| 5 Best Oaxaca Beach Towns & More Stunning Oaxaca Beaches | Packing Up The Pieces On Mexico's Pacific southern coastline, find some of the best Oaxaca beach towns | Puerto Escondido | Chacahua | Zipolite | San Agustinillo | Mazunte ... |
5 BEST OAXACA BEACH TOWNS & MORE STUNNING OAXACA BEACHES
The Oaxaca coastline stretches close to 330 miles and boasts incredible beaches along the mighty Pacific Ocean. If there’s one thing that sets this region apart from other popular beach destinations in Mexico, it’s an unseeable spark of magic. Something you just have to visit to experience. A rusticness that is hard to find anymore these days.The beaches in Oaxaca receive far less tourists than other popular resort towns in Mexico.
The best Oaxaca beach towns only accent the allure of the rugged Pacific coastline. Surfers flock to this region to relish on the high of riding some epic waves. It’s worth a note that many of the beaches can have strong currents, which can make for hazardous swimming conditions. A majority of the beaches wave red flags, so always swim with extreme caution. Don’t let that deter a visit. The beaches of Oaxaca and their inviting towns are still more than worth a visit.
This guide showcases the best Oaxaca beach towns, how to reach each destination, and some helpful tips on what to see and do in each unique place. Each spot is so much more than sandy beaches.
The Oaxaca coastline is home to larger beach towns, like Puerto Escondindo, but still has untouched hidden gems, like Chacahau. There’s nude beaches, surfing spots for all levels, and beaches that are home to small fishing villages. Find lots of natural hikes, some on sacred lands, but almost all with the Sierra Sur Mountain range looming in the backdrop.
Here’s the complete guide on 5 of the best Oaxaca beach towns and other charming beaches in Oaxaca.
Table of Contents
- Puerto Escondido
- Chacahua
- Zipolite
- San Agustinillo
- Mazunte
- Best Oaxaca Beach Towns on the Stunning Oaxaca Coast
Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is maybe more of a small city than a beach town, but it’s the primary beach destination for those traveling to Oaxaca. This once sleepy village is now more of a bustling oceanside hub (population 45,00). Surfing is what originally drew people here and put this place on the map. Now, travelers still come to surf, but also practice yoga, drink at the many beach bars and night club, and soak in all the sun on the beautiful beaches of Puerto Escondido.
Skip to| Puerto Escondido Beaches| Puerto Escondido Restaurants| Puerto Escondido Accommodation
How to Get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca
The best way to get to Puerto Escondido is to fly. It’s fast and the flights are oftentimes reasonably priced. The flights don’t run too frequently, and like most short flights, luggage is the biggest expense.
There are collectivos that run to and from Oaxaca, but it can be a long haul and not so comfortable. The collectivos wind through the mountains and it isn’t so roomy in a van.
ADO runs an overnight bus to and from Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. This is a great option, as the bus is air-conditioned and the seats just comfortable enough that it might be possible to sleep. It takes a longer route, but because of this, it avoids the twisting mountainous roads.
🚌 ADO Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Bus Logistics | Oaxaca ADO bus terminal: 5 de Mayo 1016 Ruta Independicia, Barrio Jalatlaco | Average One-Way Ticket Cost: $550 pesos ($26.50 USD)| Current Departure Times: 21:30, 22:30| Duration: 10.5 hours | Book tickets here
Best Oaxaca Beaches in Puerto Escondido
One of the best things to do in Puerto Escondido is to enjoy the diverse beaches.
Playa Zicatela is a vast open beach. Along the stretch of beach there are some beach bars, but it’s also possible to find a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sun in peace.
La Punta is where all the cool kids go. This beach is popular and can become packed at sunset. This Puerto Escondido beach offers a lot of different open concept bars, organic shops, night clubs, and restaurants in a condensed area. La Punta Playa is a popular spot for surfers and travelers alike.
La Barra is a secluded beach at the end of La Punta. To reach this beach, take a little bit of a climb over some cliffy rocks. On the other side, the reward is an almost private beach.
Carrizalillo is closer to downtown and boasts white sand in a secluded cove. Since the beach is “more protected,” Carrizalillo Playa is a better option for those looking to swim. The waves aren’t as powerful here. On super calm days, it’s possible to snorkel. Make sure to catch at least one sunset here.
Where to Eat in Puerto Escondido
If you can only eat at one place in Puerto Escondido, make it Smoked Fish El Viejo. The smoked fish tacos are to die for.
