Plan the perfect stay in San Agustinillo, Oaxaca with our travel guide.

In traveller conversations about the coastal trio of Zipolite, Mazunte, and San Agustinillo, it's the latter that gets least attention.

One has the nudists, the infrastructure, and the parties, whilst the other has developed into the type of hippy / traveller enclave that people will either love or hate.

Little San Agustinillo? Well, it sort of flies under the radar as it's really just a quiet fishing village without as much to keep you entertained as Zipolite or none of the barefoot, breathwork 'vibes' of Mazunte.

And, that's exactly why we recommend it as a base to some travellers over the other two.

Situated within a double crescent bay, it's idyllic, photogenic, and blissfully uncommercialised. There are a half dozen or so unpretentious places to eat on or overlooking the beach, local fishermen to buy from in the morning, and a laid-back pace that's infectious.

For couples, families, or individuals looking to just chill out at a really beautiful sandy beach for a few days, stay in a nice accommodation that opens out right on to the sand, not have to be involved in any scene or nightlife, and wake to the sounds of the Pacific each morning, this is the pick.

Whilst Estacahuite and Bahia del Luna offer that too, the advantage of choosing San Agustinillo rather than those as your base is that you're less beholden to the opening hours, restrictions, and costs of the limited number of restaurants. Your transport connections are also better here.

For us, it’s absolutely one of the best beaches in Oaxaca.

In this short guide, we've shared everything you need to know to visit San Agustinillo on a day trip or longer stay. From things to do, the best places to stay, where to eat, and details on transport connections, all you need to worry about is working out how long to get stuck here…

San Agustinillo essentials

Vibe / Super chilled fisherman’s village
Visit / An easy 10-minute walk from Mazunte
Do / Take a surf lesson or a boat tour - or do nothing at all!
Eat / Temporada Oaxaca at Monte Uzulu Boutique Hotel
Stay / Splurge at Casa Bagus or Ukiyo Beach House, or pick backpacker’s favourite Chicatana Hostel

How To Get To San Agustinillo

The coastal towns and communities along this part of the Oaxaca's Pacific coastline are collectively known as 'La Costa Chica Oaxaqueña' or the 'Riviera Oaxaqueña'. Most travellers will visit several of them on the same trip - with Zipolite, Mazunte, and Puerto Escondido the usual suspects though there are more enclaves than that - and they're all relatively well-connected by colectivos, minibuses, and private transfers that run along Highway 175 and Highway 200.

We explain the transport options more generally in our best beaches in Oaxaca post.

For San Agustinillo, most of you will be visiting from neighbouring Mazunte: the two are so close that they're sometimes mistakenly lumped in together. From Mazunte, simply walk the 10-minutes up and down the hill, and you'll be in San Agustinillo. If you're laden down or feeling particularly lazy, you can wait for a passing colectivo that'll take you between the two for 5-10 pesos.

From Zipolite, it's about a 20-minute ride in a colectivo truck for 15 pesos per person; catch it from the small car park here

A taxi will quote you about M$200 or so, which is too much we think - let us know in the comments the rate you get.

The colectivo truck will drop you off on Highway 175, which is the road that splits the village in two (not as busy as it sounds!). This is also the place to get collected by the colectivo when you want to take a day trip to any of the neighbouring beaches, or to depart for your next stop in Oaxaca.

If you're travelling to San Agustinillo from further afield i.e. Oaxaca City or Puerto Escondido, we've shared the details at the end of this post.

Things To Do in San Agustinillo

Playa Elefante | The crescent-moon curve into the rocks at Playa Elefante is one of the most picturesque beaches in Oaxaca, and very nearly perfect.

Simply find a spot a little away from the boats to lay a towel down on the soft, golden sand, and enjoy the relatively calm, sheltered swimming available here; a paddling pool in comparison to the crashing waves of Zipolite (always keep an eye on your kids though).

