Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Mazunte Mexico (One of the Best Oaxaca Beach Towns)
Traveling to Mazunte, Oaxaca?
You’re in the right place to discover everything you need to know about visiting Mazunte Mexico.
Once a hidden gem, Mazunte is fast becoming one of the most popular Oaxaca beaches. This Oaxaca beach town and Mexico pueblo magico (magic town) might be small, but there’s plenty for visitors to enjoy.
Mazunte is the ideal place for travelers seeking nature, rest and relaxation. If you’re looking for a laid-back, bohemian town, with friendly locals, gorgeous beaches, and turtles 🐢 (we’ll get to this), look no further than Mazunte.
From how to get to Mazunte, to all the best restaurants and best things to do in Mazunte — it’s all here. Note: This is a long, comprehensive article, so check the Table of Contents to find the info you need.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Where is Mazunte, Oaxaca?
Located on the Pacific Coast Mexico, Mazunte is midway between Huatulco and Puerto Escondido.
🗺️ Mazunte Map
Mazunte is in Oaxaca state, which is south of Mexico City, west of Chiapas state, and east of Guerrero state.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Is there an airport in Mazunte Oaxaca Mexico?
No — There’s no Mazunte airport, however, there are two airports located nearby. Each is about a 1-1.5 hour drive from Mazunte.
What’s the best airport for Mazunte?
The closest airport to Mazunte is Bahias de Huatulco International Airport. However, Puerto Escondido Airport is just a few miles further, and the drive time from both airports is the same.
Huatulco Airport (HUX)
- 📍 Huatulco to Mazunte Distance: About 35 miles (57 km)
- 🚙 Huatulco to Mazunte Drive Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes in normal traffic
When traveling to Mazunte, Bahías de Huatulco, Zipolite, San Agustinillo and Puerto Angel, use the Huatulco Airport (code: HUX).
This airport has a limited number of flights from the U.S. and Canada; most in the winter during the busy season or high season months.
If you can’t find direct flights to Huatulco Airport from the United States and Canada, opt for a connecting flight. These go through the Mexico City Airport, Monterrey Airport, Tijuana Airport or Oaxaca City Airport.
🚙💨 Traveling to Huatulco from Oaxaca City? Check out this Ultimate Oaxaca to Huatulco Transportation Guide.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM)
- 📍 Puerto Escondido to Mazunte Distance: About 42 miles (68 km)
- 🚙 Puerto Escondido to Mazunte Drive Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes in normal traffic
To fly into Puerto Escondido International Airport, you’ll have to take two flights. (Note: You can take a flight then a bus if you’re coming from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido.)
You can connect through Mexico City International, Oaxaca International, Tijuana International or Guadalajara International. Those are the only cities with connecting flights, as there’s no direct flights from the U.S. or Canada.
🚙💨 Traveling to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca City? Check out this Ultimate Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Transportation Guide.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
How to Get to Mazunte Mexico
You basically have two options to travel to Mazunte: flight and bus.
You now know there’s no airport in Mazunte. However, there are two airports within one hour of Mazunte — Puerto Escondido Airport and Huatulco Airport.
Below, you’ll find info for all the most popular Mazunte travel routes so you know the best way to get to Mazunte from different parts of Mexico. You can use these links to find the info you need:
- Oaxaca City to Mazunte
- Huatulco to Mazunte
- Puerto Escondido to Mazunte
- Mexico City to Mazunte info is just below
Mexico City to Mazunte
✈️ Flights to Mazunte
Mexico City Airport is the largest airport in Mexico, and you can get anywhere in Mexico from it.
To get to Mazunte, you’ll fly into Puerto Escondido or Huatulco on AeroMexico, Volaris, TAR, or VivaAerobus, four lower-cost Mexican airlines.
🚌 Mexico CIty to Mazunte bus
There’s no bus stop in Mazunte, so your only option is to take the ADO bus to Huatulco or Puerto Escondido. ⚠️ A word of warning: This is a longgg bus ride, at about 17+ hours. By contrast, the flights are about 1.5 hours.
From either place, Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, you’ll then need to make your way to Central Camionera Huatulco Altamar in the small town of San Pedro Pochutla. Here, you can take a taxi or the pasajero (covered pickup truck).
The taxi costs about $35-50 USD, depending on your negotiation skills, and the pasajero is about $2 USD. Taxis are quicker because the pasajero makes a stop in the town of San Antonio on the way, which adds 20-30 minutes to the trip.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Oaxaca City to Mazunte
🚐 Private Shuttle to Mazunte
The best way to get to Mazunte from Oaxaca City is by private shuttle. You’ll have a private and driver door-to-door service, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
🚙 Driving to Mazunte
- 📍 Oaxaca City to Mazunte Distance: About 171 miles (274 km)
- 🚙 Oaxaca City to Mazunte Drive Time: About 6.5 hours in normal traffic
The drive from Oaxaca City to Mazunte is safe, but you’ll be on a curvy mountain road that’s not well maintained or well-lit in all areas. A lot of people get sick on this drive, so remember to bring non-drowsy Dramamine.
