Greatest Seashores For Each Vibe

The Pacific Coast in Mexico has somewhat blown up in reputation during the last 5 years. What was once sleepy surf villages has now turn out to be everybody’s favourite Mexican escape, and it’s obtained each form of seashore vibe you would presumably need.

Regardless of the Oaxacan coast discovering a bigger viewers post-pandemic, it stays a laidback different 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 type.

Whether or not you need the occasion life, a secluded seashore journey, or a mixture of each, I’ve obtained all the very best seashores to hit up alongside this magnificent coast.

Let’s bounce in.

The place is Oaxaca?

After I first visited Oaxaca, I had no concept it was a complete state. I assumed it was only a metropolis in Mexico, so you may think about my shock once I discovered 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 is named 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 essentially the most vibey seashores and magical cities Mexico has to supply. This journey used to take round 7 hours by means of 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 may be very totally different as a result of it’s on the Pacific facet.

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

Because of the tough waves, not all the seashores are excellent for swimming (or ideally suited for youngsters), however there are nonetheless loads of calmer seashores.

A number of the greatest surf competitions are held in Oaxaca, and for good purpose! The swells right here can attain as much as 20 ft, attracting surfers from everywhere in the world. Even when you’re not a surfer your self, watching the competitions or attempting your hand at bodyboarding could be simply as thrilling.

The cities themselves can vary fairly drastically from the occasion 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 vital standard vacationer locations in Mexico.

Nevertheless it’s a little bit of an anomaly as a result of Puerto Escondido nonetheless maintains its small-town appeal. Don’t get me incorrect, there’s a particular occasion scene right here, and it will possibly 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, nevertheless it stretches fairly far. The three important areas to remain in are Zicatela, Carrazillo, and La Punta. All of them have totally different vibes, and I feel it’s vital 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 slightly day journey to the others is the proper approach 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 among the greatest waves (often known as the Mexican Pipeline). You’ll be able to even take browsing classes right here! However even when you’re not into browsing, Zicatela has lots to supply.

The seashore itself is gorgeous and stretches for miles, however have in mind if the swell is excessive, the waves can actually take you out when you’re not cautious.

The seashore is way again from the crashing waves, so it’s probably not a swimming spot, nevertheless it’s excellent for lounging and watching the surfers. (The solar could be brutal right here, so make certain to carry a large enough umbrella and many sunscreen.)

The principle road in Zicatela can also be referred to as “La Principal” and is lined with eating places, bars, and outlets. At evening, the seashore bars are pumping music till early within the morning. You’ll discover the whole lot from reggaeton, digital and reside music on the totally different bars.

Personally, I feel Zicatela is nice for a day or an evening out, nevertheless it’s not my favourite space to remain. It feels a bit extra like a spread-out lodge 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 an excellent 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 may take pleasure in all method of worldwide delicacies and swig mezcal cocktails within the seashore bars.

The principle seashore right here is a good spot for swimming and hanging out with mates. 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 classes. Nearly everybody within the city comes out for sundown, and also you’ll have teams taking part in till the solar goes down. Others will probably be swimming, taking part in with fireplace, and even simply having fun with a chilly drink and taking within the views.

One other wonderful thing about La Punta is the number of lodging choices. You will discover the whole lot from finances hostels to luxurious accommodations right here, supplying you with extra flexibility when it comes to the place you wish to keep.

After which, after all, you may’t overlook in regards to 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 an amazing environment.

Carrizalillo (Puerto Escondido)

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

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

However let me let you know, the steps to get right down to Carrizalillo are usually not for the faint of coronary heart. It’s a steep and lengthy climb down, nevertheless it’s completely price it when you attain the seashore. Simply don’t be shocked whenever you see locals casually operating up and down the steps simply whilst you battle 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 may also 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

For those who’re into strolling round barefoot and aligning your chakras, then you definately’re going to wish to head right down to the hippy Puebla of Mazunte. It’s solely about 45 minutes from Puerto Escondido, nevertheless it looks like a unique world totally.

