PUERTO ANGEL
- Latitude: 15.6638 •
- Longitude: -96.493 •
- West Coast Central America •
- Port in Mexico
Address: Mexico
Puerto Ángel is a small but historically significant port located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, within the state of Oaxaca. It is primarily known for its scenic beauty, serene beaches, and role as a fishing and tourist destination rather than a major commercial shipping hub. Here are some key details about Puerto Ángel:
General Description:
- Location: Puerto Ángel is situated in the southern part of Oaxaca state, Mexico, approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) from the more well-known beach town of Zipolite and around 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of the state capital, Oaxaca City.
- Coordinates: Approximately 15.6611° N latitude and 96.4861° W longitude.
Port Specifications:
- Port Type: Minor fishing port, also used for small-scale tourism.
- Harbor Type: Natural harbor with limited infrastructure; the port area is sheltered by surrounding hills and rocky outcrops.
- Main Uses:
- Fishing: Primary economic activity, with local fishermen catching a variety of species such as snapper, tuna, and mahi-mahi.
- Tourism: The port supports tourism activities, including boat tours for whale watching, snorkeling, and diving excursions.
- Facilities:
- Fishing Infrastructure: Basic facilities for local fishermen including piers and areas for boat docking.
- Tourist Services: Small piers for tourist boats, basic amenities such as restrooms, and a few restaurants and shops near the waterfront.
- Draft and Vessel Size: The port can accommodate small fishing and tourist vessels. There are no facilities for larger commercial or cargo ships.
- Navigation: Entry into Puerto Ángel is straightforward for small vessels, but larger ships must exercise caution due to the shallow waters and rocky seabed near the coast.
Accessibility:
- Road Access: Puerto Ángel is accessible via the winding coastal highway (Route 175) that connects it to other coastal towns and the interior regions of Oaxaca.
- Nearest Airport: The closest major airport is Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX), located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) to the east.
Port Services:
- Fueling: Limited refueling services for small boats.
- Water and Provisions: Basic provisioning available for boats, but larger resupply would generally require a trip to a more developed nearby town.
- Maintenance: Very limited maintenance and repair facilities for boats; major repairs would need to be conducted elsewhere.
- Emergency Services: Basic emergency services available, but serious medical or maritime emergencies would necessitate transfer to larger coastal towns such as Huatulco.
Environmental and Community Aspects:
- Environmental Considerations: The area is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, which has led to local efforts to conserve the marine environment. Fishing regulations are in place to protect fish populations.
- Community and Culture: Puerto Ángel has a laid-back, small-town atmosphere and is home to a close-knit community that relies heavily on fishing and tourism. Local festivals and cultural events highlight the rich heritage of the region.
Opportunities and Constraints:
- Opportunities: Growing interest in eco-tourism and marine activities can boost local economy.
- Constraints: Limited infrastructure means the port cannot support larger commercial activities; environmental factors may restrict extensive development.
Conclusion:
Puerto Ángel is a charming and peaceful port with a focus on fishing and tourism. While limited in terms of commercial facilities, its natural beauty and friendly community make it a noteworthy destination on the Oaxacan coast.