You can check the route here on this map, but it’s basically a straight-shot drive on one road, Highway 175, for nearly the entire drive.
▶︎ For Oaxaca rental cars, I recommend and personally use Discover Cars. They compare international companies and local Mexican companies so you always get the best rates.
✈️ Flights to Mazunte
From Oaxaca City, you have two flight options — AeroTucan and AeroVega. Both carriers go to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco. These are both in small 6-10 seater planes, so some prefer to drive as not everyone likes small planes.
Note: I took the AeroTucan flight from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido, and recommend it because it’s so much faster than the drive. You can read more about my personal experience with this flight here.
🚌 bus to Mazunte
There’s no bus stop in Mazunte, so your only option is to take the ADO bus from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco.
From either place, you’ll then need to make your way to Central Camionera Huatulco Altamar, located in the small town of San Pedro Pochutla.
Here, you can get to Mazunte by taxi, which costs about $35-50 USD, or the pasajero (covered pickup truck), for about $2 USD. The taxi is quicker because the pasajero makes a short stop in the town San Antonio along the way.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Huatulco to Mazunte
If you’re coming from Mexico City or Oaxaca City by plane, it’s easy to get to Mazunte from Huatulco Airport.
The best way to get there is by renting a car in Huatulco Airport and driving, but you have other options as well.
🚗 Huatulco to Mazunte drive
From Huatulco Airport, you’re just one hour from Mazunte, in normal traffic. You can check the route here on this map, but it’s basically a straight-shot drive on one road, Highway 200, for most of the drive.
▶︎ For Huatulco rental cars, I recommend and personally use Discover Cars. They compare international companies and local Mexican companies so you always get the best rates.
🚕 taxi to Mazunte
If you don’t want to get a rental car, you can take a taxi from Huatulco to Mazunte. Depending on your negotiation skills, this can cost from $35-50 USD.
⚠️ Note: There’s no Uber in Huatulco, and no Uber in Oaxaca state anywhere.
🚛 Pasajero to Mazunte (Taxi Truck, AKA Colectivo)
Your final option is to get from Huatulco to Central Camionera Huatulco Altamar in the small town of San Pedro Pochutla.
From here, you’ll take the pasajero (covered pickup truck) to Mazunte. The cost is about $2 USD.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Puerto Escondido to Mazunte
If you’re coming from Mexico City or Oaxaca City by plane, it’s easy to get to Mazunte from Puerto Escondido Airport.
The best way is by renting a car in Puerto Escondido Airport and driving, but you also have other options.
🚗 Puerto Escondido to Mazunte drive
From Puerto Escondido Airport, you’re just one hour and 15 minutes from Mazunte, in normal traffic.
You can check the route here on this map, but it’s basically a straight-shot drive on one road, Highway 200, for most of the drive.
▶︎ For Puerto Escondido rental cars, I recommend and personally use Discover Cars. They compare international companies and local Mexican companies so you always get the best rates.
🚕 taxi to Mazunte
If you’re not renting a car, you can take a taxi from Puerto Escondido to Mazunte. Depending on your negotiation skills, this can cost from $35-50 USD.
⚠️ Note: There’s no Uber in Puerto Escondido, and no Uber in Oaxaca state.
🚛 Pasajero to Mazunte (Taxi Truck, AKA Colectivo)
Your final option is to get from Puerto Escondido to Central Camionera Huatulco Altamar in the town of San Pedro Pochutla. From here, you’ll take the pasajero (pickup truck) to Mazunte. The cost is about $2 USD.
Where to Stay in Mazunte Oaxaca
Zoa Hotel: Best Adults Only Mazunte Hotel ($$$$)
When it comes to luxury hotels in Mazunte, there really is only one place — Zoa Mazunte. With its eight private suites nestled in a gorgeous seaside hideaway, this adults-only, eco-friendly hotel is in a class by itself.
The view from the rooms is fantastic… The property’s location is absolutely perfect — removed from all the noise, yet walking distance to everything.
Martha (Read More reviews)
Zoa Hotel Mazunte has a range of amenities: private beach, zen garden, infinity pool, lounge, sundeck overlooking the ocean, theater for private movie viewings, vegetable garden, and an exclusive on-site restaurant.
The Amarte Mar Restaurant not only has a spectacular ocean view but offers a menu focused on providing guests with fresh and local ingredients. It is one of the best restaurants in Mazunte, and located just outside your room.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Casa Lu Hotel Boutique ($$$)
Located 328-feet (100 meters) from Mazunte Beach, Casa Lu Boutique Hotel offers beautiful accommodations, an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a bar, a garden, and on-site dining.
