This Lowkey Beach Town in Mexico is Gaining Popularity Among Queer Travelers
Some queer travelers are always looking for the next popular LGBTQ+-friendly travel destination––places much different from the usual suspects, such as New York City, Palm Springs, or Puerto Vallarta. Zipolite is becoming a popular destination because “it’s a departure from Mexico’s more polished destinations,” according to a Travel + Leisure article.
Zipolite is an Oaxacan beach town located a little more than a 3-hour flight south of Puerto Vallarta and a 5-hour flight northwest of Guatemala City. According to Kyle A. Valenta, the article’s author, the laidback small town has one queer bar, ChiZme, and it’s also home to Mexico’s only official nude beach, Playa del Amor. Demetria and Lyoban guest house both have a welcoming LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere, the latter offers parties on the sand.
Unfortunately, few hotels offer air-conditioning and stable Wi-Fi. On the west side of the beach, you have a higher-end El Alquimista. If you can’t go without AC, check into Villa Aikia or consider staying at the queer-friendly Casa Nudista.
If wildlife is more your thing, rent a car and take a 14-minute drive west to the Mexican Turtle Center, dedicated to the preservation of sea turtles. To the east, head to the Huatulco National Park, about an hour car drive, to explore its protected coral reefs.
