Oaxaca to Zipolite: 7 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The most direct route is rent a car, get a private transfer, or take the bus. All of these options will take six hours or more.

If you want a faster option, you can fly to Huatulco or Puerto Escondido and then shuttle over to Zipolite by renting a car, a private shuttle, or taking a taxi.

By plane, you can fly commercially or (if you can afford it) you can also fly privately. You’ll need to shuttle to Zipolite either way after you land.

I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite cheaply, simply and safely.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

Why Should You Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is worth visiting for so many reasons!

It is known for its rich cultural heritage, its beautiful colors everywhere, and its wonderfully friendly people.

There are breathtaking landscapes that will captivate you, and you’ll fall in love with its mouthwatering cuisine.

It has beautiful buildings that are centuries old and breathtaking ruins that are thousands of years old.

Each year it holds unique traditional festivals such as Day of the Dead, La Guelaguetza, and Noche de Rábanos.

There is a vibrant artistic scene, wonderful markets and brilliant artisans of all kinds.

And if that isn’t enough, real wonders of the world like Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree are just a short drive away from Oaxaca City.

You’ll struggle to find a region as richly diverse as Oaxaca.

There are just so many things for you to do that you will wish you could stay longer!

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

Why Should You Visit Zipolite?

Like Oaxaca, Zipolite is a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

If you love stunning beaches and you’re looking for a laid-back Mexican beach town, you should absolutely visit Zipolite. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a coastal paradise tucked away at the southern-most tip of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

Zipolite is known for having beautiful clear waters and some of the best beaches in Oaxaca, including Mexico’s only legal nude beach.

But you don’t need to love the beach to enjoy the lazy seaside atmosphere of Zipolite. Many of the best hotels in Zipolite have fantastic sun-decks where you just can relax on a sun lounge by the pool.

So, why should you visit Zipolite? Well, basically because it’s a slice of heaven! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

So let’s look at how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

1. Fly to Zipolite

If you think even briefly about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite, it won’t surprise you that flying is the quickest and most convenient option.

This is the case even when you add the time it takes to shuttle you from Huatulco or Puerto Escondido to Zipolite after you land.

For those same reasons, it’s also one of the more expensive options.

Fast Facts: Flying From Oaxaca To Huatulco or Puerto Escondido

Where Do I Book A Flight From Oaxaca?

Your best bet is to book with Aerotucán. They’re a very small airline, but they’re the only one that flies non-stop from Oaxaca to Huatulco and from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

They fly once per day, so you’ll need to book well in advance. Their website isn’t great, so your best bet is calling them (and you may need someone who can speak Spanish to help you).

Aerotucán’s contact details are below:

Important: There is no airport in Zipolite, so if you want to fly, you will need to be shuttled from the airport to Zipolite after you land.

How Do I Get From The Airport To Zipolite?

You have a few options to get from either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport to Zipolite. You can rent a car, get a private transfer, use a shuttle bus, or take a taxi.

1. Rental Car

You can get a rental car at either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport. Europcar and other reputable providers have kiosks in both airports.

The daily rate will start at around US$25 in Puerto Escondido and at around US$35 in Huatulco. Gas is on top.

2. Private Transfer

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Guatego.

Private shuttles will start at around US$150 and will take just over an hour to reach your hotel in Zipolite.

3. Shuttle Bus

There are a number of local companies that provide shuttle bus services that are a little cheaper than a private transfer.

Speak to your hotel to see if they can organise this for you.

4. Taxi

You can also take a taxi from the airport after you leave the terminal.

You’ll need to agree the fare with the driver before you go, but you can expect it to be around US$50.

Tip: I recommend renting a car at the airport. To make the most of a trip to Zipolite, a rental-car is a must to be able to get around and see all of the great beaches and lagoons.

What’s Great About Flying?

Flying has a bunch of obvious advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Oaxaca to Huatulco or to Puerto Escondido is very quick at around 45 minutes, which is a huge time saving compared with an 8 hour long bus trip.

If you’re short on time, every hour you lose travelling is time that you could spend soaking up the sun in Zipolite.

2. Great Views From The Plane

Even after years of flying, I still like to stare out the window of a plane at the city as we’re taking off and getting ready to land.