This place is amazing! Beautiful views and location. It’s located down the beach in a quieter area at [the] edge of town, but [you] still can walk to the action and restaurants…
Sherie (Read More reviews)
Each room has a terrace and a balcony that gives guests a beautiful sea view. The hotel is also within walking distance of many great Mazunte restaurants and bars, including El Pescador and La Baguette.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Cocolia Hotel ($$$, Adults Only)
Surrounded by greenery just steps from the beach, Cocolia Hotel has nine private bungalows. This adults-only, eco-friendly hotel is a 20 minute walk from town and is the perfect place if you want to be surrounded by nature.
Here, guests will wake up to the sound of birds, enjoy beautiful sunsets, and count the thousands of stars that line the sky every night. The hotel also is home to the Cacao Restaurant.
Cocolia felt like arriving to a cocoon of calmness! Everything was exceptional! The bed was so comfortable, the sound of the ocean made you feel like you were immersed in it!
Patricia (Read More reviews)
At Cacao, they focus on creating dishes with local, organic and fresh ingredients, using only what’s in season. The restaurant offers several vegetarian and vegan options, and free breakfast is included in the price of the room.
Cocolia Mazunte Hotel also has a saltwater pool at the highest point of the property. While swimming, you’ll have beautiful panoramic views of Punta Cometa, Playa Mermejita Beach and the surrounding greenery.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Cabañas Amaia ($$)
Located just steps from the beach, Cabañas Amaia is owned and run by a Franco-Mexican couple who named the property after their daughter, Amaia.
They are known for impeccable customer service, and treating guests like family.
Julien was the nicest, most welcoming, and accommodating hosts, and has created an absolutely lovely space here at his Cabañas Amaia… Will definitely stay here on our next visit, absolutely loved it here!
Stephanie (Read More reviews)
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Villa Luna de Miel ($)
Villa Luna de Miel Hotel is about a four-minute walk from the beach. They have budget-friendly bungalows with stunning sea views, tropical decor, and a balcony with hammocks. Most rooms also have a kitchen with a large fridge.
This is a magical and special place! I enjoyed my stay here and look forward to returning!!
lindsay (Read More reviews)
If you’re looking for cheap hotels in Mazunte with excellent customer service and clean rooms, all within walking distance of the main strip — Villa Luna de Miel Mazunte is the place.
🏩 more suggestions for where to stay in Mazunte
Need a few more suggestions for the best places to stay in Mazunte?
There’s Casa Qi Mazunte, Hotel Casa Pan de Miel, OceanoMar Mazunte, Cabañas Balamjuyuc, Posada La Sabila, Hotel El Copal Mazunte, Casa Verde, Posada Ziga Playa — and these other great Mazunte hotels.
There are a few Airbnb Mazunte options as well. Personally, I recommend hotels because a lot of places don’t have an address, and the Mazunte WiFi signal isn’t great, so it’s not always easy to find your Airbnb in Mazunte.
4 Best Beaches in Mazunte
Mazunte has some one of the best beaches in Mexico — so you can’t go wrong with any of them! There are four beaches in Mazunte: Playa Mazunte, Playa Cometa, Playa Rinconcito and Playa Mermejita.
1. Playa Mermejita Beach
Playa Mermejita is a virgin beach with long stretches of golden sand — and pretty much nothing else! There’s no restaurants, restrooms or services, so you’ll want to show up with everything you need for the day.
Playa Mermejita is perfect for leisurely, long walks on the beach, playing some ball, and seeing a stunning Pacific Coast sunset.
It’s not ideal for swimming, as the waves are usually huge and strong, but some people swim anyway.
In recent years, Playa Mermejita has become a nudist beach, though it’s not technically legal. The only legal nude beach in Mexico is in Zipolite, located about 20 minutes from Mazunte.
🥾 How to get to Playa Mermejita Mazunte
Getting to Mermejita Beach requires a hike, but the reward is that you might have a private beach all to yourself. You’ll want to walk to the southern end of Playa Rinconcito, then take the trail up the side of the hill.
This path will take you to a few places, including Mermejita Beach and the Punta Cometa overlook, which is the best place to watch the sunset in Mazunte. The hiking trails are clearly noted with signs, so you won’t get lost.
The hike isn’t difficult, but you’ll want sneakers or at least hiking sandals. People absolutely do this walk in flip flops, or even barefoot, but it’s a much more pleasant trek in shoes. Also, bring mosquito repellent 🦟
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
2. Playa Rinconcito Beach
Playa Rinconcito is the best beach in Mazunte for swimming. It has calm waters, making it the perfect place for a dip in the Pacific Ocean, even if you aren’t a strong swimmer. The beach has lifeguards, though not at all times.
🤿 Note: Even though this is the best swimming beach in Mazunte, be careful when swimming in Mazunte — anywhere. The Pacific Ocean waves can get huge, and there’s often a strong current.
