How to get from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco, Mexico
Reviewed by Jean Nájera, Transportation Industry Expert
⚡ Quick Answer
You can travel from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco by ADO or OCC bus (USD $16–$21, 2h 20m), SUR economy bus (~USD $6, 2.5h), private transfer ($60–$115, 1.5h), taxi ($60–$80), or rental car. The ADO bus is the most popular choice with 5+ daily departures. The SUR bus is the cheapest option at just $6 per person.
Compare Transport Options from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
Use the search tool below to compare all available transport options and book your tickets in advance for the best prices.
Distance from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
The distance from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco is approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles) by road along Highway 200, which hugs the Pacific coastline. By car, the drive takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic and the number of speed bumps (topes) you encounter in the small towns along the way.
By bus, expect the journey to take between 2 hours 10 minutes and 2 hours 40 minutes, as the bus makes scheduled stops in communities like Pochutla along the route. Note that the bus destination is listed as “Santa María Huatulco” or the La Crucecita terminal, which is the commercial center of the Bahías de Huatulco resort area.
Comparison Table: Puerto Escondido to Huatulco Transport Options
| Method | Travel Time | Price (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADO / OCC Bus | 2h 20min – 2h 40min | $16 – $21 | Most travelers, comfort & reliability |
| SUR Bus (Economy) | 2h 30min – 3h | $6 | Budget travelers, local experience |
| Private Transfer | 1h 30min – 2h | $60 – $115 | Families, groups, comfort seekers |
| AltaMar Bus | 2h 30min – 2h 55min | $11 – $17 | Budget alternative to ADO |
| Taxi | 1h 30min – 2h | $60 – $80 | Convenience, flexible schedule |
| Rental Car | 1h 30min – 2h | $30 – $60/day + gas | Flexibility, exploring the coast |
1. ADO or OCC Bus from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
Travel time: 1h 55min to 2h 20min
The ADO and OCC first-class bus services are the most popular and practical way to travel from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco. These are the same bus company network (Grupo ADO), and both operate comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats, onboard restrooms, and sometimes WiFi.
ADO operates approximately 5 departures daily, while OCC adds several more. AltaMar (part of Grupo Estrella Blanca) also runs 4 daily departures on this route at a slightly lower price point ($11 to $17), giving you plenty of scheduling flexibility throughout the day.
Tickets cost between $16 and $21, depending on the departure time and whether you choose a standard or executive-class seat. The journey takes approximately 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes, with a brief stop in Pochutla along the way.
All buses depart from the Puerto Escondido ADO terminal, located on the main highway near the center of town, and arrive at the La Crucecita bus terminal in Huatulco.
ADO / OCC Bus Schedule: Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
| Operator | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCC | 3:20 AM | 5:50 AM | 2h 30m | $16 |
| OCC | 5:25 AM | 7:45 AM | 2h 20m | $16 |
| ADO | 8:40 AM | 11:00 AM | 2h 20m | $18 |
| OCC | 11:40 AM | 2:00 PM | 2h 20m | $16 |
| ADO | 6:15 PM | 8:35 PM | 2h 20m | $21 |
💡 Pro tip: ADO buses have no strict luggage limits. You can bring multiple bags without extra charges, making them ideal for travelers with surfboards or large backpacks.
Bus Operators on This Route
We recommend booking your ADO bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season (December through March) and around Mexican holidays. You can book through the ADO app or website, or book ADO bus tickets from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco on GuateGo to see all available departures side by side.
One of the best features of ADO is that there are no strict luggage limits. You can bring multiple bags without extra charges, and luggage is stored securely in the compartment below the bus.
For travelers catching a flight out of Huatulco Airport (HUX), be aware that the bus terminal in La Crucecita is about 16 kilometers from the airport. You will need a short taxi ride (approximately $5 to $8) to reach the terminal.
Alternatively, if you take the OCC bus, let the driver know you need to get off at the airport highway intersection, and you will pay a slightly reduced fare.
2. SUR Bus from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco (Budget Option)
Travel time: 2h 30min to 3 hours
The SUR bus is the go-to budget option for this route and is the bus of choice for locals and long-stay visitors. At just $6 per person (approximately 120 Mexican pesos), it costs a fraction of the first-class services.
