Why You Should Explore the Entire State of Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca State is a destination where ancient culture, dramatic landscapes, and coastal beauty all come together. From vibrant city streets, and ancient ruins to mezcal distilleries and some of the most laid-back beaches on the West Coast. Starting in Puerto Escondido, you’ll discover beaches that feel both wild and peaceful at the same time. It’s a laid-back beach town on the Pacific coast where beachy roads, colorful markets, and remarkable sunsets meet.

Puerto Escondido

You’ll start your trip by flying into Puerto Escondido International Airport where your host/driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. You’ll be staying at Terrestre Hotel for an upscale and design-forward beach vibe by the lagoon, or Punta Nayaa, a fabulous alternative for travelers who are there strictly to be in the middle of it all.

Once you’re all checked into your room, you’ll freshen up and have a drink by the hotel pool, maybe even dip your feet a little, and have a light bite. Then, you’ll make your way by taxi to enjoy drinks and a stunning sunset at La Punta Zicatela, where it feels like everything is immediately put on pause to allow the sun to set. Everyone will cheer, and that will be your queue to make your way over to dinner, then take the night as far as you like.

The next day, you’ll wake up and have breakfast before making your way to a local art foundation for an artistically-inspired morning. Later, enjoy an afternoon at Laguna de Manialtepec, where you can enjoy a few water sports and work up an appetite for shrimp al diablo at the restaurant on-site. You can choose how to end the day, but we highly recommend ending your day on the beach. We highly recommend Puerto Angelito—it feels like a hidden little cove tucked away from the bigger surf beaches.

Mazunte & Chacahua

After a lovely time in Puerto Escondido connecting to both art and nature, and even getting in touch with your physical strength, you’ll begin your descent to continue down the coasts of Oaxaca and explore nearby beach cities Mazunte and Chacahua.

In Mazunte, plan for three days of relaxation and mild adventure, most certainly ending a day at Punta Cometa for arguably the best sunset on the entire West Coast. For Afro-Diasporic travelers, you’ll love a day trip to Chacahua, a remote, off-grid area with an Afro-Mexican fishing village and national park, perfect for travelers interested in side explorations.

Oaxaca City

Once you’ve gotten your fill of the mountains and beaches on the coast, you’ll make your way inland to Oaxaca City by car or bus. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the amazing staff at the Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca to check-in, get settled, and begin your exploration of the city. In Oaxaca City, you’ll not only explore popular Oaxacan food, but also numerous UNESCO World-Heritage sites, amazing nature, and local artisan goods like art, textiles, pottery, and more.

If you ask us, this trip can easily be extended to two weeks. Reach out to Mia if you have any questions about how!

Journey through Oaxaca

Traveling through the state is easily done by booking your bus tickets online.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Oaxaca page.