This is the main beach in town, and also the most lively. It is located at the end of Calle Rinconcito, where you’ll find all the best Mazunte restaurants, bars and tour operators.
Besides beachfront restaurants right in the sand, you can also rent chairs and umbrellas here. 🏖 Prices vary, but plan for about $200 pesos ($10 USD).
In the evenings, locals head here to play beach volleyball as the sun sets.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
3. Playa Mazunte Beach
Playa Mazunte is located right next to Playa Rinconcito. It’s usually less crowded because Rinconcito has all the restaurants and is better for swimming.
🐾 Traveling with a pet? These beaches are both dog friendly.
Playa Mazunte has a hippy vibe to it, and not much in the way of services. During the high season or busy season from about November to April, some palapa cafes and restaurants open, but it’s usually just a peaceful beach.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
4. Playa Cometa Beach
Located in Punta Cometa State Park, this small beach cove is accessible on the same hiking path that goes to the Punta Cometa sunset spot. It is a rustic beach with no services, so come prepared.
The waves at Playa Cometa get big, so you won’t want to swim here. However, it’s the perfect place to take in the hypnotic sounds of the Pacific Ocean. To swim, head to Playa Rinconcito, the best beach for swimming in Mazunte.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Best Oaxaca Beaches Near Mazunte
Mazunte, Zipolite, San Agustinillio and Puerto Angel make up the Riviera Oaxaqueña (Oaxacan Riviera). This area is also called the Oaxaca Emerald Coast because of the blue-green color in the Pacific Ocean here.
All the beaches are within 30-45 minutes of one another, so if you’re renting a car in Oaxaca, you can easily go on your own. If not, head to the main road in Mazunte, and wait for a pasajero (taxi truck) to arrive.
Then, jump in the back and head to your next Oaxaca beach town. Pasajeros cost $10-20 MXN pesos per person per ride ($0.50-$1USD), depending where you’re going.
Playa Zipolite: Mexico Nude Beach
Of the four Oaxaca Riviera towns, Zipolite is the most famous (or, infamous) as it’s the only legal nude beach in Mexico. While all Zipolite beaches are nude beaches, most beach goers in Zipolite do remain clothed.
If you want to bare it all, head to the area known locally as Playa Desnudo (Nude Beach), just outside the Naked Hotel Zipolite. If not, there’s Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach), a small beach cove popular with LGBTQ+ travelers.
🤔 Zipolite vs Mazunte: Which is better?
If you don’t want tan lines, opt for Zipolite!
All kidding aside, Mazunte looks a lot like Zipolite, and they both have similar bohemian vibes, so if you like one you’ll probably like the other.
Mazunte is a bit more zen, while Zipolite can be a bit more lively, especially within the local LGBTQ+ scene. As they are located just 20 minutes apart, you can always visit them both and see which one suits you best.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Playa San Agustinillo
San Agustinillo is located just one town over from Mazunte. These two towns are said to have the best beaches in Oaxaca Mexico — but many say Playa San Agustinillo is the absolute best beach in Oaxaca.
Playa San Agustinillo is a long stretch of beach, which makes it perfect for long walks on the beach! Enjoy some time just strolling along the soft golden sand, admiring the gorgeous rock formation, and lush, wild foliage.
🤔 Mazunte vs San Agustinillo: Which is better?
While Mazunte attracts a younger, bohemian crowd, San Agustinillo’s vibe skews older and more posh.
They are located about 20 minutes from one another on foot, and five minutes by car, so you can visit both and see for yourself.
For nice accommodations, opt for these San Agustinillo hotels — Casa Bagus, Zoa Hotel, Casa Cometa and Casa la Ola. You can always walk over to Mazunte for the fun bars and restaurants, but San Agustinillo has nicer hotels.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Playa Puerto Angel
Puerto Angel is a Oaxaca Riviera beach town about 20 minutes west of San Agustinillo, closer to Zipolite. Of all beaches listed thus far, Puerto Ángel is the least visited, and you may just have some beaches all to yourself.
The best beaches in Puerto Angel Oaxaca are Playa Estacahuite (AKA Bahía Estacahuite Bay), Playa Panteon and Playa Principal.
There’s also the gorgeous and relatively-untouched Playa la Tijera (Scissors Beach), which is about 20 minutes outside of town.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Playa Escobilla: Turtle Sanctuary Beach
Oaxaca is home to several major turtle nesting beaches, including La Escobilla, a waterfront sanctuary for sea turtles. It is also among the world’s most significant nesting grounds for the Olive Ridley turtle.
One of the most extraordinary things about this endangered turtle species is its nesting habits. During the nesting season, large groups of turtles gather together offshore and then come ashore together in vast numbers.
