When shopping in Huatulco, you’ll find a variety of options for purchasing unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. While the main hotels in Huatulco offer some shops selling basic items, to find local crafts, you’ll need to venture into town. The main shopping areas are located in La Crucecita and Santa Cruz, both just a short distance from the main hotel district in Tangolunda.
In these areas, you’ll find markets and shops where you can buy items such as jewelry, wooden sculptures, black clay Oaxacan pots, embroidered blouses, and even mezcal. The Santa Cruz Market, located by the marina, and the Crucecita Market, near the plaza, are popular spots for finding these unique items. In addition to the markets, there is also a small mall called Plaza Oaxaca in Crucecita, which offers a variety of crafts and jewelry.
If you’re looking for good deals, check out the flea market on weekends in the outskirts of La Crucecita. Overall, Huatulco offers a compact shopping experience, with everything within walking distance.
Key Takeaways:
- La Crucecita and Santa Cruz are the main shopping areas in Huatulco.
- Popular items to buy in Huatulco include jewelry, wooden sculptures, black clay Oaxacan pots, and embroidered blouses.
- The Santa Cruz Market and the Crucecita Market are popular spots for unique souvenirs.
- The Plaza Oaxaca mall in Crucecita offers a variety of crafts and jewelry.
- Visit the flea market on weekends for good deals on Oaxacan crafts.
Must-Visit Shops and Markets in Huatulco
When exploring the shopping scene in Huatulco, there are a few must-visit spots that you shouldn’t miss. One of these is the Museo de Artesanias Oaxaquenas, a store that specializes in regional handicrafts. Here, you’ll find a wide range of items such as alebrijes, Oaxacan clothes, black clay Oaxacan pots, and blankets. They even have a mezcal tasting area for you to sample this popular local drink.
Another notable shop is Maria Bonita, a gallery known for its fine jewelry. Here, you can browse through a selection of gold, silver, platinum, and precious stone jewelry, as well as diamonds. Both of these shops offer high-quality, unique items that make for great souvenirs or gifts.
Shopping Tips for Huatulco Visitors
If you’re planning a shopping spree in Huatulco, we have some valuable tips to enhance your experience. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, unique crafts, or local specialties, these tips will help you make the most of your shopping adventure.
1. Explore the Markets on Foot
When visiting the markets in Huatulco, we recommend exploring them on foot. The shopping areas are relatively small, spanning just about 3 city blocks. By walking, you can easily navigate through the various shops without missing anything. Plus, strolling allows you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.
2. Avoid the Plaza Oaxaca for Better Deals
The Plaza Oaxaca is a popular spot for touristy shirts and jewelry. While it offers a variety of items, you may want to avoid it if you’re looking for good deals. Prices here are typically 10 to 20% higher than what you would find on the streets or in the local markets. To score unique and authentic finds at affordable prices, consider venturing to the flea market on weekends in the outskirts of La Crucecita.
3. Discover Great Deals at the Flea Market
If you’re searching for great deals, the flea market in the outskirts of La Crucecita is worth a visit. Here, you’ll find a wide range of Oaxacan crafts, hardware, clothing, and more. This bustling market offers a vibrant shopping experience where you can snag unique pieces at bargain prices. Don’t forget to haggle and negotiate for even better deals!
“By exploring the local markets and shops, you’ll have the chance to find these unique regional specialties and take home a piece of Huatulco’s culture.”
Follow these tips to navigate the shopping scene in Huatulco like a pro. By exploring the markets on foot, avoiding higher-priced tourist spots, and seeking out the flea market for great deals, you’ll unlock a world of unique souvenirs and treasures.
| Shopping Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Explore on Foot | Walk through the markets to fully experience the vibrant atmosphere and discover hidden gems. |
| Avoid Plaza Oaxaca | Prices here can be higher than what you would find on the streets or in local markets. |
| Visit the Flea Market | Discover great deals on Oaxacan crafts, clothing, and more at the weekend flea market. |
Regional Specialties and Souvenirs in Huatulco
When shopping in Huatulco, you’ll have the opportunity to discover a range of regional specialties and souvenirs. Some popular items to look out for include Oaxacan embroidered blouses and dresses, known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Another specialty is barro negro, pottery made from dark clay that is exclusively found in the Oaxaca region. These pottery pieces are typically intricately designed and make for beautiful decorative pieces or functional items. By exploring the local markets and shops, you’ll have the chance to find these unique regional specialties and take home a piece of Huatulco’s culture.
One of the best places to find Oaxacan embroidered garments is at the Museo de Artesanias Oaxaquenas. This store offers a wide selection of beautifully crafted blouses and dresses that showcase the artistry and tradition of the local culture. The vibrant colors and intricate embroidery patterns make these garments truly special souvenirs that capture the essence of Huatulco.
If you’re looking to add some authentic Oaxacan pottery to your collection, be sure to visit the local markets and shops. The barro negro pottery, characterized by its dark color and detailed designs, is a true reflection of the region’s rich artistic heritage. You can find an array of barro negro pieces, such as vases, bowls, and decorative sculptures, that are handcrafted by skilled artisans. These unique pottery pieces will not only serve as beautiful mementos of your visit to Huatulco but also make for memorable gifts.
Comparison of Oaxacan Embroidered Garments and Barro Negro Pottery
| Oaxacan Embroidered Garments | Barro Negro Pottery |
|---|---|
| Known for vibrant colors and intricate embroidery | Characterized by dark clay and detailed designs |
| Available in various styles, including blouses and dresses | Offered in a range of forms, such as vases, bowls, and sculptures |
| Serves as a wearable piece of Huatulco’s culture | Serves as a decorative or functional item that embodies Oaxacan heritage |
By immersing yourself in the local markets and shops, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with the artisans and learn more about the craftsmanship behind these regional specialties. Whether you choose to purchase an Oaxacan embroidered garment or a barro negro pottery piece, these unique souvenirs will not only remind you of your time in Huatulco but also support the local artisans and preserve the cultural heritage of the region. Don’t miss the chance to take home a piece of Huatulco’s vibrant and artistic spirit!
Conclusion
Huatulco shopping in summary showcases a delightful experience for visitors seeking unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Whether you’re exploring the local markets or browsing through specialized shops, there are plenty of opportunities to find one-of-a-kind items to treasure. Huatulco offers a diverse range of options, from stunning jewelry and intricate pottery to vibrant clothing and regional specialties.
One of the highlights of shopping in Huatulco is its convenient and enjoyable layout. With compact shopping areas and a variety of options within walking distance, you can easily immerse yourself in the vibrant shopping culture. Make sure to visit the Museo de Artesanias Oaxaquenas for exceptional finds and explore Maria Bonita for fine jewelry.
To make the most of your shopping adventure in Huatulco, remember the valuable shopping tips mentioned earlier. By exploring the local markets on foot, you won’t miss out on any unique finds. Additionally, while shopping at Plaza Oaxaca can be tempting, it’s worth venturing out to the flea market in La Crucecita for great deals on Oaxacan crafts and clothing.
Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or just looking to bring home a special memento, Huatulco offers an enriching experience that combines vibrant culture, authentic craftsmanship, and the pleasure of discovering unique treasures.