My Playa Zipolite Travel Guide
Playa Zipolite, located in Oaxaca, Mexico, quickly became one of my favorite destinations. Initially planning to stay for a few days, I extended my visit to several weeks and am already eager to return. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to Mexico’s only official nudist beach.
Where is Playa Zipolite (Zipolite Beach)
Playa Zipolite is the primary beach in Zipolite, a small, laid-back town on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico. Known for its bohemian vibe since the 60s and 70s, it remains the only legal nude beach in the country. The nearest airports are in Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, with buses or taxis available from those airports or Oaxaca City.
What to Expect from the Only Nude Beach in Mexico
Playa Zipolite is clothing-optional, so don’t worry if you’re not ready to go nude. Typically, only about a quarter of beachgoers are nude. While nudity isn’t commonly seen off the beach, exceptions are during the Festival Nudista Zipolite in February. Book accommodations early for the festival. Although some nudist hotels require nudity, most cafes and hotels ask guests to cover up with a sarong, towel, or swimwear when dining or away from the beach.
Things to Do in Zipolite
Zipolite is perfect for relaxation, with activities like lounging on the beach, swimming, surfing, enjoying fish tacos, drinking mojitos, watching sunsets, and making new friends. The beach itself features beautiful sands and azure waters, but swimmers should be cautious of strong currents. The development in Zipolite is rustic and laid-back, with plenty of beachfront bars, cafes, and palapas.
For those interested in activities, there are yoga classes, ecstatic dance, and alternative healing workshops at places like La Loma Linda, Camp Zipolite, and El Alquimista. Nearby Mazunte offers additional yoga options. At the southern end of Playa Zipolite, you’ll find Playa Amor, a popular nude beach and hangout for the LGBTQ community.
Restaurants and Nightlife in Zipolite
Most restaurants and nightlife are centered around the main street, Colonia Roca Blanca (also known as “el Adoquin”). This area has many hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and small shops. There’s also a small artisan market and street art to explore. Beachfront cafes like Sal y Pimienta offer great food, and the restaurant at Posada Mexico serves excellent Mexican and Italian dishes. Other recommended dining spots include Le Castelet for breakfast and Entropia for meals. For Asian cuisine, try Mao Mau, and for a romantic dinner, Restaurante El Alquimista is top-notch.
Beachfront bars often have 2-for-1 cocktail offers at sunset, and there are low-key parties, drag shows, and an art house cinema hosting events.
Where to Stay in Zipolite – The Best Zipolite Hotels
Accommodations in Zipolite range from budget hotels and hostels to mid-range hotels and boutique resorts. Notable options include:
- Naked Hotel Zipolite: Adults-only, beachfront, with stylishly rustic rooms, a small pool, and a beach bar. Clothing is optional.
- El Alquimista: Boutique hotel with a spa, yoga classes, and an adults-only pool. Close to Hotel Noga.
- Villa Aikia: Adults-only suites with stunning views, an infinity pool, yoga shala, and hot tubs. Clothing is optional in most areas.
- Casa Nudista: Budget-friendly LGBT hotel with private rooms and dormitories. Nudism is mandatory.
- Posada Mexico: Arty, rustic chic huts in a tropical garden. Great value and beachfront.
- Hotel Zipolite: Budget-friendly with AC, a pool, and a central location.
More Beaches near Playa Zipolite
Explore nearby beaches like Mazunte, San Agustinillo, Puerto Angel, Puerto Escondido, and Huatulco. Each offers unique attractions, from turtle sanctuaries and yoga classes to surfing and bioluminescent tours.
Best Time to Visit Zipolite
Zipolite’s warm weather ranges from 86-95F year-round, with water temperatures between 80-85 degrees. The dry season is from November to April, making it the best time to visit. High tourist season is December to April, with peak periods around Christmas/New Year and Semana Santa. The Zipolite Nudist Festival in January/February and the Mazunte Jazz Festival in November are notable events. If combining with Oaxaca City, consider visiting during the Dia de los Muertos festival from October 31 to November 1.
How to Get to Zipolite
The quickest way is flying into Puerto Escondido or Huatulco airports, with taxis available from there. Buses from Oaxaca City take about 11 hours, while mini-buses via Pochutla take about 7 hours. For local travel between Mazunte and Zipolite, taxis and collectivos are available.
Final Thoughts on Zipolite
Zipolite is a unique, relaxing destination perfect for unwinding. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip and that you enjoy this unique beach town as much as I did!
