Oaxaca, a beautiful state on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Beaches in Oaxaca is famous for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Among its greatest treasures are its beaches, many of which offer breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky with vivid colors. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a peaceful moment, or an awe-inspiring photo opportunity, the beaches in Oaxaca deliver unforgettable sunsets that you’ll cherish forever.
In this article, we highlight 10 of the most picturesque beaches in Oaxaca where you can experience sunsets like no other. Each spot offers a unique vibe and scenic backdrop, making your evening by the ocean truly magical.
1. Playa Zicatela – The Surf Lover’s Sunset Paradise
Beaches in Oaxaca Playa Zicatela in Puerto Escondido is world-renowned for its powerful waves, attracting surfers from around the globe. Beyond the thrilling surf, Zicatela boasts some of the most stunning sunsets in Oaxaca.
As the sun dips toward the horizon, the sky bursts into hues of orange, pink, and purple, reflected in the shimmering ocean. Watching surfers catch their final waves as the day ends adds to the dramatic coastal scenery, making Playa Zicatela an iconic sunset destination.
2. Playa Carrizalillo – A Hidden Gem for Tranquil Sunsets
Beaches in Oaxaca Just a short walk from Puerto Escondido’s town center, Playa Carrizalillo offers a more intimate and sheltered beach experience. Its crescent-shaped bay is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the calm waters create mirror-like reflections at sunset.
The steep cliffs surrounding Carrizalillo add a dramatic silhouette against the fiery sky, making it an ideal spot for couples and photographers seeking peaceful yet stunning sunset views.
3. Mazunte Beach – Where Nature Meets Colorful Sunsets
Mazunte, a small beach town known for its eco-tourism and turtle conservation, offers a sunset experience that feels deeply connected to nature.
From the beach or the nearby Punta Cometa viewpoint, you can witness the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, casting golden rays that illuminate the sand and nearby cliffs. The natural, unspoiled environment enhances the magic of the moment, leaving visitors with a sense of calm and wonder.
4. Playa San Agustinillo – Family-Friendly Sunsets with a Warm Vibe
Beaches in Oaxaca Just a few kilometers from Mazunte, Playa San Agustinillo is a quieter, family-friendly beach that still offers spectacular sunsets.
The wide stretch of soft sand invites visitors to relax and watch the sky transition through stunning shades of red and gold. With small beachside cafes and local vendors nearby, you can enjoy a refreshing drink as you soak in the sunset’s beauty.
5. Playa La Boquilla – Authentic Sunset Experience Near Oaxaca City
Located near the city of Oaxaca (in the coastal area), Playa La Boquilla is a serene fishing village with an authentic charm.
Sunsets here are less touristy, offering a chance to see the sky’s transformation in a peaceful, local setting. Fishermen returning with their catch and rustic boats lining the shore add cultural texture to your sunset viewing, making it a unique and picturesque experience.
6. Playa Bacocho – Quiet and Picturesque Beach with Golden Sunsets
Beaches in Oaxaca Playa Bacocho is one of the quieter beaches near Puerto Escondido, known for its soft sand dunes and gentle waves.
The beach’s expansive horizon allows for unobstructed views of the setting sun. The sky often lights up in brilliant oranges and pinks, reflected beautifully in the wet sand. The calmness and open space make Bacocho perfect for reflective moments during sunset.
7. Playa Zipolite – Sunset with a Bohemian Flair
Zipolite is famous as one of Mexico’s few nude beaches and has a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere that extends to its sunset views.
Sunsets here are an event in themselves, with beachgoers often gathering to celebrate the day’s end. The vast stretch of beach and the open sky make for dramatic sunset scenes, with fiery colors contrasting against the darkening ocean.
8. Playa Puerto Angelito – Small Beach with Stunning Sunsets
Beaches in Oaxaca Located near Puerto Escondido’s harbor, Puerto Angelito is a small cove beach favored for its calm waters and scenic surroundings.
The setting sun casts a warm glow over the water and rocky outcrops, creating picture-perfect reflections. This intimate beach offers a more secluded spot to enjoy Oaxaca’s coastal sunsets away from larger crowds.
9. Playa Chacahua – Sunset in a Natural Lagoon Setting
Chacahua, part of a national park, is a unique coastal lagoon area where the ocean meets mangroves and lagoons.
Sunsets here are extraordinary, with the water reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky amid lush greenery. The combination of water, mangroves, and sunset hues creates a magical atmosphere that nature lovers will adore.
10. Playa Coral – Untouched Beauty with Vibrant Sunset Views
Playa Coral is a more remote beach on Oaxaca’s coast, often less crowded and known for its pristine condition.
The sunsets here are spectacular, with the sky bursting into warm tones that reflect off the clear water and white sand. The untouched natural beauty makes it a perfect spot for those looking to connect deeply with Oaxaca’s coastline and capture unforgettable sunset photos.
Conclusion: Why Oaxaca’s Beaches Are a Sunset Lover’s Dream
Oaxaca’s beaches are more than just places to relax; they are stages for some of the most beautiful sunsets you will ever witness. Each beach on this list offers a distinct sunset experience—from the surfer’s excitement at Playa Zicatela to the tranquil reflection at Playa Carrizalillo, to the wild natural beauty at Chacahua.
Whether you are visiting for adventure, romance, or peace, Oaxaca’s coastline invites you to pause and savor the day’s end in the most spectacular way. The vivid skies, calm waves, and cultural richness make these sunsets moments to treasure forever.
So pack your camera, grab your favorite sunset beverage, and get ready to fall in love with the 10 most picturesque sunsets on the beaches of Oaxaca.
FAQs About Beaches in Oaxaca and Their Sunsets
1. When is the best time to visit Oaxaca’s beaches for sunsets?
The dry season from November to April offers the clearest skies and best sunset views.
2. Are Oaxaca’s beaches safe for swimming during sunset?
Most beaches listed are safe for swimming; however, some like Playa Zicatela have strong surf, so always check local advisories.
3. Can I find restaurants and bars near these sunset beaches?
Yes, popular beaches like Mazunte, San Agustinillo, and Zipolite have nearby eateries and beach bars to enjoy during sunset.
4. Is it possible to take guided tours to some of these beaches?
Absolutely. Many local tour operators offer trips that include visits timed for sunset viewing.
5. Are Oaxaca’s beaches family-friendly for sunset visits?
Yes, beaches like San Agustinillo and Carrizalillo are family-friendly and perfect for relaxing sunset evenings.