Puerto Escondido’s bohemian, beachside Punta Zicatela neighborhood is where surf shops, smoke joints, fusion food spots, and laid-back beach bars meet—catering to a colorful mix of international tourists, digital nomads, and locals. Expect to bump into Argentinians, Colombians, Spaniards, and Frenchmen while here, among other expat groups. Some claim it’s the; Tulum of 15 years ago,’ while others laugh at the comparison.
A 12-minute walk from the main beach and area thoroughfare, you’ll find Punta Nayaá, a 10-key, adults-only boutique hotel swathed in a minty-green variation. Seriously, 95% of the hotel is clad in this verdant hue.
The lobby—which features an indoor-outdoor design, a vanishing-edge pool, and sharp-edge staircase sans a railing on one side—strikes your attention immediately. The restaurant tempts you to kick back with a drink in hand. And if you’re looking to get stuff done (in between beach sessions), there’s even a coworking space that lets you mix productivity with paradise.
Punta Nayaá’s small size means zero hustle, just a relaxed pace. The walls are made from cactus sap (yes, really), setting an earthy, organic tone throughout. Think spacious rooms with natural light and ocean views—some even have balconies and private plunge pools.
The two villas are the ultimate upgrade for those traveling with a crew or needing more room to stretch out. Designed for groups of four to six, these accommodations come with kitchenettes, so you can either live your inner chef fantasy or just microwave tacos (no judgment here). Whether you’re cooking up a feast or sipping coffee on your private terrace, it’s the perfect spot to embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing.
Top Takeaways
Location: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Address: Calle Héroes Oaxaqueños SN Colonia Brisas de Zicatela,70934, Oaxaca, Mexico
Rating: Four-star
The vibe: She looks good in green-on-green.
Rating: Four-star
Food + Drink: The Punta Nayaá restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, where it serves Mexican dishes. Kick off your day with huevos rancheros or go for the classic avocado toast. Then, for lunch, dive into fresh ceviche or shrimp pasta.
Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, bar, breakfast, free WI-FI
Any Neighborhood recs?: Start your day at Hotel Humano’s lobby coffee shop on Alejandro Cardenas Perlata Road in La Punta Zicatela—it’s a beautiful spot with high ceilings and exposed concrete. For dinner, check out Wahaka Restaurante. It has a charming outdoor patio and serves delicious Mexican-fusion dishes.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: I’ve never seen a hotel decked out in this much green—and I love it.
What’s Nearby? Alejandro Cardenas Perlata Road, Zicatela Beach, Parque El Idilo
Pricing: Rates start at $190
Rooms: Eight rooms + two villas
Closest Airport: Puerto Escondido International Airport
