The case for Mexico is pretty hard to beat when in search of a beautiful winter beach destination that’s relatively close to home and not too expensive.
But where do you start? Popular hubs such as Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Los Cabos are well-trodden, perhaps sometimes even a little too crowded for some travelers’ tastes.
If you’re seeking an alternative to the regular Mexican beach stop-offs but still want somewhere that has a little bit of a traveler scene, then look no further than the southern state of Oaxaca.
Along its beautifully sandy shoreline, you’ll find two hidden gems that boast boutique accommodation, reliable winter sun, and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.
I’m talking about Puerto Escondido and Mazunte – here’s why they should be on your winter radar.
Perfect Winter Escapes
This stretch of the Pacific Coast is a perfect year-round destination.
Temperatures stick between lows of 72F and highs of 86F pretty much all year round, while the months from November through to March are the dry months.
This makes the winter the perfect time to visit this sunny spot – it’s also a time when mosquitos are at their lowest levels too.
Relatively Well-Kept Secrets
The summer tourism figures for Puerto Escondido and some of the surrounding destinations were above the expectations of the local government this summer, according to local news reports.
That said, both Puerto Escondido and Mazunte don’t attract tourists in the same volume as the mainstream Mexican beach hideouts, so you can be certain of a less crowded and more relaxing environment.
The main kind of tourists you’re likely to find in these two sports are surfers – this stretch of the Pacific coastline is legendary for surfing in Mexico and regularly hosts international contests.
Beach Towns With A Vibe For Every Traveler
Despite their reputation as surfing hotspots, both Puerto Escondido and Mazunte have something to offer travelers of all persuasions.
In Mazunte, you’ll find a unique chilled vibe thanks to some truly magical hotels and Airbnbs that are hosted high in the tree-lined hills with fantastic views out onto the golden sands and blue ocean.
It’s a great place to head for a digital detox, unplug yourself from technology, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings – one of the highlights of which can be had by taking a gentle stroll out to Punta Cometa to witness one of the legendary sunsets.
For those who want to take their level of Zen to an even higher state, Mazunte has a thriving yoga scene, with classes available around the town.
Puerto Escondido is a larger town with a bit more going on than Mazunte – you’ll be able to find some small bars and some excellent seafood restaurants due to just how rich and abundant the aquatic life is in this part of the Pacific.
You can get even closer to that marine life on either a fishing trip or a whale and dolphin spotting tour – most hotels offer these excursions.
All that said, Puerto Escondido has plenty of beautiful beaches where you can head to and do very little at all if you so choose.
A Super Interesting Part Of Mexico
Both of these locations are in Oaxaca State, which is a fascinating part of Mexico with great history and fantastic traditions of making mezcal and mole (delicious sauces).
You can easily combine a trip to either with a trip to Oaxaca City itself which is about 160 miles north.
Oaxaca is home to some amazing colonial architecture, fascinating culture, and iconic sights nearby such as the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, or the ancient city of Monte Albán.
Easier To Get To Than Ever
Puerto Escondido has its own international airport, which you can fly into several times a day from Mexico City.
Meanwhile, to the east of Mazunte, you will find Huatulco International Airport, which again serves routes to and from Mexico City but also direct flights from Chicago and Dallas with American Airlines.
You can also visit these two boho beach paradises from Oaxaca City more cheaply via bus – just be aware that the journey is over some pretty windy mountain roads.
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