Mexican Turtle Center
A museum and aquarium dedicated to conserving the sea turtles of Mexico's Pacific coast. Mazunte lived off turtle hunting until it was banned in 1990; today it's one of the towns protecting them.
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Oaxaca coast
Mazunte, San Agustinillo and Zipolite
Turtles, sunsets at Punta Cometa and learner waves an hour from Huatulco.
From Huatulco≈ 1 h
To learnSan Agustinillo
SunsetPunta Cometa
TurtlesJul. – Dec.
Mazunte in short
Mazunte is a beach town with no big hotels, between Puerto Escondido and Huatulco. Together with San Agustinillo and Zipolite it makes a stretch of coast with waves for every level, sunsets and plenty of calm. It's doable as a day trip from Huatulco, but it's worth staying a couple of nights.
Five places not to miss
Punta Cometa
A rocky headland jutting into the sea west of town. A short hike up, and the classic spot for sunset over the Pacific.
San Agustinillo
A few minutes' walk from Mazunte. A quiet beach with learner-friendly waves, lessons and board rentals. A good place to stay a few days.
Zipolite
A long beach with strong, fast waves and a famously laid-back vibe. If you're not a strong swimmer, stay close to shore: the currents are serious.
Ventanilla Lagoon
West of Mazunte: mangrove boat tours run by the local cooperative, with crocodiles and birds.
Frequently asked
How far is Mazunte from Huatulco?
About an hour by car from La Crucecita; around 45 minutes from Huatulco airport.
Can you surf in Mazunte?
Yes. San Agustinillo is the place to learn; Zipolite has stronger, faster waves for experienced surfers.
When can you see turtles?
The Mexican Turtle Center is open year-round; nesting season in the area runs roughly from July to December.
Sources: México Desconocido; Fodor's; Excélsior.