One of the best Italian restaurants in Oaxaca is hidden away behind the ADO bus station, Non Solo Pizza. All the pastas and pizzas are homemade. You won’t regret ordering any of the seafood pastas, but my favorite was the ravioli with walnut sauce. Drool. There’s a small patio outback, so try to snag an outdoor seat.
Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido has so many places to sleep. The areas of La Punta and Zicatela are probably the most popular. With their primetime beach location, it can be a little more expensive.
The top Puerto Escondido hostel in Zicatela is Selina Hostal, which is a popular chain that is found throughout Central and South America.
One Love Hostal is another sought-after sleeping option in Zicatela.
Chacahua
Farther off the beaten path lies one of the best Oaxaca beach towns, the small fishing village of Chacahua.Visiting here can feel like stepping back in time. Don’t expect to have service, or a strong internet connection. This quaint fishing community has a large Afro-Mexican community, making it one of the most unique cultural destinations on the Oaxaca coastline.
Skip to | Things to Do in Chacahua| Where to Stay in Chacahua
The Best Way to Reach Chacahua
The beach town of Chacahua is located in Lagunas de Chacahua National Park and is accessible from Puerto Escondido. It can be a challenge to reach Chacahua, as it requires collectivos, boats, and camionetas (trucks that you hop in the back of). The reward is arriving to one of the most unspoiled Oaxaca beaches.
How to Get to Chacahua from Puerto Escondido
First, take a collectivo from downtown Puerto Escondido that is heading in the direction of Rio Grande (Company isServicio Mixto). However, ride through Rio Grand and exit at the stop for the hamlet of El Zapotalito.
🚐 Puerto Escondido to El Zapotalito Logistics | Catch them here in Puerto Escondido: Cuarta Pte. | Depart from the station every 10 minutes | One-Way Ticket Cost: $55 – 60 pesos ($2.75 – $3 USD) | Duration: 1 hour
Once in El Zapotalito, take a taxi to the boat launches. There are two different boat launches. One is a long, direct, and scenic boat ride to Chacahua. The other a quick 5 minute ride that leads to a road. From here, catch an open aired shared truck, or camioneta. Whichever route you choose, both lead to the quaint village of Chacahua.
➯ Detailed Guide | How to Reach Chacahua & The Best Way to Enjoy One of Oaxaca’s Best Beaches
Things to Do in Chacahua Oaxaca
One of the best things to do in Chacahua is to unplug, lay in a hammock, and appreciate the simple aspect of being in the present moment.
There are two main Chacahua beaches, one that stretches the main coastline, or Chacahua Playa, and another small, more protected beach where the lanchas drop. Across from the dock, separated by the sea, is another section of the village. This side is more local and has a few restaurants and guesthouses. It’s easy to reach via boat. On this side, find the popular sunset hike up to the abandoned light house (El Faro). There are some rugged, unspoiled beaches where you are more than likely to be the only sunbather.
Chacahua is an excellent area to see bioluminescent plankton in the many picturesque Lagunas de Chacahua. It’s easy and reasonable to hire a local guide to explore this natural phenomenon. There are also plenty of daytime tours to explore Chacahua National Park and it’s many lagoons in more depth.
Chacahua is an up and coming surf destination, as the waves inside the breakwater are great for beginners. Serious surfers can paddle out beyond the levee to catch some spectacular heavy waves. Of course, make sure to refuel by eating some of the freshest seafood with your toes in the sand.
✈ Travel Planning & Chacahua Tips | There are no ATMS here, so carry plenty of cash!! Few places take cards and if they do there is a ridiculous fee added. Wi-Fi can be down, so if that happens, credit cards can’t be processed. Carry toilet paper, purchase a large 5 gallon drinking water from one of the tiendas in town, and bring lots of bug spray, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Chacahau is special, plan on staying longer than expected.
Where to Stay in Chacahua
There are lots of cabañas to sleep in on Chacahua Playa. On the opposite side, there are a few more local accommodations. These can be reached by the frequent small boats that cross the water for $15 pesos.
Chacahua is virtually offline, so there aren’t any options on popular sites like booking.com…. yet. There will more than likely be a small room in a guesthouse or a cabaña available.The cabañas are simple rooms that oftentimes have private bathrooms. More than likely restrooms will be shared facilities.
