Greatest Seashores For Each Vibe

The Pacific Coast in Mexico has quite blown up in reputation during the last 5 years. What was sleepy surf villages has now develop into everybody’s favourite Mexican escape, and it’s acquired each type of seashore vibe you possibly can presumably need.

Regardless of the Oaxacan coast discovering a bigger viewers post-pandemic, it stays a laidback various to industrial vacationer spots like Cabo and Cancun.

With surfers initially blazing the path round right here, the Oaxacan coast has a relaxing environment with loads of picks for seashores to fit your model.

Whether or not you need the social gathering life, a secluded seashore journey, or a mixture of each, I’ve acquired all the perfect seashores to hit up alongside this magnificent coast.

Let’s bounce in.

The place is Oaxaca?

After I first visited Oaxaca, I had no thought it was a complete state. I assumed it was only a metropolis in Mexico, so you’ll be able to think about my shock after I realized that touring in Oaxaca may imply going to a complete totally different space that has over 300 miles of shoreline.

The capital metropolis of Oaxaca known as Oaxaca de Juárez, which is the place most vacationers begin their journey. It’s about an hour’s flight from Mexico Metropolis or 6 hours by bus.

When you’re in Oaxaca Metropolis, you’re solely a 3-hour drive away from probably the most vibey seashores and magical cities Mexico has to supply. This journey used to take round 7 hours via windy mountain roads, however a brand new highway opened in 2024 shortened this route significantly, making the Oaxacan coast extra accessible than ever!

What’s the Oaxacan Coast Like?

When most individuals consider Mexican seashores, they think about the crystal clear waters and white sand seashores of the Caribbean coast. However the Oaxacan coast could be very totally different as a result of it’s on the Pacific aspect.

The seashores listed below are recognized for his or her rugged magnificence, with rocky cliffs and crashing waves.

As a result of tough waves, not the entire seashores are good for swimming (or best for youngsters), however there are nonetheless loads of calmer seashores.

Among the finest surf competitions are held in Oaxaca, and for good motive! The swells right here can attain as much as 20 toes, attracting surfers from everywhere in the world. Even for those who’re not a surfer your self, watching the competitions or making an attempt your hand at bodyboarding may be simply as thrilling.

The cities themselves can vary fairly drastically from the social gathering scene in Puerto Escondido to the laid-back vibes of Huatulco, so there’s one thing for everybody on the Oaxacan coast.

Greatest Cities on the Oaxacan Coast

Puerto Escondido

Up first is the preferred seashore city on the Oaxacan coast, Puerto Escondido. This seashore city has significantly flourished within the final ten years. What as soon as began as a low-key surfers’ paradise is now one of the crucial in style vacationer locations in Mexico.

However it’s a little bit of an anomaly as a result of Puerto Escondido nonetheless maintains its small-town appeal. Don’t get me improper, there’s a particular social gathering scene right here, and it could actually get fairly crowded within the excessive season, however there are additionally loads of quiet spots to flee to.

Escondido isn’t that massive of a spot, but it surely stretches fairly far. The three major areas to remain in are Zicatela, Carrazillo, and La Punta. All of them have totally different vibes, and I feel it’s essential to notice that they aren’t actually strolling distance from one another, and even biking distance for that matter, due to the hills.

You’ll normally have to take a taxi to get between the three areas. Whereas that is annoying, the upshot is that a number of distinct areas may as effectively be totally different cities altogether. There are hundreds to do inside every space, and making a little bit day journey to the others is the right method to spend the day.

Zicatela (Puerto Escondido)

Zicatela is the preferred space of Puerto Escondido. It’s the surfers’ hub and the place you’ll discover a number of the largest waves (often known as the Mexican Pipeline). You’ll be able to even take browsing classes right here! However even for those who’re not into browsing, Zicatela has lots to supply.

The seashore itself is gorgeous and stretches for miles, however remember if the swell is excessive, the waves can actually take you out for those who’re not cautious.

The seashore is much again from the crashing waves, so it’s probably not a swimming spot, but it surely’s good for lounging and watching the surfers. (The solar may be brutal right here, so make certain to deliver a sufficiently big umbrella and many sunscreen.)

The principle avenue in Zicatela can also be known as “La Principal” and is lined with eating places, bars, and retailers. At night time, the seashore bars are pumping music till early within the morning. You’ll discover all the things from reggaeton, digital and reside music on the totally different bars.

Personally, I feel Zicatela is nice for a day or an evening out, but it surely’s not my favourite space to remain. It feels a bit extra like a spread-out resort district, and whereas it’s quiet, different areas have extra environment.

La Punta (Puerto Escondido)

La Punta is the cool child on the block in Puerto Escondido. It’s a brilliant laid-back space with tons of character and appeal.

