Photo credit: Charlie Marchant
When the holidays have passed, snow starts to pile and icicles begin to look like permanent winter decorations, many North Americans head south — way south. And while many travelers head to the capital city or popular resort beaches like Cabo San Lucas and Cancun, they’re often missing out on the lesser-known, paradisal towns that dot Mexico’s 758,400 square miles.
Mexico’s southwestern state of Oaxaca is one of these area’s that’s often lower on travelers’ radar, yet it offers some of the city’s most heavenly beaches, unique crafts, rich history, and of course, plenty of those mouthwatering Mexican eats. These are three Oaxaca towns that will give you plenty of excuses to skip the high rise resorts and experience the “real” Mexico in the winter of 2017-2018.
Huatulco
Photo credit: Heather Paul
Situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Huatulco offers nine bays, 36 beaches and plenty of places to enjoy water-based activities, like snorkeling, swimming and diving. In addition to natural wonders, the town offers low-key and affordable places to stay just a short distance from the sea. Visit the Agua Azul la Villa ocean view bed and breakfast for a stay in one of six luxurious rooms, each offering a relaxing retreat from the nearby sun and sea. Soak in the pool, wander the gardens, or take the scenic 10-minute walk to a virgin beach, where you’ll probably be the only person on the sand. Head into the water to surf, raft, kayak, snorkel, deep sea fish or enjoy one of the area’s countless other outdoor activities.
Mazunte
Photo credit: Gabriel Balderas
Mexico is a country that has mastered the laid-back lifestyle, and there’s arguably no better place to experience it than in Mazunte, Oaxaca. This hippie town with tranquil, aquamarine waves, fresh coconuts, and charming local eateries draws free-thinkers from around the globe. Rent a beach umbrella for $5 per day, sip mezcal at a beachside hut, snack on tamales sold on the sand, and don’t forget to climb to the peak of Punta Cometa, known for offering some of the region’s best sunsets.
Teotitlan del Valle
Photo credit: Eduardo Robles Pacheco
It may be the picture-perfect beaches that draw you to the state of Oaxaca, but the rich culture and unique crafts will wow you just as much as the coastal views. The legendary weaving village of Teotitlan del Valle sits just 15 miles from the capital city of Oaxaca, but it feels light years away from the hustle and bustle. The village is known for creating cloth weavings dyed from natural sources like moss, cochineal and indigo. Browse the hundreds of designs, and be sure to take some home to friends and family — you won’t be able to find them anywhere else. Teotitlan del Valle proves you don’t need to be near the sea to enjoy an unforgettable winter escape.