Santiago Astata, Mexico
Surf & Culture Trip: Ride waves & support coastal communities in Southern Mexico.
Go beyond the typical surf trip. This is a full immersion into the authentic soul of the Oaxacan coast. You'll spend your days catching waves on untouched beaches, hiking stunning dunes, and connecting deeply with the local community. Learn traditional cooking, try hammock weaving, and share stories around a bonfire. This experience is designed to support local families directly, offering a genuine connection to the people, the landscape, and the culture of this remarkable part of Mexico.
- Joaquin Maciel
- Worldpackers host since Mar/2024
- Reserve your spot now from US$ 695.15
Starting from
US$ 2,079 for 8 days (US$ 259.88/day)
US$ 2,129 for 8 days
Check dates & pricesAvailable dates
May/04/2026 May/11/2026
- Available
The Soul of Oaxaca: Surfing with Sophie
Go beyond the typical surf trip. This is a full immersion into the authentic soul of the Oaxacan coast. You'll spend your days catching waves on untouched beaches, hiking stunning dunes, and connecting deeply with the local community. Learn traditional cooking, try hammock weaving, and share stories around a bonfire. This experience is designed to support local families directly, offering a genuine connection to the people, the landscape, and the culture of this remarkable part of Mexico.
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 695.15
Starting from
US$ 2,079
US$ 2,129
-2%
Dec/20/2027 Dec/27/2027
- Coming soon
More dates available soon
Dates to book this experience for 2026 and 2027 will be available soon, stay tuned!
Show moreStarting from
US$ 1,681
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon
Arrival & Airport Pickup
You've arrived! A team member will be at the airport (HUX) to meet you. We'll provide a smooth, direct transfer to the project.
Welcome & Orientation
Get settled into your room and meet the group. Your hosts will give you a warm welcome and a quick orientation to the space and the week's adventures.
Evening
Settle In & Rest
Time to unpack, relax, and breathe in the coastal air. Rest up for the incredible week ahead.
Day 2
Morning
Oaxacan Breakfast
Fuel up for the day. Enjoy a fresh, locally prepared breakfast featuring tropical fruits, coffee, and regional flavors.
Morning Surf Session
Grab your board! Whether you're a beginner or just refining your skills, we'll hit the waves for your first surf lesson on these pristine beaches.
Afternoon
Beach Free Time
This is your time. Relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or just soak up the sun at our local beach.
Group Lunch
Time to refuel. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our local chef, featuring fresh ingredients and authentic Oaxacan tastes.
Evening
Sunset Hike to Punto Caracol
Lace up your shoes. We'll take a scenic hike to a stunning viewpoint, arriving just in time to watch the sun dip below the Pacific horizon.
Dinner Together
Share stories from the day over a hearty dinner. Enjoy another authentic meal as you connect with the group.
Day 3
Morning
Chipehua Dunes Hike
An early start for an epic reward. We'll hike to the incredible Chipehua Dunes to explore a unique and stunning landscape of sand and sea.
Post-Hike Breakfast
After our morning adventure, we'll return for a well-deserved, freshly prepared breakfast.
Free Time
A moment to yourself. Relax in a hammock, read a book, journal, or just enjoy the peaceful pace of coastal life.
Afternoon
Oaxacan Cooking Workshop
Learn the secrets of local cuisine. A local chef will guide you in preparing traditional dishes using fresh, regional ingredients.
Community Lunch
The best part. We'll sit down together to enjoy the delicious traditional meal we just learned to cook.
Evening
Lotería Game Night
Get ready for fun! We'll learn how to play Lotería, a traditional Mexican game. A perfect way to practice Spanish and laugh with the group.
Day 4
Morning
Morning Surf Session
Back to the waves. We'll build on yesterday's lesson, refining your technique and catching more rides on the morning swells.
Group Breakfast
Fuel up for surfing. Enjoy another fresh, locally prepared breakfast.
Afternoon
Community Connection Activity
Dive into local life. This is your chance to engage directly with the community, learn about their projects, and understand their daily rhythms.
Group Lunch
A well-deserved midday break. Enjoy a fresh lunch prepared by our chef.
Hammock Weaving Workshop
Learn an ancestral craft. Local artisans will teach you the traditional techniques of hammock weaving. A beautiful and practical skill.
Evening
Campfire Dinner
An evening under the stars. We'll gather around a bonfire for a special dinner, sharing stories and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Day 5
Morning
Group Breakfast
Good morning! Enjoy a delicious breakfast to get you energized for the day.
Morning Surf Session
Get your surf fix. We'll hit the water for our morning session to catch the best waves.
Afternoon
Group Lunch
Midday refuel. Enjoy another authentic meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Beach Free Time
Your afternoon to chill. Grab a book, go for a swim, journal, or just find a quiet spot on the beach to relax.
Afternoon Surf Session
One more session. Hit the waves again to practice your pop-up and ride the afternoon swells.
