The Naked Beauty of Puerto Angel

During the 19th century, Puerto Angel was an important port where ships loaded coffee and wood. However, the new land roads linking Salina Cruz to Oaxaca put this port city on the back burner. Only very few people ventured along the long and battered roads leading to this isolated spot. It seems its abandonment was well worth it: vast, unspoiled beaches with smooth, golden sand and crystal clear emerald waters offer an ideal spot to enjoy the gentle ocean breeze. This is how Zipolite, one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Angel, became Mexico’s most famous nudist beach. 

Just like the neighboring Puerto Escondido, Puerto Angel is ideal if your objective is getting closer to nature. From the town or from the pier, visitors can take a variety of tours to landscapes of unmatched beauty: the Ventanilla Lagoon, where magnificent bird-sighting tours are offered; the crystal clear waters of the Paraiso spring for a refreshing splash; or a boat ride to neighboring beaches where scuba diving and snorkeling are just some of the activities that await you. 

Several beaches make up Puerto Angel, offering you the chance to have a go at various water sports, or just to relax under the sun. In the downtown area, in addition to the main beach and the pier, you'll come across the Panteon beach, known for its luxuriantly calm waters. Towards the east, you'll find Estacahuite, La Mina, La Boquilla and La Tijera beaches, the latter being a favorite spot for scuba divers. Towards the west, you'll find the beaches of Zipolite, San Agustinillo, Ventanilla and Mazunte, where the Mexican Turtle Center is located.

Even though Zipolite is one of the most popular beaches, especially among Europeans, it is known for its high waves that are almost unrivalled for surfers, but somewhat risky for swimmers. Nearby, you'll encounter one of the most peaceful places in Puerto Angel: la Playa del Amor (Love beach), where the quiet environment and calm waves provide an unforgettably peaceful atmosphere.