There are couple of restaurants within the palm trees in this section, as well as a few excellent beachfront accommodation options like Posada Buda Tortuga and Casa Bagus, and this would be an idyllic, romantic place to spend a couple of nights.

Find Playa Elefante here on Google Maps.

To the right, you can hop over to the small secluded cove called Playa Bébé, which is bit more wild aesthetically but offers similar calmer waters.

Playa San Agustinillo | Walk left, away from the rocky point of Playa Elefante, and you'll soon be on Playa San Agustinillo.

The two are really just the same beach, but it's important to distinguish between the calm, quiet bay of Playa Elefante and the longer, more wild and windswept stretch that San Agustinillo beach evolved into.

The highly-rated Un Sueño Cabañas del Pacifico is in a great spot here, and the further east you go, the quieter, less developed, and more rugged it becomes: you won't struggle to find a gorgeous, relatively isolated spot but note that the water is more temperamental.

Playa Aragon, on the other side of the rocks, is potentially accessible when the tide is out - but is best accessed via the dirt road and there's no real imperative to head there in our view. It would be very quiet and empty, but Playa San Agustinillo is hardly oversubscribed.

On both beaches, you can usually have sun beds and umbrellas for free from the restaurants if you're consuming there. If your accommodation is on the beach, it's usually got private areas set up for guests.

Travel Tip // On Playa Elefante and the more developed section of Playa San Agustinillo, you'll see a few signs stating: "Prohibido el nudismo" (nudism prohibited).

The explicit advice is because nearby Zipolite is Mexico's first, largest, and only legal public nudist beach.

In Mexico, 'no nudism' typically extends to mean not going topless as well, but you will see travellers not paying attention to the cultural nuances.

Regardless, whether officially or unofficially, there were a few nudists minding their own business at the far, far end of Playa San Agustinillo.

Surfing | This is a really good spot in Oaxaca to have your first lessons as the waves are smaller and there's not as many proper surfers out there to worry about as somewhere like Laguna Chacahua or Puerto Escondido.

Ocean Surf School (maps) has surf lessons, classes, paddleboard rentals and surf trips along the coast, whilst there's one or two other places renting on the beach.

Prices were generally a little higher than elsewhere in the area but as with anywhere, be sure to ask for a discounted rate if renting for more than a day.

Whale-Watching Boat Trips | We’d already been really spoiled.

On a recent trip to Costa Rica, we'd seen whales in Uvita and Corcovado National Park, and just a few days before we arrived in San Agustinillo, we literally saw them playing from our sunbeds in Zipolite.

So as tempting as it was to head out into the waves, it seemed like a good idea to save our money for other experiences on this Mexico trip.

For many however, one of the very best things to in San Agustinillo would undoubtedly be to head out on one of the small boat rides to look for turtles, whales, and dolphins. They usually include 'bird rock' - the reason you’ll see so many swooping above Playa Elefante - and some swimming time too.

There are a few guys on San Agustinillo beach offering the boat tours so you don't need to worry about booking ahead. However, Pacifico Mágico and Yetlanezy Tours are two well-rated options. Prices are around M$300 per person.

Buy Fresh Fish | There’s nothing quite like being able to buy your food directly from source - and in San Agustinillo, that means picking up a fish from the little hut right on the beach, where the local fishermen prepare and sell their catch of the day.

For those that eat fish, it’s also a great way to support the local economy and know that your money is going right into the pockets of those that live here.

You can find them here - but note that some Airbnb hosts really don’t like you cooking fish inside…

Eating & Drinking | You've got to keep yourself energised between all that sunbathing, swimming, and doing literally nothing on the beach right?

There are not loads of options in San Agustinillo in comparison to nearby Mazunte, but for what it lacks in quantity it makes up in quality.

Several of the restaurants have a beachfront area and an indoors level above, so you can also come in from the main road and enjoy lunch or a drink with a view. The only thing to be aware of is that things do tend to close earlier in the evening, and so after 9pm, you won’t have too many options available.