Squint your eyes and it feels a bit like a mini model of Bali. It has a youthful surfer vibe, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from all method of worldwide delicacies and swig mezcal cocktails within the seashore bars.

The principle seashore right here is a superb spot for swimming and hanging out with associates. There are additionally loads of surf breaks alongside the seashore for all expertise ranges.

Top-of-the-line issues about La Punta is the nightly seashore volleyball periods. Nearly everybody within the city comes out for sundown, and also you’ll have teams enjoying till the solar goes down. Others will probably be swimming, enjoying with hearth, and even simply having fun with a chilly drink and taking within the views.

One other beauty of La Punta is the number of lodging choices. You will discover all the things from funds hostels to luxurious lodges right here, providing you with extra flexibility when it comes to the place you need to keep.

After which, in fact, you’ll be able to’t neglect concerning the meals; you’ll discover a great deal of stylish little eating places and cafes serving scrumptious and wholesome choices. And don’t fear about lacking out on nightlife; there are nonetheless loads of bars right here with reside music and a terrific environment.

Carrizalillo (Puerto Escondido)

Carrizalillo isn’t truly an space in Escondido; it’s a seashore, but it surely’s the most effective ones in all of PE, making that complete space a should for guests. The water is crystal clear and calm, and the mild waves are good for swimming and snorkeling.

It’s additionally the perfect spot in Puerto Escondido to catch an epic sundown. There are a number of seashore bars and eating places the place you’ll be able to seize a drink or some meals whilst you watch the solar go down over the Pacific Ocean.

However let me inform you, the steps to get all the way down to Carrizalillo are usually not for the faint of coronary heart. It’s a steep and lengthy climb down, but it surely’s completely price it when you attain the seashore. Simply don’t be shocked once you see locals casually working up and down the steps simply whilst you wrestle to catch your breath!

I ought to point out that on the weekends this small bay can get fairly packed as there may be restricted area. However I’ve additionally spent mornings right here with hardly anybody there.

You can even keep within the space of Carrizalillo, with a couple of choices for lodging starting from budget-friendly to extra luxurious. It’s lots calmer right here, and also you’ll discover loads of yoga and eco-retreats on this space.

Mazunte

In case you’re into strolling round barefoot and aligning your chakras, you then’re going to need to head all the way down to the hippy Puebla of Mazunte. It’s solely about 45 minutes from Puerto Escondido, but it surely appears like a special world completely.

With just about only one major highway and some small streets, Mazunte is a serene and relaxed place the place the one factor in your agenda is taking it simple and possibly doing a little shrooms. The seashores listed below are lovely, however the actual draw is the distinctive tradition and environment of this little city.

You’ll discover cute little cafes and native eating places right here that every one have a really laid-back vibe. It’s a terrific city for those who want some vegan and vegetarian choices. However don’t fear, even for those who’re not, Mazunte nonetheless has all of your favourite greasy Mexican meat-filled dishes.

Mazunte can usually be a little bit sleepy, so for those who’re searching for an enormous night time out, look elsewhere. Most people who fall in love with Mazunte are those that respect a slower tempo of life. I extremely suggest it for digital nomads who like a sprinkle of spiritualism.

There may be greater than sufficient to do in Mazunte to maintain you busy, from spending days on the seashore, visiting the Nationwide Mexican Turtle Heart, studying to skimboard, and, in fact, the entire breath work and yoni massages they’ve happening.

Being not notably religious myself, I questioned if the Mazunte scene would nonetheless be for me. However at the same time as somebody who doesn’t actually do any yoga or meditation, I discovered it to be a pleasant city, and it’s in all probability my favourite on the entire Oaxacan coast. Whereas it’s undoubtedly fairly hippie, it can also’t be pigeonholed as solely that — so, for those who’re merely searching for a soothing place to remain, then Mazunte is an ideal selection.

Zipolite

In case you’re into doing nothing and doing nothing bare, then you’ll completely thrive in Zipolite. This tiny beachside city is positioned simply 6km from Mazunte, it could actually both be a peaceable day journey or a quiet retreat.

So that you’ve both already heard about Zipolite, otherwise you’re questioning what the heck does being bare has to do with something. The reply is straightforward, Zipolite is the official first and solely nude seashore in Mexico.

However don’t fear, if being bare isn’t your factor, you’ll be able to maintain your bathers on, ha! For everybody else—effectively, they’ll be free as a chicken, or no matter different poetic approach you need to put it.

Other than its nudist popularity, Zipolite additionally has a number of the most lovely seashores in Mexico. The present may be robust, so make certain to watch out for those who determine to go for a swim. However it’s additionally a terrific seashore for studying surf as a result of the waves are constant and a bit smaller than those in Puerto Escondido.

