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Oaxaca Beach towns are perfect for nature lovers, surfers, and those looking for a more quiet getaway along with Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Famous for its golden sand and nesting turtles that come here every year, this part of the country is a perfect spot for an idyllic vacation away from big coastal cities and busy resorts.
There’s a chance you already heard about some Oaxaca beach towns like Zipolite or Mazunte – small coastal towns where you can chill, hike and watch wildlife before watching the colorful sunset.
While these destinations might not be as popular as Tulum and Sayulita, Oaxaca beaches have all the stunning scenery – and none of the crowds, so you can have a relaxed getaway!
Where are Oaxaca beach towns located?
Oaxaca is a state in Southern Mexico. It borders the state of Chiapas to the south, Veracruz to the east, and the states of Puebla and Guerrero to the north. Oaxaca beach towns are located along the Pacific Coastline of Mexico.
PRO TIP: If you want to get a glimpse in the culture of the state before hitting Oaxaca beaches, start your trip in Oaxaca De Juarez (aka Oaxaca City) where you can take a free guided tour, taste Mezcal, shop at local artisan markets and try mole – a signature Oaxaca sauce.
Puerto Escondido
One of the most popular destinations along the Oaxaca coast, Puerto Escondido is a small town that boasts some of the best surfing in Mexico, with Playa Zicatela having waves up to 10 feet and higher!
But surfing in Puerto Escondido is not the only game in town.
Many travelers come here for its low-key atmosphere, unspoiled nature, and local turtle conservation programs (more about it below). The town has no high-rises or mega-resorts and you can take in scenic views all day long in your shorts and a t-shirt.
Best beaches in Puerto Escondido
Playa Carrizalillo
Where to stay: Posada Real Puerto Escondido
One of the best beaches in Oaxaca and my favorite beach in Puerto Escondido, Playa Carrizalillo is a small but cozy hangout with small waves which are great for beginner surfers.
Framed by the lush hills, this beach has restaurants, sun loungers, and umbrellas – everything you need for a lazy beach day. You can also hire a surfing instructor who will go with you in the open water and give you a quick lesson.
To reach Playa Carrirzalillo, you need to go down steep stone stairs, which is easy on the way to the beach but is the real workout on the way back. Come early morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Playa De Zicatela
Where to stay: Selina Puerto Escondido
If you are an experienced surfer, grab your board and head to Playa de Zicatela, one of the best beaches in Oaxaca for surfing. This is a wide sandy beach with plenty of space for everyone. Many people also come here to run, walk their dogs and just enjoy the sound of the crashing waves.
If you are a newbie surfer, you are better off heading to other beaches in Puerto Escondido such as Carrizalillo and La Punta to learn the ropes of this popular water sport. Take a lesson at some of the best surf schools in Puerto Escondido like Pacific Surf Academy or Oasis Surf School.
Along Playa Zicatela you will find many restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to tourists. Zicatela is considered not safe for swimming due to big waves, so there’s not a lot of people here, compared to Playa Carrizalillo. Bring an umbrella and some sunscreen because this beach has no shade.
Playa Bacocho
Where to stay: Shavanna Hotel Boutique
Turtle conservation is a big deal in Puerto Escondido with multiple volunteer organizations monitoring local beaches to prevent poaching, and theft of turtles’ eggs, as some people unfortunately still eat them.
Vive Mar, a local volunteer group, organizes daily events where dozens of newly hatched baby turtles are released into the ocean around the sunset. Local volunteers run egg hatcheries protect the eggs and make sure the newly born turtles are released in the water safely.
To release a baby turtle into the ocean you need to pay 300 Pesos in cash.
Book a turtle release session online:
The event takes place daily around 5 p.m.
When you arrive at Playa Bacocho, look for a small hut where you can sign up and pay your fee.
Before the event, a volunteer gives a briefing to the group about local conservation efforts and provides detailed instructions on how to release baby turtles into the ocean properly without harming them. Since turtle conservation is taken very seriously here, you will have a chance to learn about the project and talk to many volunteers who work here.
