Oaxaca Coast Oaxaca State, Mexico Travel Guide
The Oaxaca Coast offers a range of adventures, from water sports to wildlife encounters.
Puerto Escondido's Zicatela for advanced surfers; Playa Carrizalillo, Mazunte, and Zipolite for beginners. Lessons available.
Calm bays of Huatulco and Playa Carrizalillo; serene lagoons like Manialtepec and Ventanilla.
Skydiving in Puerto Escondido offers stunning aerial views. Guided ATV tours explore off-road trails.
Always choose ethical and responsible tour operators when engaging in wildlife viewing activities to minimize disturbance to animals and their habitats.
The Oaxaca Coast offers several ways to engage with local culture and traditions.
Formal cultural performances are less common. Local festivals and events feature traditional music and dance.
Support local communities via initiatives like the Ventanilla Lagoon eco-tourism project, run by a local cooperative.
Some Spanish language schools operate in Puerto Escondido, offering intensive courses for travelers.
Check local calendars for gastronomic festivals or special culinary events, often during local holidays.
Puerto Escondido's month-long festival includes surf competitions, fishing tournaments, concerts, and cultural events.
While more elaborate in Oaxaca City, some coastal towns have local observances in early November for an unique experience.
Find opportunities for rest, rejuvenation, and holistic well-being on the Oaxaca Coast.
Mazunte and Zipolite are known as hubs for yoga and wellness. Numerous studios offer drop-in classes and retreats focusing on yoga and holistic practices.
Numerous clubs along Zicatela (Puerto Escondido) and in Huatulco bays offer loungers, umbrellas, food, and drink for a relaxing day.
Some local healers (curanderos) might offer traditional remedies or healing practices.
Inquire locally about these services with discretion and respect for cultural practices.
This can be a path to an unique and authentic cultural wellness experience.
The Oaxaca Coast offers a range of entertainment and nightlife, from lively bars to relaxed beachfront gatherings.
Zicatela in Puerto Escondido serves as the main bar district. La Punta also has a popular, more condensed area of bars and eateries.
Bars and clubs typically close late, especially on weekends. Impromptu beach gatherings and fires can occur in more relaxed areas.
Dedicated theater or formal performance spaces are very limited. Most performances are informal or part of local festivals.
A nightlife scene centered around Zicatela and La Punta, catering to diverse preferences.
Nightlife within La Crucecita and resort-based entertainment at Tangolunda offers structured fun.
Known for their relaxed beachfront bars and occasional informal parties, a more laid-back vibe.
Always exercise caution, especially late at night. Avoid walking alone on deserted or poorly lit streets. Use reputable transportation.
Explore local markets and boutiques to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
Look for workshops selling handmade jewelry, textiles (traditional Oaxacan embroidery), pottery, and wood carvings.
Mazunte specializes in natural products, including cosmetics and soaps made from local ingredients.
Haggling is generally not customary in established shops but might be possible at some market stalls, especially for larger purchases. Always be polite and respectful.
