
Discovering Oaxaca's Finest Airbnbs: A Traveler's Guide

By Anna Wintour


By Anna Wintour
Oaxaca, celebrated for its burgeoning culinary scene and deep-rooted Indigenous artisan traditions, especially in ceramics, stands as a cherished destination for discerning travelers. It presents a serene alternative to the lively pace of Mexico City, with its historic heart and surrounding areas offering abundant activities. Whether you are an adventurer eager to explore hiking paths and stunning coastlines or a city enthusiast drawn to markets and gardens, Oaxaca caters to all. Both types of visitors can also indulge in mezcal tastings, given the region's prominence as Mexico's largest producer of this spirit. We have compiled a guide to the finest Airbnbs in Oaxaca to help you commence your journey.
Our handpicked accommodations are spread across the area, ranging from snug studios to expansive villas, suitable for various travel plans and party sizes. Each of these 17 vacation rentals is a treasure trove of design inspiration, from Brutalist structures awash with color to apartments showcasing local craftsmanship. They all share a common thread: providing unique and memorable stays. Below, discover the perfect Oaxacan Airbnb for your next escape.
Among the highlighted properties, several stand out for their distinct character and amenities. Casa Unión Oaxaca, dubbed “an island in the heart of the city,” is a one-bedroom apartment in a traditional Oaxacan house within the historic center. Its rooms encircle a patio shaded by an avocado tree, featuring contemporary interiors adorned with handcrafted items and local artisan homeware. This unit boasts a private entrance, a small front patio, a fully equipped kitchen, a compact workspace, and a bedroom with an open shower overlooking an interior garden. Guests can savor freshly baked goods from the ground-floor bakery and café, renowned for some of Oaxaca's best bread. For those seeking a vibrant oasis, Lush Oasis offers a three-bedroom colonial home from the late 1800s, restored with colorful tiled floors, arched entrances, and tropical plants. Its rooms open onto outdoor patios, with a dining room offering views of a winding cement staircase and an updated kitchen with treetop vistas. The property includes numerous outdoor seating areas and a small soaking tub, with the option to book a private mezcal tasting on-site. Casa Muro, managed by a local family, is a five-bedroom house a short walk from the city's main square, placing markets and galleries within easy reach. Its rooms are decorated with rustic wooden furnishings and vibrant walls, each with an en-suite bathroom. An interior terrace provides a peaceful retreat, and the dining room comfortably seats ten for home-cooked meals. Casa De Ella, a two-bedroom historic home, embodies the mezcal brand De Ella with its lime-washed walls, aged furniture, and shelves displaying black pottery. Renovated with local materials, its highlight is a hidden room for ritual and relaxation, crafted from raw earth and agave fibers. The Rooftop Glass House, a Japanese-inspired space in the historic center, offers a seamless blend of indoor-outdoor living with glass walls providing sun and terrace garden views, complemented by a spa-like bathroom. The Mamita Santa Apartment, a bohemian two-person dwelling, features soothing blue hues with azure tiling and painted archways. Its light and airy kitchen, equipped with a large table, doubles as a workspace. A private interior patio with a swinging egg chair is perfect for morning coffee. The BeachVilla, an opulent six-bedroom villa near the sea, accommodates up to 12 guests with hotel-like amenities, including cleaning and pool maintenance. Its many bedrooms and cozy nooks provide ample space, but the outdoor area, with a pool and ocean-view terrace, is the true highlight, leading to a semi-private beach. Lunaterra Alberca, a larger property with Brutalist architecture, is perfect for group trips, featuring terracotta walls, two garages, a spacious dining table, and a small heated pool in the city center. La Danta Chayote offers a rustic indoor-outdoor living experience in one of four bungalows, built from hand-carved Cantera stone within a 30-year-old garden, with a rooftop hot tub for unwinding. Rojo Deseno, a three-bedroom home in a former artisanal chocolate factory, showcases a rich earthy red theme, emphasizing local Oaxacan design and artisan tiles for a truly unique stay. Casa Labra, a charming remote home surrounded by gardens, is ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the city's hustle, offering hiking and bird-watching. Coyote Loft, a one-bedroom casita with sweeping ocean views, is a short walk from the beach and features a large pool, terrace, pool table, and an impressive kitchen. Casa Criollo, nestled behind the restaurant of the same name, provides a calming retreat with cool tones, low furniture, natural textures, a steam room, and a plunge pool, along with complimentary breakfast and house mezcal. Lastly, Casa Verde, a rare find in the historic center, boasts a massive garden and pool, sleeping up to eight, with a design that accentuates its natural architecture. Casa de la Libélula, a semi-secluded option on the southern coast, perched atop a hill with breathtaking views, offers a modern, geometric home integrated with natural elements like woven lighting and rustic wood furniture. And finally, Our Peaceful Patio Studio, located in the quiet San Felipe neighborhood, is perfect for couples, featuring an outdoor tub, dedicated workspace, and full kitchen, catering to those who enjoy water sports and hiking.
Embrace the vibrant culture and serene beauty of Oaxaca by choosing accommodations that not only provide comfort but also immerse you in the region's unique artistic and natural splendor. These curated Airbnbs offer a gateway to unforgettable experiences, fostering a deeper connection with the rich heritage and picturesque landscapes that define this extraordinary Mexican destination.
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