About Secret location
“Secret Location” is an outdoor party venue near Playa Zicatela in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca (Mexico), known for its clandestine dance events. It isn’t a permanent club or theater but a hidden open-air site that promoters only reveal to ticket-holders on event day (ra.co). This fits Puerto Escondido’s bohemian, surf-town vibe – Puerto Escondido is often called a “hidden coastal gem” known for world-class surfing and laid-back beaches (evendo.com). In practice, Secret Location has hosted electronic music festivals and rave parties since at least late 2021 (www.ticketfairy.com). For example, a New Year’s Eve 2021/22 outdoor festival was held at Secret Location on Dec 31, 2021 (www.ticketfairy.com). Over the years it has become notable in the local scene as the site of Sin Censura’s techno/house beach raves and multi-day music festivals, often billed as “legendary” tropical dance experiences (es.ra.co) (ra.co).
Events and Programming
Secret Location specializes in all-night electronic music events. The calendar includes marquee festivals and intimate “Outdoor Rave” parties featuring house, techno, minimal and other dance genres. Many events are promoted under the “Sin Censura” banner – for instance, the Sin Censura NYE Festival was advertised as a “4th Edition” multi-stage, 16-hour festival with disco, house, minimal and techno music (es.ra.co) (es.ra.co). Lineups often include local and international DJs: past bills have featured artists like Natascha Kann, Jose Ignacio, M Lee and Maria Nocheydia (ra.co). Recent events run late: for example, one Secret Location rave was scheduled from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM (ra.co). Typical programming ranges from full-scale festivals with multiple stages (promised at 3 stages and 16 hours of music (es.ra.co)) to underground beach parties. Special occasions – New Year’s Eve, spring and holiday weekends – often have headline festivals, while smaller sunset-to-dawn raves pop up on weekends. Recurring series (like the “Outdoor Rave” parties) and one-off beach events keep a steady rotation.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Secret Location events are sold exclusively online through the event’s official channels. There is no physical box office at the venue address (in fact, the address isn’t public until ticket purchase). Watch promoter pages, local event listings and social media for announcements. Typical ticket sales include early-bird tiers and increase over time. For example, recent events have had tiered prices around MXN 300–700 per person (ra.co) (roughly USD 15–35). Early presales often sell out, so it’s wise to buy in advance. In one listing, attendees were urged “limited capacity” and to “grab your tickets” early (ra.co). Tickets usually go on sale weeks or months ahead of each party, and popular shows may sell out, so set alerts for announcements. For large festivals like NYE parties, organizers often also release VIP or multi-day passes separately. Always use official links recommended by the event to ensure you get a valid ticket.
Seating and Layout
Secret Location is typically a general-admission open-air site with standing-room layouts. There are no fixed seats or reserved sections – the dance area is usually a cleared space (often on sand or dirt) in front of the DJ stage. For multi-stage festivals, multiple dance areas may be set up (for example, one NYE festival had three different stages (es.ra.co)). First rows by each stage give the most immersive sound and light show, but they are also the loudest and most crowded. The site’s production equipment – professional PA speakers and concert-grade lighting – projects sound clearly across the area, so sound reaches even back towards the perimeter. Acoustically, the open-air setting means bass carries well, and echo is minimal outdoors. Attendees often wander between stages or bars. Since events go late into the night, consider that overhead lights may be low – glow sticks or small flashlights can help navigate. (Note: as a beach-party style venue, flooring under foot may be uneven or sandy, so wear appropriate shoes and watch your step.)