Playa Puerto Angelito
Where to stay: Hotel Villas Xaiba
A popular local beach, Playa Puerto Angelito looks more like half-bay with dozens of small boats anchored in the area. The beach sits in a small cove and also has excellent conditions for snorkeling thanks to a small reef not far from the shore.
If you want to go on a whale watching tour, where you can also swim with turtles and dolphins, keep this place in mind because many boat tours depart from here.
There are also many stores and restaurants nearby where you can grab some food and drink if you decide to spend here all day.
Playa Manzanillo
Where to stay: Casa Losodeli
Right in the same bay, you will also find Playa Manzanillo (you can walk there from Puerto Angelito), another family-friendly beach that is sheltered from big waves and is slightly less crowded than Playa Puerto Angelito.
Best things to do in Puerto Escondido
Go on a dolphin watching tour
The coast of Oaxaca has so much wildlife! Here you can easily spot turtles, dolphins, and if you get lucky – even whales! And the good news is you can do all of it with an organized tour right from Puerto Escondido! Go on a dolphin watching tour during the sunrise – because it’s the best time to spot them!
Take a boat trip to Bioluminescent Bays
Many tour companies around Puerto Escondido offer boat tours to Laguna Manialtepec that light up with the bioluminescent type of plankton. This wonderful natural phenomenon can be seen every night although the degree of brightness can vary depending on the amount of moonlight.
Visit Lagunas De Chacahua
Lagunas de Chacahua National Park is a beautiful area about one hour away from Puerto Escondido where you can spot wildlife, surf, and just relax on the beach. Although you can get there by car, it’s a good idea to take a guided tour from Puerto Escondido, especially if the time is short.
If you drive to Lagunas De Chacahua from Puerto Escondido, you need to get to Zapotalito, a small town about one hour away from Puerto Escondido that can be reached by taxi or collective. From there, you will need to hire a boat to Chachua, a small island with scenic views where you can unplug for a couple of days.
Best hotels in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is a small town with a low-key vibe that has plenty of accommodations for all types of travelers. Here’s a quick overview of different hotels in Puerto Escondido that will fit any budget and travel style.
✅ Luxury: Casa UMI, a gorgeous villa with cool minimalistic designs within walking distance to many hotels and restaurants.
✅ Mid-range: Eco Lodge Pueblo Del Sol is one of the best new hotels in Puerto Escondido that provides a perfect atmosphere to relax and disconnect. Located 5 minutes away from Playa Zicatela, offers close proximity to many restaurants and bars.
✅ Budget: Rincon Del Pacifico is one of the best budget hotels in Puerto Escondido that offers central location and great value.
Huatulco
Bahias de Huatulco is one of the most popular Oaxaca beach towns. The word Bahias means bays in Spanish, and this area is home to the national park (Parquet Nacional Bahias De Huatulco) that has nine bays and 36(!) beaches.
Pronounced (“Wah-tool-Koh”), this area has 26 kilometers of coastline. Some of the bays have been protected as UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the entire area doesn’t smack you in the face with its sort vibe like some other parts of Mexico.
Mazunte or Huatulco? Check my comparison of the two popular Oaxaca towns.
Huatulco, managed to strike the balance, as most resorts keep a low profile. The area is great for adventure lovers as it offers opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, zip-lining, and chilling on the beach. I recommend taking a boat tour to visit the Bays of Huatulco.
Best things to do in Huatulco
As one of the most popular beaches along the Oaxaca Coast, Huatulco has plenty of activities. Whether you want to relax on one of Huatulco’s beaches, go for some snorkeling or watch whales during the migration season, you will not get bored here!
Hop around Bahias de Huatulco
With 36 beaches tucked into 9 stunning bays, Huatulco is home to some of the best Oaxaca beaches! I recommend visiting Bahia Santa Cruz, Bahia San Agustin, Playa Entrega, and Bahia de Cacluta. The best way to see them is with a rental car, because local transportation is not always reliable.
Take a trip to Copalita Eco Park
If you want to get away from the beach, take a tour to the nearby Parque Eco-Arqueologico de Bocana Copalia for a day. This location boasts a small ruin site, several hiking trails, and designated routes for ATVs.
