Playa Zicatela, Surfing beach in San Pedro Mixtepec, Mexico.

Playa Zicatela is a beach that stretches for several kilometers along the coast and is known for its powerful waves. The waters here feature consistent breaks that form throughout the year, shaped by the ocean's natural dynamics.

Surfers from California reached Zicatela and found powerful currents and waves up to six metres high, naming it "El Pipeline Mexicano". The beach's fame grew around surfing, and it now hosts the Zicatela Pro and Quiksilver Pro, with international tournaments in August and November. It lies in Brisas de Zicatela, east of Puerto Escondido, in Oaxaca.

The name comes from the Nahuatl language and means 'place of large thorns,' reflecting the indigenous roots of the Oaxaca region. Local people continue to use and honor this original name in daily conversation.

Zicatela lies east of Puerto Escondido in the Brisas de Zicatela locality, reached by road from the town along the Oaxaca coast. The beach runs about 3 km, and the sand slopes steeply into powerful currents and waves up to six metres, so swimming is not advised; watch the surf from the shore. The main international tournament is held in November, with another in August.

Waves here reach exceptional heights and regularly draw surfers from around the world to test themselves. Professional competitions take place at this location, taking advantage of the natural conditions the ocean provides.