Quick Facts
- Location: On the Oaxacan Riviera (Oaxaca’s southern coast) between Puerto Escondido and Huatulco.
- Best Time to Visit: December through April, when there is minimal rain, plenty of sunshine, and local events like the annual nudist festival (late January or early February). May is a good alternative with fewer crowds and warm temperatures just before the summer rains begin.
- Amenities: Lounge chair and umbrella rentals, beach bars, oceanfront restaurants (restrooms available at local businesses), no lifeguards (warning flags flown to signal dangerous swimming conditions)
- Parking: Hotel parking areas, small private lots and designated street spaces in the town center and along Avenida Roca Blanca.
- Dog-Friendly? Leashed dogs are welcome (be aware of stray, roaming dogs).
What Makes It Worth Visiting
As the only legally recognized nudist/clothing-optional beach in Mexico, Playa Zipolite is your opportunity to sunbathe and stroll entirely nude. Immerse yourself in the free-spirited, bohemian atmosphere while listening to chill music like Bob Marley. If you prefer to keep your swimsuit on, that’s fine too. The beach attracts everyone from naked men and women who come to meditate on the sand to visitors who simply want a beautiful beach environment unspoiled by sprawling mega resorts.
What to Do at Playa Zipolite
- Sunbathe nude for a tan without the tan lines
- Stroll the just under 1.5-mile stretch of sand while enjoying the ocean view
- Watch a sunset from the picturesque cove known as Playa del Amor at the eastern end of the main beach
- Join a drop-in yoga class on the sand
Nearby Eats & Stays
Ocean-view, beachfront dining on fresh local seafood is available at top spots like Xhuba Cocina Mexicana, Yemaya Zipolite, and El Alquimista. The best accommodation near Zipolite includes beachfront boutique hotels and intimate resorts such as Naked Zipolite, El Alquimista, and Posada Mexico.
FAQs
Is Playa Zipolite good for swimming?
Zipolite isn’t safe for swimming due to the powerful undertow and strong rip tides. Even on days that look calm, swimmers can be taken far out into deep water. Wading is generally safe if you stay at or below knee-depth.
Is Playa Zipolite crowded during the high season (winter)?
The beach can feel crowded during the winter high season, particularly around the holidays and February’s annual National Nudist Festival. That said, it’s generally more relaxed than Mexico’s major beach destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cabo San Lucas.
What should I bring to Playa Zipolite?
As the sun is intense here in Oaxaca, bring plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and sunglasses. As the local ATMs are unreliable, bring cash for chair/umbrella rentals, food, and drink.
Is nudity mandatory on Playa Zipolite?
No. Zipolite is clothing-optional. While many visitors do embrace the nude lifestyle, you can wear a swimsuit if you prefer. There are only specific venues nearby, such as Hotel Casa Nudista, that require nudity.
