Imagine yourself basking under the tropical sun, the sound of waves crashing against the shore and the warm sand tickling your toes. If you’re a beach enthusiast, then Oaxaca, Mexico should definitely be on your list of must-visit destinations.
Oaxaca is a beautiful state with a vivid culture and rich history. Filled with a diverse range of beaches, it’s a perfect destination to unwind, explore and enjoy the serenity of nature. Whether you’re searching for lively party scenes, hidden coves or a picturesque escape, there’s a beach for every mood.
From the famous Playa Zicatela to the little-known beach of Puerto Angel, this post will guide you through some of the best beaches in Oaxaca. Each with its unique features and reasons to visit, these beaches offer a chance to enjoy the tranquility of the ocean and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re searching for a serene escape, adventure or a yummy seafood feast, these beaches have it all!
Get ready to experience Puerto Escondido’s stunning Playa Carrizalillo, a beautiful beach known for its crystal clear waters and excellent swimming experiences. Or, if you’re feeling daring, head down to the infamous Zipolite beach and enjoy an afternoon dip in the clothing-optional setting.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a break and soak in the beauty of nature. Take a seat, grab a drink and dive deeper into the best beaches Oaxaca has to offer!
Exploring the Surfers Paradise: Playa Zicatela
Located in the heart of Puerto Escondido, Playa Zicatela is a world-renowned beach known for its incredible waves and international surfing competitions. With a reputation as one of the most challenging surf spots in the world, Playa Zicatela offers an adventure of a lifetime to thrill-seekers and surf enthusiasts alike.
With waves that can reach up to 16 feet, Playa Zicatela offers an unforgettable experience for seasoned surfers ready to ride the powerful waves. Beginners and spectators can enjoy watching the professionals challenge themselves on the water, while relaxing on the beach.
Aside from the world-class surfing, Playa Zicatela is also known for its lively and vibrant atmosphere. The beach boasts a range of restaurants, bars, and street vendors selling everything from traditional Mexican street food to international cuisine.
For those not looking to surf, the beach offers a range of activities to enjoy. Take a refreshing dip in the ocean or relax on the sand and soak up the sun, or explore the nearby town of Puerto Escondido which offers a range of cultural and historical sites to visit.
During peak season, Playa Zicatela can get quite crowded, making it the perfect spot to meet fellow travelers from all around the world. Visitors can rent surfboards or take surfing lessons from one of the many surf schools located along the beach, or simply enjoy the live music scene that plays daily.
In summary, Playa Zicatela is one of the most iconic and exciting surf spots in the world. With its incredible waves, lively atmosphere, and breathtaking scenery, it’s the perfect destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.
A Quaint Hidden Treasure: Mazunte’s Secret Beach
If you are looking for a quiet and secluded beach experience, look no further than Mazunte’s Secret Beach. As its name suggests, this pristine stretch of coastline is tucked away from the more touristy areas of Mazunte, offering visitors a chance to unwind in peace and tranquility.
To find this hidden gem, take a short walk from the main beach in Mazunte and follow a small, rocky path around a cliff. This will lead you to Secret Beach, a pristine cove with crystal-clear water and soft, white sand. Because it is more challenging to access than the nearby beaches, Secret Beach tends to be much less crowded, making it ideal for those who want to escape the crowds.
Once you reach Secret Beach, take in the serene atmosphere and relax under the shade of the palm trees. The calm waters of the cove make it perfect for swimming or simply lounging on an inflatable raft. If you are feeling adventurous, there is also a small cliff that you can jump off into the ocean.
Along the beach, there are several rustic palapas where you can grab a bite to eat or a cold drink. Be sure to try some of the local seafood specialties, such as ceviche or grilled fish. You can also rent a surfboard or take a surfing lesson, as the waves at Secret Beach are perfect for beginners.
As the day fades into the evening, stick around to catch one of the most breathtaking sunsets you will ever witness. The colors of the sky and the ocean create a spectacular scene that is truly unforgettable. Take in the beauty of the moment and let the tranquility of Mazunte’s Secret Beach wash over you.
Experience Tranquility: Ventanilla’s Turtle Sanctuary Beach
If you’re seeking a calm and peaceful environment to rejuvenate, Ventanilla’s Turtle Sanctuary Beach is the perfect destination to visit! This beach is located just a half-hour drive from Puerto Escondido and is known for its serene atmosphere and natural surroundings.
The beach is home to the National Mexican Turtle Center, where you can learn about the various species of turtles and their conservation efforts. You can also take a guided tour through the jungle and mangroves, where you’ll get to see native animals such as crocodiles, iguanas, and various bird species.
The crystal-clear waters of Ventanilla’s Turtle Sanctuary Beach offer excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. You can witness the colorful marine life and even snorkel around the reef if you’re feeling adventurous.
The beach is relatively undiscovered by tourists, and it’s rare to find crowds here, contributing to its serene ambiance. You can take a stroll along the golden sand beach or relax on one of the many hammocks between the palm trees dotted along the coastline.
If you want to soak up some Mexican culture, head to the nearby village of Mazunte, where you can visit the Museum of Natural Cosmetics and gain insight into traditional practices of creating natural body and hair products. There are also several local restaurants in the village where you can try authentic Mexican cuisine.
When visiting Ventanilla’s Turtle Sanctuary Beach, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate footwear. You can also rent a kayak to explore the coast further.