Flying will also give you the chance to see the mountains and sprawling valleys of Oaxaca from above as you head out toward the sea.

3. safest Way To Travel

Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel in the world, and this holds true in Mexico.

Since 1919, Mexico has only had 158 air travel deaths in total, an average of about 1.5 people per year. By comparison, there were around 107 million air passengers in Mexico in 2022 alone.

That puts your chances of dying on a flight from Oaxaca at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the WHO suggests based on 2019 data on Mexican road deaths that the odds of dying per year were 1 in 7,813.

That means that you are more than 9,000 times safer flying than taking the bus!

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Flying From Oaxaca to Zipolite

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by air.

But if I haven’t answered your question yet, take a look at the FAQs and their responses below.

How Much Is A Commercial Flight From Oaxaca?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season, but are typically around US$200 (MX$3,400) to either Huatulco or Puerto Escondido.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Oaxaca?

There are four airlines servicing the route from Oaxaca to Huatulco and five that fly from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido. These are Volaris, Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobus and Aerotucán. Aeromar only flies to Puerto Escondido.

However, of these options, only Aerotucán offers direct flights. The others will fly you to Mexico City first (in the opposite direction!) and you’ll need to change.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around 45 minutes if you take the direct flight offered by Aerotucán.

If you fly with any of the other airlines, then at best it will take you around 3.5 hours with changing at Mexico City.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 155 miles (250 km) from Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Huatulco Airport (HUX) and from Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez to depart.

You’ll land at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) or Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), depending on which one you choose.

How Far Is Zipolite From Puerto Escondido?

Zipolite is about 45 miles east of Puerto Escondido.

How Far Is Zipolite From Huatulco?

Zipolite is about 36 miles west of Huatulco.

How Long Is The Shuttle?

The shuttle to Zipolite will take around 1.5 hours, whether in a taxi, rental car or a private transfer.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

2. Private Jet to Zipolite

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Oaxaca to Zipolite.

And yes, it is monstrously expensive, but can’t be beaten for comfort and convenience.

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Oaxaca To Huatulco Or Puerto Escondido

Where Can I Book A Private Jet From Oaxaca?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend taking a look at AlbaJet, which sets out various options for the Oaxaca to Huatulco and Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido routes.

Important: Even if you fly privately, there is no airport in Zipolite, so you will need to be shuttled from the airport to Zipolite after you land.

How Do I Get From The Airport To Zipolite?

You have a few options to get from either Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport to Zipolite. You can rent a car, get a private transfer, or take a taxi.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

Tip: I recommend renting a car at the airport. To make the most of a trip to Zipolite, a rental-car is a must to be able to get around and see all of the great beaches and lagoons.

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying privately as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a private jet below.

1. Glamour

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive than in a private jet.

If you want to feel like a rockstar when you arrive, there’s no better way to do it.

2. Convenience

If you need to travel urgently on short notice, flying on a private jet is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Special Occasions

If you’re travelling as a group for a wedding or for a stag or hens night, a private jet is a great way to ensure that everyone arrives at the same time.

With a large group, the prices per person aren’t quite so eye-watering, although your wallet will still take a good beating.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Flying From Oaxaca by Private Jet

If you still have questions about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by private jet, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Private Jet From Oaxaca?

If you want to fly privately to Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, you’re looking at around US$4,000 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$20,000 for a larger jet seating up to 14 people.

Extremely glamorous and wonderfully convenient, but not for those of us with weak wallets.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a private jet is around 20 minutes.

The overall travel time will probably be a little quicker though, because you’ll get through security faster and will be able to board and get off more quickly than on a commercial flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 155 miles (about 250 km) from Oaxaca Airport to both Huatulco Airport and Puerto Escondido Airport.

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez to depart.

You’ll land at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) or Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), depending on which one you choose.

How Far Is Zipolite From Puerto Escondido?

Zipolite is about 45 miles east of Puerto Escondido.

How Far Is Zipolite From Huatulco?

Zipolite is about 36 miles west of Huatulco.

How Long Is The Shuttle?

