Mexico – Laura Tannous

Zipolite is a low-key beach resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca. Stretching between rocky headlands, the long beach is known for its strong surf and nude beaches.

I had never heard of Zipolite until I was invited to go with a friend I met at my hostel in Oaxaca City. I was already planning on going to Puerto Escondido, so Zipolite would be along the coast after passing Mazunte, another beach resort on the Pacific coast.

How to get to Zipolite from Puerto Escondido?

We took a bus (ADO) from Puerto Escondido Bus Central to Pochutla. The bus was around 2 hours and cost MXN 150. When arriving to Pochutla, there isn’t a direct bus that takes you to Zipolite, so you can catch a colectivo (shared taxi) or a taxi going to Zipolite. This will take around 30 minutes depending on where you’re staying in Zipolite and costs from MXN 30 – 100 pesos.

My friend and I stayed in a beautiful cabin for 450 MXN a night. The space was charming, and it included a kitchen and clean drinking water. Just like all the kind people I had the pleasure of meeting in Mexico, the guy managing the place was kind enough to drive my friend to the bus station in Zipolite to go to San Cristobal de las Casas on his motorcycle!

The cabins are up in the mountain, where you’ll wake up to a beautiful view from up top and only the sounds of nature. If you’re looking for a tranquil place with no distractions, this is it. With that being said, be prepared to haul your belonging uphill and climb the stairs going up to the cabin.

The beaches and entertainment on the coast were a 10-15 minute walk, but there are plenty of resorts along the beach if you choose to stay closer. One of the most popular resorts is Casa Nudista – no explanation needed given that this is a nudist beach – and it is right on playa Zipolite.

Tip: If you’re planning on buying food and making your own meals, there’s a Chedraui across from the bus stop in Pochutla. You can shop there and then head directly to your accommodation; that way you don’t have to look for a store in Zipolite.

My pictures from Aldea and Zipolite can be found here.

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