Things To Do
in San Mateo del Mar

Grilled fish marinated in a smoky chili adobo sauce, typically served with rice, beans, and tortillas. A must-try dish available at local seaside restaurants like El Manglar.

Must-Try!

A complex, dark Oaxacan mole sauce often served over chicken or turkey. Look for this iconic dish at family-owned eateries such as La Cocina de Doña Rosa.

Giant, crispy Oaxacan tortillas topped with beans, meat, cheese, avocado, and salsa. Visit street vendors along Benito Juárez street for an authentic experience.

Fresh seafood tacos with a variety of fillings like shrimp, octopus, and fish. Sample these at the local food stands near the beach for a classic taste of San Mateo del Mar.

Explore the bustling Mercado Municipal for an array of local produce, spices, and freshly prepared street food such as tamales, empanadas, and traditional Oaxacan moles.

Stroll along the Malecón to discover a vibrant street food scene offering everything from ceviche to grilled seafood platters, providing a true taste of the coastal flavors of San Mateo del Mar.

In San Mateo del Mar, tipping practices are generally informal and depend on the level of service received. It is common for customers to leave a small tip in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the total bill, especially if the service has been exceptional. In local markets and street food stalls, tipping is less common but appreciated.

Payment methods in San Mateo del Mar primarily include cash transactions, as many small businesses and vendors do not accept credit or debit cards. Visitors are advised to carry Mexican pesos for purchases. Some larger establishments and tourist-oriented services may accept cards, but cash remains the preferred method for most transactions.

Winter in San Mateo del Mar is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). This season is considered the dry season, making it a great time for outdoor activities like beach outings and exploring local culture.

Spring brings warmer temperatures and is a popular time for tourists. Expect daytime highs around 85°F (29°C). The landscape is vibrant, and it's an ideal season for festivals, especially around Easter, when local celebrations are abundant.

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 90°F (32°C). This season also marks the start of the rainy season, so afternoon showers are common. However, summer is also the time for local festivals and vibrant cultural events.

Fall sees a gradual decrease in temperature and rainfall. Expect warm days and cooler nights, making it a comfortable time to visit. This is also a season for harvesting local crops, so visitors can enjoy fresh produce and participate in harvest festivals.

Located approximately 85 kilometers from San Mateo del Mar, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights.

Situated around 150 kilometers from San Mateo del Mar, this airport offers both domestic and international services.

Located about 225 kilometers from San Mateo del Mar, this is the main airport serving the city of Oaxaca with domestic and international flights.

Approximately 200 kilometers from San Mateo del Mar, this airport mainly operates domestic flights.

San Mateo del Mar is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular spot for surfing, attracting both locals and tourists.

Soccer is a favorite pastime in the community, with many local teams and youth leagues participating in organized play.

Given its coastal location, fishing is not only a sport but also a traditional practice for many locals, with both recreational and competitive aspects.

The sandy beaches of San Mateo del Mar are ideal for beach volleyball, which is enjoyed by both residents and visitors during events and casual matches.

While seafood is prominent in local cuisine, restaurants like La Cocina de Doña Rosa offer vegetarian variations of classic dishes. Moreover, street vendors often serve grilled corn and cactus-based dishes which are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Many traditional Oaxacan dishes are naturally gluten-free, including tlayudas and certain moles. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out, as some dishes may contain gluten as a thickening agent.