About Straw Hat Surf Hostel & Bar
Straw Hat Surf Hostel & Bar is a vibrant surf-themed hostel and bar located in the Los Tamarindos (Brisas de Zicatela) area of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. Hailed as “the biggest surf hostel in Puerto Escondido,” it opened as Straw Hat’s second Mexican location (the first was in Tulum in late 2019) . The venue sits between Playa Zicatela and Playa Punta Zicatela – literally one block from the famous Zicatela surf break – making it a prime spot for beach and wave enthusiasts. The hostel is strictly adults-only (18+ only) and markets itself with a playful motto (“the world belongs to the crazy ones” ) that emphasizes its high-energy party and surf culture. Signature features include a huge open-air pool area ringed with hammocks, puff chairs, and shad e for lounging , as well as a 24-hour bar and restaurant serving craft cocktails, ice-cold beer and fresh coconuts all day and quality breakfasts and lunch by the pool . With roughly 88 beds in mixed and private rooms (all with air-conditioning, lockers and en-suite bathrooms ), Straw Hat is more like a surf resort party zone than a traditional hotel. The colorful tropical decor and laid-back, no-curfew vibe have made it a landmark in the Zicatela scene – one review even notes “trendy beats, cold drinks, and poolside parties that go deep into the night” . In short, Straw Hat stands out as a full-service beachside hostel by day and a buzzing nightlife hub by night, deeply woven into Puerto Escondido’s surf community.
Events and Programming
Straw Hat specializes in lively events and contains a packed weekly schedule of party-themed activities. Nightly and weekend programming often includes DJ dance parties (mixing electronic, reggaetón and other Latin/dance genres), karaoke nights, games like beer-pong tournaments, and themed happy hours. Hostel noticeboards and websites advertise fun events such as “beerpong & ladies night,” big pool parties, open-air BBQ feasts, mezcal cocktail classes, and pizza buffet/karaoke nights . Many of these are open to the public as well as guests. One flagship event is the annual “Last Saturday” New Year’s party: a 12-hour marathon (3PM to 3AM) of music blending reggaetón and electronic beats www.ticketfairy.com . The promotion for that party lists extras like a tattoo bar, ice baths, a fire-dance show and body painting to hype the crowd www.ticketfairy.com . Straw Hat also partners with local promoters – for instance, it was the kickoff point for the bilingual Tipsy Bar Crawl tour in 2025, which included a 50-minute open liquor bar and VIP club access www.ticketfairy.com . Outside of special events, guests can expect something happening most nights (even daytime yoga or beach games have been held on the patio). In general, admission to daily hostel events is free, but larger shows or holiday parties often require paid tickets. For example, a post-Christmas bar-crawl event at Straw Hat was priced at MXN $660 each www.ticketfairy.com . Overall, visitors will find a variety of performances – anything from acoustic jams during happy hour to full-blown DJ raves – happening almost every week, with typical ticket prices ranging from free up to a few hundred pesos (often posted online or at the hostel’s reception).
Tickets and Booking
Most casual events at Straw Hat (like pool games or karaoke) do not require advance tickets, especially for overnight guests. However, big parties and club nights usually do. There is no official box office on site, so tickets are typically sold through authorized partners or at the hostel’s 24-hour reception desk. Travelers often book through hostel or event websites or via travel agents, and door-sales may open the day of an event (capacity can fill up on busy evenings). For example, one holiday party listed in 2025 had tickets at MXN $660 www.ticketfairy.com . To secure spots, it’s best to buy earlier through the advertised outlets or ask staff about presales. The venue itself accepts online reservations for hostel stays but does not sell tickets on its own website. The on-site reception can take payments by cash or card for bookings, and can advise about ticket availability for upcoming shows. Remember: as an adult-only hostel, advance booking for accommodations (especially on holiday weekends) is recommended. Check-in at Straw Hat starts at 3:00 PM and check-out is by 11:30 AM . In short, for events you usually acquire tickets either online in advance or at the hostel; smaller events are often walk-in, but big nights should be booked early.