With just about only one important highway and some small streets, Mazunte is a serene and relaxed place the place the one factor in your agenda is taking it straightforward and possibly doing a little shrooms. The seashores listed below are lovely, however the true 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 an amazing city when you want some vegan and vegetarian choices. However don’t fear, even when you’re not, Mazunte nonetheless has all of your favourite greasy Mexican meat-filled dishes.

Mazunte can typically be slightly sleepy, so when you’re in search of a giant evening out, look elsewhere. The general public who fall in love with Mazunte are those that recognize 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 Middle, studying to skimboard, and, after all, all the breath work and yoni massages they’ve happening.

Being not significantly non secular 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 most likely my favourite on the entire Oaxacan coast. Whereas it’s undoubtedly fairly hippie, it can also’t be pigeonholed as solely that — so, when you’re merely in search of a calming place to remain, then Mazunte is an ideal selection.

Zipolite

For those who’re into doing nothing and doing nothing bare, then you will completely thrive in Zipolite. This tiny beachside city is positioned simply 6km from Mazunte, it will possibly 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 may preserve your bathers on, ha! For everybody else—effectively, they’ll be free as a chook, or no matter different poetic method you wish to put it.

Apart from its nudist fame, Zipolite additionally has among the most lovely seashores in Mexico. The present could be sturdy, so make certain to watch out when you resolve to go for a swim. Nevertheless it’s additionally an amazing seashore for studying how one can surf as a result of the waves are constant and a bit smaller than those in Puerto Escondido.

Playa Amor in Zipolite has an amazing little group and browsing tradition. You’ll discover a bunch of hostels, accommodations, cafes, and eating places that make it such a vigorous place to discover. It’s additionally stated to be the friendliest LGBTQ+ group in all of Oaxaca. You’ll discover folks of all backgrounds and orientations right here.

For those who’re in search of a low-key, off-the-grid seashore vacation spot with lovely seashores, nice surf, and an inclusive group, then Zipolite often is the excellent 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. Positioned between the bustling city of Zipolite and the quaint village of Mazunte, it’s typically missed by vacationers, however the ones who occur to search out it are among the many luckiest.

This small beachside group has cozy cafes, colourful eating places, and a gorgeous stretch of golden sand seashore. It has a laidback vibe that draws vacationers in search of a extra peaceable environment than the close by occasion cities. Or it’s the proper different to Mazunte if for any purpose you’d prefer to be primarily based additional away from its vigorous important road or its non secular scene.

The half-moon bay of Playa Elefante is one in all my favourite seashores in Oaxaca. The water is calm and ideal for swimming or snorkeling, not like a lot of the seashores on the Oaxaca shoreline.

Top-of-the-line issues about San Agustinillo is the lodging that’s straight on the seashore; from the shoreline, you may see little cabanas all dotting the hillside. It’s the proper place to disconnect from the world and simply loosen up and unwind. And it’s solely a 15-minute stroll from Mazunte when you 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. Positioned only a 15-minute drive from Zipolite, it’s one other nice possibility for these in search of a extra low-key seashore expertise and among the yummiest ceviche and seafood you’ll ever style.

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

Puerto Angel can also be residence to one of the vital well-known seafood markets in Oaxaca, the place you could find quite a lot of contemporary fish, shrimp, octopus, and extra. You may also go to the native fishing cooperatives and see the day by day catch being introduced in by the fishermen.

Huatulco

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

After I first discovered about Huatulco, I used to be slightly confused. Is it a city? Is it a area? Effectively, seems it’s each! Huatulco, brief 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 affords 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 accommodations lining the shoreline.

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

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

Whereas Huatulco will not be my private favourite, I’ll say that when you 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 do you have to select? Effectively, it in the end is determined by what sort of expertise you’re in search of.

In case you are in search of 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 wish to lounge on the seashore bare in Zipolite or watch the whales from an expensive resort in Huatulco, the Oaxacan shoreline has one thing for everybody.

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

So, when 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 wager you’ll even be begging for extra.