The shuttle to Zipolite will take around 1.5 hours, whether in a taxi, rental car or a private transfer.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

3. Bus To Zipolite

If you want a more scenic experience while getting from Oaxaca to Zipolite, the bus is an option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Oaxaca To Zipolite

Where Can I Book A Bus From Oaxaca To Zipolite?

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Oaxaca to Huatulco and Puerto Escondido are ADO and OCC (Omnibús Cristobal Colón).

However, neither company actually stops in Zipolite, because there isn’t a bus terminal for large buses.

OCC offers a package deal on the Guatego platform that includes a shuttle service to your hotel. If you book through ADO, you’ll need to arrange a transfer to Zipolite yourself (see above for options).\

Tip: there’s no WiFi in the bus, so download anything you need at the hotel. You might also want to bring a neck pillow to help you sleep and Benadryl or Dramamine if you get carsick.

What’s Great About Taking The Bus?

Okay, so it’s not a private jet and never will be. Still, there are some positives to taking the bus.

1. The Bus Is Cheaper

Taking the bus will usually work out a little cheaper than flying.

That’s especially the case if you are planning to take a taxi to and from the airport each time.

2. Buses Take Their Time

It might seem like a strange thing to say, but buses are a bit like slow-food.

As you wind through the approximately 200 miles (320km) to Zipolite via Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, you’ll get to soak in the natural beauty of Mexico’s southern countryside.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off At Your Hotel

If you take the bus, after you get your shuttle, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. If you take the OCC bus and shuttle package, the shuttle bus will be expecting you, so you won’t need to worry about a thing.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Oaxaca To Zipolite

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by bus.

How Much Is The Bus From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

Including the costs of a shuttle from Huatulco or Puerto Escondido to Zipolite, around US$110.

Which Buses Run From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

ADO and OCC (Omnibús Cristobal Colón) are the two largest operators in Oaxaca, but you’ll need to arrange a shuttle from either Huatulco or Puerto Escondido.

Check out Guatego to check availability of OCC’s bus and shuttle package deal.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 10 hours, including the shuttle to Zipolite.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The bus route is approximately 200 miles (320km) from Oaxaca to Zipolite via either Huatulco or Puerto Escondido.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Oaxaca, you’ll use the ADO Terminal in Barrio Jalatlaco, which is a few blocks north-east of Parque El Llano.

When you arrive in Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, you’ll get your shuttle directly to your door in Zipolite.

Are The Buses Comfortable?

The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the seats are comfortable semi-recliners.

There is no WiFi, though, so download everything you need before you leave the hotel.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

4. Minibus To Zipolite

If you are keen to keep the costs down and don’t mind a few bumps or being a little cramped, then the minibus could be a good option for you.

Fast Facts: Minibus From Oaxaca To Zipolite

Where Do I Book The Minibus From Oaxaca To Zipolite?

There are a few minibus companies offering services to Zipolite.

One major operator is Lineas Unidas, which you can book through Guatego or directly. Their direct contact details are below:

Lineas Unidas

Important: If you’re booking with Lineas Unidas, their drop-off point is at the Lineas Unidas Zipolite bus station. You’ll need to take a taxi to your hotel to the bus station.

What’s Great About Taking The Minibus?

Although it’s a budget option, the minibus has some advantages.

1. The Minibus Is Cheaper Than The Bus

The minibus is the cheapest way to get to Zipolite short of hitchhiking.

At just US$40 per person, it is dirt cheap.

2. The Minibus Is Faster Than The Bus

The minibus makes the same trip in around 7 hours that the standard bus will do in around 10 hours.

That’s a solid time saving.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off At Your Hotel

The minibus will drop you off directly at your hotel. The standard bus on the other hand will just drop you at the terminal.

You may need to be patient, as the minibus may have to drop off a few people before you, but door service is still a big plus.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Taking The Minibus From Oaxaca To Zipolite

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by minibus.

How Much Is The Minibus From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

Prices are around US$40 (MX$600) per person.

Which Minibuses Run From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

There are a few different companies offering minibuses to Zipolite. One of these is Lineas Unidas, which you can book directly or through Guatego (see details above).

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 7 hours.

Depending on how many people need to be dropped off in Zipolite at their hotels, you may need to add on a half hour for the minibus to drop them all off.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The minibus route is approximately 164 miles (263 km) from Oaxaca to Zipolite.

