The best beaches in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca can be found all over town and if you’re a beach lover you will not be disappointed as it has some of the nicest in all of Mexico.
Whether you are chasing the surf, looking to swim, or just want to relax and sun tan on the beach or grab a beer on a daybed, Puerto has it all.
Within this guide we will break down our favorite beaches and what they are renowned for to ensure you find the perfect beach for what you’re looking to take away from your time here.
Where are the best beaches in Puerto Escondido?
Puerto Escondido is located on the Pacific Ocean which means there are a number of awesome beaches all within walking or driving distance.
The majority of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido are within a 10-kilometer radius of the Puerto Escondido Airport which means getting to them is fairly straightforward.
If you’ve got your own transport and/or are looking to be a bit more adventurous we’ve included a couple of secret beaches that you won’t find on any other lists so grab your swimmers and enjoy.
Carrizalillo Beach
Starting off with one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Escondido, Playa Carrizalillo is the perfect beach to sun tan or go for a swim.
The beach has the advantage of being in a gorgeous little cove which gives it protection from any large swells making it the perfect swimming destination for all confidence levels which makes it ideal for couples and families.
Due to the cove stopping any large wave break from entering, the waves that are produced are small and Carrizalillo is by far the best beach in Puerto Escondido for beginners wanting to take a surf lesson.
For those that want to kick back and relax, Playa Carizalillo also has a number of waterfront daybeds as well as public washrooms that can be used for a small fee which is normally 5 pesos.
The beach is also located very close to Rinconada which is a very popular area for eating so it is normally recommended to watch the sunset at Carizalillo beach before heading up to grab dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants on the strip.
Manzanillo Beach & Playa Puerto Angelito
Located near the center of town, Playa Manzanillo is one of the most popular and best beaches in Puerto Escondido amongst local Mexican families due to its great swimming conditions and location.
The beach is also a popular spot for snorkeling as there is a wide variety of fish that can be seen in the calm waters as you’re tucked into a calm little bay.
Playa Manzanillo is connected to Puerto Angelito so it’s easy to explore both beaches at the same time. The beach has day lounges that can be rented for a small fee or alternatively you can set up your own towel and umbrella.
To the South East of the beach, the rocky headland is a great spot to take a photo looking back into the bay though we would not recommend walking any further around the headland as the steep rocks are hazardous and almost impassable.
La Punta
Located at the southeast end of town La Punta beach is one of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido for intermediate surfers as it is recommended that you have some kind of experience before surfing here.
In addition to surfing the beach has a great atmosphere with travelers drinking and relaxing while listening to music on the beach.
Although the beach is ideal for lounging it also offers some great adventure opportunities for those that wish to explore a little further around the headland.
Chingabal’e is an awesome rocky outcrop that is only a 20-minute walk around or above the headland – depending on the tide.
La Punta beach is ideal for watching the sunset after which point the beach crowds shifts to the restaurants and bars of La Punta filling the streets with the energy of the day.
Bacocho Beach
Playa Bacocho is one of the best beaches to visit if you’re looking to experience turtle releasing in Puerto Escondido. The 25-kilometer-long stretch of beach provides ample space to walk along and sunbake.
Swimming is possible at the beach however at times it is renowned for having strong waves and currents so it is advised to use caution or ask one of the lifeguards if the conditions are suitable for swimming.
The surrounding rock formations and endless beach make it a must-visit especially to witness the turtle release even if you don’t wish to partake.
For those wishing to explore the beach clubs, you’ll find a few in the area which welcomes guests as long as their consumption is in excess of 200 pesos.
If you’re up for an adventure you can kill two birds with one stone and walk around the headland and explore the hidden Playa Coral on the same day.
Playa Coral
Playa Coral is an amazing secluded beach that is popular among locals and other beach explorers. Located around the corner from Bacocha beach, it is its own little paradise renowned for its gorgeous water and white sand.
