How much are the tolls on the new Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway to Oaxacan beaches?

The toll answer you came for

The new Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway has two tollbooths in each direction. Each tollbooth costs 234 MXN, so you pay 468 MXN going to the beach and another 468 MXN coming back — a total round-trip toll of 936 MXN for a standard car or small SUV. This modern highway has dramatically shortened the drive to Puerto Escondido, making beach trips from Oaxaca City much more pleasant than the old winding route.

What the new highway is like

Opened in 2024, the Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway is a 104 km modern superhighway that replaced the most difficult sections of the old Highway 131. It features smoother curves, tunnels, bridges, and excellent pavement. Normal driving time to Puerto Escondido has dropped from 6–8 hours to about 2.5–3 hours in good conditions. The scenery is spectacular, with sweeping views of the Sierra Madre and green valleys below.

The road is well-lit in key areas and has good signage. It is open 24 hours and patrolled regularly. Most drivers find it comfortable and safe, even for families.

Toll details and payment tips

There are two toll plazas going toward the coast: one near Barranca Larga and one near Ventanilla. Each charges 234 MXN for a standard car. The same applies on the return journey. Cash is accepted at every booth, and most now also take credit or debit cards. Have small bills ready to speed things up. During busy periods the lines can grow, but the plazas are efficient.

Total round-trip tolls of 936 MXN are a worthwhile investment for the time and comfort saved compared with the old mountain road.

Traffic during Semana Santa and peak holidays

Holy Week (Semana Santa) 2026 will be the busiest period on the new highway. Even with the faster road, expect travel times to stretch to 4–6 hours or more on Thursday and Friday before Easter. Toll plazas and entry points see the longest lines in the afternoon and early evening. The new highway has reduced bottlenecks, but holiday traffic still builds up.

Leave Oaxaca City before 6 AM on peak days to stay ahead of the rush. Mid-week travel (Tuesday or Wednesday) is much calmer if your schedule allows.

Gas stations and rest stops along the route

Gas stations are well spaced along the new highway. The most reliable ones are in Oaxaca City before departure, then at Barranca Larga services, and again near Ventanilla. Fill your tank the night before, as stations can run low by midday during holidays. Clean restrooms, small snack shops, and cold drinks are available at most stops.

Many drivers stop at the modern service areas for a quick coffee or fresh memelas. The highway has several safe pull-offs with beautiful viewpoints — perfect for stretching your legs and taking photos.

Practical tips for a smooth drive

Drive during daylight hours for the best views and safety. Use apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic and toll updates. Carry water, snacks, and a charged phone. The highway is in excellent condition, but mountain weather can change quickly, so check forecasts before leaving. If you prefer not to drive, ADO buses and private shuttles now use the new route and are very comfortable.

The new highway has made beach trips from Oaxaca City easier and more enjoyable than ever. With a little planning, the journey becomes part of the adventure.

Why the trip is worth every peso

The Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway has opened up Oaxaca’s stunning Pacific coast like never before. In just a few hours you can trade the city for golden beaches, warm waves, and fresh seafood. The tolls are a small price for the time saved and the comfort of a modern road. Families, couples, and solo travelers all agree — the drive is now one of the highlights of any Oaxaca trip.

Safe travels, and enjoy the sun, sand, and Oaxacan hospitality waiting at the beach.