The Oaxaca Coast is a paradise of pristine beaches, charming towns, and vibrant culture. This guide will help you discover the best destinations, activities, and places to eat.
Mazunte – A Bohemian Magical Town
Mazunte is perfect for those seeking tranquility, nature, and spirituality. Its relaxed atmosphere and commitment to ecology make it a unique destination. If you are looking for a place to stay, Casa La Vista Mazunte offers suites with the best ocean view and an infinity pool, just minutes from the center.
What to Do in Mazunte:
- Relaxing at Playa Rinconcito
Where to Eat in Mazunte:
Best restaurants in Mazunte:
- La Pizzeria: very tasty pizza
- Alessandro: good, authentic Italian
- Armadillo: creative and tasty vegetarian dishes, Moroccan influenced
- Arena Negra: spring rolls and shrimp burger are amazing!
- El Chiringuito: beach front on Mermejita with good meat, Spanish dishes and live music
- Tribu: a mix of traditional and modernized, fusión tacos. Great price too!
- Los Poblanitos: more traditional, authentic Mexican tacos
- Reina Negraramen.
- Mar Alto: delicious, creative breakfast plates, fresh bread and sandwiches.
- El Tiburon: juice and smoothie bar.
Zipolite – Mexico's Nudist Beach
The country's only official nudist beach, ideal for those seeking freedom and a relaxed atmosphere.
What to Do in Zipolite:
- Relaxing at Playa Zipolite
- Visit the Retiro Shambhala
- Explore the Colonia Roca Blanca
Where to Eat in Zipolite:
- El Alquimista: massive, varied menu offering almost everything, with an unbeatable beachfront, vibey environment.
- Mao Mau: some of the best Thai food anywhere!
- Sal y Pimienta: Rustic and on the beach, but with a wide variety of hearty, seafood plates.
- At Franco's: delicious Italian food. Great pasta plates and pizza.
- La Fenice: best pizza in the area
San Agustinillo – A Quiet Paradise
A small fishing village with crystal-clear water beaches and golden sand. Good for swimming in the “bahia chiquita.”
What to Do in San Agustinillo:
- Whale and dolphin watching
- Snorkeling at nearby reefs
- Kayaking and paddleboarding in the bay
Where to Eat in San Agustinillo:
- El Navegante: best dinner restaurant in San Agustinillo. Creative, flavorful seafood and meat.
- Las Mora Café: best breakfast place. Not open for dinner.
- Umami: More geared towards the vegetarian crowd. Good coffee and juice bar.
- Restaurante Mágico Atardecer: Varied menu. Food is decent, but the view is unbeatable.
Puerto Escondido – Surf Capital
One of the most vibrant destinations on the Oaxacan coast, famous for its nightlife and surf scene.
What to Do in Puerto Escondido:
- Enjoy Playa Carrizalillo
Where to Eat in Puerto Escondido:
- El Cafecito – A classic with generous breakfasts.
- Almoraduz Cocina de Autor – Innovative dishes with Oaxacan ingredients.
- Fish Shack – Specializing in ceviches and seafood tacos.
Huatulco – Nature and Luxury
Famous for its nine bays of crystal-clear waters and its strong focus on sustainability.
What to Do in Huatulco:
- Explore Bahías de Huatulco
- Snorkeling at Playa La Entrega
Cascadas Mágicas de Copalitilla – A Natural Secret
Located in the Huatulco jungle, these crystal clear waterfalls they offer a refreshing escape.
What to Do at the Cascadas Mágicas de Copalitilla:
- Explore the waterfalls and natural pools
- Swim in the turquoise waters
- Enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature
Agua Blanca – Hidden Paradise
Little-known beach with natural pools and a relaxed atmosphere.
What to Do in Agua Blanca:
- Relaxing in the natural pools formed by low tide
- Swimming in crystal-clear, shallow waters
- Enjoying the peace and quiet away from mass tourism
Where to Eat in Agua Blanca:
- Restaurante El Mirador - Fresh seafood with a panoramic view.
- Cocina Doña Mari – Homemade food with local ingredients.
Barra de la Cruz – Perfect Waves
One of the favorite destinations for surfers from all over the world.
What to Do in Barra de la Cruz:
- Enjoy pristine beaches and natural landscapes
Casa Wabi and Hotel Terrestre – The Mecca of Brutalist Architecture on the Oaxaca Coast
A space that merges art, architecture, and nature on the Oaxaca Coast.
What to Do:
- Staying at the Hotel Terrestre
- Explore the pristine beaches of the area
Salina Cruz – Legendary Beaches and Waves
Although it is an industrial port, it is also home to breathtaking beaches for experienced surfers.
What to Do in Salina Cruz:
- Book a surf tour and ride several waves in the area
- Discover Playa Cangrejo and its rock formations
- Visit the local market and try fresh seafood
Pluma Hidalgo – Land of the Best Coffee in Oaxaca
A town in the mountains of Oaxaca famous for its high-altitude coffee production.
What to Do in Pluma Hidalgo:
- Taste organic coffee and learn about the roasting process
- Hiking eco-trails with spectacular views
- Quedarse en Finca Don Gabriel
Where to Eat in Pluma Hidalgo:
- Café Pluma – Specialty high-altitude coffee and homemade desserts.
- Finca El Pacifico – Restaurant and cafeteria inside a coffee plantation.
San José del Pacífico – Cloud Retreat
Famous for its cool climate, cloud forests, and spiritual experiences.
What to Do in San José del Pacífico:
- Hiking and panoramic views
- Tour the coffee plantations and try high-altitude coffee
Where to Eat in San José del Pacífico:
- Café La Sierra – Specialty high-altitude coffee and homemade desserts.
- El Refugio – Vegetarian food with fresh local ingredients.
Oaxaca de Juárez – Cultural Heart
State capital and UNESCO World Heritage site.
What to Do in Oaxaca:
- Visit the Mercado Benito Juárez
- Tasting mezcal in a traditional palenque
- Hire Oaxacking for the best tours
Where to Eat in Oaxaca:
- Casa Oaxaca – Signature cuisine with traditional ingredients.
- Tierra del Sol - Restaurant of Zapotec chef Abigail Mendoza.
- Los Danzantes Oaxaca – Mezcal and gastronomy in an iconic space.
From Mazunte to Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido, this region has something for everyone. If you are looking for lodging, stay at Casa La Vista Mazunte for an unforgettable ocean view experience.