Getting There and Parking
The location is about a 5-minute drive from Punta Zicatela (the surf point at the north end of Zicatela Beach) (ra.co). Because the exact address is kept secret, the organizers usually email the GPS coordinates or venue directions to ticket-holders on the day of the event (ra.co). Plan your trip accordingly: one RA event page advises that “the venue is 5 mins drive from Punta Zicatela” and that “guests can drive themselves and park onsite” (ra.co). In practice, this means there is a limited unpaved parking area near the site. Arrive early for parking. Local landmark routes include taking Carretera Costera 200 along the coast through Puerto Escondido toward Playa Zicatela and then heading north toward Punta Zicatela. Public transport is very limited: there’s no direct bus or metro to the venue. Most attendees use taxis or colectivo vans. Colectivos (open-air minibuses) run along the main road between Playa Bacocho and La Punta (north Zicatela) (www.jenniewanders.com) – they cost only a few pesos but stop running around 10 PM (www.jenniewanders.com), so they’ll get you in the general area before a late-night event. Registered city taxis (the white-and-green cars) can be called to meet you; one event listing notes “cabs will be available all night long” at Secret Location (ra.co). Rideshare apps (Uber/DiDi) may not reliably reach the secret address, so pre-arrange a late-night taxi. If driving yourself, note that roads are mostly unmarked beyond Punta Zicatela – again, follow the emailed directions and signage given by staff when you arrive.
Inside the Venue
Entry requires your ticket (often a QR code or PDF on your phone) and a valid photo ID. Since events are 21+ only (ra.co), expect age and ID checks at the door. You’ll pass basic security screening or bag check (bring only necessary items and lock your valuables beforehand). Once inside, the atmosphere is that of a beach rave: pulsating music, colorful lights, and a mix of surf-casual partygoers. The main stage area has professional sound and uplighting. Portable toilets are provided since this is an outdoor site, but they can queue at peak times – head there early if needed. Food and drink are sold on site: multiple bars serve bottled/canned beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, and they accept both cash and credit cards (ra.co). (Tip: bring some cash anyway for quick purchases, as card payment can sometimes slow lines.) There is usually no coat check or coatroom, so leave bulky coats in your car or hotel. The ground is likely sandy or grassy, so moving around barefoot or in sandals is common. If the event includes art or visual elements, expect festival-style decorations (e.g. decorative fabrics, art installations or projections by local artists, as noted on Sin Censura lineups (es.ra.co)). Free water or ice may be offered at central stations, but plan to stay hydrated.) Remember, as an open-air venue, cell phone signal may be weaker – you may not get strong reception throughout the site.
Nearby Amenities
The Secret Location is essentially on the edge of Zicatela’s nightlife district. In La Punta (the north tip of the beach), you’ll find bars and restaurants to hit pre- or post-show. For example, La Olita (just steps from the sand) is highly rated for its tacos and Mexican cuisine (www.tripadvisor.com). A short walk along the beach road is Mombasa in La Punta – a popular cocktail bar known for its laid-back surf vibe and live music (nightlifepartyguide.com). During the day, Zicatela’s beachfront has eateries like seafood grills and taco stands; after the event, you can grab late-night snacks at spots like Xcaanda or Chula Beach Club further south on Zicatela’s sand. For lodging, the area has many beachside hotels and surf hostels. The adult-only Hotel Punta Zicatela (a contemporary-designed hotel on La Punta) and the modest Bungalows Zicatela are within a mile of the party area. Other nearby options include boutique inns and private beach rentals in the Rinconada/Zicatela neighborhoods. Keep in mind that late-night transport back to hotels can sometimes be limited, so consider a place within a short cab ride of Punta Zicatela. Overall, plan to dine in the Playa Zicatela area (lots of fresh seafood, tlayudas, and cold cervezas) and enjoy the bars along the beach before or after the event.
