Mazunte and Zipolite are just over an hour from Puerto Escondido and make the most popular day trip on the Oaxacan coast.
Getting there
By taxi or shared transport: 60 to 90 minutes along the coast road. There are also colectivos via Pochutla, cheaper but slower. If you drive, there is parking in both towns.
What to do in Mazunte
Visit the Mexican Turtle Centre.
Walk out to Punta Cometa, the southernmost point of Oaxaca, for the sunset.
Swim at Playa Rinconcito, sheltered and calm.
Buy natural cosmetics made by local cooperatives.
What to do in Zipolite
A long, bohemian beach, known as Mexico's only official nudist beach (optional). A good atmosphere for eating, having a drink at sunset and resting in a hammock. Note: the sea is strong and there are currents; only swim where there is a lifeguard.
Tips
Leave early, bring cash, water and biodegradable sunscreen. If you stay for the sunset at Punta Cometa, arrange your return transport beforehand.
Where to stay
The trip is done in a day and you return at dusk; having a base at Raíz Hotel Boutique, in La Punta Zicatela, saves you dragging luggage from town to town. Write to us on WhatsApp at +52 954 124 0793 and we'll advise you on transport, timings and how long to spend on each beach.
Many travellers prefer to use Puerto Escondido as a base and do Mazunte and Zipolite in a day; from La Punta the coast road takes you straight there.
