A blend of a growing gastronomic scene and rich Indigenous artisan history (especially when it comes to pottery, a craft with a rich backstory in the region) Oaxaca has always been a beloved destination for in-the-know travelers. For those looking for an alternative to the fast pace of Mexico City, both the historic center and its surrounding areas offer a relaxed setting with plenty to do. Adventurers will find no shortage of hiking trails and beautiful beaches to explore; city mice have their pick of markets and gardens to peruse, as well as a few Michelin-starred restaurants. (And both types of travelers can enjoy unwinding with some mezcal tasting—the area is the biggest producer of the spirit in Mexico.) Convinced yet? Start your trip by booking one of the best Airbnbs in Oaxaca.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in Oaxaca:
- For Unparalleled Ocean Views: BeachVilla, $677 per night
- For Brutalist Charm: Lunaterra Alberca, $263 per night
- For a Dose of Design Inspiration: Rojo Deseno, $170 per night
- For a Remote Stay: Casa Labra, $159 per night
- For a City Hideaway: Casa Criollo, $547 per night
- For a Beach Option: Coyote Loft, $259 per night
- For Indoor-Outdoor Living: Casa Teo, $163 per night
Our top picks are scattered throughout the region; we found cozy studios and sprawling villas alike, depending on your plans and the size of your travel party. One thing unites these properties: Between Brutalist spaces drenched in color and apartments that put local craft front and center, each of these 13 vacation rentals is brimming with design inspiration. Find the right Oaxacan Airbnb stay for you, below.
Rooftop Glass House
Your very own Oaxacan treehouse. Located on the third floor of a building right in the historic centre of the town, this Japanese-inspired space blends indoor-outdoor living smoothly: The walls are all glass, letting in sun and views of the surrounding terrace garden. The spa-like bathroom is another highlight. Small and slightly cavelike with a wood-thatched roof, the cozy limewashed room is a tranquil spot.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Sound system, outdoor dining area and furniture, grill, housekeeping available for a fee
Location: Jalatlaco
Mamita Santa Apartment
Bohemian in nature, this two-person apartment has the blues in the chicest way. Azure tiling, painted archways, and cabinetry give this home a sense of calm; the best room is by far the kitchen, which is light and airy and comes with a big table you can use alternatingly for meals and remote work. Take your morning coffee to the private interior patio; it comes with a swinging egg chair.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Outdoor furniture, board games
Location: City Center
BeachVilla
For a group trip closer to the sea, this sprawling villa is ultra luxurious. It sleeps 12, with amenities like a cleaning service and pool maintenance giving it a hotel-like quality that’ll make your stay more comfortable. There are several bedrooms and nooks inside the stylish house for each member of your party to make themselves at home, but the real draw is the outside area—from the pool to the terrace overlooking the ocean (a semi-private beach is just a short walk away), this is an Airbnb you book for its stunning surroundings.
Rooms: 6 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Private pool, outdoor dining area and furniture, hammock, beach access, AC, crib, HDTV
Location: Crucecita
Lunaterra Alberca
Terracotta walls and brutalist architecture combine for a quintessential Oaxacan stay. This is a larger property ideal for a group trip—there are two garages, if you’re renting a car, and a large dining table for cooking meals at home. There’s even a heated pool; it’s small, but for being in the city center, we’ll take it.
Rooms: 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
Amenities: TV, private backyard, free carport, pool
Location: Reforma
La Danta Chayote
Experience indoor-outdoor living at its finest in this rustic spot. It’s one of four bungalows, built on a garden that’s over 30 years old and made almost entirely out of hand-carved Cantera stone (a volcanic rock that adds to the home’s rugged appeal). The hot tub on the rooftop terrace is the ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Crib, hot tub, balcony
Location: City Center
Rojo Deseno
Here’s an Airbnb that shows commitment to a theme: From the patterned kitchen tiles to the colored cement walls of the luxurious bathroom, every inch is coated in a rich, earthy red. The three-bedroom home is in what used to be an artisanal chocolate factory, on one of the main streets in the historic center of the city. With local design emphasized (the tiles are made by Oaxacan artisans), it’s a truly memorable stay.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer in building, TV, crib upon request, high chair upon request, baby bath upon request, balcony
Location: City Center
Casa Labra
For an off-the-beaten-path option away from the hustle and bustle of the city, book this charming home. You’ll need a rental car (though the owners can arrange an airport shuttle upon request), but once you’re there, you may not want to leave: The property is surrounded by gardens, with hiking trails and bird-watching available as serene activities. You’ll feel like you’re in your very own grown-up treehouse.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer, outdoor playground, balcony, private backyard
Location: San Pablo Etla
Coyote Loft
Sweeping ocean views make this the ultimate coastal getaway. This one-bedroom casita is just a five-minute walk from the beach; with a large pool and tons of terrace space for lounging, you’ll be spoiled with choices for outdoor living. Inside, a pool table and impressive kitchen offer just as much to do.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Outdoor shower, TV, pool table, crib upon request, pack 'n play upon request, high chair, dishwasher, beachfront, balcony, private backyard, fire pit, BBQ, free parking, pool
Location: Puerto Ángel
Casa Criollo
Situated just behind the restaurant of the same name, Casa Criollo serves as a calming respite from the city. It’s all cool tones, low furniture, and natural textures; there’s a steam room included, as well as a plunge pool. Guests also have the benefit of complimentary breakfast served daily and bottles of house mezcal—a perk of staying in a spot with direct connection to one of the city’s top eateries.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer in building, dryer in building, TV, crib, balcony, private backyard, hot tub
Location: City Center
Casa Verde
It’s fairly rare to find a property that has both a massive garden and a pool right in the historic center of Oaxaca, but this rental does just that. It sleeps up to eight people, with plenty of room for stretching out both indoors and out. Design-wise, there’s a throughline of green that highlights the natural aspects of the architecture.
Rooms: 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer, dryer, TV, crib upon request, pack ’n play, baby bath upon request, high chair upon request , private backyard, BBQ, pool, free parking
Location: City Center
Casa de la Libélula
We recommend booking a car or ATV for this semi-secluded option, located on the southern coast of the city. It’s situated atop a hill, with a view that’s worth the climb. The space itself is set in a modern, geometric home that stands out in the lush landscape; inside, organic elements like woven lighting, patterned rugs, and rustic wood furniture make you feel at home.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Beachfront, free parking, pool
Location: Santa María Tonameca
Our Peaceful Patio Studio
15 minutes out from the historic center in the quiet neighborhood of San Felipe, this smaller space is ideal for a couple. An outdoor tub is your best option for full relaxation after a day spent partaking in the outdoor activities the area is known for, from water sports to hiking. Those booking a longer stay will appreciate the dedicated workspace and full kitchen.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bathtub, outdoor shower, private backyard, free parking
Location: San Felipe
Casa Teo
Steps away from La Barra de Colotepec beach, this villa takes indoor-outdoor living to new heights. By this, we mean that there’s barely a single wall to be found in the whole property—sleep, cook, and live in the open air. This communal aspect makes it a great spot for traveling with friends; this unique stay is one for the books.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, outdoor shower, washer, exercise equipment, beachfront, free resort access, shared balcony, shared backyard, free parking, pool
Location: La Barra