Will The Minibus Take Me To My Hotel?

Yes, the minibus service is usually a door service, although you should confirm (or ask your hotel in Oaxaca) to confirm when you make your booking.

Are The Minibuses Comfortable?

The minibuses are known for being a little cramped.

If you are lucky enough to get a seat with some legroom, you might be a little more comfortable, but don’t expect much space.

Is It Safe To Travel By Minibus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

5. Rental Car To Zipolite

A road trip from Oaxaca to Zipolite is a great option that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Oaxaca To Zipolite

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 5 or 6 gallons to get to Zipolite.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

You can get a rental car from downtown Oaxaca or from Oaxaca Airport.

Use DiscoverCars.com to find the best deal on a rental car before you go and then you can just pick up your car when you arrive without any fuss.

Where Can I Drop Off The Rental Car?

There’s no place to drop the rental car off in Zipolite. The closest place to drop it off will be Huatulco Airport or Puerto Escondido Airport.

Tip: Even if you want to keep your rental car, if you drop it off at the airport and immediately rent another one, you will get a lower daily rate (around US$35 instead of $70).

What Is The Best Route From Oaxaca To Zipolite?

The route from Oaxaca to Zipolite follows highway 175 the entire way. You’ll use it whether you rent in downtown Oaxaca or at the airport.

As you as turn onto the 175, you just have to follow it south through the mountains and keep on heading south until you reach Zipolite.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

There are some great advantages of driving:

1. Freedom

Of all of the options, driving literally and figuratively puts you in the driver’s seat.

You get to choose every aspect of your journey, from departure time to the speed you travel to how often and where you stop.

2. Privacy

One of the best things about driving is that you don’t have to share your journey unless you want to.

If you’re travelling as a family, driving also means that you can have your familial privacy whilst you travel.

3. Convenience

Driving is the ultimate convenience. All you’ll need to do is book the car and pick it up whenever you’re ready to go.

This is particularly helpful if you have a family and it might take a little longer than expected to get everyone ready.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Rental Car From Oaxaca to Zipolite

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by rental car.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

A rental car that you pick up in Oaxaca and drop off the next day in Huatulco will cost around US$170 (MX$3,000).

That is made up of a daily rate of US$70 a day plus the one-way fee of US$100. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Oaxaca, then you’ll pay a lower daily rate (around US$30) and the gas.

Most providers don’t charge you per mile travelled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

What is the Route From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The route from Oaxaca to Zipolite follows highway 175 the entire way. You’ll use it whether you rent in downtown Oaxaca or at the airport.

As you as turn onto the 175, you just have to follow it south through the mountains and keep on heading south until you reach Zipolite.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 6 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are lots of little towns along the way like San Pedro Pochutla where you can stop and buy some great local food.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The total distance is approximately 164 miles (263 km) from Oaxaca to Zipolite.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Oaxaca?

Europcar and Alamo each have branches in the historic centre about three blocks north of the Zócalo where you can rent a car to drive to Zipolite.

The other option outside the city is Oaxaca Airport, 5.8 miles south of Oaxaca. You’ll find all of your major providers in close proximity.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

The short answer is yes, you will be able to rent a comfortable modern vehicle in Oaxaca. However, the level of luxury that you enjoy depends very much on your budget.

Most major car rental providers have a range of vehicles that you can choose from, ranging from compacts up to luxury limousines.

Is It Safe To Travel By Car?

Yes, it is safe to travel by car provided you take basis precautions such as wearing your seatbelts, travelling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

6. Private Transfer To Zipolite

If you’re keen on a road trip from Oaxaca to Zipolite but aren’t so keen to do the driving, you can arrange a private transfer.

It’s more expensive than renting a car and driving yourself, but it lets you relax and enjoy the scenery or even catch up on some sleep.

Fast Facts: Private Transfer From Oaxaca To Zipolite

Where Can You Book A Private Transfer From Oaxaca To Zipolite?

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Guatego.

If you would prefer to meet your driver in person before booking, speak to your hotel and ask for a recommendation and then go and visit them at their offices in Oaxaca.

What’s Great About A Private Transfer?