One of the best places to sleep in Chacahua for intrepid travelers is in your tent. Many of the accommodations offer cheap sleeping fees around 50 pesos under a protective awning. The fees include: bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and use of all the lounging spaces. Some of them even waive the fee if you purchase all your meals from them, like Terra Tipi.
Zipolite
Zipolite is a small beach town that is probably most famous for the free spirit, hippie types that wander along this stretch of Oaxaca’s coastline nude. That’s right, it’s possible to “bare it all” in Zipolite.
While there are many nude beachgoers many opt to keep their swimsuits on. Oddly enough, I found that it was mostly the men who loved roaming the beaches in their most natural form.
Skip to | Zipolite Oaxaca Beaches| Where to Eat in Zipolite| Zipolite Accommodation
How to Get to Zipolite
There are direct collectivos that run from Oaxaca city to Zipolite. There are two companies that service this route, but Líneas Unidas is the most popular. The long ride is along a twisty road that passes through the mountain village of San Jose del Pacifico. This small town is becoming one of Mexico’s top destinations to dabble in the sacred healing medicine of magic mushrooms. However, there’s more to do here than mushrooms, and the the surrounding small villages make a great option to sleep a night or two to help break up the long trip from Oaxaca to Zipolite.
Coming Soon| Exploring Oaxaca’s Sierra Sur, Mexico’s Magical Mushroom Region
🚐 Oaxaca to Zipolite Collectivos Logistics | Catch Líneas Unidas in the direction of Pochutla in Oaxaca here: Bustamante 601, Centro | Pochutla has multiple collectivos that depart frequently to Zipolite| Collectivos depart for Pochutla daily, 24 hours a day, every 30 minutes| Current Departures Direct to Zipolite: Mon – Thur: 5:00, 9:40, 13:00, 18:30, 23:00 / Fri – Sun: 5:00, 10:20, 13:40, 20:00, 23:15| One-Way Ticket Cost: $300 pesos ($14.50 USD) | Duration: 7.5 hour | Check the most current schedule by messaging them on FB here
Zipolite Oaxaca Beaches
There are two main beaches in Zipolite: Playa Zipolite and Playa del Amor. Both are special. The primary beach, Playa Zipolite is a long stretch of beach lined with casual restaurants, a wide range of accommodation, and beautiful rock formations.
Playa del Amor is more secluded. Head out of the main beach and climb up the concrete stairs. This beach feels more like a cove and is a little more protected to swim in. Although, there are still big waves that cut through. This intimate beach has two small stands that sell beverages. The small size of this inlet gives more confidence to those who wish to go completely nude. Don’t let that deter you, this was my favorite beach in Zipolite!
There are a couple smaller beaches worth a mention. Playa Camarón is less of a beach, but more of a viewpoint. There is a tiny section of beach, but it’s not very sandy. It’s a scenic hike from Zipolite in the opposite direction of Playa del Amor. There are sign boards that mark the path that winds through the trees. Expect to see beautiful views of the surrounding Zipolite beaches. There is another private beach directly below, Shamhala, which I highly recommend sleeping at to explore the best Oaxaca beach towns.
Where to Eat in Zipolite
Zipolite has a ton of great cafes, local and ethnic food, and beachside restaurants. In my humble opinion, Zipolite has some of the best places to eat along the entire coastline. These were a few of my favorite budget friendly eateries.
For a delicious breakfast, eat at Kellyko. Seriously, one of the best spots to snag chilaquiles in all of Oaxaca. They offer a variety of different coffees and open early, like at 6:30. So, it’s the perfect way to start the day in Zipolite. Note: this is one of the small restaurants that offers reliable internet.
Craving authentic Oaxacan cuisine with a local price tag? Try the menu del día at El Pochote Zipolite. This spot offers up a yummy rotating menu of three courses for around $80 pesos ($4). I frequented here multiple times and the food never disappoints.
For a toes in the sand, beachside restaurant with a heavy seafood menu, try Restaurant Boca Del Mar.
Looking for something a little different? Mao Mau Authentic Thai & Asian Cuisine is true to their name and have sushi. There’s lot of pizza places in town, but Pizzeria Italiana La Fenice has a diverse and authentic menu with Italian wines.
Of course, there are plenty of unique places to eat in Zipolite for any type of budget. At night, the streets fill with vendors selling artisanal goods and there are usually food stands that offer everything from falafels, crepes, and tacos.