What Makes This Venue Special
Secret Location stands out for its unique blend of underground culture and paradise scenery. Unlike a typical nightclub, it offers festival-caliber production in a tropical setting: imagine dancing under palm trees or stars right on the Oaxacan coast. Organizers intentionally play up the “secret, off-grid” mystique – only insiders learn the location late, which adds excitement. Locals and travelers love it because it brings international-quality electronic music to a laid-back surf town. Promoters describe these gatherings as “legendary” events; for example, the Sin Censura NYE festival was promoted as a 4th edition “Jungle Party” with three stages of nonstop music (es.ra.co). The eclectic lineup (techno, house, minimal) reflects Puerto Escondido’s bohemian spirit. Culturally, these events have become part of local nightlife lore, effectively turning a quiet beach cove into a dance floor where global DJs mix with Mexican hospitality. Artists and audiences appreciate the adventure – there’s no neon signage or billboards, just a community of music lovers converging on a hidden spot. It’s this combination of high-energy party and off-the-beaten-path charm that makes Secret Location a memorable highlight in Puerto Escondido’s scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The site is outdoors on uneven ground, so it’s not wheelchair-friendly – wear sturdy shoes. Terrain may be sandy/rocky, so be cautious getting around. The event is rain-or-shine; bring layers (nights can be cool by the water) and a poncho if the forecast threatens rain.
- ID and Age: Strictly 21+; bring a government ID for age verification (ra.co).
- What to Bring: Small backpack or fanny pack for essentials. Pack cash and cards (bars accept both (ra.co)). Carry ID, sunscreen, a hat, earplugs (music is loud near the speakers), and a portable phone charger.
- What Not to Bring: No outside alcohol or glass bottles. Leave valuables at home or locked in your car, as security will check bags. “Leave No Trace” policies often apply – bring trash bags if needed to pack out what you pack in.
- Dress Code: Beach casual. Many go barefoot or wear sandals/flip-flops. Breathable fabrics and a light hoodie or beach towel (as a blanket) can help if the night turns cool. Avoid bulky clothing since there is no cloakroom.
- Arrival Time: Doors often open around 9–10 PM. Earlier arrival gets you a good spot and avoids lines; a late entry is allowed if tickets remain.
- Food and Water: Eat beforehand or grab a bite at nearby restaurants. On-site food trucks or stands may be limited to festival-style snacks; always drink water (bottles may be available, but you can bring an empty reusable bottle to fill).
- Health & Safety: Stay with friends, drink responsibly, and be mindful of surf-zone terrain. Most organizers have basic medical support on hand for large events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Secret Location, and how do I find it?
The address is deliberately kept secret. Ticket-buyers are emailed the venue coordinates on the day of the event. The venue is about 5 minutes by car north from Punta Zicatela (the tip of Zicatela Beach) (ra.co). Follow the emailed directions and any posted signs or coordinators once near Punta Zicatela.
What kind of performances or music happen here?
Secret Location hosts electronic dance music events (techno, house, minimal, etc.) and beach parties. Promoters like Sin Censura organize multi-stage festivals and all-night raves with DJs from Mexico and abroad (es.ra.co) (ra.co). Recent events covered a wide range from disco and minimal to techno.
How much are tickets, and where can I buy them?
Tickets must be bought online through official event channels (promoter sites or event organizers). Price varies by event and sales tier. As a reference, one event charged MXN 300–700 (ra.co). Early-bird prices are cheapest; expect pay more if buying last-minute or at the door. Watch the event’s official announcements (social media or email) for links to purchase.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
For popular events, it’s risky. Some smaller parties might sell a limited number of tickets at the door if still available, but they often sell out online first. Even for door sales, price is usually higher. To avoid disappointment, purchase tickets in advance through the official link.
What are the parking options?
There is a small on-site parking area near the venue for those who drive (ra.co). Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early if driving. Otherwise, park in nearby Punta Zicatela and take a short taxi or shuttle (if offered) to the site. Public street parking is scarce and may be far from the venue entrance.
Is public transportation or rideshare available?
Puerto Escondido has no direct bus to the site. The main colectivo vans run along the highway to Punta Zicatela (www.jenniewanders.com), but they stop around 10 PM (www.jenniewanders.com). Locally, white-green taxis are your best bet any time of night. Rideshare services exist (Uber, etc.), but drivers may not know the hidden venue; it’s safest to use a radio taxi after dark or arrange a ride in advance. One event note is that cabs are availed all night long for attendees (ra.co).
