The Best Beaches on the Oaxaca Coast: The No-Exaggeration List

The Oaxaca Coast has dozens of beaches. Some are spectacular, others are nice but nothing special, and a few only appear on lists because SEO demands it. Here you will find only the ones that are genuinely worth the trip, complete with their flaws.

Playa Zicatela — Puerto Escondido

The most famous on the coast and for good reason. Zicatela is home to the "Mexican Pipeline," one of the most powerful tube waves in the world. During peak surf season (July–August), international competitors arrive and the atmosphere is electric. Watching those waves from the shore, even with a beer in hand, is an experience you will not forget.

That said: entering the water here without real surfing ability is a bad idea any time of year. The currents are treacherous. Enjoy it from the sand or from the beachfront restaurants.

Playa Carrizalillo — Puerto Escondido

If Zicatela intimidates (and it should), Carrizalillo is your answer. About 10 minutes by taxi from the main zone, you descend a staircase of about 160 steps, but what you find below is a small cove with calm turquoise water, perfect for swimming without drama.

There are umbrellas, a couple of palapas serving ceviche and coconut water, and the size of the beach means it never feels as crowded as others. It is Mr. Playas' favorite in Puerto Escondido for a day without surf or currents.

Playa La Punta — Puerto Escondido

At the southern end of Zicatela, La Punta is where surfers who are still learning go. The waves are much friendlier than the Pipeline, the atmosphere is laid back, and there are surf schools everywhere.

It also has the best sunset bar scene in Puerto Escondido. Hammocks, music, people from around the world. The kind of place where you say "one more hour" four times in a row.

Playa La Entrega — Huatulco

Within the bays of Huatulco, La Entrega is the favorite for snorkeling. The water is protected, visibility is good, and there are colorful fish at shallow depths. You do not need to be a diver — a basic snorkel set you can rent right there is enough.

Fresh seafood at the shore-side stalls is excellent. The pescado a la talla they serve here deserves special mention. Arrive early to grab a table with shade.

Playa Mermejita — Mazunte

The wildest on the list. Mermejita is about a 20-minute walk from Mazunte along a trail through tropical vegetation. There are no services, no umbrella rentals, nothing. Just the beach, the sea, dark volcanic sand, and practically no one else.

Not for swimming: the currents are strong and the waves are intense. But for sitting to read, meditate, or simply watching the Pacific in silence, it is perfect. Bring water and something to eat.

Playa Zipolite — Zipolite

Mexico's only official clothing-optional beach. A kilometer and a half of long sand, an atmosphere completely free of judgment, and a vibe different from any other beach in the country. You do not have to take anything off if you don't want to — nobody will pressure you or look at you strangely.

The ocean here also has strong currents. There is a section known as "La Poza" that is more protected and safer for swimming. Ask locals when you arrive.

Playa San Agustinillo — Between Mazunte and Zipolite

The perfect middle ground between the relaxation of Mazunte and the energy of Puerto Escondido. San Agustinillo is a small beach with moderate waves, good for bodyboarding, with a main street full of small restaurants and hostels at reasonable prices.

In season (December through March) you can see humpback whales from the coast or on a boat tour. That alone justifies the trip.