A southern Mexican state with beautiful beaches, lush forests, incredible mountains, and charming, undeveloped towns, Oaxaca is a must-visit. Less touristy than Riviera Maya and Cancun, Oaxaca's coast doesn’t attract a party crowd. It’s also not yet the darling of travel blogs, like Tulum, but visitors love the relaxed towns, rich culture, and local vibe found here along the Pacific shoreline. With that in mind, here are six of the best beach hotels in Oaxaca.

1. Hotel Santa Fe

Pool at Hotel Santa Fe

Located in a calm spot right opposite the beach, Hotel Santa Fe is a Spanish colonial-style building that feels like a private, intimate estate. When guests aren’t on the beach, views of the sand and the clear water can be seen from the huge alfresco terrace and the open-air palapa restaurant, known for its high-quality food and vegetarian specialties. There also three pools (including one small kiddy option) surrounded by lush, terraced grounds, plus elegant, rustic rooms. Close to the vibrant beach town of Zicatela, but far enough removed for a sense of tranquillity, guests here have the best of both worlds — should they want it.

2. Hotel Escondido

Pool at Hotel Escondido

Hotel Escondido offers guests a secluded sanctuary with a gorgeous beachfront setting. The intimate boutique property, which is set amid private acreage, consists of 16 modern bungalows that open onto private decks with plunge pools and beach access via a short sandy path. When you get tired of the ocean, relax in the 50-meter beachfront infinity pool, at the on-site spa, or in the open-air palapa restaurant serving top-notch food and cocktails. Hotel Escondido is an exclusive option for those who wish to escape the region’s busier areas, like Zicatela, which is a 30-minute drive away. A no-kids-under-16 policy also keeps things quiet and peaceful.

3. Camino Real Zaashila

Beach at Camino Real Zaashila

Camino Real Zaashila sits on the golden sands of Rincon Sabroso Beach and features two pools (the largest in Huatulco), tennis courts, and four restaurants that serve traditional Mexican cuisine throughout the day. All rooms at the property are spacious and include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and bathrooms with luxurious Molton Brown toiletries. Plus, guests can choose how close they want to be to the beach, and if they want a private pool. The beach can only be accessed through the hotel, which means you can generally find a private, quiet strip of sand.

4. Las Brisas Huatulco

Secreta Beach at Las Brisas Huatulco

Las Brisas Huatulco has not one but three private beaches for guests to enjoy. Additionally, three pools, including an adults-only and infinity option, provide even more places to take a dip. Set on a quiet hillside overlooking the Pacific, the 492-room resort is one of the few all-inclusive properties on the Oaxaca coast. The main hotel bar plays music throughout the day and late into the night, but the eight restaurants offer quieter, more romantic spots, too. Overall, the lively vibe makes Las Brisas Huatulco a great choice for guests who want a little Cancun-style buzz with their rustic Oaxaca charm.

5. Celeste Beach Residences and Spa

Grounds at Celeste Beach Residences & Spa

Located within a gated community outside of Santa Cruz, Celeste Beach Residences and Spa is a laid-back, boutique hotel with 21 two- and three-bedroom condos featuring balconies. The hotel overlooks the beautiful Conejos Bay and has its own private beach with cabanas, loungers, and a volleyball court. Guests can choose between two dining options — the upscale Pur restaurant and the poolside snack bar. Away from the town with hardly anything within walking distance, the property is perfect for couples and families seeking tranquil isolation and long beach days.

6. Quinta Real Huatulco

Beach at Quinta Real Huatulco

Set on a hilltop overlooking Tangolunda Bay, Quinta Real Huatulco is a secluded boutique hotel with views to die for. Suited for couples, the property is equipped with tennis courts and a beach club, as well as airy rooms that come with balconies — many of which have ocean views and private pools. Despite the elevated location, the hotel has its own private beach, which lies a quick 10 ten-minute walk downhill. Plus, there’s a shuttle service for those who feel like the walk back up might detract from a relaxing day by the water. Beyond the hotel, the towns of La Crucecita and Santa Cruz are each a ten-minute drive away and share a similarly touristy collection of bars, restaurants, and stores.

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