Are there seats or a general admission area?
The venue is general admission, standing-room only. There are no assigned seats or chairs – it’s a dance-floor style setup. Festival events sometimes create separate stage areas for crowd flow (one NYE party had three stages (es.ra.co)). You’ll pick spots on the ground; front-and-center of a stage gives the full audio experience, but it’s crowded. The entire area fills up, so expect to stand and dance.
What is the dress code?
There is no formal dress code – it’s beach-party casual. Attendees usually wear comfortable, lightweight clothing, sandals or sneakers. Remember it can get chilly late, so bringing a light hoodie or wrap is smart. Many go barefoot, but beware of hot sand or sharp stones. Overall, think surf-party attire: casual tees, shorts, swimsuits, flip-flops or trainers.
Is the event age-restricted?
Yes. Most Secret Location parties are 21 and over. Organizers enforce an ID check at the gate – you must show valid photo ID to enter (ra.co). Children and teens are not permitted, as these are late-night adult events. Make sure to bring your ID to avoid being turned away.
Are food and drinks available inside?
Yes. There are usually vendor stands or a food area (e.g. a “food court” in festival editions) serving snacks, tacos, or quick meals (es.ra.co). Drinks (beer, flavored sodas, water, cocktails) are sold at on-site bars. Bars accept cash and credit cards (ra.co). It’s still wise to eat a meal beforehand and bring bottled water (in case of thirst); vendor lines can get long when everyone breaks for food.
Is it safe to go to Secret Location?
These events generally emphasize a friendly, communal atmosphere. Entrance is controlled (no random walk-ins), and security/medical staff are often on hand at large festivals. Standard common-sense safety rules apply: watch your belongings, stay with friends, and arrange reliable transportation home. Organizers typically provide all-night taxis (ra.co). While the “secret” nature means you should be outsiders, taking the same precautions you would at any outdoor festival should keep you safe.
What should I bring (and not bring) to the event?
Essential items: your printed or digital ticket and government ID, cash/credit card, and phone. Wear comfy shoes and clothing. Bring earplugs (music is loud). You may want sunscreen or a small towel for the day, and a jacket for cool late-night sea breezes. Do NOT bring glass containers, large backpacks, or prohibited items (drugs, fireworks, etc.). The venue usually provides portable bathrooms and water stations; pack out whatever you bring in to keep the area clean.
When should I arrive, and what time does it end?
Events typically start after dark – around 9–10 PM. Doors might open even earlier for entry. It’s best to arrive early (30–60 minutes before start) to avoid lineups. Parties usually go until early morning; for example, one recent rave ran from 10 PM to 6 AM (ra.co). After-hour shuttle taxis may run until dawn, so plan your ride home in advance.
Are children allowed?
No. These parties are restricted to adults aged 21 and over. Because events run late into the night, minors are not permitted and must stay off site. Expect age verification at the entrance (ra.co).
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code. Attendees wear beach-club or casual party clothes – think shorts, tees, swimsuits, light jackets or hoodies at night, and comfortable footwear or even going barefoot. The vibe is informal, so prioritize comfort.
Are cameras or phone photos allowed?
Personal smartphones or small cameras are generally fine for snapshots, but professional camera equipment may be restricted without press approval. Nighttime low-light shots can be challenging, and flashing lights can distract performers. If you’re there for the experience, it’s often recommended to enjoy the moment rather than film the entire event.
What if the weather changes? (Rain policy?)
Puerto Escondido weather is tropical – rain showers are possible, especially in the summer rainy season. Since this venue is outdoors, events typically proceed rain-or-shine. Bring a lightweight poncho just in case. The ground can become muddy in heavy rain, so come prepared. If an event were to cancel for extreme weather, organizers would notify ticket-holders via the usual channels.