Mexico – Zipolite
First Impressions
Zipolite is probably the most hippie place we have seen. It is one of the small village along the south mexican pacific coastline, far away from the big cities and the capital of Oaxaca.
There first thing you notice when you arrive at Zipolite is, that the people are relaxed and clothes are optional…
Day 1 – On the way to Zipolite
Early in the morning we started our trip to reach the remote pacific coast of Oaxaca and our first destination, Zipolite. The ride with the ADO/OCC bus took almost 10 hours.
There is an alternative route, over the mountains, which takes about 6 hours and can only be done with small buses/ colectivos. It is supposed to be a very curvy and bumpy route, so we chose the longer and more comfortable one instead.
You can take the bus from Oaxaca ADO main station at Jalatlaco. You can take a taxi or walk to the station.
Taxis at Oaxaca are safe and plenty, but you can also book the same taxi via Uber if you prefer. Tickets can be bought online or at the counter. The bus makes only one main stop at a bus station in the middle of the route. The seats are very comfortable and with enough leg room.
Even if it is supposed to be the less bumpy and curvy route, you may get sick because half the route in a mountainous road with lots of curves.
Bring some snacks with you. We made sandwiches with ziapata bread, philadelphia cheese and avocado.
When you arive at Pochutla, early in the evening, just ask where the colectivo stop to Zipolite is.
You have to walk about 100m and stand by the main road at the opposite side of the bus station exit.
You will see other people riding taxis or small trucks. It should cost no more than 40 pesos per person. The colectivo will drop you at the main road from where have to walk to your accommodation.
The first evening we just checked in to our air bnb and ate some tacos.
Day 2 – Relaxing in Zipolite
The next morning we started with a walk on the beach, then admired some local art and took a breakfast at Le castelet cafeteria Zipolite.
The rest of the day was very relaxing. We headed to the beach, where and took some refreshments and a salad at A Nice Place on the Beach. In the evening we ate a really good pizza at La Fenice while the electricity was out for about half an hour.
Day 2 – More relaxing in Zipolite
The next day we woke up early, ate some fruits and started the day with a walk on the beach. We embraced thelocal spirit and went into the sea without any clothes.
Later on we took a brunch at Señora Juana.
Unfortunately the electricity went out again, so our meal could not be prepared very fast and we spent quite some time there.
On the beach it was hot and sunny, so we sat at Cafe Maya. We suggest not to ask how much the umbrellas cost, because you will receive a tourist price. If you do not ask, you will just pay for your drinks.
Oh and most importantly.. the lady who runs the cafe will explain to you specifically that you may sit there naked.
Next stop… Mazunte!
The informative stuff:
Accomodation
Mostly simple accomodation, often without A/C for 40-50 dollars per night on average.
Simpler as well as more high end options are available as well.
We took an Airbnb. It was a room with very loud fan. On the ground floor there was an open air kitchen and a garden. Unfortunately it was not of one of the best accomodations we have had.
Note that there is a small “river” seprating the village and the beach in two parts. The river might be completely dry, nevertheless crossing the river from the quiter to the busier part of the village at night is a small adventure.
Transportation
Read in our first day above how to come from Oaxaca to Zipolite by bus.
Around Zipolite you do not really need a motorbike as the place is small enough.
From the main road you can get a colecitvo or taxi to Mazunte or Pochutla.
Activities
Being naked on the beach.
Alternatively, enjoy the beach wearing your swimm suit.
Ok, you can also
- do some fitness
- eat
- shop
- read your book
- walk on the beach.
Food
Some places we liked are:
Le castelet cafeteria Zipolite – brunch
A Nice Place on the Beach – for a nice day on the beach
La Fenice – Great pizza
Señora Juana – Very tasty and healthy brunch
Other
The waves are strong and there are currents in the sea considered dangerous. Therefore one should be very cautious when swimming.