For traditional Mexican breakfasts and lunches in a local institution, start the day with chilaquiles or huevos divorciados at El Sueño de Frida! They close at 2.30pm though, so it's best to turn up in good time for lunches. Find it here on Google Maps. Alternatively, another excellent breakfast spot to try out is La Mora Posada (maps).

Umami (maps) is a great spot for fresh, healthy food, juices and good coffee too, and the vegetarian cafe is a favourite of many travellers visiting San Agustinillo.

We had lunch at Casa Corazon due to its great beachfront setting, and it’s a good pick, but the service is suitably laid back.

We unfortunately didn't make it to Temporada Oaxaca (maps), the restaurant of the Monte Uzulu Boutique Hotel, but it looks like a really nice space with a thoughtful, fresh, locally-sourced seasonal menu. Note that it's not on the beach though, but in a lush, peaceful forest setting.

Bar Rosita is the fisherman's bar of choice!

Feel free to let us know any of your personal favourites in the comments!

Sunset in Mazunte | Although it may be hard to drag yourself away from the beach or hammock, staying in San Agustinillo has the benefit of proximity to the popular beach town of Mazunte.

A longtime favourite of hippies, backpackers, and spiritual types, it trends younger and, though not large, is about three or four times the size of San Agustinillo. The vibe is definitely different, but as the two are separated by just a 10-minute walk up and down the hill, they’re often paired together.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed vacation vibe and accommodation on a stunning beach, San Agustinillo is our recommendation as your base. However, you would be foolish not to view Mazunte as part of the same base, and take advantage of its range of cool restaurants, coffee shops, and cocktail bars (especially in the evenings).

At least one day trip over the hill to Mazunte is mandatory in our opinion to visit the turtle centre (closed Mondays + Tuesdays), check out the beaches and coastal trail, and enjoy the spectacular sunset from Punta Cometa.

For more info read Our Guide to Mazunte, Oaxaca

Travel Tip // As you go up the hill to Mazunte, consider stopping for food or a fresh coconut at Doña Mary on the right hand side before the peak. It's very rustic with chickens and dogs roaming around the old shells, but very welcoming and locally-run. They also serve up vegetarian tlayudas and sopes, and sell fresh eggs too - find it here on Google Maps.

Also, make sure you have a torch or charged phone if walking back over the hill at night!

Visit Zipolite | Chance are that you may be staying in Zipolite too but, if you’re sticking to a single base in San Agustinillo, then Mexico’s first and largest nudist beach is an unmissable day trip.

Windswept, LGBT-friendly, and the place Along Dusty Roads couldn’t leave for three weeks (and then got engaged in nearly 10 years later), it’s will always be close to our hearts despite the various developments taking place.

From San Agustinillo, you can simply hop in the back of a passing colectivo on the main road and you’ll be there in less than 20-minutes (the fare is 15 pesos per person).

You don’t have get nude or be a nudist to visit or enjoy Zipolite by the way (we’re not), but you will absolutely see lots of bums, willies, boobs, and more, so it’s important to be aware of that before you get a big surprise.

Curious to know more? Check out our guide below. If you prefer a day trip to somewhere quieter or with a small beach with lovely swimming and snorkelling, then simply take the colectivo a little further to Puerto Angel or Estacahuite.

Plan / Our Guide to Zipolite + The Best Oaxaca Beaches Guide

Where To Stay in San Agustinillo

Like much of the Oaxacan Coast, San Agustinillo is slowly pivoting from a backpacker destination to catering to those that choose it for a holiday and don’t mind spending a bit more on accommodation.

Although the village definitely still has affordable options for backpackers, Mazunte is the better pick if budget or a dorm bed is your main priority.

We’ve noted those more affordable option below, but do be aware that the prices tend to be a far bit higher than most young travellers can afford.