Where to Stay in Zipolite
There are wide range of hotels, hostels, cabañas and guesthouses in Zipolite.
➜ Find the perfect place to stay in Zipolite
I loved the unique style Shambhala Vision, which sits up on the hillside of Zipolite. There are shared dorms, private rooms, rustic cabañas, all with some of the best views of the beach. Find some beautiful walking paths up to a meditation area, hammocks to lounge in, and a private beach. They offer camping during dry season.
Want to camp directly on the beach? Check out La Habana Hostal y Camping. There are lots of spots to set-up a tent under a protective awning. The bathrooms are clean, showers have hot water, decent Wi-Fi, and boasts a central location that is just far enough from some of the popular and noisy “night clubs.”
🏕 Camping at La Habana starts at $100 pesos ($5 USD). Those who want to sleep in a rustic hut can do so for around 300 pesos ($15 USD).
San Agustinillo
Although it might even be too small to be considered one of the best Oaxaca beach towns, the hamlet of San Agustín hosts one of my favorite beaches in all of Oaxaca:Playa San Agustinillo. This adorable beach strip and the homes that line the main road is basically the entire tiny village.
Where isPlaya San Agustinillo
San Agustinillo is basically next to Mazunte in the direction towards Zipolite. The beach here consists of a few small sandy beaches and lots of fishing boats. Some of the boats offer tours out on the water.
The beach area is lined with places to eat and simple guesthouses and rustic hotels. What makes this beach so special is it sees far less traffic than Zipolite or Mazunte. There are only a few people selling, so it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
To make the most of a day here, eat at one of the restaurants to have access to the lounge chairs for the rest of the day. La Ola has delicious food and a $300 peso ($14.50 USD) minimum per person, but you can spend the whole day on the lounge chairs. The minimum is easy to hit. Try the fish tacos! Psst… you can sleep there, too!
✈ Public Transportation Tips | It’s easy to walk to San Agustinillo from Mazunte or even Zipolite, but if you don’t feel like walking, simply flag down a camioneta. The open aired trucks stop around sunset, but taxis run later and are more expensive. It’s easy to hitchhike along this short stretch of coastline, always trust your gut.
Mazunte
Mazunte is one of the best Oaxaca beach towns with a bohemian flare. Many travelers are attracted to this charming village due to its diverse beaches, the staggering viewpoints from Punta Cometa, and its close proximity to the interesting Ventanilla cooperative community. Mazunte is also one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Magicos,” or magical villages.
Skip to | Things to do in Mazunte | Where to Eat in Mazunte| Mazunte Accommodation
How to Get to Mazunte
Mazunte is easily accessible from Oaxaca City or Puerto Escondido.
🚐Oaxaca to Mazunte| Take the collectivos to Zipolite, refresher here| In Zipolite, walk to the camioneta station here | Hop off in Mazunte| This stretch is under 4 miles and should cost no more than 15 pesos
🚐 Puerto Escondido to Mazunte| Take a collectivo or bus in the direction of Pochutla | The best place to catch them is across from the ADO bus Terminal here| Exit the bus at San Antonio village ($50 pesos, 1 hour)| Cross the street and hop on a camioneta and exit in Mazunte ($15 pesos)
Things to Do in Mazunte Oaxaca
Beaches, hikes, and wildlife, there are lots of things to do in Mazunte.
It’s important to note that the Turtle Museum, the most popular thing do in Mazunte, is currently closed. Travelers loved visiting here, where it was possible to help release baby turtles back into the ocean. The building sits outside of town and is completely abandoned.
Punta Cometa
The most popular thing to do in Mazunte is to hike the Natural Reserve of Punta Cometa. This cape jets out into the Pacific, so it’s the perfect spot to wake up with the world or catch a stellar sunset. Punta Cometa is a sacred place that was believed to have ben used during Prehistoric times to make offerings. It is said that this special spot emits healing powers and that it may be inline with the Milky Way.
Upon arrival into Punta Cometa, there are two main trails. Both offer spectacular viewpoints and access to the small, but stunning Punta Cometa Playa. The trails consist of sand and rocks, so mind your step. Due to the energy of this space, alcohol is not permitted. There are security guards manning the entrance to enforce this rule, but the admission is free.
Mazunte Beaches
Besides Punta Cometa Playa, there are a few noteworthy Mazunte beaches to explore.
