Salt, Sand and a Reckless Sea: Exploring Zipolite Beach’s Wild Coast
A raw Pacific beach where the surf sets the rules and the village keeps time
The road into Zipolite unravels like a ribbon of sun and dust: one moment you’re passing scrubby hills and roadside shrines, the next the Pacific opens up in a raw, blue sweep. You step off the narrow highway and the village meets you without pretense—hammocks slung between palms, weathered wooden stalls selling ceviche and fresh coconut, a handful of surfboards leaning like sentinels against corrugated roofs. Zipolite is not polished; it doesn’t try to be. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, pay attention, and, if you choose, to strip your expectations away as cleanly as your shirt.
Trail Wisdom
Respect the currents
Ask a local about safe swimming spots and avoid going far into the surf on high-swell days—rips are common and sometimes lethal.
Carry cash
Small restaurants, taxis and vendors often accept only pesos—ATMs are limited and can run dry in high season.
Protect the wildlife
If visiting during turtle season, keep lights off at night and follow local conservation rules to protect nesting females.
Choose footwear wisely
A pair of sturdy sandals or water shoes will save your feet on rocky points and hot sand.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Playa Mermejita—an isolated cove just west of Zipolite for quiet walks
- •Punta Cometa (Mazunte)—short coastal hike with dramatic sunset views
Wildlife
Olive ridley turtle, Frigatebird
Conservation Note
Local groups organize turtle nesting protection and beach cleanups; support them by participating in guided patrols or donating to community initiatives.
Zipolite grew from a small Zapotec fishing community into a countercultural beach town in the 1960s–70s, retaining a bohemian identity alongside traditional coastal life.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: surfing shoulder season, whale watching (late spring sightings possible)
Challenges: increasing heat, occasional storms late in the season
Spring bridges the cool dry season and the hotter summer; surf is consistent and crowds thin after the winter high season.
summer
Best for: warm-water ocean swimming, budget travel and fewer crowds
Challenges: hot, humid conditions, higher rainfall and stronger storms
Summer is hot and green, with intermittent afternoon rain; boat tours and organized activities may be less predictable.
fall
Best for: surfing (southern swells begin), lower rates at accommodations
Challenges: hurricane season peaks (Sept-Oct), unstable weather windows
Fall brings powerful southern swells but also the hurricane season—check forecasts and local advisories before planning extended ocean activities.
winter
Best for: dry weather and clear skies, best beach days and sunsets
Challenges: higher tourist volume, booked accommodations
Winter (Nov–Mar) is the most pleasant and busiest time; temperatures are comfortable and the ocean is often inviting for beach days.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the marine environment during long beach days.
Water shoesEssential
Useful for rocky points, tide pools and hot sand.
Dry bag
Keeps valuables safe from sand and surf during beach hikes or boat trips.
Lightweight wind layer
Evenings and sea breezes can get cool—an easy layer adds comfort.
Common Questions
Is it safe to swim at Zipolite?
Zipolite has strong rip currents in many areas; swim only in places marked safe by locals or lifeguards, and avoid swimming alone on high-swell days.
Is Zipolite a nudist beach?
Zipolite is known for its tolerant attitude toward nudity and is one of Mexico’s beaches where clothing-optional use is common; respect local customs and private spaces.
How do I get to Zipolite?
Most visitors arrive by car or colectivo from Puerto Escondido (about 30–60 minutes) or Huatulco (about 1.5–2 hours); shared shuttles and buses run regularly along the coastal highway.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season (November–March) offers the most reliable beach weather; February and March are particularly pleasant with fewer storms.
Are there surf lessons available?
Yes—local instructors offer lessons and board rentals; choose instructors with local knowledge about rips and beginner-friendly entry points.
Can I see sea turtles in Zipolite?
Yes—olive ridley turtles nest in the region; community organizations run nesting patrols and guided night visits during nesting season—always join an approved group to avoid disturbing nests.
What to Pack
reef-safe sunscreen, sturdy sandals for rocks and hot sand, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, a lightweight wind layer for cool evenings
Did You Know
Zipolite is widely recognized as one of Mexico’s few beaches where nudity is culturally accepted and tolerated by local authorities.
Quick Travel Tips
Bring cash and small bills; check ocean conditions with locals before swimming; support turtle conservation groups if visiting during nesting season; learn basic Spanish phrases for smoother local interactions
Local Flavor
Eat local seafood ceviche at beach palapas, sample artisanal mezcal in neighboring towns, and browse shops selling handwoven textiles and local crafts—a reflection of the region’s Zapotec and coastal influences.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest airports: Puerto Escondido (PXM) ~30–60 min, Huatulco (HUX) ~1.5–2 hours; bring cash, basic Spanish helps, simple accommodations range from hostels to cabanas; be cautious of rip currents.
Sustainability Note
Respect nesting turtle season, use reef-safe sunscreen, minimize plastic waste, and support community-led conservation projects and local vendors.