Mazunte, Mexico is what bohemian beach vacation dreams are made of. It’s what many of us wish Tulum still was: relaxed, authentic, off the beaten track and breathtakingly beautiful. The atmosphere is impeccable in this small town in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. You won’t hear the thumping bass of the nightly parties like you might in the nearby resort of Puerto Escondido. You’ll find a walkable village with cobblestone streets, thatched-roof houses, a variety of delicious cafes and restaurants, and some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.
Mazunte is one of the country’s Pueblo Magicos or Magic Cities, identified by the Mexican government as a place where cultural authenticity, history and natural beauty have been preserved. Once you arrive in Mazunte, you will see why it was chosen for this special designation: the city is indeed magical. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with yourself as you soak up the sun and listen to the huge waves of the Pacific Ocean crash against the golden sandy beaches.
As well as spending wonderful days chilling on the beautiful beaches, make sure you take the easy 3.5 kilometer walk to Punta Cometa to watch an unforgettable sunset. Yogis of all levels can find plenty of great classes in the city. Casa Om and Akasha Yoga, Dance and Martial Arts are two of the best places. In the evening, wander through the narrow streets where you can choose from several restaurants that will tempt even the most picky gourmets. You’ll find everything from authentic Mexican food to healthy vegan spots and romantic Italian restaurants with outdoor dining.
Planning the perfect getaway
The easiest way to reach Mazunte is to fly to Puerto Escondido. Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore the coastline, but parking in the town of Mazunte can be a challenge due to the narrow streets. Rental cars in Puerto Escondido start at around $9 per day. Check in advance whether your hotel offers parking. You can also take the public daily or hire a private taxi from the airport.
Mazunte has some truly fantastic accommodation options, with options to suit every budget. If you’re backpacking and looking for affordable places to stay, there are several hostels in the city with dorms from just 1.50 euros $10. With a budget of around $50 per night, you can find 3-star hotel rooms or private bungalows with amenities like pools, breakfast, and Wi-Fi. When you’re ready to spend, $100 – $200 you get a private bungalow right on the beach, where you can look at the ocean from your own balcony.