Jump in the Cascadas Magicas de Copalitilla, a beautiful area with stunning waterfalls and natural pools.
Visit La Crucecita
For the curious traveler, take a trip to the nearby town of La Crucecita where you can find many budget accommodations, low-key restaurants, and budget shopping. This town is home to many people who work in the Huatulco tourism industry, so you will find more local prices here, as opposed to tourist-oriented ones.
Where to stay in Huatulco
Since Huatulco has more resorts than any other beach town along the Oaxaca Coast. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to stay here, because there are enough hotels in Huatulco for all budgets.
✅ Luxury: Villa Rebecca that boasts sea views and is located only 650 feet away from Playa Arena.
✅ Mid-range: La Bocana Beach House. This beautiful property is located in Santa Maria Huatulco, 1 mile from Playa Arena. It has a patio, darts, free private parking and free WiFi.
✅ Budget: Casa Palmera is a great budget accommodation that offers affordable rates and convenient location only 1.2 miles from Santa Cruz Beach.
Puerto Angel
Collectively known as “The Riviera Oaxaquena,” the beaches of Mazunte, Zipolite, and San Agustinillo offer rustic vibes and are particularly popular for yoga retreats. This group of beaches sits along the coast right between Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, making it a perfect alternative to these popular tourist destinations.
Zipolite
The wide sandy Ziplote is easily one of the best beaches in Oaxaca. It is also home to the only legal nude beach in Mexico outside of the Naked Hotel Zipolite, so make sure to keep your clothes on while walking around town.
Stretching for two kilometers, Ziploite still reserves its rustic vibe, as it has been largely spared from commercial development and only has some casual restaurants and cafes. If you plan to spend some time in Rivera Oaxaquena, make sure to visit Zipolite for a day or two to enjoy its relaxing atmosphere and slower pace of life.
Is it safe to swim in Zipolite?
Zipolite Beach is gorgeous, but it’s not safe for swimming because of the dangerous currents. Oftentimes, you might see the flags in the sand to warn visitors of potential danger.
Where to stay in Zipolite
El Alquimista Hotel on Zipolite Beach has a spa, and offers daily yoga classes, and an adult-only swimming pool. Another great place to stay in Zipolite is Hotel Descalzo just over 0.5 miles from Camaron Beach. This hotel has a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar.
Mazunte
A popular hangout for hippies and yoga lovers, Mazunte is a small town along Oaxaca Coast famous for its unspoiled views of the craggy coastline and some of the best beaches in Oaxaca.
Mazunte was designated as Pueblo Magico in 2020? Mazunte is indeed a very small town and the only Pueblo Magico along the Oaxaca Coast.
Pueblos Magicos is a uniquely Mexican concept.
In 2021, the government of the country decided to bring more tourists to less-known, rural destinations around the country to boost their economy. The program has proved successful and and now there are 132 Pueblos Magicos in Mexico.
Best things to do in Mazunte
Mazunte might seem like a sleepy town, but it has plenty of things to keep you busy for at least a couple of days. Here is a quick rundown of some of the most popular activities in Mazunte.
Visit Centro Mexicano De La Tortuga
With turtle conservation playing such a big role in beach communities of Oaxaca, it’s a good idea to learn about local efforts to preserve the species. Centro Mexicano De La Tortuga is a conservation center in Mazunte where you can learn about turtles, as well as other marine species native to this part of Mexico.
Participate in a yoga retreat
Mazunte is a popular destination for yogis and spiritual types, many of whom come to Hridaya Mazunte, a local yoga center, that offers classes and retreats at a reasonable price. Make sure to check them out, if you plan to spend at least a few days in Mazunte.
Relax on the beach
Mazunte is known for its untouched beaches that are often frequented by sea turtles during a certain time of the year. You too should take an opportunity to appreciate this beautiful part of the Oaxaca Coast. Playa Mazunte is the main beach in town where you can find many cafes and restaurants, while Playa Mermejita is considered one of the most beautiful Oaxaca beaches.
Check out Mazunte restaurants
With only one main road running through town, Mazunte’s food options are somewhat limited, but make no mistake, for the small size of this town, you will plenty to choose from. I suggest Los Marcianos and Huitzili, best vegan restaurants that offers delicious food and nice ambiance.