Evening
Dinner with Mexican Music
A feast for the senses. Enjoy a delicious dinner accompanied by the vibrant sounds of local Mexican music.
Day 6
Morning
Traditional Fishing Workshop
Learn from the masters. Local fishermen will share their ancestral techniques and teach you how they read the sea.
Group Breakfast
Start your day right with a fresh, hearty breakfast.
Afternoon
Piñata Making
Get creative! Join a fun, hands-on workshop to learn the art of making a traditional Mexican piñata.
Group Lunch
Time for a break. We'll gather for a delicious midday meal.
Afternoon Surf Session
Back on the board. We'll head out for an afternoon surf, putting all the skills you've learned this week to the test.
Evening
Dinner Together
Enjoy your evening meal with the group, sharing stories from your fishing and surfing adventures
Day 7
Morning
Group Breakfast
Enjoy a fresh breakfast to fuel your last full day of activities.
Morning Surf Session
Catch those Oaxacan waves. We'll head out for a morning session in the water.
Community Connection
One last chance to connect. We'll participate in a final activity with our local hosts, celebrating the community.
Afternoon
Group Lunch
Enjoy a midday meal together with the group and your hosts.
Chilling Time
Your last afternoon. Use this time to pack, take a final dip in the ocean, or relax in a hammock.
Afternoon Surf Session
Your last ride. Let's make it a good one. We'll hit the waves for one final surf session together.
Evening
Farewell Fiesta!
We're celebrating a great week. Enjoy a special farewell dinner complete with a Mexican fiesta to thank our hosts and say goodbye.
Day 8
Morning
Final Breakfast & Goodbyes
Enjoy one last Oaxacan breakfast. Depending on your flight, use this time to pack and say your farewells.
Airport Transfer
We'll make sure you get to the airport (HUX) safely for your flight home. It's not goodbye, it's see you later!
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Fluent English or Beginner Spanish
- Over 18 years old
Activities
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Learning opportunities
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Local Bird Watching
Discover the region's diverse local bird species living free in their natural habitat.
Oaxacan Cooking Workshop
Learn the secrets of traditional Oaxacan food in this hands-on class with a local chef.
Lotería Game Night
A fun night of learning and playing Lotería, a traditional Mexican card game.
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Coastal Beach Walks
Explore the stunning coastline and soak in the scenery on a relaxing walk.
Sunset Hike to Punto Caracol
A scenic hike to a stunning local viewpoint to catch the perfect sunset.
Beach Soccer Match
Join a friendly game by the sea. It's the perfect way to connect with the group!
Fun Group Games
Nothing beats classic sack races and other fun group activities for a good laugh.
Chipehua Dunes Exploration
An epic morning hike to explore the stunning, unique landscape of the Chipehua sand dunes.
Community Connection
Engage directly with your host family and neighbors. Learn about local projects and daily life.
Extra activities
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Seaside Hammock Time
Chill out with ocean views, cool shade, and a perfect sea breeze.
$5 USD
Surfboard Rental
Boards are included in classes! Rent is strictly for extra surfing during your own downtime.
$10
Guided Rod Fishing
A guided fishing experience from the shore or a light boat. Try your luck!
$15
Videos
Daniel
New Zealand
Joaquin, Gabby and Kirra are super accommodating during your stay at the camping, they help out a great deal to make the stay as comfortable as possible. Cooking meals together was a highlight. They really want to share their special place they call home. The location is remote and living conditions can be difficult, but with the isolation comes disconnection with nature, great uncrowded surf (empty lineups at dawn/dusk) and stunning vistas. If you enjoy spending time in nature and away from the hustle n bustle and have a passion for surfing the camping is for you!
over 1 year ago
Josh
New Zealand
We had such an amazing time at the camping. Joaquin was an amazing host to us and many more people we met along the way, going above and beyond to make our time there seamless and as enjoyable as possible. What has been/is being created at this beautiful place is a must see and do! I have learnt so much through Joaquin's knowledge for the area and would not have had the same experience without him and his partner Gabi. Thank you both so much for this time, we will be back asap!!
almost 2 years ago
Emma
New Zealand
We had an amazing experience at the camping with Joaquin and Gabby. They are passionate about building this campsite sustainably and are super welcoming. This volunteer experience is perfect if you are looking for off-grid, remote camping and epic surf in a beautiful beach with not much crowd. The hours of work were extremely flexible and minimal. We would love to come back, thank you!! Some helpful things to note: - Bring a head torch and insect repellant - Catch a colectivo to Santiago Astata (70 pesos) and meet them here in town so you can buy groceries for the week
almost 2 years ago
miriana
Italy
This was my very first experience volunteering and Joaquin at the camping couldn't make it any better! We had such a nice welcome and went straight to Playa San Diego to camp and practice surf. Joaquin is very sweet and patient, he truly wants you to enjoy the beauty of this place. I left a little piece of heart there, I can't wait to return one day. The camping was really fun, we cooked amazing meals on the artisan wood fire stove, had good laugh and good waves. I'd recommend that you bring your own board to be sure you have availability any time. You'll definitely enjoy this place!