Playa Amor in Zipolite has a terrific little neighborhood and browsing tradition. You’ll discover a bunch of hostels, lodges, cafes, and eating places that make it such a energetic place to discover. It’s additionally mentioned to be the friendliest LGBTQ+ neighborhood in all of Oaxaca. You’ll discover individuals of all backgrounds and orientations right here.

In case you’re searching for a low-key, off-the-grid seashore vacation spot with lovely seashores, nice surf, and an inclusive neighborhood, then Zipolite could be the good spot for you.

San Agustinillo

San Agustinillo is like the center youngster. It by no means will get paid any consideration however possibly by that one aunt who appears to recollect everybody’s birthday. Situated between the bustling city of Zipolite and the quaint village of Mazunte, it’s usually neglected by vacationers, however the ones who occur to search out it are among the many luckiest.

This small beachside neighborhood has cozy cafes, colourful eating places, and a wonderful stretch of golden sand seashore. It has a laidback vibe that pulls vacationers searching for a extra peaceable environment than the close by social gathering cities. Or it’s the right various to Mazunte if for any motive you’d prefer to be primarily based additional away from its energetic major avenue or its religious scene.

The half-moon bay of Playa Elefante is one among my favourite seashores in Oaxaca. The water is calm and excellent for swimming or snorkeling, in contrast to a lot of the seashores on the Oaxaca shoreline.

Top-of-the-line issues about San Agustinillo is the lodging that’s immediately on the seashore; from the shoreline, you’ll be able to see little cabanas all dotting the hillside. It’s the right place to disconnect from the world and simply chill out and unwind. And it’s solely a 15-minute stroll from Mazunte for those who want a bit extra motion.

Puerto Angel

Puerto Angel provides you with a glance into what the remainder of the Oaxacan shoreline appeared like earlier than the vacationers took over. It’s a small fishing village that also maintains its genuine appeal and conventional lifestyle. Situated only a 15-minute drive from Zipolite, it’s one other nice possibility for these searching for a extra low-key seashore expertise and a number of the yummiest ceviche and seafood you’ll ever style.

The waters of Playa Panteon are attractive turquoise that may be exhausting to search out on the Pacific, and due to the horseshoe form of the seashore, the waves are usually not as robust, and the water is ideal for swimming. You’ll be surrounded by the rocky mountains of the Sierra Madre del Sur and may take a ship experience out to see the dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

Puerto Angel can also be dwelling to one of the crucial well-known seafood markets in Oaxaca, the place you will discover quite a lot of contemporary fish, shrimp, octopus, and extra. You can even go to the native fishing cooperatives and see the each day catch being introduced in by the fishermen.

Huatulco

Lastly, there may be Huatulco, which I have to admit I gave solely a cursory look. Being the one place purpose-built from the bottom up as a resort, it has a special environment from all of the extra organically-grown seashore cities.

After I first realized about Huatulco, I used to be a little bit confused. Is it a city? Is it a area? Properly, seems it’s each! Huatulco, quick for Bahias de Huatulco, is a area made up of 9 bays and 36 seashores. It’s positioned about an hour and a half drive from Puerto Escondido and gives a very totally different vibe.

As a result of it stretches throughout so many alternative bays and seashores, it attracts a variety of holiday makers, from households to honeymooners. The seashores listed below are extra developed, with resorts and bigger lodges lining the shoreline.

You’ll be able to go snorkeling, diving, or take a ship tour across the bays to see gorgeous rock formations and hidden coves. Whale watching is one other risk in winter.

Huatulco’s vibe is rather more upscale than Puerto Escondido’s, however that doesn’t imply it utterly lacks authenticity. As a result of it’s so massive, you’ll be able to simply set out on an journey to search out the nooks and crannies of the area which can be nonetheless untouched by tourism.

Whereas Huatulco isn’t my private favourite, I’ll say that for those who like to remain in a spot that’s extra neat and arranged, or maybe you’re on a household trip and need an all-inclusive resort, then Huatulco is the place to look.

Which Coastal City in Oaxaca to Select

The mom of all questions—which coastal city in Oaxaca must you select? Properly, it in the end is determined by what sort of expertise you’re searching for.

If you’re searching for some gnarly waves and a backpacker vibe, Puerto Escondido is about to steal your coronary heart. However if you wish to do some tantric yoga or a cacao ceremony, Mazunte may be calling.

No matter whether or not you need to lounge on the seashore bare in Zipolite or watch the whales from an opulent resort in Huatulco, the Oaxacan shoreline has one thing for everybody.

And right here’s the perfect half, not one of the cities are THAT removed from each other. Inside a few hours’ drive, you’ll be able to go from catching waves in Puerto Escondido to the tranquil eco-lodges of San Agustinillo.

So, in case you have the time, why not plan to go to a couple of of them? You’ll get to see all of the totally different sides of Oaxaca, and I guess you’ll even be begging for extra.