🐢 La Arribada (The Arrival)
This event is known as La Arribada, which means “the arrival” in Spanish. Sometimes, you’ll see it called Gran Arribada, or “great arrival,” as they come in such vast numbers.
The nesting season at La Escobilla Sanctuary runs July to January, peaking during September and October. During this time, up to 90,000 turtles come ashore over a 3-5 day period. Each will lay about 85-150 eggs.
La Escobilla beach is protected by military guards, and you can only visit with a guide. The guides are usually volunteers who know how to keep the turtles’ safety a priority — like making sure people don’t use flash photography.
🐢 Fun Fact: Mazunte means “let me see you spawn” in Náhuatl (Aztec language). This refers to the fact that Mazunte beaches are such popular turtle nesting sites.
Visitors to La Escobilla Sanctuary can also help release baby turtles into the Pacific Ocean. The best place to check and see if there are tours available is through the Mexico Turtle Center in Mazunte.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Top 5 Best Things To Do in Mazunte Oaxaca
This Oaxaca beach town and Mexico pueblo magico (magic town) might be small, but there’s plenty to do and see once you arrive.
Mazunte is the ideal place for travelers seeking nature, rest and relaxation. If you’re looking for a laid-back, bohemian town, with friendly locals, gorgeous beaches, and turtles 🐢 (we’ll get to this), look no further than Mazunte.
Below, you’ll see the five must see Mazunte sites, but for a complete list, check out the 17 Best Things to Do in Mazunte.
1. See the Sunrise or Sunset at Punta Cometa
🤔 What is Punta Cometa?
Punta Cometa (AKA Cerro Sagrada, or Sacred Hill) was used in pre-Hispanic times as a ceremonial center. Today, it is a gathering place by Mazunte visitors and locals alike, and the best spot in town to see the epic Mazunte sunsets.
Punta Cometa is a point of land that juts into the Pacific Ocean. Given its unique geographic position at the southernmost point in Oaxaca state, visitors get to enjoy 180° views of the Pacific Ocean just below you.
🗺 How to get to Punta Cometa Mazunte
Punta Cometa is just a short and relatively easy hike up from Playa Rinconcito. You can access the path up from the southern end of Playa Rinconcito, where you’ll see the trail to take up the side of the hill.
You can walk to Punta Cometa all day, but it’s especially popular at sunset when you’ll get some amazing views from the clifftop. At Punta Cometa, you have 180° panoramic ocean views, and you can see all the Mazunte beaches.
🥾 Hiking the Punta Cometa Trail
The hike to Punta Cometa can be a bit challenging, but it’s only about a 15 minute walk. Once you reach the Punta Cometa viewpoint, you’ll see it was totally worth it. 🐋 Visiting Mazunte in winter? You’ll likely see some whales from here.
While some people who do this hike in beach sandals or even barefoot, you’ll want to opt for sneakers or hiking sandals. The trail to Punta Cometa is completely unpaved, so footwear really does come in handy.
The trail is not lit at all. If you’re going for sunset, a flashlight or headlamp will come in handy, or just make sure your phone is fully charged so you can use the flashlight. Oh, an don’t forget the eco-friendly bug spray 🦟
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
2. Boat Tour to Laguna Manialtepec (Bioluminescent Lagoon)
Located one hour and 15 minutes northwest of Mazunte, you’ll find Laguna Manialtepec. This is a 3.7-mile-long (6 km) coastal lagoon near Puerto Escondido that’s popular with visitors, both by day and night.
Visiting Manialtepec Lagoon is one of the top things to do in Mazunte at night — as Laguna de Manialtepec is one of the few places in the world where you can swim in the water with bioluminescent plankton.
The plankton in the lagoon only emit light when they’re disturbed, so if you want to see them glow in the dark, get ready to jump into the water! Also, the bioluminescence is strongest in the center of the lake, so you must go by boat.
🤔 how to book Mazunte boat tours
This is one of the most popular and best tours in Mazunte. To book, head to the Playa Rinconcito Beach entrance at the end of Calle Rinconcito. All the tour operators hang out here, so it’s the best place to book tours in Mazunte.
📆 Best time to see bioluminescence in Mazunte
The best months to see these phosphorescent plankton are July, August, November and December — although you can see it year-round. However, if it’s raining or there’s a Full Moon, skip this tour.
To see the glow of the plankton in all its glory, you’ll need to be in complete darkness. This is why you don’t want to go during the Full Moon, as you won’t see as much if moonlight is strong.
Last but not least, if you plan on heading to Laguna Manialtepec, remember to pack a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, flashlight or headlamp, insect repellent, and some long-sleeved pants and a shirt to ward off insect bites.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
3. Eco-Tours of Laguna Ventanilla Nature Sanctuary
Laguna Ventanilla is a lagoon that 20 families have taken up conservation efforts to protect. They are known as the Ventanilla Ecotourism Cooperative. As Ventanilla Lagoon is accessible only by boat, you must go with a tour.
