Things To Do
in San Mateo del Mar
San Mateo del Mar sits on Oaxaca's Istmo coast, where fishing boats drift along a quiet shoreline and palm-fringed streets echo with the pace of everyday life. The town is a living mosaic of Zapotec culture, with artisans weaving and beadwork that travels from market stalls into local homes. Visitors come for uncrowded beaches, warm turquoise water, and a chance to experience coastal Oaxaca away from the resort crowds.
Life here follows the tides, offering simple meals, welcoming neighbors, and a sense of timeless, sunlit rhythms.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small coastal town of San Mateo del Mar, known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant culture. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline to soak in the local atmosphere and the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a welcoming breakfast at a nearby café, sampling authentic Oaxacan dishes.
Explore the colorful town and visit its local artisan shops, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and textiles. Engage with friendly locals and learn more about their traditions and lifestyles. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional regional recipes.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a beachfront dinner at a local seafood restaurant, relishing freshly caught fish and regional specialties. Experience the vibrant nightlife by joining locals at a nearby bar for music and dance under the stars. Reflect on your first day while listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore.
Wake up to a hearty breakfast featuring coconut pancakes and fresh fruit. Spend the morning at the vibrant market where you can interact with vendors and sample local specialties. Join a guided tour that takes you through the town's history and cultural heritage.
Enjoy a lunch of traditional tacos de pescado at a local eatery before participating in a workshop on traditional weaving techniques. This hands-on activity will provide insight into the indigenous practices of the region. Afterward, relax on the beach with a good book, soaking up the warm sun and serene environment.
In the evening, experience a traditional Oaxaca dance performance showcasing regional music and dance. Partake in a communal meal with your newfound friends, sharing stories and laughter. End the night with a beach bonfire, enjoying s'mores and the company of locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline (1 liter) | $0.80-1.20 |
| 🧵Local craft souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Uncrowded beaches and authentic coastal Oaxaca experiences
- Rich Zapotec culture and craft traditions
- Affordability and friendly, welcoming locals
- Access to mangroves, estuaries, and snorkeling with guided tours
- Limited mainstream nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Some services and accommodations are basic and cash-based
- Rural roads can be challenging in the rainy season
- Language barrier in more remote areas; plan simple Spanish basics
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede recomendar un plato?" - Can you recommend a dish?
- "¡Me encanta!" - I love it!
Places to Visit in San Mateo del Mar
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, serene beach with gentle waves and colorful fishing boats; ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.
Historic harbor pier where locals mend nets and boats return at dusk; great for candid shots of daily life and silhouettes against the water.
Colorful stalls and textiles offer vibrant backdrops for street photography and portraiture with locals in daily activity.
A vantage point above the coast offering expansive sea views, perfect for sweeping landscape shots at golden hour.
Food in San Mateo del Mar
San Mateo del Mar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional coastal fish marinated with a chile paste and grilled; best found at beachside eateries with a view of the water.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish cured in lime with onions, cilantro, and a touch of chili; often served with tostadas.
Seafood soup featuring fish, shrimp, and octopus in a flavorful broth; hearty and comforting for a seaside day.
Oaxacan-style large tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and optional tasajo or chorizo; a regional staple widely available in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh seafood, tortillas, fruits, and everyday staples; great for sampling street preparations and interacting with vendors.
Popular stalls offering ceviche tostadas, camarones al ajillo, elotes asados, and other quick coastal bites right near the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings (Hola, Buenos días) are appreciated; a handshake or light hug with friends is common among locals.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or private spaces; respect cultural sensitivities.
Dress modestly when visiting religious or communal spaces; keep voices calm and avoid loud or disruptive behavior in small communities.
Support local artisans by purchasing directly from workshops or markets and avoid pressuring for discounts.
Safety
Tipping in San Mateo del Mar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% is customary if service is not included. Small tips for guides, drivers, and housekeeping are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (MXN) is widely accepted, especially for street vendors and markets. Some larger restaurants and hotels accept cards; carry small denominations for tips and daily purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler nights; humidity starts to rise. Pleasant for outdoor exploration and early-season wildlife watching.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; the sea is welcoming, but be mindful of sudden storms and tropical activity in August–October.
Rainy season tapers; seas can be rough at times but wildlife viewing remains good. Pack rain gear and plan flexible outdoor time.
Dry season with milder, comfortable temperatures; sea breezes, clearer skies, and excellent conditions for long beach walks.
San Mateo del Mar at Night
Hiking in San Mateo del Mar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the coastal hills offering ocean views and coastal ecosystems; best with a local guide.
Short to moderate hikes into the nearby Sierra Madre del Sur foothills for panoramic vistas and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach San Mateo del Mar by plane.
Serves the Huatulco resort area; about a two-to-three hour drive by road with transfer options to coastal towns.
Regional gateway with domestic flights and some international connections; longer drive to the Istmo coast but good flight options.
Major hub in Oaxaca state; connects to many Mexican cities and some international flights; typically a longer road transfer than coastal airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant indigenous population with deep weaving, beadwork, and ceremonial traditions; culture influences daily life and crafts.
Many residents are involved in fishing and related trades, contributing to the town’s economy and seafood-focused cuisine.
Mixed-heritage families form the broader social fabric, blending regional customs with coastal influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal waves attract local surfers and visitors in season; check with guides for beginner-friendly conditions.
Traditional line and net fishing practices remain common; fishing charters offer scenic outings and fresh catches.
A favored pastime among locals, often played in communal spaces or small fields around town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Mateo del Mar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian guests can enjoy beans, rice, cheeses, and vegetables; ask for dishes without fish sauce or meat and request oil or butter instead of animal fats. Many markets offer fresh fruit, salads, and vegetarian-friendly sides.