Seating and Layout
Straw Hat’s party area is essentially an open-air courtyard centered around the pool. There are no fixed theater seats or VIP boxes – it’s general admission lounge style. Guests typically stand or sit on the pool deck, beachfront benches and hammocks to enjoy performances. The best viewing spots are generally on the main poolside floor, either near the bar (for a dance-floor front) or on the raised pool-edge benches (for a more relaxed vantage). Some guests even perch on hammocks or low walls to watch DJs or bands. A few tables and chairs are scattered around if you need a break. Acoustically, the space is fully open-air; loudspeakers by the DJ deck carry sound across the courtyard with no enclosed echo. Avoid areas far from the pool (like the back garden steps or far side of the terrace), as those spots may get poor sight lines or quieter sound. If the upper-level terrace is open during events, it can offer an elevated view, but mainly you’ll want to be on the ground floor by the pool or bar. In summary, there is no reserved seating – grab a place on the pool deck early for the best experience, or relax on a hammock or lounge chair near the action .
Getting There and Parking
Straw Hat Surf Hostel & Bar is located on Avenida Huayacán in the Tamarindos/Brisas de Zicatela neighborhood of Puerto Escondido www.ticketfairy.com . It’s about 270 meters north of Playa Zicatela, just inland from the beachfront . The easiest way to get here is by car or taxi; from Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) – roughly 6.7 km away – a taxi ride takes about 10–15 minutes . Uber and local taxis both serve the area. If traveling by public transit, there is no direct bus into Los Tamarindos, but you can take a colectivo (shared van) or taxi from downtown or the main bus station to Zicatela Beach, then walk a few blocks north on Huayacán. From central Puerto (the ADO bus terminal), catch a minivan toward Playa Zicatela and ask to be let off at Huayacán; it’s a short walk from there. If arriving by your own car, street parking is typically available along Av. Huayacán and nearby side streets. The hostel property itself has very limited parking, so many guests park on the street (often free or municipal parking). Note that Av. Huayacán is a busy avenue, so use marked parking spots or local coin meters if present. Alternatively, there are paid lots near Zicatela Beach if you don’t mind a 5–10 minute walk. If you prefer not to drive, rideshare apps or taxis are recommended – walking from Zicatela Beach to the hostel takes only a few minutes, but highways and hills around Los Tamarindos make it less convenient to walk long distances or carry heavy bags late at night.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Straw Hat, expect a lively, casual atmosphere. A 24-hour reception will check your ID (no under-18s allowed) and can answer questions about the day’s events. Staff may deny entry without photo ID if you look underage. Once inside, you’ll find a spacious open-air courtyard. On one side is the pool (surrounded by loungers and hammocks ) and a stage/DJ booth for live music or DJ sets. Adjacent to that is the bar counter with stools, where bartenders serve ice-cold beers, cocktails and coconut water all day . Behind the bar is a grill/restaurant area; during the day a cook prepares breakfast items (eggs, pancakes, smoothies) and lunch (tacos, salads and healthy bowls) by the pool . There are picnic tables and a shared kitchen on another side for guests who bring their own food. The courtyard is decorated with surf art and string lights, giving it a beach-party look. A coworking corner provides tables with power outlets and free Wi-Fi (even usable by the pool ) for daytime relaxation. Restrooms and hot-shower stalls for guests are located on the ground floor near the pool; additional bathrooms and showers are upstairs for dorms. There is no formal coat-check, so you can leave large bags at reception or use mattress lockers in the dorms. Expect friendly security or bouncers at special events, but generally low-key staff. Photography is allowed but respect other guests’ privacy during parties. Overall the vibe inside is beachfront casual: wear flip-flops or sandals by day, and keep a light jacket or swimsuit handy. During busy nights it can get crowded and loud, so come early if you want a favorite spot. Typically there is no curfew or last call, although the on-site restaurant does stop serving food around 10 PM. The bar itself usually stays open until midnight or later, depending on the party schedule.
