Hidden Gems: The Ultimate Photography Guide to Mazunte and Beyond, Oaxaca
Nestled along Oaxaca's Pacific coast, Mazunte (home for 7 years now—time flies!) offers some of Mexico's most breathtaking and unspoiled landscapes for photographers. This small fishing village, part of the "Pueblo Mágico" list, has become a haven for those seeking dramatic coastlines, pristine beaches, and that perfect golden hour light that makes every shot magical. Here's your complete guide to capturing the essence of this coastal paradise, complete with local experiences you can have during your stay!
To create this blog, I thought about what would be my perfect day here as a photographer! So I decided to bring you along with me into this visual “ escapade”.
First, I greet my partner, still sleeping, with a kiss on her neck. I greet my cat, Tara, with some scratches (sometimes I mix it up and scratch my partner and kiss my cat—they still love it!), and go straight to the kitchen to prepare myself a raw cacao to start the day!
Then, just like in a road movie, I jump on my motorbike, kick it on, and start driving with hair in the wind (except I'm bald, but the sensation still feels nice) toward my favorite spots for photography.
Being a portrait photographer for more than 14 years, I always take my subjects into an immersion process, either a cityscape or moslty in nature since I am living in Mexico. You will find epic sceneries happening either in Mazunte, Zipolite, or San Agustinillo. Puerto escondido have some gems too, but it can be too crowded sometimes and I like my work to be intimate.
Sunrise Magic at Playa Aragón
Start your photographic journey before dawn at Playa Aragón or at the end of San agustinillo beach. This expansive beach offers unobstructed views of the horizon, making it perfect for sunrise photography. And if you are here in December, just gazing at the horizon can sometimes surprise you with whales jumping. The volcanic sand creates(depending current & tides) beautiful leading lines, while the consistent waves provide dynamic foreground elements.
Best shots to capture:
Silhouettes of early morning fishermen launching their boats or people meditating
Long exposure shots of waves creating smooth, ethereal movement
Photography tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise to set up and capture the pre-dawn blue hour colors transitioning into golden light.
Breakfast Stop: Zipolite
After your sunrise session, head to Zipolite town center, but just before entering the main road that leads to the adoquin, stop at the Oregano restaurant for authentic Oaxacan coffee and typical yummy mexican food. The comedor serves excellent huevos rancheros, enchiladas or tacos, which are perfect fuel for the day ahead. The colorful street nearby offers great street photography opportunities of daily life.
Best shots to capture around:
People preparing food al comal
Try some portrait in the colorful adoquin with some depth behind your subject
Walk into one of the mini street that bring to the main beach of Zipolite, you have lots of street art that can be use for great backdrop
If portrait photography isn't your thing and you'd rather capture stunning landscapes or wildlife, I've got you covered:
The Crown Jewel: Punta Cometa
Punta Cometa, the southernmost point of Oaxaca, offers perhaps the most spectacular panoramic views on Mexico's Pacific coast. While commercial photography now requires permits from local authorities, the investment is worthwhile for professional work.
Essential shots:
The dramatic cliff formations with crashing waves below
Panoramic views of epic sunsets and people watching it
Golden hour shots when the entire coastline glows
Important note: Contact the local tourism office in Mazunte village about photography permits. Fees are typically reasonable, and supporting the community helps preserve this incredible location.
Mermejita Beach & Ventanilla: Sunset Paradise
Now going down to Playa Mermejita or Ventanilla are a photographer's dream for sunset shots and wildlife. This secluded black send beach requires a short hike through coastal vegetation, ensuring fewer crowds and pristine conditions.
Must-capture moments:
The sun setting directly into the ocean & Ventanilla Rock(during certain times of year)
Wildlife like herons, crocodiles or turtles
Cool Project around: Piedra Azul autogenerative Farm is in Zapotal, 2mn from Ventanilla and it is worth the visit. Local & organic products like eggs, buffalo milk, fruits & vegies, and such a nice project to visit.
Pro tip: Check tide charts – low tide reveals a hidden beach at the end of Mermejita for the most adventurous.
Essential Photography Gear for This Region
Wide-angle lens (14-24mm) for expansive coastal scenes
Telephoto lens (70-200mm) for isolating distant rock formations or wildlife
Polarizing filter to manage reflections and enhance sky contrast
Neutral density filters for long exposure wave photography
Extra batteries – humidity drains power quickly
Timing and Seasonal Considerations
The dry season (November through April) offers the most reliable weather and dramatic skies. During rainy season (May through October), you'll encounter more dramatic cloud formations but also unpredictable conditions.
Best shooting times:
Sunrise: 6:00-7:30 AM
Blue hour evening: 5.30-7:00 PM
Supporting Local Communities
Remember that these communities depend on tourism. So eat at family-run restaurants, and purchase crafts directly from artisans.
Final Thoughts
Mazunte and its surrounding coastline offer endless opportunities for photographers willing to explore beyond the obvious shots. The key is respecting both the natural environment and local communities while capturing the raw beauty that makes this corner of Oaxaca so special. Pack your gear, bring plenty of memory cards, and prepare to be amazed by some of Mexico's most photogenic landscapes.
The magic of this region lies not just in its dramatic vistas, but in the authentic culture and unspoiled nature that still thrives here. Your photographs will tell the story of a place where time moves slower and natural beauty remains largely untouched by mass tourism.
