v2.webp){kind=logo}
- Big-wave spectator sessions (the “Mexican Pipeline”) — Zicatela is famous for left-hand beach breaks that throw up huge, hollow barrels; watching pro surfers and tow-in crews wrestle those waves is a jaw-dropping, uniquely raw spectacle. Best in the big-swell season (roughly spring to early autumn); stay behind designated viewing areas — the surf and rip currents here are no joke.
- Sunset from the southern point / cliff lookout — the light, the line of surfers, and the way the waves peel toward shore make for dramatic photos and chilled people-watching. It’s where the surf show and the horizon meet — my personal favorite for slow beers, camera time, and watching the last sets roll in.
- Beachfront seafood and late-night taco stalls — what makes Zicatela different is the Oaxacan seafood vibe:
- Big-wave spectator sessions (the “Mexican Pipeline”) — Zicatela is famous for left-hand beach breaks that throw up huge, hollow barrels; watching pro surfers and tow-in crews wrestle those waves is a jaw-dropping, uniquely raw spectacle. Best in the big-swell season (roughly spring to early autumn); stay behind designated viewing areas — the surf and rip currents here are no joke.
- Sunset from the southern point / cliff lookout — the light, the line of surfers, and the way the waves peel toward shore make for dramatic photos and chilled people-watching. It’s where the surf show and the horizon meet — my personal favorite for slow beers, camera time, and watching the last sets roll in.
- Beachfront seafood and late-night taco stalls — what makes Zicatela different is the Oaxacan seafood vibe: fishermen bring in fresh catch, grills fire up right by the sand, and you can eat ceviche or grilled fish while the surf thunders nearby. It’s informal, smoky, and full of local flavor — not the resort boardwalk kind of dining.
- Nightlife that bleeds onto the sand — instead of neon clubs, Zicatela’s party often happens open-air: live bands, DJs, and bonfire crowds along the strip create a gritty, surf-town energy you can feel with your toes in the sand. It’s loud and lively; pick pockets can be a thing on busy nights, so keep valuables secure.
- Surf-culture immersion and photography — the break is so close and cinematic that photographers, board shapers, and big-wave crews gather here year-round; spending time talking with locals and watching shapers or shooters at work gives you an inside look at the global surf scene in a small town setting. Even if you don’t surf, you’ll learn a lot by listening and watching.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.
Dolphin & Whale Watching in Puerto Escondido
✓ Free cancellation
From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence
✓ Free cancellation
Guided Tour with Horseback Riding and Bioluminescence in Puerto Escondido
✓ Free cancellation
Private Family Dolphin and Whale Tour in Puerto Escondido
✓ Free cancellation
Private Tour to Carrizalillo Mirador Turtles and Release Turtles
✓ Free cancellation
One Day from Oaxaca Getaway to Puerto Escondido
✓ Free cancellation
Tour Puerto Escondido EXPRESS
Puerto Escondido at 1 Carrizalillo, Zicatela and Release Turtles
14 Day Beach Paradise Tour in Puerto Escondido Mexico
Best Backpacking
.jpg)
Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.