Nearby Amenities
The neighborhood around Straw Hat is flush with amenities for visitors. Within a short stroll (0.2–0.8 km) are many restaurants and cafes. Just 700 meters southwest is La Olita , a popular taquería known for its Mexican-Latin fare and friendly service . Nearby on the same stretch, Spirulina offers healthy Mexican-California cuisine (bowls, juices, etc.) with good reviews . A block east (0.6 km) you’ll find Dan’s Cafe Deluxe , famous for big American-style breakfasts . Even closer, about 200 meters from Straw Hat, is Kelly’s Cafe , a casual bar-café serving Mexican and American grill items and breakfast all day . Other nearby spots include small taco stands, fruit smoothie carts, and informal eateries along the Zicatela beach road. For nightlife, the main Zicatela strip (a few blocks south) has dozens of bars, clubs and beach clubs – from the beachfront La Santa club to local favorites like Casa Movil and Barfly . As for lodging, several other hostels and hotels line the coast here (for example, the multi-story Selina Puerto and smaller inns), though many visitors choose Straw Hat itself. In general, expect to find everything from surf shops and convenience stores within walking distance. If you arrive early before an event, you can grab a pre-show meal at any of the above restaurants or line up drinks at neighborhood bars. After a late show, the easiest way back is by taxi or Uber (they run late on the Zicatela strip) – local buses don’t run overnight. In short, Straw Hat is surrounded by the dining and lodging options of the Zicatela surf-area, plus a pristine beach out front, so visitors are never far from food, drink and accommodations.
What Makes This Venue Special
Straw Hat Surf Hostel & Bar is special for its pumped-up party atmosphere and surf-centric identity, unlike any standard hotel in Puerto Escondido. It was one of the first hostels to bring the Tulum-style backpacker party scene to Oaxaca’s coast, creating a community hub for international surfers and travelers. Architecturally, it’s not a historic site but a purpose-built tropical hangout: a two-story courtyard with bright murals and palm-thatched accents, centered on a pool where guests and DJs mingle . The 24-hour design means you can wake up in a dorm, grab coffee by the pool, nap in a hammock, and later dance without ever leaving the compound. It also hosts some major beach-bash events that locals talk about – for example, its New Year’s “Last Saturday” rave and other full-day parties become part of local legend each season www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Even the hostel’s own marketing hints at its fun culture: as one blurb promises, come for “trendy beats, cold drinks, and poolside parties” and leave with “memories you'll never forget” . Artists and DJs enjoy playing here because the venue offers an intimate, open-air stage with a built-in enthusiastic crowd. Travelers love it because it combines surf access, affordable lodging and constant entertainment in one place. In essence, Straw Hat matters culturally as a symbol of Puerto’s growing international surf-party scene – a place where border-crossing travelers gather nightly to experience the freewheeling side of Oaxacan beach life.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Straw Hat has three floors of rooms but no elevator; only the ground-level pool/bar area and first-floor dorms are wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility needs should book a ground-floor bed and call ahead to confirm assistance. The hostel does not have official ADA ramps.
Bring ID and Cash: All patrons must be 18+ (so bring a photo ID). The venue accepts pesos and credit cards at the bar, but smaller vendors nearby may only take cash. It’s wise to carry Mexican pesos (ATMs are available nearby, but lines can be long on busy nights). If you plan to swim, bring a swimwear and a towel (towel rentals are not typical). Sunscreen, a hat or a rashguard are good ideas for sun protection. Earplugs can help if you share a dorm on heavy-party nights.
Dress Code: There is no strict dress code – shirts and flip-flops are fine by day, casual evening wear (shorts, sundresses) by night. No heels are needed since the ground is mostly flat sand/tile. In cold months (Dec–Feb) evenings can be breezy, so bring a light sweater.
Rules and Common Mistakes: No outside alcohol or large speakers are allowed – all drinks must be purchased at the bar. Lockers are provided in dorms, so bring a lock if securing valuables. If you arrive late to a packed event, you may have to wait in line outside; it’s better to come early for popular shows. Many visitors underestimate the daytime sun there, so seek shade or use beach umbrellas. Also, the hostel enforces quiet hours for dorms after midnight, so expect some downtime even if the party keeps going.
Neighborhood Safety: Los Tamarindos is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Still, keep an eye on personal items (bring a small money belt if you’re going to the beach). When it’s wet season (summer), low-lying areas can flood slightly, so watch your step en route.
Age and Guest Policy: Straw Hat is 18+ only (no minors allowed inside) . Each reservation requires at least one guest 18 or older. Pets are only allowed in private rooms with prior approval (at extra cost) .