Monte Uzulu Boutique Hotel | Our very favourite accommodation (at least aesthetically) may not be right on the beach but it is undoubtedly beautiful. Think super contemporary, lots of poured concrete, all very raw and natural. The king suites are particularly lovely, but we’d happily stay in any of them. Find out more here.

Un Sueño Cabañas del Pacifico | Another firm favourite for ADR, they offer individual cabañas on the beach utilising natural materials (we love the bathrooms and private outside spaces with hammocks). They also have a decent on-site restaurant. This property is also available on Airbnb.

Casa Bagus | Right on the beach, we clocked it as soon as we arrived in San Agustinillo because of its large terraces offering up stunning views. The rooms are decorated and furnished to a high spec, blending traditional and modern design. They also have private sunbeds and umbrellas for guests. The rooms don’t come cheap, but the reviews are exceptional - definitely worth the splurge! Find out more here.

Bambú Ecocabañas | If you prefer a more ‘back-to-nature’ experience, consider these super popular eco-cabins. Whilst you can’t really class them as budget-friendly, they’re much more affordable than others in San Agustinillo. They also benefit from a beach-front location and shared kitchen. Find out more here.

If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel stay (with understated Mexican coastal vibes, naturally), take a look at the popular Aamori Boutique Hotel. It’s adults only, so would suit couples well.

Posada Buda-Tortuga | Although we’re not sure it deserves its 5* rating, this is another highly-rated hotel with more of a ‘lux vibe’. We particularly like all the incredible art work scattered about, and the pool. Find out more here.

Casa La Ola | It’s not beachfront, but the views from the gorgeous, light, bright and modern rooms are simply breathtaking (and it’s still only a few minutes walk from the sand). It’s little surprise that it’s such a popular, highly-rated hotel! Find out more here.

Posada Paloma | If you’re looking for somewhere a little more budget-friendly, be sure to take a look at this little guest house. It’s a lot more basic that others in San Agustinillo but it’s comfortable, tastefully decorated, the rooms are large and it has an on-site restaurant. Find out more here.

An Instagram follower also recommended rooms at Casa Corazon, but they’re not available to book online.

Airbnbs in San Agustinillo

It’s fair to say that, generally speaking, your money goes much further with Airbnbs rather than hotels in San Agustinillo. This means that if you’re travelling on a bit of a budget, but really want to stay here, this is the section you’ll want to pay most attention to!

Nani | Starting with a good one here, Nani offers three absolutely stunning suites just 200 metres from the beach. The beautifully designed building set within gardens and sensitively built with local materials is set on a slope meaning that all suites have incredible views. Also offer breakfast. Find all listings here.

Ukiyo Beach House | Another absolutely gorgeous accommodation. Designed by the Mexican architect Tatiana Bilbao, this villa is composed of three one-bedroom suites of exceptionally high standard and of a contemporary style - all with sweeping views and luxurious bathrooms. There’s a common area with a fully-equipped kitchen and open-plan dining space, plus a salt-water pool. Find all listings here.

Monte Jaguar | If you need a little more space, or would prefer not to share any communal areas with other guests, consider this absolutely gorgeous, contemporary two-bedroom house. It’s got a stunning rooftop area, a pool set in gardens, spacious kitchen, and multiple terraces (including one for yoga). Ten minutes on foot from the beach. Find out more here.

If the above three listings sound perfect, be sure to also check out the similarly luxurious Lazuli Playa (and the other suites in the same building).

Chicatana Hostel | One for the backpackers! Offering a small number of rooms and a rustic hut, the accommodation is simple and functional, super close to the beach, there’s a communal kitchen and the reviews are great. Find all listings here.

If you’re past your hostel days but still need good value accommodation, be sure to check out this cute tiny house. Ideally suited to a single traveller or couple, it’s got modern decor, a great little kitchen, an upstairs balcony as well as a terrace area. Find out more here.

The same host also has this excellent one-bed modern property, oozing contemporary minimalist style that still ticks the budget-friendly box.

