Skip to main content

Dry season on both coasts.Where to go

Sargassum season on the Caribbean.Today's reading

Hurricane season, to 30 November.When to go

PlayaBueno
  • Oaxaca
  • Oaxaca
  • Beach

Playa Zapotengo

Playa Zapotengo offers a secluded and tranquil coastal escape in Loma Larga, Oaxaca, Mexico.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Google from 41 reviews.
Water
Fair
Crowds
Low
Location
Oaxaca, Oaxaca
Open map

Pacífico · 15.69° N · 96.40° W

What to know

Overview

Accessible via a 2-mile unpaved dirt road, this remote beach is known for its quiet atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, including dramatic sunsets and a nearby lagoon. Situated near an ecological preserve, visitors can observe diverse marine life, and the area’s former crocodile sanctuary adds a unique historical element. While limited services are available, a small parking area near a local church is provided, and nearby establishments offer homemade food. Guests consistently praise the beach’s tranquility and seclusion, appreciating the opportunity to connect with nature. The region is known for its high waves, providing opportunities for walking and enjoying the ocean. Be aware that the main beach is not safe for swimming due to dangerous waves. Bring your own supplies as there are no amenities on site.

About this listing

Compiled from Google Places and verified listing. Ratings and review counts come from Google Places; beach conditions and facilities can change. Last updated September 2026. Send a correction

The details

At a glance

Practical details for Playa Zapotengo in Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico.
Good for familiesPoor
Food nearbyGood
ParkingLimited
Water sportsYes
AccessibilityNo
Nearest airportHuatulco (HUX), about 15 km as the crow flies
Watch out forYes, dangerous water due to high waves.

Guides · Oaxaca

On these lists

All guides

Before you go

Common questions

Is Playa Zapotengo good for families?

Our listing data rates Playa Zapotengo "poor" for families. Probably better for adults or older kids. Check conditions on the day.

How is the water quality at Playa Zapotengo?

Our listing data rates the water at Playa Zapotengo as fair. Visibility and conditions shift with weather, swell and sargassum, so check locally before you swim.

Is there parking available at Playa Zapotengo?

Parking at Playa Zapotengo is limited. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season.

How crowded is Playa Zapotengo?

Our listing data puts crowds at Playa Zapotengo as low. Usually a quiet one, though weekends and holidays fill most beaches.

Are there restaurants near Playa Zapotengo?

Our listing data rates food options at Playa Zapotengo as good. A few places to eat close by.

Getting there

Oaxaca, Oaxaca

15.6913° N, 96.3991° W

Nearby

Beaches within 20 km

Pacífico · 15.70° N · 96.43° W

Tembo Beach

3 km awayRated 4.6 out of 5 on Google from 164 reviews.

Pacífico · 15.69° N · 96.35° W

Playa Salchi

5 km away

La Boquilla: LookoutBoquillaPhoto: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0

La Boquilla

7 km away

Playa Panteón: AzProfPlayaPanteonPhoto: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0

Playa Panteón

11 km awayRated 4.4 out of 5 on Google from 3,004 reviews.

Playa del Amor: RocksSouthAmorPhoto: AlejandroLinaresGarcia · CC BY-SA 4.0

Playa del Amor

12 km awayRated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 2,530 reviews.

Playa Zipolite: Beach Scene - Zipolite - Oaxaca - Mexico - 04 (15587133872)Photo: Adam Jones · CC BY-SA 2.0

Playa Zipolite

13 km awayRated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 6,773 reviews.

Hotel occupancy · Oaxaca

When it's busy

DataTur hotel occupancy for Oaxaca. Busy months mean fuller hotels; quiet months mean more room on the sand.

Busiest, on average
July, November

Occupancy averages about 62% in November. Book ahead.

Quietest, on average
May, June, September

Occupancy averages about 44% in January, so rooms are easier to find.

In 2024: busiest July (64.1%) · quietest June (46.7%)

January 2024 to December 2024, 0–100% occupancy scale.

Source: Official hotel occupancy statistics from DataTur (SECTUR Mexico). Aggregated across registered lodging categories.

Where to stay

Hotels near Playa Zapotengo

All hotels