Arrival Time: Check-in starts at 3:00 PM and goes until 11:00 PM . If you arrive early, you can usually store luggage while you hit the beach or pool. Plan to get in by 10–11 PM for any event, as latecomers might miss the opening acts.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property (even by the pool) , though speeds may slow when many guests are online. Towels and hair dryers are available to guests, but there is no full-service spa or coat check. A friendly staff member is happy to give local tips.
Special Tip: The bar often runs happy-hour drink specials (look for 5PM–7PM deals). Joining the hostel’s Facebook page or asking staff will get you insider info on unadvertised pop-up parties or beach outings. Finally, remember the laid-back ethos: it’s a surf hostel first and a disco second, so enjoy the surf vibe as much as the parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket to get into events at Straw Hat Surf Hostel & Bar?
It depends on the event. Most casual pool games and nightly activities at the hostel are free for guests. However, large special events (holiday parties, guest DJ nights, etc.) may require a ticket or cover charge. These tickets are usually sold online in advance or at the hostel reception, since there is no on-site box office. Small social events often have no ticket at all.
How can I buy tickets for a big party or concert at Straw Hat?
For major shows or holiday parties, tickets are typically sold through authorized outlets or directly through the hostel’s front desk. Look for announcements on their official pages (social media or hostel noticeboards) and buy from those official partners. If the event has an online presale, use that. For on-the-day purchases, head to the reception early or ask a staff member. Tickets for large events may also be available from local promoters.
What are the typical ticket prices at Straw Hat events?
Many weekly hostel events are free or included with a stay. Special parties will vary in price – often just a cover charge of a few hundred pesos. For example, a post-Christmas bar crawl held at Straw Hat was advertised at around MXN $660 per person www.ticketfairy.com . In general, expect mid-range ticket costs for Mexico: roughly MXN $200–$500 for smaller shows and MXN $500+ for big holiday raves. Always check event flyers for the exact price.
How and where do I buy tickets for Straw Hat events?
There is no official internal box office, so you generally purchase tickets online or at the venue’s reception. The hostel staff can sell you tickets at the front desk if available. Otherwise, tickets may be listed through local event partners or hostel booking sites. For some large events, limited door tickets may be sold just before the show. To avoid missing out, buy as early as the announcements allow.
What is the address of Straw Hat Surf Hostel & Bar?
The hostel’s address is Avenida Huayacán, Colonia Los Tamarindos, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico www.ticketfairy.com . It’s in the Brisas de Zicatela area, about 270 meters from Playa Zicatela Beach . You can plug this address into Google Maps or give it to a taxi/uber driver. It’s a one-block walk east from the main Zicatela beachfront road.
What transportation options are available to get to Straw Hat?
From the airport the easiest way is by taxi or rideshare – the Puerto Escondido airport (PXM) is only about 6–7 km away (a 10–15 minute drive). You can also take a colectivo/local van toward Zicatela from downtown and walk the rest of the way. During the day, public colectivos and local buses run to the Zicatela area; after dark taxis or Uber are recommended (regular buses typically stop running). If you rent a car or scooter, park on Avenida Huayacán near the hostel.
Is there parking available at or near the Straw Hat venue?
Parking on the hostel property is very limited. However, you can usually find street parking along Av. Huayacán and nearby roads. Parking in Puerto Escondido is mostly free on the streets in Los Tamarindos, though always look for any curb markings or meter boxes. A few pay lots and garages also exist closer to Playa Zicatela (a short walk), if you prefer a guaranteed spot.
Are seats reserved for shows, or is it general admission?
It’s general admission. There are no fixed seats or tickets for specific spots. The performance area is around the pool and bar, and guests stand or sit wherever they choose (for example, on lounge benches, hammocks and poolside steps ). If you want a particular spot (like right in front of the stage or under a canopy), come early. Occasionally the venue may reserve a few tables for VIP guests or large groups, but for most events it’s first-come, first-serve.
Where are the best places to watch a performance at Straw Hat?
The best viewing spots are on the main pool deck and near the bar area. The poolside floor is essentially the dance floor – standing close to the bar or speakers gives you the full music experience. If you prefer a more relaxed view, the benches and lounges around the pool offer a good line of sight to the DJs or stage . Guests sometimes use the hammocks for a bird’s-eye view, too. Avoid the small garden corner farthest from the speakers – it tends to be quieter and you may not see the stage well.
Are people allowed to stand on the balconies or upper floors during events?