The main beach is Playa Mazunte and has lots of vendors selling beach goodies, food, and handmade goods. There are a handful of beachside restaurants serving overpriced plates of seafood.
Playa Rinconcito is a cute beach that is located next to the scenic rocks that make up the cliffs of Punta Cometa. It’s possible to rent chairs here, or bring your own umbrella. This is the perfect beach to come for an early morning swim and watch the sunrise. During the afternoon, it can be busy with lots of vendors selling.
Finally, one of the most tranquil and quiet beach sits on the other side of Punta Comenta and Mazunte: Playa Mermejita. This is a vast stretch of beach that is oftentimes abandoned. It’s an incredible place to watch the sunset. Be mindful, the waves here are quite powerful and the beach is usually empty. Walk past the main entrance of Punta Cometa and continue on the rocky road to reach Mermejita Beach.
La Ventanilla
Between Mazunte and San Antonia lies the small community of La Ventanilla. This cooperative of 30 local neighboring communities have banned together to help preserve this unique natural park.
The community offers tours on boats of the lagoon which is surrounded by mangroves. It’s possible to spot crocodiles, iguanas, birds, deer, and other wildlife. Another project this community is passionate about is conserving the sea turtle population.
Upon entering La Ventanilla, there are two communities that provide organized tours. The community group that sports white uniform T-shirts offer tours that include the lagoon and a visit down to the island. The island houses crocodiles and other rescued animals, like a wide range of monkeys.
La Ventanilla Tour Logistics| Two community groups offer tours, white T-shirt group includes island visit| Cost: Adults: 100 pesos ($5 USD) / Children under 10: 50 pesos ($2.50 USD) | Hours: 8:00 – 16:00| Tours depart every 20 minutes| Find more info here
Where to Eat in Mazunte
There are a wide variety of places to eat in Mazunte including, bakeries, local food stands, and ethnic food.
For an overall awesome restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and is open late into the night try Posada & Restaurante Sahuaro. There’s usually live music after dark.
Want breakfast with a terrace view? Estrella Fugaz has a decent breakfast selection that won’t break the bank.
La Dolce Vita has delicious ice cream after spending all day on the beach.
A little outside of town, Maralto Rrestaurant has homemade pastries and uses super fresh ingredients for classical breakfast dishes, sandwiches, and pizzas. Sip on a variety of juices or savor a cup of coffee. It’s worth the walk to eat here.
Panderia las Canastas was my go-to bakery for sweet and savory snacks to pack to the beach.
Where to Stay in Mazunte
There are many options when it comes to sleeping in Mazunte. Find hotels, hostels, and guesthouses for any type budget. Of course, closer to the beach comes at higher price tag.
➜ Find the perfect place to stay in Mazunte
Personally, I loved sleeping at Casa Gaviota. The rooms are cozy, centrally located, and super clean. The hosts are super welcoming and friendly. They provide tons of helpful tips and free drinking water. There is also access to a kitchen. The price at Casa Gaviota is definitely right!
Best Oaxaca Beach Towns on the Stunning Oaxaca Coast
Puerto Escondido, Chacahua, Zipolite, San Agustinillo, and Mazunte are some of the best Oaxaca beach towns on the rugged Pacific Coast of Mexico. Each town not only boasts spectacular beaches, but hiking paths that twist through energetic lands, unique wildlife, and delicious food that’s fresh from the sea. Although many of these beaches have strong currents and swimmers should take caution, the rolling waves provide the perfect playground for surfers.
The rustic beaches of Oaxaca still remain some of Mexico’s best kept secrets. These beautiful places see far less tourists than Cancun, Tulum, and Puerta Vallarta. The stunning rugged Oaxaca coastline shouldn’t be missed! Each beach town in Oaxaca has their own unique personality and spark of magic.
Have you visited any of these “Best Oaxaca Beach Towns?” What did you think? Is these another beach town in Oaxaca that you absolutely love that is missing from the above list? Yes, I know I skipped Huatulco Oaxaca Beach, but opted for Chacahua instead!
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About AuthorMEGS
Hey, my name is Megs! I'm an adventure-seeking, wanna be storyteller, with a wandering soul. I love immersing myself in diverse cultures and customs. I'm kind of obsessed with hiking in the mountains, soaking in hot springs, and seeking-out the most authentic travel experiences as possible! Find me savoring a good cup of coffee, eating at traditional markets, or catching a sunset with a glass of wine in hand. Experiences and memories are my most prized possessions.
