Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
02/08/2025
V Bawa, Pexels
Zipolite, Mexico, is a distinctive coastal community on Oaxaca's southern coast, widely recognized as Mexico's first and only legal public nude beach. It offers a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere for travelers seeking a free-spirited and accepting environment.
The primary area for socializing is the main street, informally known as El Adoquin or Avenida Roca Blanca, which features restaurants, bars, and shops. In the evenings, this area transforms into a vibrant market with artisans and performers. Playa del Amor, a secluded beach on the eastern end of Zipolite, is also known as a gay-friendly spot with a laid-back vibe and beach bars. Establishments such as Delfina Beach Club, La Maxima Nue Beach Bar (formerly Club Demetria), ChiZme Café + BAR, La Venita Surf Bar, and Sebastian de los Milagros are popular for nightlife and social gatherings, many of which are queer-friendly.
Top 7 Things to do in Zipolite
Activities in Zipolite largely revolve around embracing the relaxed beach lifestyle, engaging with local nature, focusing on well-being, and exploring nearby coastal communities.
1. Relaxing on Zipolite's Beaches
Spending time on Zipolite's main beach, Playa Zipolite, or the more secluded Playa del Amor, allows for complete relaxation and enjoying the unique clothing-optional atmosphere. Playa del Amor, particularly, offers a serene environment often favored by the LGBTQ+ community, where sunsets are a daily spectacle, sometimes accompanied by live music or fire shows. The beach provides ample space to unwind, sunbathe, or simply observe the Pacific waves. While swimming is possible, strong currents are present, especially in certain areas, so caution is advised.
Cost: Free (for beach access); sun loungers at beach clubs may incur a cost for use, often offset by food and drink purchases.
Transport: Playa Zipolite is the central beach in town and is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations. Playa del Amor is located on the eastern end of the main beach and can be reached by walking over the rocks.
2. Learning to Surf
Zipolite offers accessible waves for beginners and those looking to improve their surfing skills. Surf lessons are readily available from local instructors, including lifeguards, on the main beach. Boards can also be rented for those with prior experience. The experience provides a direct engagement with the Pacific Ocean's energy.
Cost: Surf lessons typically range from 300 to 500 MXN per person (approximately 15-25 USD). Private lessons can cost around 1,300 MXN (approximately 70-75 USD) per session, while group lessons might be around 1,000 MXN (approximately 50-60 USD). Board rentals are around 10 USD per day.
Transport: Surf lessons and board rentals are typically found on the main beach (Playa Zipolite), near the lifeguard tower or on the west side. This is generally within walking distance of many central accommodations.
3. Practicing Yoga
Zipolite is a recognized destination for yoga, with several studios and retreats offering daily drop-in classes. Engaging in a yoga session provides a tranquil way to connect with the mind and body in a serene environment, often with views of the ocean. Classes are available for various skill levels, focusing on holistic well-being.
Cost: A single drop-in yoga class typically costs around 250 MXN (approximately 14 USD). Passes for multiple classes or unlimited monthly access are also available.
Transport: Yoga studios are often located within the main town area or slightly uphill, usually accessible by walking.
4. Taking an Ocean Boat Tour
Boat tours offer a chance to explore the Pacific coastline and encounter diverse marine wildlife. From November to March, these tours often provide opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays. Tours typically include stops for birdwatching, rock jumping, and snorkeling in calm bays, providing a comprehensive coastal nature experience.
Cost: Boat tours usually cost between 300 and 500 MXN per person (approximately 15-25 USD).
Transport: Tours can be arranged at local tour offices, such as one near Hotel Nude, which are accessible on foot or by a short taxi ride within Zipolite.
5. Visiting the Mexican Turtle Center (Mazunte)
A short journey to Mazunte allows for a visit to the Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga, a vital conservation and research center. Here, one can learn about and observe various species of sea, freshwater, and land turtles in controlled environments. This experience highlights local conservation efforts and offers an educational insight into marine life.
Cost: The general admission cost is 44.00 MXN (approximately 2.50 USD). Discounts are available for students, and children under 12 and adults over 60 enter for free.
Transport: The Mexican Turtle Center is located in Mazunte. From Zipolite, a taxi ride to Mazunte takes about 5-10 minutes and costs around 40-60 MXN. Colectivo (shared vans) are a more economical option.
6. Hiking to Punta Cometa (Mazunte)
Punta Cometa, located at the western end of Mazunte, is the southernmost point of Oaxaca and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. A moderate hike, typically 20-30 minutes, leads to this sacred hill, which was historically a ceremonial center. It is renowned for watching both sunrise and sunset, with opportunities to spot whales during the migration season (November-March). The trail offers glimpses of local wildlife and various viewpoints.
Cost: Free, though some sources mention a small fee for the protected area.
Transport: Punta Cometa is accessible from Mazunte. From Zipolite, take a taxi or colectivo to Mazunte (5-10 minutes, 40-60 MXN). Once in Mazunte, the hike can start from Playa Rinconcito or Camino Mermejita. It is recommended to use the Camino Mermejita path for an easier ascent.
7. Experiencing a Temazcal Ceremony
A temazcal is a traditional pre-Hispanic sweat lodge ritual, symbolizing a return to the maternal womb for physical and spiritual cleansing. Participants enter a dome-shaped hut where hot volcanic rocks are combined with water and herbs to create steam. This ancient practice is believed to aid in detoxification, clear skin, improve blood flow, and provide emotional and spiritual balance. While specific locations within Zipolite are not consistently cited in recent reviews, such ceremonies are offered in the Oaxaca region and can be arranged as a wellness activity.
Cost: Costs vary depending on the provider and whether it's a private or group session, and if additional services like massage are included. Prices can range from approximately 350 MXN (around 20 USD) for a basic session to 1500 MXN (around 80 USD) for a private session with massage.
Transport: Some temazcal experiences might be a short taxi ride from the main town, or some tour operators might offer complimentary transportation if part of a package. Inquire with local wellness centers or hotels for arrangements.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