Although it is more expensive than a rental car, there are some benefits of getting a private driver rather than driving yourself.

1. No Need To Focus On The Road

The best thing about being chauffeured is that you don’t need to worry about driving.

Watching the road for six hours is exhausting and means that you won’t be able to completely relax until you reach Zipolite.

2. Great For Groups

A private transfer is great if you’re travelling as a group.

You get to share the cost and just focus on having fun and let the driver bring you to Zipolite.

3. Capped risk

The other big benefit of having a private driver is that you don’t bear the risk of having an accident and damaging the car.

Your insurance would likely cover any damage, but having a driver just avoids the risk altogether.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Private Transfer From Oaxaca to Zipolite

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by private transfer.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

A private transfer starts at around US$550 per trip for a group of up to 4 people.

Most services cap the number of passengers, so make sure you check this before you book.

What is the Route From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The route from Oaxaca to Zipolite by private transfer will follow the same route as you would take if you rented a car.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

The private transfer will usually plan for one stop to eat, unless you need to stop more often to use the bathroom.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The total distance is approximately 164 miles (263km) from Oaxaca to Zipolite.

Are The Private transfer Cars Comfortable?

Yes, the private transfer services offered on Guatego use comfortable modern vehicles.

Is It Safe To Travel By Private Transfer?

If you travel with a reputable provider such as those arranged via Guatego, you will be perfectly safe travelling by private transfer.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

7. Taxi To Zipolite

The last land option to mention is the good old taxi.

However, unless you have an emergency, I wouldn’t recommend it. There are just better options available.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Oaxaca To Zipolite

Tip: Make sure that you agree the price with the driver before setting off so that there are no misunderstandings.

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Oaxaca To Zipolite?

If you want to book a taxi, you will need to try to find a reliable driver. The best way to do that is to get a recommendation from your hotel.

You may find that your hotel recommends that you instead book a private transfer, and I would also recommend this.

City taxis aren’t made for long distance trips the same way as a bus is. You won’t get air conditioning, reclining seats or a bathroom.

You also won’t be able to get up to stretch your legs, and your driver may not want to stop as often as you do.

I also don’t recommend just hiring a taxi from the street to take you from Oaxaca to Zipolite.

You should only travel with a reputable driver, and you won’t be able to confirm that from hailing a taxi on the street.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

FAQs: Taxi From Oaxaca to Zipolite

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite by taxi.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

You’ll need to negotiate your fare, and you should always do this upfront.

You can expect to pay anywhere from US$300 – 350, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The route from Oaxaca to Zipolite should be the same as you would take if you rented a car or booked a private transfer.

However, you should confirm the route with the driver before you set off.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Zipolite?

The total distance is approximately 164 miles (263 km) from Oaxaca to Zipolite.

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Taxis aren’t made for long distance passenger travel like a bus or a plane.

If you’re going to travel by taxi, you should ask driver to stop for a few minutes every hour so that you can stretch.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

In all likelihood, you will be safe enough travelling by taxi from Oaxaca to Zipolite. This is particularly the case if you are travelling in a group.

However, one of the reasons that I don’t recommend travelling by taxi is that you just won’t be able to vet the driver at all unless he is recommended to you.

That increases your risk, and you don’t need to do it, because there are other options available to you.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

What Are The Best Things To Do In Zipolite?

Zipolite is loaded with brilliant things to do, and you’ll have no problem occupying your time.

As a beach town, spending some time at Zipolite’s beautiful beaches is a must, and you have a few to choose from. The most obvious choice is Playa Zipolite, which is the main beach in Zipolite in front of all of the major hotels. Beyond being a gorgeous beach, it’s known for being Mexico’s only legal nude beach, so if you’re feeling free-spirited, you’re free to bare it all to the world.

Another Instagram-able beach option is nearby Playa del Amor. It’s at the eastern end of Playa Zipolite just past the Zipolite sign and it’s tucked in between a few lumpy hills that remind you a little of smaller versions of the Brazilian sugarloaf mountains. It’s not as busy as Playa Zipolite and it’s more sheltered, so it’s better for swimming and splashing around.

