Lagunas de Chacahua National ParkAbout Lagunas de Chacahua National Park
Lagunas de Chacahua National Park is a protected coastal area on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, that conserves a system of coastal lagoons, barrier beaches and mangrove forests. The park encompasses a mosaic of shallow lagoons and sheltered channels behind a barrier of sandbars and islands.
Within the park, the lagoon system, mangroves and sandy shores are the main attractions for birdwatchers, small-boat tours, local fishing and sea turtle nesting during breeding seasons. Boat trips through the channels are the most common way to explore the wetlands and observe waterbirds and estuarine life.
The park was established to protect the coastal wetland ecosystems and the traditional fishing communities that rely on them. Management aims to balance conservation of mangroves, lagoon habitats and nesting beaches with local livelihoods.
Geographically the park sits on Oaxaca’s Pacific shoreline near the village of Chacahua and adjacent coastal communities. It is accessed from the coastal road and by small boats that operate between the shoreline villages and the lagoon interior.
- Boat access: Most visitor access is by boat from small coastal settlements; boat rides through the lagoon system are the primary way to see the wetlands.
- Wildlife highlights: Seasonal sea turtle nesting and abundant shore and marsh birdlife are among the park’s notable wildlife features.
What to See#
- Chacahua lagoon system: The main coastal lagoon complex that gives the park its name, comprising several linked shallow lagoons separated from the open ocean by sandbars and barrier beaches.
- Mangrove forests and channels: Fringing mangrove forests and sheltered channels that provide nursery habitat for fish and support dense bird populations; these zones are often accessed by small wooden boats.
Best Time to Visit Lagunas de Chacahua National Park
Dry season (Nov-Apr) is best for boat access and clearer conditions; both seasons offer good wildlife viewing for different reasons.
Weather & Climate near Lagunas de Chacahua National Park
Lagunas de Chacahua National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 18°C to 33°C. Abundant rainfall (1174 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 19° - 31° | 25° | 3 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 18° - 31° | 24° | 6 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 20° - 32° | 26° | 2 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 21° - 33° | 27° | 4 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 23° - 33° | 28° | 58 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 24° - 32° | 28° | 234 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 23° - 32° | 28° | 169 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 23° - 33° | 28° | 261 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 23° - 31° | 27° | 308 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 23° - 32° | 27° | 117 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 21° - 32° | 27° | 10 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 19° - 31° | 25° | 2 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Lagunas de Chacahua National Park
From Puerto Escondido or Pochutla, travel by bus or car to the village of Zapotalito or Chacahua (approx. 1-2 hours depending on departure). Small motorboats operate between the lagoon villages and the park’s islands; local guides and operators arrange crossings.
Tips for Visiting Lagunas de Chacahua National Park
- Use Puerto Escondido or Pochutla as your staging points and hire a local boat from San Pedro Mixtepec or Llano Grande for the lagoon crossings.
- Bring binoculars for the early morning bird flights-migratory and resident waterbirds concentrate in the mangroves.
- Plan for rustic conditions: lodgings in the Chacahua village are basic; pack cash and insect repellent.