You can catch a tour in Mazunte from the guys in the red shirts, who usually hang out near the entrance to Playa Rinconcito. If you don’t see them, just ask a local — in Mazunte, everyone knows everyone else.
Laguna Ventanilla offers a chance to get out into nature and see another side of Mazunte, away from the beaches. While boating through the mangroves, be on the lookout for iguanas, spider monkeys, deer and crocodiles.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
4. National Mexican Turtle Center in Mazunte
The Mexican National Turtle Center is a museum, aquarium, research institute and sanctuary dedicated to sea turtles preservation. They house the four sea turtle species found in Mexico, two land species, and 16 freshwater species.
The Mexican National Turtle Center is located here, and open Wednesday through Sunday, from morning until early afternoon. Admission is just $40 MXN pesos ($2 USD), and proceeds go to a good cause.
🐢 baby turtle release in Mazunte
One of their most popular activities is the Liberación de Tortugas Marinas, which means sea turtle liberation, or sea turtle release. This is an event where you can release baby sea turtles into the Pacific Ocean for the first time.
If you want to participate as a volunteer, contact the Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga via Facebook. Their Mazunte sea turtle releases aren’t held with any regularity, as it involves wild animals.
🐢 Brief history of the Mazunte Turtle museum
Mazunte was once the turtle hunting capital of Mexico, as locals considered turtle meat a delicacy. Since turtles are so prevalent in and around Mazunte, turtle hunters were able to easily supply the demand.
By the late 1980s, there weren’t many turtles left due to overhunting. In 1991, the Mexican government banned turtle hunting altogether as these animals were on the brink of extinction.
The government also opened the National Mexican Turtle Center — and located it near the main turtle slaughterhouse in Mazunte. The idea was that turtle-hunters could recoup their lost income through tourism.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
5. Water Massage at Corazon del Agua (Aguahara)
Wondering where to get a massage in Mazunte? You may not have heard of Augahara water massages yet, but this is something unique you can only get in a few places, including Mazunte.
A beautiful, profound, and unforgettable experience. Jo is a wonderful guide into this ancient art… Highly recommend.
—Melissa M., read more reviews
Corazon del Agua Mazunte is a holistic center run by JoJo Walsh. For the last 10 years, she has dedicated her life to helping individuals with their body, mind, and soul connection, allowing them to reconnect with their inner selves.
Along with different types of services, Jojo offers these Aguahara Water Massages — an ancient Eastern water therapy. This is one of the highest-rated experiences in Mazunte, with a 5 Star rating.
Each one-on-one session is entirely personalized for your needs. During your session, you’re continuously supported while Jojo gently moves, stretches, cradles, and massages you in the water.
As one of the spiritual epicenters in Mexico, this is exactly the type of thing that draws many to Mazunte. If you want deep relaxation, and a way to melt away your stress and tension, Aguahara is a must do in Mazunte.
🤩 A few more mazunte things to do
Need a few more suggestions? You’re in luck because there are plenty of other cool things see do in Mazunte, like these:
- ⛵️ Go on a Boat Tour in Mazunte: There’s dolphin boat tours year-round, and boats that offer whale watching in Mazunte in the winter.
- 🧘♀️ Take yoga classes in Mazunte at Hridaya Yoga, Casa Om and Solstice Yoga, which is located in San Agustinillo, one town over from Mazunte.
- 🌊 Go whitewater rafting in Mazunte on the Río Copalita River, which has Class II-IV Rapids.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Best Restaurants in Mazunte
Below, you’ll see the three must-try Mazunte eateries, but for a complete list, check out the 15 Best Restaurants in Mazunte.
When in doubt, one of the best things to do in Mazunte is eat! In Mazunte, you’ll definitely want to try traditional Oaxaca food, but there are plenty of other options as well.
🌮 What is Oaxaca food?
Oaxacan cuisine fuses indigenous traditions and local ingredients. This sets it apart from other regional cuisines, and for many, this is not the food you know as traditional Mexican food.
Today, Oaxaca state is known for having some of the best cuisine in Mexico. The capital city, Oaxaca de Juarez (AKA Oaxaca City), is known as the “Foodie Capital of Mexico,” and you’ll definitely have some tasty food in Mazunte as well.
Whether you’re craving traditional Oaxacan cuisine, or something a little closer to home, there are many types of restaurants in Mazunte. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the best Mazunte restaurants that you won’t want to miss.
Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
La Pizzeria: Best Pizza in Mazunte
La Pizzeria is a brick oven pizza joint, but it’s actually known as the best restaurant in Mazunte. It’s also budget-friendly, and you can get a whole pizza margarita and a few beers for about $200 MXN pesos ($10 USD).
The owner is Italian, and actually there’s a large Italian expat population on the Oaxaca Coast, so this pizza is way better than it should be for rural Mexico.
