Zipolite, Mexico: Hippie Haven, Nude Beach Paradise & Epic Pacific Waves
After a month exploring Mexico's bustling cities, enduring overnight buses, and visiting countless historic churches, we sought a serene beach retreat. From Oaxaca City, we traveled to the Pacific Coast for a rejuvenating long weekend in Mazunte and Zipolite.
After a couple of laid-back days in sleepy Mazunte, we headed to Zipolite, renowned as a hippie and backpacker hotspot. A local camioneta (covered pickup truck)—the primary transport along this coast—dropped us at the village edge. During our 10-minute walk to the hostel, we passed mostly abandoned houses and hotels with 'For Rent' and 'For Sale' signs. Where were the promised hippies and backpackers?
Our online-booked hostel, perched on one end of the mile-long beach, felt nearly deserted. The once-vibrant Lyoban Hotel (1988–2008) showed its age with peeling paint on its sign, evoking a bygone era. Yet, this family-run spot offered pleasant large rooms and hammocks on the upper floor—a budget win for backpackers. Just steps from the surf, the roaring Pacific waves provided an exhilarating lullaby each night.
Zipolite: Legacy of Free Love and Counterculture
With a population of just 931, Zipolite dwarfs Mazunte in size but shares a faded glory. In the 1960s and 1970s, hippies flocked to this remote beach, bolstered by lax enforcement, earning it fame as Mexico's free-love paradise.
Today, Zipolite's lively 'center' spans half the beach, lined with modern hotels and top-notch restaurants. Relaxed tourists read, sip drinks, and sunbathe—much like in Mazunte or any idyllic coastal spot.
Beach of the Dead: Stunning Views, Dangerous Waters
The Pacific here mesmerizes, inviting endless gazes. But Zipolite is strictly a 'look-but-don't-touch' beach. Fierce waves and strong currents make swimming and surfing hazardous, as on many Mexican Pacific shores. Nicknamed the 'Beach of the Dead' for annual drownings, heed warning flags before wading. Safer: lounge at a beachside bar with a beer and book in hand.
Au Naturel Vibes and Swinging '60s Spirit
Echoing its liberated past, Zipolite is Mexico's only officially nude-tolerant beach (though locals disapprove). Nudity concentrates near the Ibiza-style Nude hotel and lounge, but tanned beachgoers dot the sands.
Beyond Nude, nestled hillside, lies Shambhala—a new-age haven preserving psychedelic '60s vibes. Options include cabanas for four ($25/night), dorms from $7 USD/night, and hammocks at $1 USD/night. Two restaurants serve veggie delights and fresh licuados; upstairs is fully vegetarian. Laptop users love the ocean-view outdoor 'bar' with free Wi-Fi and plugs at every seat.
Zipolite buzzes with wellness: yoga studios, prayer spots, temazcal ceremonies. Shambhala's meditation area, a 5-minute forest hike up from its restaurant, overlooks cliffs and sea—unmissable.
Travel Tip: Stock up on cash in Pochutla before Mazunte or Zipolite. The two local MULTIVA ATMs often empty; the next is in Puerto Angel, 3 miles east.
Where to Stay in Zipolite
Budget Options
- Castillo Oasis – Beachfront budget gem with unique room decor and hammock terrace. From US$21/night.
- Villa Escondida – Rooms/bungalows 800ft from beach; shared lounge, kitchen, jacuzzi pool, gym. From US$25/night.
- La Loma Linda – Hilltop bungalows with yoga, retreats, Feldenkrais. Hammock terrace, sea views. Rooms from US$36, bungalows US$54/night.
- Soiree Apartment, Loft & Studio – Chic new spot near beach with pool. Loft from US$52, apartments US$67/night.
Mid-Range & Luxury
- Hotel Descalzo – Eco-blended beauty with pool, restaurant/bar. From US$90/night.
- El Alquimista Yoga Spa – Beachfront stunner: spa, yoga, adults-only pool, global cuisine. From US$89/night.
- Hotel Noga – Stylish rooms/suites (some with hammock terraces), on-site bar. From US$89/night.
- Casa Kalmar – Intimate hilltop retreat with infinity pool, ocean views, breakfast included. From US$90/night.
Apartment for Four
- Jungla Zipolite Regina – Modern 2-bedroom (sleeps 4) with terrace, TV, full kitchen. From US$150/night.
How to Reach Zipolite and Mazunte
Pochutla, a utilitarian transport hub, connects via camioneta. From Oaxaca, opt for a speedy colectivo shuttle (6 scenic, twisty hours, half the bus price) over the smoother 9-hour OCC bus. Both end in Pochutla.
From there, taxis cost ~$100 MXN ($9 USD); camionetas (crowded truck beds) are $10 MXN (~$0.90 USD). Flag one on Pochutla's main road—listen for 'Zipolite' or 'Mazunte' calls. 30-minute ride.