Overall, Ventanilla’s Turtle Sanctuary Beach offers visitors a chance to experience tranquility, immerse in nature, and learn about the conservation of sea turtles. Its serene surroundings make it a perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Escape the Crowds: Zipolite’s Clothing-Optional Beach
Located just south of Puerto Escondido lies the tranquil oasis of Zipolite Beach. This hidden gem is famous for being one of the few official clothing-optional beaches in Mexico. During the day, visitors can enjoy the warm sun and crystal-clear waters free from overcrowding. However, the true glory of Zipolite is experienced at night where the beach transforms into a magical wonderland of lights, music, and good vibes.
Visitors can enjoy tasty food and drinks on the beach from the various vendors set up along the shoreline. Most of the bars and restaurants offer a laid-back atmosphere and provide the perfect place to relax with friends while savoring a cold drink. In the evenings, visitors can look forward to dance parties hosted along the beach. The lively parties and events bring locals and tourists together, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
Zipolite’s coastline is lined with palm groves, creating a beautiful and shaded environment for picnics and reading. It’s a great place to disconnect from the worries of the world and spend a few hours in a blissful state of mind. Visitors can take long and peaceful walks along the beach, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the sand.
For those who are feeling adventurous, Zipolite offers a host of water activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing. The calm and clear waters of the beach provide the perfect environment for beginner surfers to learn, while the bigger waves out in the ocean provide an exciting challenge for the more experienced surfers.
Zipolite’s clothing-optional policy might seem intimidating to first-time visitors, but it is one of the defining features that make this beach so unique. The welcoming and accepting atmosphere attracts all kinds of people, and visitors can feel free to express themselves however they feel comfortable. Whether you choose to wear clothes or not, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time at Zipolite’s Clothing-Optional Beach.
Discovering the Natural Wonders: Puerto Escondidos Playa Carrizalillo
Puerto Escondido is widely known for its pristine beaches and Playa Carrizalillo steals the show with its striking natural beauty. Surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery, this secluded beach is the perfect spot for a tranquil vacation. The crystal-clear waters offer great snorkeling opportunities to witness the diverse marine life that inhabits the oceanic wonders.
The beach is accessible by a long staircase descent, which is quite steep yet provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. It is truly a hidden paradise worth exploring off the beaten path.
Surfing enthusiasts can paddle out into the ocean and enjoy the waves or take a surfing lesson with the experienced surf schools located nearby. The prime location of Playa Carrizalillo offers the perfect wave-riding conditions, making it one of the most sought-after surf spots on the Oaxacan coast.
For those who prefer to soak up the sun and relax, renting a palapa or beach chair is highly advisable, as shade is scarce on this beach. The beachfront restaurants and bars offer refreshing drinks and freshly cooked seafood, making it an ideal destination to unwind and relish in the tranquility of the coast.
Playa Carrizalillo is a peaceful and serene experience yet does tend to get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. However, it is well worth a visit to one of the Oaxaca coast’s natural beauties.
End your day with a captivating sunset and signature Oaxacan cocktail to witness the sky bursting into an array of colors from oranges to pinks and purples. Leave with a sense of calm and rejuvenation after experiencing this wondrous beach.
Embracing Tradition: Puerto Angel’s La Boquilla Beach
If you’re looking for a beach that offers a glimpse into the cultural traditions of Mexico, La Boquilla Beach in Puerto Angel is a must-visit destination. The beach is located in a secluded cove, which offers an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking for a peaceful getaway.
This beach is known for its gentle waves and crystal-clear waters. The area is also home to a number of fisherman who park their colorful boats on the beach after a long day of fishing. You can even catch a glimpse of them mending their nets on the shore, which is just one of the ways this beach truly offers a unique and authentic experience.
The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation that adds to the secluded feel of the area, making it easy to imagine you’re on a remote island somewhere far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, you’ll find white sand that is perfect for lounging under a palm tree or playing beach volleyball with friends.
La Boquilla Beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling, as the waters are teeming with colorful marine life. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two. There are several local vendors that rent snorkeling gear, so you can easily enjoy this fun beach activity without having to lug your own equipment.
For those who are looking for a bite to eat, there are several beachfront restaurants that serve up fresh fish tacos and ice-cold margaritas. You can enjoy your meal with a view of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, there are several local vendors that sell handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Overall, La Boquilla Beach offers a picturesque setting that is perfect for those who want to experience the traditions of Mexico’s beach culture. With a secluded atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and beach activities, this beach is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the Oaxaca region.
Conclusion
Visiting the beaches near Oaxaca has been a refreshing and calming experience for many travelers. Each beach provides something unique, from the lively waves of Playa Zicatela to the peaceful surrounding of Ventanilla’s Turtle Sanctuary Beach. Whether one is looking to surf, sunbathe, or explore natural wonders, there is a beach to satisfy everyone’s interests.
Mazunte’s Secret Beach offers a picturesque view and the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed day in a lesser-known location, while Zipolite’s clothing-optional beach is an adventure for those seeking something a bit more daring and unconventional. Playa Carrizalillo is another must-visit, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets.
Finally, La Boquilla Beach in Puerto Angel provides the chance to embrace local culture and watch the fishermen of the community at work. Overall, the beaches near Oaxaca offer a diverse range of experiences that are worth exploring, and we hope this guide has helped shed some light on the hidden gems and popular spots. Make sure to include a visit to these beaches in your travel itinerary next time you plan a trip to Oaxaca!