SUR buses depart roughly every hour from the Puerto Escondido bus station, with the first departure around 6:00 AM and the last around 7:00 PM. The trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours because the bus makes frequent stops in the small towns along Highway 200.
SUR buses are classified as “intermediate” class. You will get air conditioning and basic reclining seats, but do not expect the amenities of a first-class bus such as entertainment screens, reserved seating, or snacks.
Seating is first come, first served, so arrive at the station a bit early to secure a seat, particularly on weekends and holidays when buses can fill up. If the bus is full, you may have to wait for the next departure.
One practical tip: if your destination is Huatulco Airport rather than the town of La Crucecita, tell the driver “aeropuerto” when you board. The SUR bus passes the airport highway intersection before reaching the La Crucecita terminal, and the driver can drop you at the junction.
From there, the airport entrance is a short walk or taxi ride away. Neither ADO nor OCC buses stop at the highway intersection, only the SUR bus does.
3. Private Transfer from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
Travel time: 1h 30min to 2 hours
A private transfer is the most comfortable and convenient option, particularly for families, groups of travelers, or anyone arriving on a flight and wanting door-to-door service. Several operators offer private transfers from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco (or Huatulco Airport), with vehicles ranging from sedans for 1 to 3 passengers to minivans accommodating up to 10 or even 17 passengers.
Prices typically start around $60 for a sedan and go up to $115 or more for larger vehicles. The transfer takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and the driver will pick you up directly from your hotel, Airbnb, or the airport and drop you at your destination in Huatulco.
All vehicles are air-conditioned, and the ride is smooth along Highway 200.
You can book a private transfer from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco to find the best price for your group size. We recommend booking at least 24 to 48 hours in advance, especially during the high season (November through April) when demand is high.
Private transfers are also the best choice if you are traveling with young children, elderly family members, or a lot of luggage, since you avoid the hassle of navigating bus stations.
4. Taxi from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
Travel time: 1h 30min to 2 hours
Taking a taxi from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco is a flexible option that does not require advance booking. You can negotiate a fare with taxi drivers at the taxi stands in Puerto Escondido, particularly near the Adoquín pedestrian zone or along the main highway.
Expect to pay between $60 and $80 (approximately 1,200 to 1,500 Mexican pesos) for the one-way trip, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
The taxi drivers along the Oaxaca coast are generally professional and reliable. In the Huatulco and Puerto Escondido area, taxis are unionized, which means rates are fairly standardized.
Always negotiate and agree on the fare before getting in the car. Most taxis on this route have air conditioning, and you will have the vehicle to yourself, so there is no waiting for other passengers or making extra stops.
A taxi makes the most sense when you need to leave at a specific time that does not match the bus schedule, or if you are a small group of 2 to 3 people who can split the cost. For solo travelers, the bus is significantly more economical.
If you are heading to Huatulco Airport for a flight, make sure to communicate your flight time clearly to the driver and leave at least 3 to 4 hours before departure to account for the drive time and airport check-in.
5. Rental Car from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
Travel time: 1h 30min to 2 hours
Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore the Oaxacan coast at your own pace. The drive from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco along Highway 200 takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and is generally straightforward, though the road passes through many small communities with frequent speed bumps (topes).
The road is paved and in reasonable condition, but the speed limit is often 60 km/h, and you will slow down frequently for the topes and local traffic.
Rental car agencies are available at Puerto Escondido Airport, including Europcar and Hertz. Daily rental rates start around $30 to $60 depending on the vehicle type and season.
Gas for the trip costs approximately $10 to $15. Full Mexican car insurance is strongly recommended and sometimes required by rental agencies.
💡 Pro tip: Drive only during daylight hours. Highway 200 is not well-lit, and the risk of hitting wildlife or missing unmarked speed bumps (topes) increases significantly after dark.
💡 Pro tip: If you are not in a rush, take the scenic side road near the Pochutla intersection (after the military checkpoint) through Puerto Angel, Zipolite, San Agustinillo, and Mazunte. It adds less than 30 minutes and offers amazing ocean views, beach stops, and local restaurants along the way.
You can compare rental car prices for Puerto Escondido to find the best deal.