Hike to Punta Cometa
A short hike from Playa Mazunte, Punta Cometa is the southernmost point of the state of Oaxaca. It is particularly popular for sunset watching, however, it’s just as gorgeous at any time of the day. Perched above Playa Mermejita, Punta Cometa provides an excellent overlook of the entire area, so make sure to bring your camera when you come here.
Consider renting a car for your trip to Mazunte
Since Mazunte, San Agustinillo, and Puerto Angel are all located within 30 minutes from one another, so renting a car is a perfect option, and you can get it at the Huatulco Airport or at the Puerto Escondido Airport.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR CAR ONLINE AND SKIP THE WAIT
If a car rental is not in your budget, head to the main road and wait until Pasajero, a big taxi truck where you can hop in the back for about 20 pesos and take a ride to the next Oaxaca beach.
✅ Find out all options on how to get from Huatulco Airport to Mazunte
Where to stay in Mazunte
For a small town where most restaurants are located along one street, Mazunte offers plenty of accommodations. Some of the best hotels in Mazunte are Casa Lu Boutique Hotel about 0.6 miles from Mermejita Beach and Guest House Casa Balu with beautiful minimalistic design.
✅ Check my complete guide on where to stay in Mazunte
San Agustinillo
A close neighbor of Mazunte, San Agustinillo is one of smallest Oaxaca beach towns that is often praised by travelers for its remarkable beaches.
If you are looking to explore some of the best Oaxaca beaches you can stay in Mazunte during the daytime and head back to San Agustinillo for the night to catch some sleep. Win-win!
Best things to do in San Agustinillo
Since most things in San Agustinillo revolve around the beach, you shouldn’t plan on much more if you want to spend a couple of days in this town. You can also take an inexpensive tour with one of the local guides to see dolphins and sea turtles just off the coast of San Agustinillo.
Where to stay in San Agustinillo
One of the most beautiful hotels in San Agustinillo is Casa Cometa that is popular with travelers because of its setting near the beach and ocean views. Hotel Sal De Mar is a beautiful boutique hotel with great atmosphere, spacious patio and pool.
Puerto Angel
Located about 30 minutes to the west of San Agustinillo, Puerto Angel is the last town in Rivera Oaxaquena. It’s the most remote of all Oaxaca beach towns, and sees fewer tourists than other places on the list.
While Puerto Angel remains a quiet fishing village, the town now has several hotels, as tourism is becoming a dominant part of the local economy. Still, it’s mostly a non-touristy town which is great to visit because it offers a glimpse into the life of the Oaxacan coastal community.
Best things to do in Puerto Angel
Aside from learning the traditional way of living on the Oaxaca Coast, you can enjoy swimming on Playa Panteon, and take in the quiet atmosphere before heading to your next destination.
Where to stay in Puerto Angel
If you decide to spend a night or two in Puerto Angel, there are a couple of options. For example, Monte Uzulu Boutique Hotel offers a combination of beautiful interior and affordable prices, and Zazil Retreat is a beautiful property popular for yoga retreats 1 mile from San Agustinillo Beach that offers on-site dining and free Wi-Fi.
How to get to Oaxaca beaches?
There are several ways to make it to Oaxaca beach towns, depending on your travel plans and budget. Whether you are traveling around Mexico, or just taking a quick getaway, you can arrive at Oaxaca beaches by plane or by bus from several destinations in Mexico.
Getting to Oaxaca beaches by plane
Although there are no international flights to Oaxaca Coast, there are daily flights from Mexico City, Oaxaca de Juarez (Aka Oaxaca City), and Guadalajara to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco.
What airport do I fly into to visit Oaxaca beach towns?
To visit Oaxaca beaches, you can catch a flight to one of the airports along the coast (if you are traveling from a destination within Mexico), or fly into Oaxaca International Airport that has flights from the United States. After that, you can either catch a bus or take rent a car to make your way to Oaxaca beach towns.
Puerto Escondido Airport
If you want to stay in Puerto Escondido, you should fly to Puerto Escondido Airport (Code PXM). The airport has no direct flights from the United States, so you will have to catch a connecting flight from Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Guadalajara.
