Chipehua: A beach of golden dunes near Huatulco

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If you’re looking for something new — a beach that breaks away from everything you’ve seen before — Chipehua is the perfect destination. This charming beach in Oaxaca remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets, far from the crowds and surrounded by stunning natural beauty and the power of the Pacific Ocean.

Venture into one of Mexico’s most enchanting corners, where secluded beaches and vast dunes create an unforgettable landscape. Once you visit, Chipehua might just become your favorite escape.

Chipehua: The hidden Oaxacan gem you need to visit

Chipehua is a small fishing village located in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, just 20 minutes from downtown Salina Cruz. Its main attraction is its towering dunes, made of fine golden sand that can reach up to 100 meters high, creating a mesmerizing, ever-changing desert-by-the-sea landscape.

The dunes of Chipehua constantly shift shape under the force of the wind, turning this spot into a natural wonder you can’t miss. Covering roughly 35 square kilometers, this beach is home to an impressive variety of cacti, shrubs, and desert plants that thrive in the arid coastal climate.

What to do during your visit to Chipehua

If you’re looking for a peaceful place far from it all, Chipehua is ideal. Its low tourist influx means the area remains quiet and unspoiled, though it still offers plenty of activities for an unforgettable getaway.

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Adventure seekers can enjoy surfing, sandboarding, hiking, or sliding down the dunes. As the sun sets, go horseback riding along the beach or take an ATV tour to add a dose of adrenaline to your day.

The waves at Chipehua are typically gentle, making it safe to swim — with caution — and perfect for snorkeling to explore the local marine life. You can also camp under the stars and wake up to one of the most spectacular sunrises on the Oaxacan coast. 

When hunger strikes, enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes at small oceanfront restaurants.

Where to stay during your Chipehua getaway

The best option is to stay in Huatulco, about a two-hour drive from Chipehua, where comfort and luxury await at Quinta Real Huatulco. This elegant property offers 28 spacious suites, each beautifully decorated with hand-painted furniture, local crafts, marble bathrooms, and private balconies — the perfect combination of sophistication and serenity.

Another exceptional choice is Camino Real Zaashila Huatulco, a stunning 5-star beachfront hotel designed by Mexican architect Javier Sordo Madaleno. Nestled in the natural beauty of Huatulco, it offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, a private beach, outdoor pool, spa, gym, tennis court, laundry service, airport transportation, and much more.

Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, or breathtaking scenery, Chipehua and its surroundings promise a one-of-a-kind coastal experience you’ll never forget.