The hostels’ upper floors and balconies are primarily for lodging privacy and are not official viewing platforms. During most events, only the ground-floor courtyard (pool stage area) is accessible to the crowd. Guests on upper terraces may peek down but should not block walkways. It’s best to watch from the open courtyard itself, as balconies are not intended for audience use.
What are the venue’s bag and security policies?
There is a security check at the entrance during large events. Bags and cameras are allowed, but expect a quick scan. The hostel provides free luggage lockers in the rooms (bring a padlock) for valuables. Outside food/drink and illegal items are not allowed. If you have a large backpack, you can usually check it with reception. Dress and behavior should follow local rules – Straw Hat enforces responsible partying (no underage drinking). Beyond that, security is generally relaxed and friendly.
Are there any dress code requirements at Straw Hat?
No formal dress code is enforced. People usually wear casual beach attire: swimwear, shorts, T-shirts, sandals or sneakers. In the evening you can dress up a bit (nice shorts or summer dresses) but it’s still very relaxed. Feel free to go barefoot by the pool. Just remember that the venue is open-air, so avoid heavy clothing – even if it’s winter, a light jacket is enough. In short, beachwear and surfer style are totally fine.
Are minors allowed inside the Straw Hat bar?
No. The venue is strictly 18+ (adult-only) at all times . No one under 18 is permitted, even during the day. The hostel’s policy is firm on this, and IDs are checked at entry.
Does Straw Hat have wheelchair access or special facilities for disabled guests?
Accessibility is limited. The common party area (ground floor and main courtyard) is mostly level and open-air, which wheelchairs can enter. However, many areas (dorm rooms, restaurant upstairs) involve stairs. There is no elevator, and no formal ramps except to the main level. Because the venue is built around open terraces and steps, fully wheelchair-friendly access is not guaranteed. Anyone needing assistance is advised to contact the hostel in advance.
What food and drink options are available inside Straw Hat?
Inside Straw Hat, there is a full poolside restaurant and a lounge bar. The bar serves beer, wine, cocktails, tequila shots and fresh coconut water all day . During daytime hours you can order breakfast (eggs, pancakes, fruit bowls) and lunch (burgers, tacos, sandwiches, salads) prepared poolside . Snacks and juices are also available. Prices are hostel-friendly. Food service usually stops around 9–10 PM, but the bar stays open late. There is no need to leave the venue to eat or drink – everything from meals to mixed drinks is handled on site.
Does Straw Hat offer free Wi-Fi or internet access?
Yes. The hostel provides free Wi-Fi throughout the property (including by the pool) . Connections are generally good in the daytime, though they can slow down when everyone’s online. Co-working spaces with outlets are available if you need to work on a laptop. Expect decent internet for browsing and messaging; however, high-definition streaming may be intermittent during peak hours.
Is there a capacity limit or maximum crowd size at Straw Hat?
The exact capacity isn’t posted (it’s an open courtyard), but the venue can handle large numbers via its courtyard design. The hostel has about 88 beds , and events often draw outside visitors too, so the total crowd can easily reach well over 100 people. In practice, big parties may reach a couple of hundred attendees in the courtyard area. There is no official ticket cap announced, but when events sell out, entry may be limited at the door.
What happens if it rains – are events moved indoors?
Straw Hat Surf & Bar is mostly open-air, so light rain usually doesn’t stop a party – people may keep dancing in the rain! For heavy storms, outdoor events may pause or move partially under roofed areas, but there is no large indoor concert hall. If a big downpour occurs, staff typically wait it out or continue the party by the bar under cover. It’s wise to bring a rain jacket if showers are forecast in the evening. Given Oaxaca’s dry season (Nov–Apr) is the main party season, rain-outs are relatively rare then.
What are the check-in/check-out times for hostel guests at Straw Hat?
If you’ve booked a bed, check-in is from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:30 AM . The reception is 24/7, so late arrivals are fine (carry your booking confirmation). The late check-out time is typical for party hostels, giving you a bit more rest after late nights.
Can I bring my pet to stay at Straw Hat?
Pets are only allowed in private rooms and by prior arrangement. If you plan to travel with a small pet (dog or cat), contact the hostel ahead; they may permit it in a private room for an extra fee . Pets are not allowed in dormitories or common areas.