When you visit, you’ll see him in the kitchen throwing the dough to make your pizza.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Café Panchatantra: Best Coffee in Mazunte
Looking for the best coffee in Mazunte? Head to Café Panchatantra, which has an award-winning barista on staff who does latte art that will blow your mind! The owners, Nina and Rob are also coffee lovers, and it shows.
Along with rich, organic coffee, they sell a variety of pastries, including sugar-free cakes and vegan desserts. If you’re looking for a quaint, cozy, and adorable coffee shop in Mazunte, don’t miss Cafe Panchatantra.
☕️ Must Try: Pluma Hidalgo Coffee
Pluma Hidalgo is considered the best coffee in Mexico. It is sustainably grown and ethically sourced from the Pluma Hidalgo Municipality, located in the Sierra Madre Mountains, not far from Mazunte.
While in town, make sure to try some pluma hidalgo Oaxaca coffee. They usually serve it at Café Panchatantra, or you can look for pluma hidalgo at Cometa Café, Icaro Café and El Gecko Mazunte.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
El Cenzontle: Best Burgers in Mazunte
The best burger in Mazunte is at El Cenzontle, located on Calle Rinconcito near Playa Rinconcito Beach. This is an equal opportunity burger joint, which caters to all diets with meat burgers, fish burgers and vegan burgers available.
They have a rotating list of farm-to-table ingredients you can add as a burger topping. You can add as many burger toppings you’d like, and you’re only limited by what the kitchen has on hand that day — so go wild.
All burgers at El Cenzontle Mazunte are served with a side of homemade fries and a cold craft beer. 🍻 Side Note: When you automatically get a Mexican beer with your burger, you know you’re at a quality establishment.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
A few more restaurants in Mazunte
Want to check out some additional restaurants in Mazunte? For a small town, there are quite a few Mazunte restaurant options to choose from. If you need a few more suggestions, try these:
- 🌱 Luz del Sol: Best Vegan in Mazunte
- 🌮 Tribu Mazunte: Hip Mazunte taqueria (taco shop)
- Restaurant Tadeo: Tacos, tlayudas other Oaxacan foods
- Alessandro: Italian food in Mazunte
- La Vendimia: Argentine bar and grill
- Terraza Del Arquitecto: Cafe
- Estrella Fugaz: Seafood and grilled meats
- La Ola: Beachfront restaurant in San Agustinillo, just one town over from Mazunte
- El Navegante: Seafood restaurant in San Agustinillo
Mazunte Oaxaca: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mazunte safe to travel to?
For the vast majority of travelers, Mazunte is one of the safest places in Mexico. Oaxaca ranks among the safest states in Mexico, and the Mexican government aims to keep it this way.
Small towns like Mazunte tend to be even more safe than larger cities. Aside from big surf waves, mosquitoes, sunburns, and drinking too much Oaxaca mezcal, you’re in little danger on the beaches of Oaxaca.
However, no place on Earth is 100% safe, so you’ll want to take the same general travel safety measures you would anywhere else — like staying aware off yourself, your belongings and your surroundings.
You should also register for the U.S. STEP Program, and put your mind at ease with Mexico travel insurance.
⚠️ Mexico Travel Insurance for Mazunte
Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.
If Mazunte travel safety is on your mind, get your FREE quote below from World Nomads and Safety Wing, two of the biggest names in travel insurance.
- World Nomads: Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling, like surfing in Oaxaca.
- Safety Wing: Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomads who travel for extended periods of time.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
What’s the best time to visit Mazunte Oaxaca?
Weather-wise, the best months to visit Mazunte and the entire Oaxaca Coast are November to April. This is the dry season, but it’s also the busy season — so you’ll get nice weather, but also larger crowds.
The rainy season in Oaxaca lasts from about May to October, and the coast of Oaxaca sees a lot of rain thanks to its tropical climate. Though rare, hurricanes can hit this part of Mexico, and Hurricane Season runs June 1-November 30.
In case you’re wondering, the last Mazunte hurricane was Hurricane Agatha. It hit in June 2022, and caused a lot of damage.
☀️ Mazunte Weather
If you can, plan your Mazunte vacation for the winter months, when temperatures and humidity are mild, the mosquitoes are at bay, and you can see the whales.
If you’re visiting in summer, you can expect rain, but usually only for 1-2 hours per day in the afternoons. For some travelers, you’ll have very heavy rains, so it’s always a risk to travel to Mazunte in summer.
🦟 Oaxaca Beaches Travel Tips: Regardless of when you visit, you’ll encounter mosquitoes and other bugs on the Oaxacan Coast. Practice sustainable tourism in Mexico by using eco-friendly mosquito repellent.
🐋 Oaxaca Whale Season
The best time to see whales in Mazunte, and all Oaxaca, is from December to March. In 2019, a 108 square mile (280 km²) area off the coast of nearby Puerto Escondido was declared a Mexico Whale Watching Zone.
