Zipolite : History, tradition and nudism on the Oaxaca Coast The Impartial of Oaxaca Zipolite , a picturesque Mexican town in the municipality of San Pedro Pochutla, Oaxaca, stands as an emblematic destination on the coast of ...

 

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Zipolite: History, tradition and nudism on the Oaxaca Coast

Its history dates back to pre-Hispanic times, now it has become one of the most popular beaches for nudist practice.

The history of Zipolite dates back to pre-Hispanic times. Photo: Social networks/To whom it may concern

Zipolite, a picturesque Mexican town in the municipality of San Pedro Pochutla, Oaxaca, stands as an emblematic destination on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Located just 3 kilometers from Puerto Ángel and 230 kilometers from the state capital, Oaxaca de Juárez, this beach has witnessed a rich and diverse history that spans from pre-Hispanic times to the present day.

BACKGROUND

In the sixties and seventies Zipolite flourished as a destination for the hippie movement. Photo: Social networks/To whom it may concern.

There are various versions of the origin of the name Zipolite, but the most popular refers to the fact that the word comes from the Zapotec language and means “beach of the dead.”

Its ancestral legacy dates back to Zapotec times, when Zipolite was a ceremonial center where turtles came en masse to lay their eggs in the warm sand, thus symbolizing the eternal cycle of life according to the interpretation of the ancient Zapotecs.

According to some historical documents, after the arrival of the conquerors, Zipolite was left in relative abandonment, while Puerto Ángel prospered as a port and refuge for pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries. However, at the beginning of the 20th century, some “original families” settled in Zipolite in search of a place to live and work the land.

NEW DAWN

Zipolite's fate changed radically in the late 1960s, during a total solar eclipse that attracted hundreds of people to the site. It was then that young people inspired by the 'hippie' movement discovered the virgin beach and adopted it as their home, proclaiming the ideals of “love and peace” to the rhythm of rock & roll.

Free from prejudices and social conventions, these young people chose to enjoy the sun and the sea without clothes, thus giving rise to the first nudist beach in Mexico, especially Playa Del Amor. Since then, Zipolite has become an emblematic destination for nudists, attracting tourists from all over the world who seek an atmosphere of freedom and acceptance.

THE NEW ZIPOLITE

Zipolite currently hosts the Nudist Festival held since 2016. Photo: Social network

In addition to its recognition as a nudist destination, Zipolite has experienced significant population and tourism growth in recent decades. Construction and urban development have expanded, making it one of the most popular destinations in the region.

In an effort to promote nudist tourism and encourage acceptance of body nudity without prejudice, the Nudist Festival is held annually, which began in 2016 and takes place at the end of January.

With its fascinating history, beautiful beaches and inclusive environment, Zipolite remains a unique destination in Mexico that celebrates freedom, nature and diversity. Although it is worth noting that, for some locals, the high tourist demand, Zipolite is beginning to present the problem of gentrification. Which could increase costs in your area and start displacing the natives of the place. This, given the growing settlement of foreigners and the purchase of land by powerful businessmen.