You should also visit the very quirky and colorful Avenida Roca Blanca, which is Zipolite’s main shopping street. There are some great little places to grab a drink or something to eat and lots of unique street art, so even if you’re not buying anything, it’s great just for a relaxing morning stroll.

If you really want to get into holiday-mode, a great way to do it is to stop by Spa Shanti, at the western end of Playa Zipolite in El Alquimista Yoga & Spa, for a massage. Previously known as Espacio Shanti, Spa Shanti offers massage, facials, body exfoliants and cupping in a beautiful position right on the beach.

If you feel like venturing farther afield, you can rent a scooter for the day and explore neighbouring Mazunte and Puerto Ángel, each just a few miles away. Mazunte is known for being one of the main sea-turtle breeding grounds in Mexico and also for beautiful sunsets at Punta Cometa, Oaxaca’s southern-most point. Puerto Ángel is a little smaller and quieter but has a gorgeous hidden beach called Playa Estacahuite, which is definitely worth a visit.

Even though it is a small beach town, you won’t be short on entertainment in Zipolite.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Zipolite?

When you make it to Zipolite, the next obvious question will be where do you stay?

Even though Zipolite is a very small beach town, it still has some great hotels for you to choose from. Whatever your budget, you’ll find something great in Zipolite.

Probably the most well-known hotel in Zipolite is Hotel Nude (pictured above). It’s right on Playa Zipolite and it has a beautiful onsite pool area and bar, an onsite restaurant and a DJ from 2:00pm to 10:00pm each day.

Another great option is El Alquimista Yoga & Spa, which is at the eastern end of Playa Zipolite. In addition to having beautiful rooms with ocean view, it also has the best spa and wellness offering in Zipolite and also has daily yoga classes. Hotel Noga, Naked Zipolite and Hotel Playa Zipolite are also great options at the higher end.

If you’re looking for options that aren’t as rough on the wallet, Ballelita and Zipolite One provide great beachside accommodation at a very fair price.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

When is the Best Time to Visit Zipolite?

The best time to visit Zipolite is in the dryer, cooler months from December to April.

If you live in northern latitudes, you’re probably used to four defined seasons.  However, the more equatorial parts of the world like the state of Oaxaca don’t really follow this model. 

Instead, in Zipolite, there are really only two distinctive seasons, which are a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season runs from November to the end of April and the rainy season runs from May through to October.

The average maximum temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year.  You can expect a fairly constant maximum of 91°F (33°C), with lower temperatures during the dry season.

Unsurprisingly, the dryer, cooler weather of the dry season means that it’s the most popular time for tourists. If you can put up with the occasional deluge, you’ll get better rates in the rainy season. 

How to Get From Mexico City to Zipolite

What Should I Pack To Go To Zipolite?

Your packing list will depend a little on the time of year that you’re going to visit Zipolite.

Zipolite has warm days all year round, averaging a maximum of 91°F (33°C) fairly consistently. However, the average low temperature in the evenings fluctuates a little throughout the year. It will get down to 70°F (21.0°C) during the coldest months of December and January, but in May it will be a fairly warm 77°F (25.0°C) at its lowest.

So if you’re visiting during November to March, you might want to bring a light jacket for the evenings. Otherwise, you can leave the warm clothes that you packed for Oaxaca in your suitcase. 

If you travel during the rainy season from June to October, you can expect some rain, so you’ll want to bring a fold-up umbrella or buy one when you arrive.  After a downpour, it can get a little humid, so you should also have a few more changes of clothes in case you get sweaty.

If you’re planning on doing a bit of sightseeing while you’re in Zipolite, you should bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes. In any case, definitely bring a hat for the sun in addition to your swimwear, because you’ll spend at least a few days just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

You should also be aware that there are also mosquitoes in Zipolite and it will be too hot to cover up entirely.  Mosquito repellent and anti-itch creams can be hard to come by, so I recommend that you bring some with you.  

How to Get From Oaxaca to Zipolite

Final Thoughts

So, you now know how to get from Oaxaca to Zipolite using various methods. Travelling from Oaxaca to Zipolite is an experience you won’t quickly forget.

You’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially as you go through mountain ranges near Oaxaca just before reaching Zipolite.

Your options to get there are many, and all of them viable. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Zipolite!