Zipolite, Mazunte & San Agustinillo: Oaxaca Guide
Zipolite is a laid-back, clothing-optional beach on Oaxaca's Pacific coast — with neighboring Mazunte and San Agustinillo, a bohemian corner of Mexico built around nature and a slow pace.
About Zipolite
Zipolite is a laid-back beach on Oaxaca's Pacific coast, long known as Mexico's most famous clothing-optional beach and for a bohemian, 1960s-throwback vibe. Along with neighboring Mazunte and San Agustinillo, it draws travelers looking for nature, yoga, simple palapa lodging and a slower pace far from the big resorts.
How to get to Zipolite from the US
Fly into Huatulco (HUX) or Puerto Escondido (PXM) — usually connecting through Mexico City — then continue by road. Most routes pass through Pochutla, from where shared taxis (colectivos) and vans run the short distance to Puerto Ángel, Zipolite and Mazunte.
Best time to visit
November to April is the dry, sunny season and the best time to visit. May to October is hotter and greener with some rain.
Things to do in Zipolite, Mazunte and San Agustinillo
Relax on the sand, watch the sunset, and take a boat trip to spot turtles, dolphins and (in season) whales. In Mazunte, visit the Mexican Turtle Center and the Punta Cometa headland. Yoga retreats and surf schools are everywhere. Note that Zipolite's surf is powerful and the currents are dangerous — it is better for watching the waves than for swimming.
Where to stay
Zipolite for beach palapas and the free-spirited scene; San Agustinillo for a quieter, swimmable cove; and Mazunte for eco-lodges and a Pueblo Mágico feel.
Is Zipolite safe?
Oaxaca carries a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory, the same level as most of Mexico's main tourist destinations. The Oaxaca coast is generally relaxed; the main hazard at Zipolite is the strong surf, so heed warning flags. Use normal travel precautions and check the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before your trip.
The Oaxacan Coast
Zipolite is part of a string of tranquil beaches south of Puerto Escondido. The series includes Puerto Ángel, San Agustinillo, Mazunte, and Zipolite. A few hours to the east are the beautiful bays of Huatulco. Oaxaca City, with its markets, museums and cuisine, is 6 hours by mountain road. Check Oaxacan coast vacation packages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Zipolite?
On the Pacific coast of the state of Oaxaca, about 2 km from Puerto Ángel, next to Mazunte and San Agustinillo.
How do I get to Zipolite from the US?
Fly into Huatulco (HUX) or Puerto Escondido (PXM), usually via Mexico City, then continue by road through Pochutla, where colectivos and vans run to Zipolite and Mazunte.
Is Zipolite a nude beach?
Yes, Zipolite is Mexico's best-known official clothing-optional beach, although going nude is not required.
Can you swim at Zipolite?
The surf is strong and the currents are dangerous, so it is better for surfing and watching the waves than for swimming. Neighboring San Agustinillo has calmer water.
Is Zipolite safe?
Oaxaca carries a Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ advisory. The coast is generally relaxed; the main hazard is the strong surf, so heed the warning flags and check the current US advisory.