discovered only four years ago.|ret||ret||tab|

Crucetia is the central marketplace and offers tourists a wide selection of Oaxacan silver, pottery by native artisans and colorful cotton clothing. Since the region is traditionally a fishing community, seafood restaurants abound in the town of Huatulco and the palapas thatched-roof beach restaurants specialize in fresh fish, lobster and shrimp.|ret||ret||tab|

The existing resorts range from three- to five-star properties with all amenities and with striking architecture. Many have villas with private pools, all have restaurants and provide a variety of water sports. When we visited, the resorts were at very low occupancy as the busy months in Huatulco for Americans are from December through February. Mexican nationals visit Huatulco in the summer months.|ret||ret||tab|

We were impressed with the superb beaches and the construction that has been done so far on the infrastructure. The developers have set a target of 2020 for final completion of the development in Huatulco.|ret||ret||tab|

If you are a sun and sand person and like to avoid crowds, keep Huatulco in the back of your mind for a future visit. The area is marginal for tourism right now, but its location and charms should make it a grand seaside destination in the next very few years. Some day, we can promise you, Huatulco will be crowded year-around.|ret||ret||tab|

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