Other decent budget options include the rustic but very popular La Cabaña Azul de Cabañas Gemelos, Alegria Ocean View Eco-Cabana, this remarkably good value apartment and La Mora.

Casa Sergio | One of our top two-bedroom picks, this wonderful spot has a fantastic indoor / outdoor vibe, with lots of area to chill out in, and ocean view, loads of space, a huge kitchen and a lots of traditional accents. It also has access to a communal pool. Find out more here.

Be sure to check out this hosts other properties - he has lots and they’re all gorgeous! Check out all listings.

Casa Dora Bungalow | This super charming property has all modern amenities but is full of traditional Oaxacan features, with a heavy use of natural and local materials. Only a few steps from the beach, but its location at the end of a pedestrian only lane means it’s incredible peaceful. Find out more here.

Other properties to check out include: Magician adorn 4, Casa ArteSano, this newly renovated two-bed, Casa Nashí, Casa Tapanco, and this charming, bright apartment.

How to Get to San Agustinillo From Oaxaca or Puerto Escondido

OAXACA TO San agustinillo

To reach San Agustinillo from the city of Oaxaca, you have a few transport options :

1. Take a regular bus through the winding road through the mountains, via San José del Pacifico, to arrive at the inland transport hub town of Pochutla (maps).

The Lineas Unidas minibuses leave frequently from its terminal just outside the city centre - find it here on Google Maps. A taxi there from the centre will be about 80 pesos, and the bus journey takes 6-8 hours and costs MX$250 per person.

It not not a terribly fun journey due to the road conditions and often cramped minivans.

From Pochutla, you can jump in a colectivo pick-up truck (approx MX$40 pp, 35-45 mins) or shared taxi (MX$50 pp). A private taxi will cost in the region of MX$200-250 but offers the quickest, most comfortable and convenient onward transport if you've got lots of people or luggage.

Some of the daily bus services do carry on further to Puerto Angel or Zipolite, which will take you a lot closer to San Agustinillo, but they’re less frequent.

2. The much-anticipated new highway from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido is going to transform the coastline here (for good and bad) . It's scheduled to open in late 2023/early 2024, and will mean journey times of 2-3 hours which don't involve the mountain road.

Once this opens, we'll update the post with the relevant information on bus companies and costs, or feel free to let us know you experience and recommendations in the comments.

3. If there’s a bunch of you or cost isn’t an issue, you could opt for this private transfer to Puerto Escondido, and travel on from there.

4. We don't recommend internal flights, but there are two companies running small plane flights from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Airport.

Plan ahead with our city guide: 13 Wonderful Things To Do In Oaxaca

PUERTO ESCONDIDO TO MAZUNTE

· Walk or take a colectivo to to the Transportes Delfin terminal (here on Google Maps), and take one of the regular minivans heading along Highway 200. Depending on where you're based in Puerto, you may be better hailing this at the side of the road.

Tell the driver you're going to ‘El Cruce’ or 'para San Agustinillo', and they should drop you off about 40-50 minutes later at the side of the road at this spot (maps), outside the Oxxo supermarket. This is a common drop-off point, but just keep an eye on your blue dot to make sure you don't get forgotten.

From there, wait on the corner for any passing colectivo truck turning in as they'll be heading to San Agustinillo. Travel time will be about 20-30 minutes, cost around MX$20 each to the driver.

· If there are a few of you, or for a quicker, more convenient day trip, you'll be able to find a taxi in Puerto Escondido who will happily run you to San Agustinillo in around 80-90 minutes. Unfortunately, we don't know the costs as we did the above options, so let us know in the comments if you do!

· If flying into Puerto Escondido Airport, then you can travel with one of the official taxis. They have kiosks inside, and the rate will be around $1,200+ for the whole taxi. If you want to save a bit of cash, you can try to get others to share it with you or walk out of the airport for a few minutes and you'll find a bunch of official taxis (but not airport official taxis) who will take you for cheaper.