Casa Joseph Zicatela is a house-style property in the district that defines surf life in Puerto Escondido. The casa label usually means a smaller, more personal stay with a home-like atmosphere, which suits travelers who prefer a few rooms and a friendly host to a large hotel lobby. Zicatela's strengths are right outside the door: long beach walks, sunset dinners, surf lessons and cafes serving smoothie bowls and coffee. Read the latest guest reviews for current impressions of service, cleanliness and noise.
What to expect
A casa in Zicatela may have a shared garden or terrace, rooms with fans or air conditioning and breakfast options nearby. Ask about the walk to the sand and to the main restaurant strip, and how quiet the street is at night. Check whether there is space to store boards and whether staff can book lessons or tours.
Because the area gets busy during peak surf periods, reserve early if you are traveling at holiday times. Bring sun protection and sandals, and remember that the beach is best viewed rather than swum when the swell is up.
The Zicatela area stretches along a long beach, and where you sleep along that stretch changes the trip. Closer to the surf shops and restaurants you get convenience and a social atmosphere; farther along you get more space and calmer nights. The sea here is powerful and best treated with respect, so most guests enjoy the beach from the sand or with an instructor.
Taxis and colectivos connect Zicatela to La Punta, the old town and the airport, and short rides are inexpensive. Carry some cash for small restaurants, and expect a casual, sandy, relaxed rhythm to the days.
The most helpful questions for a Zicatela casa are simple. How many steps to the sand? Is there a place to rinse off salt and sand before entering the room? Can the hosts store boards, lend beach towels or help book lessons? Where do other guests tend to eat? A friendly reply with specifics is a good sign that the stay will be smooth, and it saves you guessing when you arrive.
Who it suits
Surfers, couples and independent travelers who want to be near the waves without paying resort prices. Families can consider it if the room layout works and the beach conditions are suitable for children. People seeking a bustling nightlife may find the area lively enough, while those who want complete peace could prefer Carrizalillo or Mazunte. A typical day here involves an early swim or lesson, a long breakfast, a nap, a boat trip or lagoon tour and a sunset dinner on the sand.
Why stay here
- ✓Casa-style small property
- ✓In the Zicatela district
- ✓Walk to surf beach
- ✓Cafes and restaurants nearby
- ✓Staff tips on lessons
- ✓Taxi access to La Punta
- ✓Ask about board storage
- ✓Ask about cooling
Good questions
Is it close to the beach?+
It is in the Zicatela district. Confirm the walk to the sand when you book.
Can I store a surfboard?+
Ask the hotel. Many Zicatela properties can accommodate boards.
Is the area noisy?+
The strip is lively in the evening. Ask for a quieter room if needed.