Things To Do
in Santa María Jalapa del Marqués
Santa María Jalapa del Marqués sits on Oaxaca's Pacific coast, where palm-fringed beaches meet lush hillside scenery. The town is known for friendly local hospitality, fresh seafood, and easy access to nearby surfing hubs. Visitors can explore active markets, traditional crafts, and dramatic coastal viewpoints just a short drive from Puerto Escondido.
The climate is tropical, with warm days, cooler evenings, and spectacular sunsets over the water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Santa María Jalapa del Marqués, where colonial architecture meets vibrant local culture. Visit the picturesque main square, Plaza de la Libertad, and take in the sights of the beautiful church, Parroquia de San Juan Bautista. Stop by a local café for a traditional breakfast of huevos rancheros and fresh coffee to fuel your exploration.
After lunch at a local eatery, delve into the rich history of the region by visiting the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, where you can learn about the Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations. Spend some time browsing local artisan shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the culture of the area. Don’t miss the lively market where you can sample local snacks and interact with friendly vendors.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Oaxacan cuisine, such as mole and tlayudas. Take a relaxed evening walk around the plaza, where you can often find local musicians playing traditional music. Conclude your day by sipping mezcal at a local bar while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in the nearby wetlands, a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Bring your binoculars to spot various migratory birds that inhabit the area, including herons and kingfishers, while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. A local guide will share insights about the flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.
After a morning of adventure, head back to town for a hearty lunch featuring fresh seafood, a specialty in the region. Spend your afternoon at a local eco-park where you can hike along well-marked trails and enjoy the beautiful landscapes, including lagoons and lush vegetation. Keep an eye out for unique wildlife species that reside in the park.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot at a restaurant with a view of the wetlands to enjoy a sunset dinner. Taste regional specialties while listening to the sounds of nature as the day turns to night. After dinner, take a moment to reflect on your day’s discoveries under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or light meal at café | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride or local transport | $5-15 |
| 🧃Fresh juice or agua fresca | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with easy access to beaches
- Fresh seafood, vibrant markets, and authentic regional cuisine
- Proximity to surf towns and nature trails for varied activities
- Affordable coastal destination with a slower pace
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas rely on cash; ATMs can be sparse in smaller spots
- Beach currents can be strong; always check local safety guidance
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Santa María Jalapa del Marqués
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats lining the shore with soft morning light; a classic coastal composition.
Elevated overlook offering dramatic silhouettes of palm trees, the sea, and golden skies.
Shallow waterways and reflections—perfect for tranquil wildlife and abstract landscape shots.
Long stretch of sand and silhouettes of surfers and locals; great for wide-angle sea scapes.
Food in Santa María Jalapa del Marqués
Santa María Jalapa del Marqués Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A large, thin corn tortilla topped with beans, queso Oaxaca, and a variety of meats or vegetables. Common in taquerías and mercados across the region.
Must-Try!
Shrimp cured in lime juice with onion, cilantro, and chili—bright, citrusy, and perfect by the beach.
Seafood soup featuring fish, shrimp, and mollusks in a seasoned broth. A comforting coastal staple.
Toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime and salt; a traditional snack often offered at markets and stalls.
Thinly sliced salted beef served with queso Oaxaca, commonly found at roadside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling local market with stalls selling tamales, fresh fruit, pescados, pan, yemas, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Casual vendors along the coast offering ceviche, grilled corn, and tropical drinks with a sea breeze and sand underfoot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' are appreciated. A handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common among friends.
Ask before photographing people or private properties; dress modestly when visiting churches or traditional communities; tip appropriately in service settings.
Safety
Tipping in Santa María Jalapa del Marqués
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included. In casual places, rounding up the bill is common. A small amount for housekeeping and guides is appreciated.
Cash in pesos is widely accepted; many establishments also take cards. Small vendors and markets may prefer cash; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daily thundershowers in the afternoon. Expect higher humidity, lush greenery, and strong sun; stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen. Surf season is active along nearby beaches.
Post-rainy-season seas can be calmer and the landscape remains green. Occasional tropical showers; crowds begin to thin after peak season.
Dry and sunny days with cooler evenings. Pleasant for outdoor activities and coastal exploring; cool breeze near the coast at night.
Warm days with a chance of late-season showers. Flora is vibrant; ideal for hikes and beach activities.
Santa María Jalapa del Marqués at Night
Hiking in Santa María Jalapa del Marqués
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the coastal cliffs with ocean views and opportunities to see local birds.
Short nature trail through mangroves offering quiet paths and chances to spot wading birds.
Airports
How to reach Santa María Jalapa del Marqués by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic and some international connections; about a 1-2 hour drive depending on route.
Regional hub with more international connections; useful for broader itineraries along the Oaxaca coast.
Larger international gateway in Oaxaca city; may require a longer road transfer but offers more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Seasonal residents and families who enjoy coastal life, markets, and traditional crafts.
Visitors drawn to nearby surf beaches and natural scenery, contributing to a lively, mixed community.
The region features Mixteco and Zapotec influences in crafts, language, and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The coast hosts renowned surfing beaches that attract both locals and visiting riders.
A common pastime among locals, with casual matches in town squares and beaches.
Popular on beach sunset sessions and resort areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa María Jalapa del Marqués.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fill up on beans, rice, corn-based dishes, fruits, vegetables, and quesadillas. Ask for no lard or animal broth; many places can accommodate with cheese and veggies.