🎉 Best Festivals in Mazunte Oaxaca
Since you’ll have the best weather in winter, this is when most of the Mazunte festivals take place. Head here for more info about the most popular annual events and best Mazunte festivals.
- Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead, November 1-2)
- Zipolite Nudist Festival (February or March)
- Mazunte Jazz Mazunte (November)
- Arribada (Turtle Arrival, July-January)
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Are there ATMs in Mazunte?
Yes — There are actually a few Mazunte ATMs in downtown. If you’ve seen info online saying there are no ATMs in Mazunte, that’s outdated.
There is a Santander ATM here, near the Comedor Romy, and a few Multiva ATMs here. 🤑 Note: Santander has lower fees.
Now, it’s in your best interest to show up with as much cash as you’ll need for your entire Mazunte trip, if possible.
While there are a few ATMs in Mazunte these days, they frequently run out of money, especially on weekends and holidays. Even on regular days, they sometimes just aren’t working.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
What is Mazunte known for?
Mazunte is really known for three things: beautiful beaches, yoga (and other spiritual practices) and turtles.
You can enjoy the first two year-round, but the Mazunte turtle season is only from about July to January.
Can you swim at the Mazunte beaches?
Yes, but use caution — Playa Rinconcito Beach is considered the best beach for swimming in Mazunte, but be careful.
The waves here can get huge, and there’s often a strong undercurrent. Some beaches, like Playa Cometa, aren’t recommended for swimming at all.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Can you surf in Mazunte?
Wondering, Is Mazunte good for surfing? Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it really isn’t.
San Agustinillo, just one town east of Mazunte, can get good waves, but the beaches of Puerto Escondido have the best surf on the Oaxaca Coast.
🏄♀️ Looking for the best Mexico surf towns?
Besides Puerto Escondido, there’s Sayulita, La Ticla, Punta Mita, Cuyutlán, Mazatlan, Troncones, Pascuales, Todos Santos, Barra de La Cruz, Chacahua, the East Cape near Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada.
Ultimate Mazunte Mexico Travel Guide
Is Mazunte worth visiting?
Yes — As it takes at least two flights to get to Mazunte, or a flight and a bus, you might be wondering if traveling to Mazunte is worth it.
While the Oaxaca beaches aren’t as easily accessible as other Mexico beach towns, they’re some of the most beautiful. If you want more than just all inclusive resorts, Mazunte is your place.
As it’s still mostly off the main tourist radar, the golden sand beaches of Mazunte are peaceful and gorgeous. If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, do some yoga, and eat the freshest seafood of your life, Mazunte is it.
I hope this guide to Mazunte made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!
Is Mazunte a pueblo magico?
Yes — Mazunte is one of Mexico’s 135 or so pueblos magicos (magic towns). It is one of six Oaxaca pueblos magicos, and the only Mexico pueblo magico on the coast of Oaxaca.
🤔 What is a Pueblo Magico?
The Mexico Tourism Board awards the prestigious pueblo magico distinction to special towns in the country with characteristics like natural beauty, unique culture and historic folklore.
In short, Mexico pueblo magico towns are off the beaten path places and hidden gems that travelers would want to check out. Mazunte pueblo magico is no exception.
The word pueblo literally translates to “small town,” and Mazunte is just that. There are no stoplights, and one main road going through town. There are, however, rustic-chic Mazunte hotels so visitors will be comfortable.
Final Thoughts: Traveling to Mazunte Mexico
While most think it’s little more than a hippie beach town, Mazunte has so much more to offer visitors. Though small, it is one of the best beach towns in Oaxaca, and getting more popular with each passing year.
Make sure you visit soon — because this Mexico hidden gem won’t stay hidden for long. In the meantime, I hope this Ultimate Guide to Mazunte Mexico will help you have the most epic Mazunte vacation.
Oaxaca Travel Planning Guide
Should I buy Mexico travel insurance for Oaxaca?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?
No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling to Oaxaca. (Read more)
Is it safe to rent a car in Oaxaca?
Yes — Renting a car in Oaxaca is one of the best ways to see the state. I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks international companies and local Oaxaca companies, so you get the best rates. (Read more)
Will my phone work in Oaxaca?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of all Mexico SIM Cards. (Read more)
What’s the best way to book places to stay in Oaxaca?
For Oaxaca hotels, Booking.com is the best site. If you’re considering a Oaxaca Airbnb, also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. For the best Oaxaca hostels, use HostelWorld.
What do I pack for Oaxaca?
Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.
What’s the best site to buy Oaxaca flights?
For finding cheap Oaxaca flights, I recommend booking through Skyscanner.
Do I need a visa for Oaxaca?
Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but you can check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
The vast majority of travelers will receive a a passport stamp, or 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa upon arrival.