Drive defensively and be cautious of other drivers as they may not obey all traffic laws. The highway is curvy in many sections with winding stretches along the rocky coastline. Expect a military checkpoint near the Pochutla turnoff, which is routine and nothing to worry about. Animals and pedestrians may be on the highway, especially near small communities. We strongly recommend driving only during daylight hours on this route.
The highway is not well-lit, and there is a higher risk of encountering animals or poorly marked road hazards after dark. If you plan to stop at beaches or towns along the way, such as Puerto Ángel, Zipolite, or Mazunte, a rental car is the ideal choice since these communities are all located between Puerto Escondido and Huatulco on Highway 200.
Best Value and Recommendations
Cheapest option: SUR Bus ($6). If you are on a tight budget and have flexibility with your schedule, the SUR bus is unbeatable at just $6. The trade-off is more frequent stops, no reserved seating, and basic amenities.
This is the go-to for backpackers and long-stay visitors.
Fastest option: Private transfer or rental car (1.5 hours). Both get you from door to door in approximately 1.5 hours without stops. The private transfer is better if you want to sit back and relax, while the rental car is ideal if you plan to explore stops along the coast.
Best overall value: ADO or OCC bus ($16 to $21). For most travelers, the first-class bus offers the best combination of comfort, reliability, and affordability. Air-conditioned coaches, generous luggage allowances, multiple daily departures, and a 2-hour 20-minute travel time make this the smart default choice.
You can check ADO and OCC schedules from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco on Bookaway as well.
Practical Tips for This Route
Payment: ADO and OCC accept credit cards and can be booked online. SUR buses accept cash only (Mexican pesos) at the station. If using a foreign bank card at the ADO terminal, consider paying with a digital Wise card to avoid foreign transaction fees.
Arriving at night in Huatulco: If your bus arrives late, the Aeropuerto Express Huatulco hotel is within walking distance of Huatulco Airport with a 24-hour front desk and free breakfast. In La Crucecita, Mision de los Arcos (cash only) and the Holiday Inn Huatulco (from $100/night, pool included) are solid budget options steps from Santa Cruz beach.
Drop-off tip for Puerto Escondido: If you are heading to the La Punta or Zicatela area, ask the bus driver to drop you at the first major intersection when you enter town rather than continuing to the ADO terminal on Highway 200. This saves you a taxi ride back.
Immigration documents: Always carry your passport and immigration form (INM) when traveling between towns in Mexico. You may be asked to show them at the military checkpoint near Pochutla.
Best Time to Travel from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
The best time to depart Puerto Escondido for Huatulco is in the morning, ideally between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Morning departures let you arrive in Huatulco before the midday heat and give you plenty of time to settle into your accommodation.
If you are catching a flight from Huatulco Airport, plan to take the earliest possible bus or schedule your private transfer to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your departure.
Seasonally, the Oaxacan coast sees its highest tourist traffic from November through April (the dry season). During this period, bus seats sell out faster and private transfer availability can be limited, so we recommend organizing transportation in advance to get a better deal.
The rainy season runs from June through October, and while roads remain passable, you may encounter heavier downpours in the afternoon that can slow driving conditions.
Prices and schedules were last verified in April 2026.
Best Day Tours in Huatulco
Once you arrive in Huatulco, there is plenty to explore across its nine stunning bays and 36 beaches. Here are some of the best-rated activities to make the most of your visit.
🎯 Which Option is Right for You?
Solo backpacker on a budget? Take the SUR bus for $6. Family with kids or heavy luggage? Book a private transfer and split the cost. Want the best balance of comfort and price? The ADO first-class bus at $16 is the smart default. Planning to explore Zipolite, Mazunte, or Puerto Angel along the way? Rent a car and make a day of it.
FAQ: Puerto Escondido to Huatulco
How do I get from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco?
The most common way is by ADO or OCC first-class bus, costing $16 to $21 and taking about 2 hours 20 minutes. Other options include the SUR economy bus ($6, 2.5 hours), a private transfer ($60 to $115, 1.5 hours), a taxi ($60 to $80), or a rental car. All ground transport follows Highway 200 along the Oaxacan Pacific coast.
How much does a bus from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco cost?
Bus tickets range from $6 to $21 depending on the company and service class. The economy SUR bus costs approximately $6 (120 pesos), while the ADO first-class bus costs between $16 and $21. Executive-class seats offer additional legroom for a slightly higher fare.
How long does it take to get from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco?
Travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on transport mode. Driving or taking a private transfer is the fastest at roughly 1.5 hours. The ADO bus takes about 2 hours 20 minutes, and the SUR bus can take up to 3 hours due to frequent stops.
Where does the bus to Huatulco depart from in Puerto Escondido?
ADO, OCC, and SUR buses all depart from the Puerto Escondido bus terminal, located on the main highway near the town center. You can buy tickets at the station or book online in advance through the ADO website or GuateGo. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to secure your seat, especially for SUR buses which operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where does the bus arrive in Huatulco?
All intercity buses arrive at the La Crucecita bus terminal in Huatulco, which is the commercial center of the Bahias de Huatulco resort area. From La Crucecita, local taxis and colectivos can take you to Tangolunda, Santa Cruz, Chahue, or other bay areas. If you need Huatulco Airport (HUX), the terminal is approximately 16 km away, requiring a short taxi ($5 to $8).
Is it safe to travel from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco?
Yes, the Highway 200 route is generally considered safe. ADO and OCC are well-established bus companies, and taxis in the region are unionized and professional. We recommend traveling during daylight hours, especially if driving a rental car, as the highway is not well-lit at night.
Is it safe to travel from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco at night?
First-class ADO or OCC buses at night are generally safe with experienced drivers. However, we do not recommend driving a rental car or taking a taxi after dark. Highway 200 has unlit stretches and the risk of encountering animals or poorly marked speed bumps increases significantly at night.
Can I take a colectivo from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco?
There is no direct colectivo service on this route. You would need to follow two steps: Step 1, take a colectivo from Puerto Escondido to Pochutla (approximately 1 hour, $3 to $5). Step 2, transfer to a Delfines bus or another colectivo from Pochutla to Huatulco (approximately 1 hour, $3 to $5). This two-leg journey costs more and takes longer than a direct ADO or SUR bus, so we recommend the bus instead.
How much luggage can I bring on the bus?
ADO and OCC buses have no strict luggage limits on this route. You can bring multiple bags without extra charges, stored in a secure compartment below the bus. You may also bring a small carry-on bag onboard. The SUR bus allows luggage too, though space can be tighter.
Should I book my bus ticket in advance?
We recommend booking ahead during the high season (November through April) and around Mexican holidays like Semana Santa and Christmas. During these periods, buses can sell out. In the off-season, walk-up tickets are usually available, but online booking guarantees a reserved seat at the best price.
What is the cheapest way to get from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco?
The SUR bus is the cheapest option at approximately $6 per person (around 120 Mexican pesos). Departures run roughly every hour from the Puerto Escondido bus station. The trip takes 2.5 to 3 hours and is the option most used by locals and budget travelers.
Can I get from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco Airport directly?
The SUR bus passes the Huatulco Airport highway intersection. Tell the driver aeropuerto when you board and they will drop you at the junction. ADO and OCC buses go to the La Crucecita terminal, about 16 km from the airport, requiring a short taxi ride ($5 to $8).
Is Uber available from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco?
Uber does not currently operate in Puerto Escondido or Huatulco. For on-demand rides, use local taxis or arrange a private transfer in advance. The taxi unions in both towns are well-organized and offer standardized pricing for intercity routes.
What are the stops between Puerto Escondido and Huatulco?
Highway 200 passes through Puerto Angel, Zipolite, San Agustinillo, Mazunte, and Pochutla. The ADO bus typically stops only in Pochutla, while the SUR bus makes multiple stops. If driving a rental car, these beach towns are excellent pit stops for a meal or swim.
More Routes from Puerto Escondido
Exploring more of the Oaxacan coast? Check out these related route guides:
🚐 Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca City – Complete guide to crossing the Sierra Madre
🚐 Puerto Escondido to Zipolite – Short coastal trip to Oaxaca’s famous nudist beach
🚐 Puerto Escondido to Mazunte – Getting to the bohemian beach village
🚐 Puerto Escondido to Chacahua – Lagoon and bioluminescence adventure
🚐 Huatulco to Oaxaca City – Continue your journey inland from Huatulco
✅ Ready to book your transport from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco? compare all Puerto Escondido to Huatulco transport options and book to find the best deal for your trip.
- About the Author
- More info
AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
- About the Author
- More info
Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
