Located about 60 km west of the popular destination of Puerto Escondido is Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua. Many visitors and Puerto natives head to this area to get away from the busy life in the rapidly expanding town. Chacahua remains a natural haven for people to connect with nature, forgetting the time and allowing the sun and moon to direct their day.

Chacahua is the most popular town in the Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua. However, there are other communities found here. While the area remained quite secluded and off-the-grid for a while, it has recently seen a large growth in outside investment and tourism. For now, it continues to have a feeling of being off-the-beaten-path, with a focus on nature, however, there is a rapidly growing party scene that’s attracting a different type of traveler.

Before we look at what to do in Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua, let’s learn a little about the history of the place to better understand its culture.

The Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua is one of the protected areas on the Oaxacan coast. It was first declared a national park in 1937. However, more than simply being a beautiful nature reserve, Chacahua has a rich history that makes the area so unique.

Chacahuans are descendants of African slaves who were brought to Mexico during the Spanish rule in Mexico. Chacahua was founded by runaway slaves of both African and Indian descent.In 1810, Africans made up about 10% of the population in Mexico (New Spain during that time). Today there are no exact numbers on how much of the Mexican population is considered Afromestizo (of African descent).

The area is distinctly different than other areas along the coast and even other areas of Mexico. With a feeling similar to the Caribbean, you can truly enjoy the unique culture here. Time moves at its own pace, and even the food varies from what you’ll find in other areas.

Many visitors are drawn to visit this magical area simply because they can disconnect from everyday life and enjoy the beautiful nature that the area has to offer. Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua has everything from pristine beaches to bioluminescent waters. Let’s look at some of the activities you can enjoy when visiting.

It seems so simple to enjoy an act that happens every day, no matter what. However, taking in the sunrise and sunset could easily be the most enjoyable part of your trip to Chacahua. Wake up before the sunrise and walk out onto the beach. You’ll enjoy a sense of calm and an indescribable beauty as you watch the sun come up over the water. And, you’ll likely be one of only a few people doing so.

After the heat of the afternoon slightly subsides, you’ll notice everyone choosing their sunset spots. We suggest visiting the Arco de Tiempo just across the lagoon. You can get a boat across for a low cost. It’s not exactly empty, but it’s quite an enjoyable experience.

Many locals will offer affordable boat tours to see the inhabitants of the lagoons. You’ll find over 200 species of flora and more than 150 species of fauna in the area. If you’re into birdwatching, then this is the tour for you. You’ll wake up early to catch the most action. However, either way, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful sights of navigating through the mangroves and simply enjoying the abundant ecosystem in which you have the privilege of visiting.

Before a boom in tourism along the Oaxacan coast, the majority of visitors to Chacahua were surfers. As opposed to the large waves found in Puerto Escondido, the waves in Chacahua are often more “beginner” friendly. Of course, that’s not to say that the waves don’t get big here at certain times of the year. However, it’s certainly not Zicatela. You can rent a board and go on your own or you can take a class.

A large part of the allure of Chacahua is its simple way of life. There’s no rushing around to appointments and there’s certainly no traffic. But, don’t rely on the internet connection when you arrive here. Take advantage of the relatively remote location and unplug from your usual tasks. The true beauty of Chacahua lies in the magic of being able to chill out, slow down, and enjoy the nature that surrounds you. Take a tip from the locals who have perfected the island lifestyle and just enjoy the now-rare treasure of unplugging.

Chacahua, like many naturally beautiful places in the world, is currently receiving more visitors than ever before. While this allows a boost to the local economy, it is changing the place rapidly. What was once a surfer’s escape, with hammocks, camping, and simple homes, is now attracting a traveler looking for high-end accommodations and techno parties. Chacahua still maintains its essence, however, there’s no telling what it may become in the next ten years. So, respect the local nature and culture when you visit by practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.