A Beach For Every Vibe
If you’ve made it to Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, then you’re probably interested in exploring the beautiful coastline. Lucky for you, there’s a beach for every type of traveler.
You may have heard of Zicatela, the beach renowned for its huge waves and professional surfers. What you may not know is that there are many other beaches nearby, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing.
Playa Bacocho
Playa Bacocho is the least developed beach on this list, with its natural fauna giving it a pristine charm. However, the surf can be rough. While there’s a lifeguard at the entrance, swimmers should be cautious due to big waves, strong currents, and rip tides.
This beach is famous for the baby sea turtle releases held almost daily at sunset. The program is managed by Vive Mar, an organization dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. They patrol the coastline to safeguard the turtles’ eggs from natural and human threats.
Playa Coral
Playa Coral is a secluded cove ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. The waters are usually calm, but they can get rough when other beaches experience large waves.
You can access Playa Coral by walking left from the entrance of Playa Bacocho and crossing over rocks, though the path may be slippery. Another option is to enter through Hotel Villa Mexicana, which charges 100 pesos (including a drink).
Playa Carrizalillo
One of the most picturesque spots in Puerto Escondido, Playa Carrizalillo is known for its turquoise waters and dramatic stairway entrance. Located behind Rinconada, this beach is ideal for swimming and surfing lessons.
Playa Carrizalillo gets busy during high season, so arrive early to claim your spot. Palapa restaurants are available, making it a perfect place to spend the whole day.
Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito
These neighboring beaches share a cove and offer a family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Manzanillo is great for snorkeling, with vibrant fish near the rocks. Meanwhile, Puerto Angelito serves as the port area. Both beaches have calm waters, making them safe for swimming, and feature beachside restaurants.
Playa Principal
Playa Principal is the main port of Puerto Escondido, bustling with fishermen. Visit early in the morning to buy fresh catches directly from the boats. This beach is especially popular on Sundays when local families gather here.
Playa Marinera
Located next to Playa Principal, Playa Marinera marks the point where boats disappear, and bodysurfers take over. The waves here are milder than at neighboring Zicatela, making it a popular spot for wave enthusiasts.
Playa Zicatela
Nicknamed Mexpipe, Playa Zicatela is famed for its massive waves and professional surf competitions during the high surf season (May–September). This beach isn’t for novice surfers, but it’s a must-visit to witness the spectacle of world-class surfers riding the waves.
Visitors often enjoy coffee on the beach in the morning, watching the action unfold.
Playa La Punta
Located at the far end of Zicatela, Playa La Punta offers a laid-back vibe with a touch of party energy. It’s a great spot for surfing lessons, with larger swells for advanced surfers.
Swimming here depends on the conditions, as waves and currents can be strong. Beyond the beach, La Punta boasts trendy boutiques, house music, and vibrant sunsets featuring fire performers, hula hoopers, and acoustic musicians.
Which Beach is Best in Puerto Escondido?
There’s no definitive answer, as it depends on your preferences. From the calm coves to the surfing hotspots, Puerto Escondido has a beach for everyone. Explore them all to find your favorite and discover your perfect Puerto beach.
