Copalita Ecological Park and Ruins (Parque Eco Arqueológico Copalita)
The Basics
Travelers to the Oaxaca coast shouldn’t miss a visit to the Copalito Ruins, an archaeological park near the Copalita River with wooded trails, a museum, and ruins that date back more than 2,000 years. Home to some 60 different species of animals and a wide variety of indigenous birds, this spot is a haven for nature and wildlife lovers. Visit the park independently or on a hassle-free day trip from Puerto Escondido with round-trip transport.
Things to Know Before You Go
Visit the Copalita ruins independently or on a day trip from Puerto Escondido.
The archaeological park is open daily, and offers a site museum, restrooms, and parking.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces
Bring bug repellent, sunblock, a hat or sunglasses, and plenty of water.
How to Get There
The Copalita ruins are located on Boulevard Tangolunda-Copalita, just minutes from La Crucecita. Most visitors arrive by taxi or as part of a guided tour. For those looking to save money,collectivo taxis are available to shuttle passengers to and from the park.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The archaeological park is open daily from 8am to 5pm, and there really isn’t a bad time to visit. It receives just a fraction of the visitors of some of the larger archaeological sites in Oaxaca, so you can visit just about any time without having to worry about crowds.
La Crucecita
Originally built as the service town for the Huatulco resort area, La Crucecita has the feel of a small Mexican town. It’s located just minutes from the Copalita ruins and serves as a jumping off point for exploring Huatulco’s nine different bays. Here, visitors can sample Oaxacan cuisine and shop for artisan crafts at the traditional La Probadita market.
- Tangolunda Bay (Bahía Tangolunda)
- Órgano Bay (Bahía Órgano)
- Santa Cruz Bay (Bahía Santa Cruz)
- Huatulco National Park (Parque Nacional Huatulco)
- La Crucecita
- Playa La Entrega (La Entrega Bay)
- Maguey Bay (Bahía Maguey)
- Finca La Gloria
- Chachacual Bay
- San Agustin Bay (Bahía San Agustín)
- Copalita River (Río Copalita)
- Zipolite Beach (Playa Zipolite)
- Mexican Turtle Center (Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga)
- Cacaluta Bay (Bahia de Cacaluta)
- La Ventanilla