Bahias De Huatulco International Airport
Bahias De Huatulco International Airport (HUX) is more suitable for travelers who want to visit Mazunte, Huatulco, San Agustinillo and Puerto Angel. Just like Puerto Escondido Airport, Bahias De Huatulco Airport is served mostly by domestic flights from Mexico City, Oaxaca De Juarez, and Tijuana.
Getting to Oaxaca beaches by bus
There are several buses per day to Oaxaca’s beach towns from the main bus station in Oaxaca de Juarez. They typically depart late in the evening and arrive early morning, so you can sleep on a bus, and still have the entire next day to explore and have fun.
Oaxaca beach towns: FAQ’s
If you still have questions about Oaxaca beaches, I prepared a shortlist that should help to clear any doubts you might have.
Why should I visit Oaxaca beaches?
Rugged and free from crowds, Oaxaca beaches cater to the type of traveler who is looking to discover authentic Mexican beach towns with friendly locals and eat in small local taquerias where you can feast on homemade food.
The remote location of Oaxaca beaches is part of the draw. Oaxaca beaches are not easily accessible and depending on where you travel from, it might take you two or three flights plus a bus ride to get here.
But the journey is well worth it: Once you arrive, you will be treated to incredible scenery and will fall in love with the local culture that is incredibly welcoming and ready to help you with any questions.
What is the best time to visit Oaxaca beaches?
If you want the clear sunny weather with no rain, the best time to visit Oaxaca beaches is from late October through early June. This however, comes with a caveat, because the dry season is also the busiest time in Oaxaca.
If you are looking for a less busy time, consider the shoulder season which is from late October through early December before it gets too busy and from April through May before the rainy season begins.
What’s the weather like along Oaxaca Coast?
The Oaxaca Coast has a tropical arid climate with little rain and plenty of sunshine. The hurricane season lasts from June through September and brings rainfall and cloudy days.
Winter is the dry season when most days are sunny and clear with temperatures ranging from the high 80’s to mid-’90s. However, it is also the busiest time along Oaxaca Coast when most travelers come here.
Visit Oaxaca beaches during the shoulder season which lasts from late October through early December when it’s not too busy yet, and prices on accommodations are reasonable.
Are Oaxaca beaches safe to visit?
Oaxaca beaches are perfectly safe to visit. Oaxaca is considered one of the safest states in Mexico, so your biggest worry here is getting a sunburn. However, not all Oaxaca beaches are safe for swimming. Some surfing beaches in Oaxaca are suitable only for experienced surfers, so if you are a newbie, it’s a good idea to take a lesson in one of the local schools.
Always be aware of your surroundings whether you are visiting Oaxaca beaches or any other destination in Mexico. Keep your belongings in a secure place and make sure to keep your friends and family back home posted about your whereabouts.
Getting insurance ahead of your trip is a good idea, as it will protect you from losing your money. I recommend World Nomads that will ensure you in the event of lost or stolen luggage, sickness, and other unforeseen circumstances that could occur during your trip.
What do I need to pack for Oaxaca beaches?
If you plan to visit Oaxaca beaches, make sure to pack some swimwear, shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and sandals. And make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen.
Although Oaxaca Coast doesn’t have a barrier reef, it has plenty of marine wildlife, and chemicals in regular sunscreen can be harmful to it. That’s why your sunscreen needs to be reef-safe and biodegradable.
Oaxaca beaches have an average temperature of 85-100 degrees during the daytime throughout the year, so you will need more beach clothes. Nights get slightly cooler with temperatures dropping to the high 70s and low 80’s degrees Fahrenheit, so bring a light jacket if you plan on going out.
Oaxaca beach towns: final thoughts
I visited Oaxaca beach towns a few times, and always had a great time.
After visiting many popular beaches in Mexico, Oaxaca beaches struck me as more authentic and more genuine with their slow pace of life, friendly locals, and lack of huge mega-resorts catering to millions of people from all over the world.
I encourage you to visit Oaxaca beach towns and spend time along the Oaxaca Coast – one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico.