Zipolite Beach: proposal to declare it the only nudist beach in Oaxaca
Raul Laguna
In a motion presented to the LXV Legislature of the State of Oaxaca, deputies Eva Diego Cruz and Samuel Gurrión Matías, members of the Parliamentary Group of the Green Ecologist Party of Mexico, have formally proposed declaring Zipolite Beach as the only nudist beach in the state of Oaxaca. This proposal seeks to consolidate the status of Zipolite, which was already recognized as a nudist beach by the City Council of San Pedro Pochutla in 2016.
Zipolite Beach: a unique destination
Located about 3 kilometers west of Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca, Zipolite is a beach approximately 2 kilometers long and 40 meters wide, characterized by its golden sand, crystal-clear water and strong waves. This coastal paradise, also known as “Playa de los Muertos” (Beach of the Dead) due to its dangerous sea currents, has been for decades a favorite destination for those seeking a nudist experience in a natural and relaxed environment.
Zipolite's history dates back to the first half of the 20th century, when the beach was virtually uninhabited. However, in the 1960s and 1970s, the destination began to attract the hippie community, who were looking for a secluded and private place to freely enjoy the beach. This initial wave laid the groundwork for the growth of its fame as a sanctuary for free love and nudism.
Natural impacts and renewal
Despite its popularity, Zipolite has faced significant challenges over the years. In the 1990s and 2000s, the beach suffered severe damage from hurricanes and a fire. Hurricane Pauline in 1997, Hurricane Rick later that year, and the 2001 fire all wiped out much of the local infrastructure, including wooden structures and thatched roofs.
However, Zipolite has shown a remarkable capacity for recovery. Today, the beach has cabins, palapas and some hotels that offer greater comfort to visitors. Available activities include surfing, taking advantage of the waves, and mindfulness in ceremonial centers such as Shambhala, where meditation and yoga are practiced in contact with nature.
Recognition of nudism and legislative proposal
Nudism in Zipolite has been an accepted and promoted practice since the 1960s, and the official recognition as a nudist beach in 2016 by the San Pedro Pochutla City Council has helped to formalize this identity. The beach has become one of the best known in Mexico for the practice of nudism, offering a relaxed and tolerant environment for national and international tourists.
The motion presented to the State Congress of Oaxaca proposes to ratify and elevate this status, declaring Zipolite as the only nudist beach in the state. This measure aims to consolidate the identity of Zipolite, promote nudist tourism and strengthen the local culture that embraces this form of enjoyment in a natural environment.
Final considerations
The proposal by deputies Diego Cruz and Gurrión Matías highlights the cultural and touristic value of Zipolite and seeks to ensure that the beach maintains its unique status in Oaxaca. The agreement establishes that the declaration will take effect upon publication, reflecting a commitment to the preservation and promotion of this unique destination.
This agreement is a step towards consolidating Zipolite as a benchmark in nudist tourism in Mexico, highlighting its importance not only as a tourist destination, but also as a vital component of the cultural identity of the state of Oaxaca.