almost 2 years ago
Ximena
Mexico
The camping fue para mi toda una experiencia de completa desconexión en la naturaleza; el mar, las aves y la completa tranquilidad y paz lo hicieron excepcional; sin duda es un lugar increíble para los amantes del surf si buscan buenas olas; pero también es perfecto para aquellos que buscan tranquilidad y desconexión. De igual manera tienes que ser consciente de que el campamento está alejado de la civilización, lo que implica que debes de estar abierto a las condiciones y ser capaz de adaptarte y pasarla bien. Joaquin y Gaby son unos anfitriones exelentes, siempre atentos y cuidadoso.
over 1 year ago
Daniel
Mexico
La experiencia es muy buena Si estás buscando un lugar para desconectarte por completa, para relajarte y observar la belleza de la zona, este es tu lugar. Joaquín y Gabi son unas exelentes personas y realmente te hacen sentirte integrado y te ayudan a comprender con la pasión y el gusto que tienen por su proyecto. ☺️
over 1 year ago
Accommodation options
Double room/Private Bathroom
Stay cool and comfortable in this 2-person, mixed-gender dorm. This room offers the convenience of air conditioning and the privacy of your own en-suite bathroom, providing a perfect retreat after a long day of surfing.
- No laundry machine, but there's a free laundry space
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Surfboards
- Dedicated Workspace
- Use our equipped kitchen
Double room/Shared Bathroom
This 2-person, mixed-gender dorm is equipped with air conditioning to keep you comfortable. You'll have access to a clean, shared bathroom, balancing modern comfort with the communal spirit of a mexican's home.
- No laundry machine, but there's a free laundry space
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Surfboards
- Dedicated Workspace
- Use our equipped kitchen
Bungalow/Shared bathroom
For a truly authentic local experience, choose this 2-person, mixed-gender traditional bungalow. Embrace the coastal lifestyle with a fan to keep you cool and a mosquito net for a comfortable rest. This room uses the shared bathroom facilities.
- No laundry machine, but there's a free laundry space
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Surfboards
- Dedicated Workspace
- Use our equipped kitchen
Meals
Get ready for the gastronomic delights of Oaxaca. Meals are prepared by a talented local chef who specializes in crafting traditional Oaxacan dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, local ingredients. Expect mouth-watering fish tacos, fresh ceviches, delicious moles, and cochinita pibil. Breakfasts are a vibrant start to the day with fresh tropical fruits, natural juices, and classics like chilaquiles. This experience is vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, and can accommodate lactose-free diets.
Arrival orientation
Your arrival is covered. A member of the local team will pick up the group at Huatulco International Airport (HUX). The pickup schedule is flexible, accommodating travelers as they arrive. Look for the team member holding a sign with your name in the arrivals area. You'll be taken straight from the airport to the project, with no layovers. Once there, the group will receive a friendly welcome orientation covering the property, local area, activity schedule, and safety guidelines to help you settle in.
About the project
Your host is a local surfer, born and raised on this stretch of the Oaxacan coast. Growing up in a fishing village, he developed a deep connection to the ocean. With over 15 years of experience as a surf guide, his true mission is to create sustainable opportunities by involving local communities in tourism. This project was founded in 2020 from a desire to share the magic of his homeland—untouched beaches and authentic culture—while ensuring that tourism respects the natural environment and directly benefits the local people. The team speaks both Spanish and English.
About the destination
This experience is rooted in a small, authentic coastal community in Oaxaca, Southern Mexico. This is not a tourist hub; it's a place to experience the real, everyday life of the region. The pace here is beautifully calm, where mornings start with the sound of the waves and evenings are for sharing food and stories. Travelers should know that connectivity can be limited, but this is part of the magic—an opportunity to truly disconnect, relax, and live in tune with nature and the ocean.
Impact & Purpose
This project tackles the lack of real economic opportunities for local communities, who are often bypassed by large tourism corporations. The goal is to create a sustainable, community-based tourism model that ensures locals are active participants and beneficiaries. Travelers are key to this mission. By choosing this experience, you directly support a responsible travel model that values local culture and nature. Your participation strengthens the local economy by ensuring the benefits remain with the families and artisans of the region.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Good health and well-being
This project contributes by promoting travel experiences that integrate physical activity, like surfing and hiking, with the emotional well-being that comes from a deep connection to nature.
Decent work and economic growth
The experience directly impacts this goal by promoting the hiring and training of local people in all tourism activities, ensuring fair prices, and keeping all economic benefits within the host community.
Reduced inequalities
This program helps reduce inequalities by prioritizing the inclusion of traditionally marginalized groups, such as women and youth in rural communities, empowering them within the tourism value chain.
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