Chacahua, Oaxaca, Mexico is a paradise for surfers and nature lovers, away from the hustle and bustle of Puerto Escondido.
It’s known for its pristine beaches, chill vibes, and a mix of local and tourist surf communities.
I first heard about it in 2020 when my local surfer friend recommended I go. It wasn’t until a few years later I finally decided to make the trek!
The surf is still relatively uncrowded compared to the breaks in Puerto Escondido, and is one of Mexico’s best kept secrets.
My husband and I spent a week in Chacahua and seriously wished we stayed here longer instead of spending over a month in Puerto Escondido!
Depending on what you’re looking for, you may want to do the same.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planning your trip, from how to get there and where to stay, plus the best surf spots and tips for making the most out of your trip to Laguna de Chacahua!
Let’s get started!
Where is Chacahua Mexico?
Chacahua is a small beach town located on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, about 50 km west of Puerto Escondido.
If you search Chacahua on Google Maps, it may be unclear what you’re looking at as sometimes it directs you to another town in Oaxaca.
The beach and wave of Chacahua can be found using the map above.
It can also be easily located if you first search for the National Park “Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua” which translates to Chacahua Lagoons National Park.
The park is a protected area known for its extensive mangrove ecosystems, lagoons, and wildlife, which you will have to cross in order to access the beach.
Best Time to Visit Chacahua Oaxaca
Similar to Puerto Escondido, the best time to visit Chacahua for surfing is from April to October, when the swell season is.
This is when the Pacific swell brings consistent waves, perfect if you are an intermediate or experienced surfer.
The biggest swells and waves will be between June and August.
Personally, as a longboarder, I loved visiting in May as the waves were PERFECT.
If you’re a beginner, November to March might be a better time to learn, as the waves are smaller and more manageable.
November to March is also within the dry season, with fewer tourists and less humidity.
How to Get to Chacahua from Puerto Escondido
Getting to Chacahua from Puerto Escondido is an adventure in itself, but with a bit of planning, it’s absolutely worth it and super affordable!
I do not recommend renting a car as you will have to park it when you get to the lagoon. I’m not sure if it’s safe and secure to do so unless you are with a local who knows what they’re doing.
Instead, public transportation is the best way, and you can even bring your own surfboards without any hassle.
You may get a few stares as people come in and out of the little bus and there’s no room, but if it’s a shortboard, you will manage.
- Take a colectivo (shared taxi) or bus from Puerto Escondido to Rio Grande.
- Transfer to a local colectivo towards Zapotalito.
- Once you reach El Zapotalito, hop on a boat to cross the lagoon to reach Chacahua.
The other option is to arrange a trip with a surf school in Puerto Escondido, or a local tour guide. The trouble with this is you are limited to how long you can stay and they usually charge an extra fee to bring you.
Once you get to El Zapotalito, the boat ride is a practical necessity to reach the beach, and it’s absolutely stunning!
You’ll get amazing views of the mangrove ecosystem the entire way, and it takes around 30-40 minutes.
Where to Stay
Chacahua has a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to hammocks on the beach.
We had no accommodation booked before getting here but it was not a problem at all! Just walked up to a lady and asked if she had rooms available.
This is easy to do if you’re visiting during shoulder season and only staying for a few nights.
If I was a backpacker in my teens or 20s, I probably would have loved to stay on a hammock on the beach.
But this time around, I wanted my own shower and space.
Surf Cabanas: Basic huts and cabanas are popular, giving you an authentic beach experience. They’re affordable and usually include hammocks and close proximity to the beach.
Be careful if you opt for a spot on the beach because sometimes there are TONS of insects that can eat you alive while you sleep!
Resorts: For those who want a bit more comfort, there are a few that you can find on Google Maps with additional amenities.
Basic Homestays: This is what we opted for as I wanted my own shower and bed. There are a bunch to choose from depending on what you’re looking for and you don’t have to book in advance.
Things to Do
The main attraction in Chacahua is the surf, but there are other activities to do around here as well!
Surfing: Chacahua is known for its surf-friendly waves and consistent swell. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Boat Tours: There are a few tour companies offering boat tours through Laguna de Chacahua National Park’s mangroves to see crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife up close.
Bioluminescent Tours: If you’re lucky, you can see the lagoon light up at night with bioluminescent plankton. Many locals offer night tours to experience this natural phenomenon.
Beach Day: The beaches here are wide, uncrowded, and stunning. Perfect for a lazy beach day!
Hiking to the Lighthouse: There is a nearby lighthouse that you can hike up to for a great view. The hike is moderate and super pretty, especially during sunset.
Chacahua Surf
There are a few breaks around here that caters to all levels. The main surf spot in Chacahua is a point break that is a long, mellow right hander that you can paddle out to from the beach.
It handles swell pretty well, especially if the waves are too big at Zicatela, you’ll know when it’s good in Chacahua.
It’s perfect for intermediate surfers, and beginners can just stay on the inside section to practice in the white water.
As a longboarder, you can sit off towards the shoulder for an easy takeoff and catch the inside section for a super long ride.
The main point break is reliable and consistent on all tides – we were able to surf all day every day!
Can you rent boards in Chacahua?
Yes, you can rent boards in Chacahua! Several surf schools and guesthouses offer board rentals.
I usually travel with my single fin wherever I go. They don’t have many nice longboards for rent, but I was able to find a decent log that worked perfectly with my fin.
Prices are generally affordable, and it’s a great option if you don’t want to bring your own.
If you’re planning on surfing every day or if you’re super picky with your boards, renting can add up, so bringing your board could be worth it especially since it’s easy to do so.
There are also a few schools that offer private and group surf lessons during the season.
Is There Wifi?
When I visited in May of 2023, the wi-fi situation was still quite tricky.
At the restaurant next door to our cabana, they offered daily wifi codes that you can buy for a 16 hour use on one device.
None of the data or roaming packages available in Mexico worked when I was there.
As we were leaving, there was a tourist that installed Starlink in one of the restaurants on the beach. He sold it to the owner but I’m not sure if they were able to subscribe for a package.
Because Starlink is so widely available in Mexico now, I wouldn’t be surprised if it arrives in Chacahua soon (if not already)!
Tips for Visiting Lagunas De Chacahua
- Bring Cash: Chacahua is a cash-only destination where you have to cross a lagoon in order to access, with no ATMs around, so be sure to bring enough cash for your entire stay.
- Insect Repellent: The area around the lagoon is beautiful but mosquito-heavy, especially at sunset, so bring plenty of insect repellent ESPECIALLY if you are sleeping on the beach!
- Prepare for Limited Wi-Fi: Internet access is limited. Be ready to unplug and enjoy the natural beauty around you or pay for vouchers that give you a few hours of connection.
- Respect the Wildlife: Chacahua is part of a national park, so be mindful of the wildlife. Don’t disturb the animals and avoid littering to help keep the park pristine.
- Bring Sunscreen and a Rash Guard: The sun is strong here so bring sunscreen! The local shops will have some for sale but it is pricey. If you plan to surf all day, bring a hat and rash guard.
What To Do Next
- Buy travel medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong. Read SafetyWing review.
- Buy an eSIM card so you are immediately connected as soon as you land! Read Holafly eSIM review.
- Book flights!
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