Oaxaca Coast — Complete Guide
Puerto Escondido, Huatulco & Mazunte
World-class surf at Zicatela. Sea turtles nesting in Mazunte. Crystal-clear bays in Huatulco. The most authentic coast on the Mexican Pacific still exists.
The Oaxaca Coast is not a destination for travelers who want everything figured out in advance. There are no massive hotel zones or international airports right on the beach. But if you are willing to make the journey, what you find is something very few destinations in Mexico still have: real authenticity, world-class waves, Oaxacan cuisine by the sea, and beaches that do not yet know they are famous.
Olive ridley sea turtles arrive to nest in Mazunte between July and December. It is one of the most impressive natural phenomena in Mexico. Read the complete activities guide for the Oaxaca Coast.
Sayulita, San Pancho, and Punta de Mita have a different energy but the same Pacific Ocean. Check the Nayarit guide.
Explore the Oaxaca Coast
4 complete guides
Getting There
From major cities
If it's your first visit, fly directly to Huatulco (HUX) — the airport is easier and from there you can drive to Puerto Escondido and Mazunte on the same trip. View travel guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct flights from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido airport (PXM) on Volaris and VivaAerobus. Flight time ~1h 20min. You can also fly to Huatulco (HUX), which has more frequent service and take ground transport.
December through April: dry weather, clear skies, ideal for most visitors. July and August for advanced surf at Zicatela. September–October for peak turtle nesting in Mazunte. Avoid Easter Week if you don't want crowds.
Yes. Strong currents year-round. For calm swimming, use Playa Carrizalillo or La Punta. Zicatela is for watching from the shore or for surfers with real experience.
$30–60 USD/night in Puerto Escondido or Mazunte in regular season. Huatulco has more mid-range and resort options. During Easter and December, prices increase 30–50%.
The nighttime turtle observation in Mazunte (July–Dec), the sunset from Zipolite, the Huatulco bays by boat, bioluminescence at Laguna Manialtepec, and a tlayuda with tasajo at the Pochutla market.