Over $50

Visitors who long for the delights of a hidden south seas hideaway can have it, at Bahía de la Luna (on the coast about two miles east of Puerto Ángel, tel. 958/589-5020, info [at] bahiadelaluna [dot] com, www.bahiadelaluna.com, $55 s, $65 d, $110 suite, $185 villa). New owners have revitalized this mini-paradise, set on a petite, palm-shaded half-moon strand, lapped by gentle waves and enfolded by rocky headlands.

They offer about a dozen comfortable rustic-chic thatched, adobe cabañas, some with panoramic views, on the forested hillside above the beach, and others, tucked in the leafy shade, right on the beach below. Rentals feature one room with big bed, reading lamps, and private tepid-water shower-bath, and include hearty breakfast in their restaurant, hammocks for snoozing, shady beach palapas and recliners, and snorkeling equipment for guest use. A pair of larger similarly comfortable units—a suite accommodating four, and a villa accommodating eight—are also available.

Getting There

Get there via the signed but rough side road, east off of Highway 175, about five miles (eight km) downhill from the Highway 200 Pochutla junction, or two miles (three km) uphill from Puerto Ángel. After about two bumpy miles from the turnoff, the road steepens and becomes impassable for all but sturdy four-four-wheel drive vehicles. Best to go by taxi.

© Bruce Whipperman from Moon Oaxaca, 5th edition