Its exclusivity means that it is a little bit more difficult to get to however it is definitely the best beach for those who want their own slice of paradise.
You can either Playa Coral by walking from Bachocha or if you’re up for more of an adventurous challenge you can follow the dirt path around the headland from Mirador Las Tortugas.
Read the full guide → Mirador Las Tortugas to Bachocha
You can also access the beach via Hotel Villa Mexicana and La Coral Beach House though as of 2022 most pathways are currently shut so it’s best if you ask the hotel for permission first as there are a number of no-trespassing signs in place.
Playa Principal Beach
Playa Principal is located right in the heart of Puerto Escondido which allows for easy beach access for people who are staying in central Puerto.
Playa Principal is the port where a lot of the dolphin-watching and fishing tours depart so if you’re looking to do either of these activities while you’re here odds are you’ll be here at some point.
The beach has an abundance of beach bars and restaurants in the area so it is definitely worth a visit even if you’re not planning to go on a tour.
There is also a gorgeous headland walk that is worth doing that you can follow all the way around to Playa Manzanillo if you are up for the challenge.
Playa Marinero
Playa Marinero is one of the best beaches for families as the water is usually calm and safe for swimming as well as lifeguard towers keep an eye on you while you’re in the water.
Located between Playa Zicatela and Playa Principal, it is a little beach of its own that is usually less crowded making it more than suitable for families.
Depending on the water conditions of the day it is only a short walk between Playa Principal and Playa Marinero so you have the option of exploring both these beaches at the same time.
The beach is great to visit during sunset and it is easily accessed via the cobblestone street, Ent. a La Playa Marinero which is located behind the beach.
Alternatively, if you started your adventure from Playa Principal it is a short walk along the beach.
Playa Zicatela
Similar to La Punta beach, Playa Zicatela is a very popular spot to visit and is the best beach for advanced surfers. Waves here can get up to 40 ft so it is definitely not the destination to visit for your first surf lesson.
In addition to being a great beach for surfing, Playa Zicatela is a popular spot to watch the sunset or play volleyball at one of the many nets that are on the beachfront.
There’s almost always a group playing volleyball and they are more than welcoming for newcomers so it’s a great spot to meet new people if you’re on your own.
Behind the beach is an abundance of fantastic restaurants and bars and this is normally the place where people end up when enjoying the late nightlife of Puerto Escondido.
Playa Punta Colorada
Playa Colorada beach is a gorgeous beach located just north of the Puerto Escondido airport and it is one of the best beaches for watching the sunset.
Its endless stretch of beach and lack of tourism provides a great location to relax or stroll along endlessly.
The prime location where you’ll want to position yourself for sunset is a short walk up the headland to a popular and less frequented spot known as Mirador Punta Colorada.
If you’re traveling with your partner we would highly recommend this beach for a romantic sunset and we would highly recommend taking a bottle of wine and snacks to set up your own little picnic.
Best beaches outside of Puerto Escondido
If you’ve explored all the beaches above and you’re looking for something a little more exclusive and unique then we would recommend visiting the following beaches.
Playa Puerto Suelo
Located approximately 30 minutes northwest of the Puerto Escondido airport, Playa Puerto Suelo is a hidden gem and it is one of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido as it is very rarely frequented.
The beach has a couple of awesome little restaurants that are great for grabbing a beer or a coconut while enjoying one of the greatest Oaxacan sunsets.
In order to get to Playa Puerto Suelo, you’ll either need a car or a scooter which will take you to a river that flows off Laguna de Manialtepec. After this point, you need to pay a 10 pesos fee to get across the river via a small boat.
Another way to visit Playa Puerto Suelo while simultaneously having an adventure is a horse riding tour which will take you past this gorgeous beach at sunset which makes for an incredible experience on horseback.
Zipolite
Zipolite, renowned as Mexico’s sole officially designated nude beach, has maintained its distinctive hippie culture that garnered attention in the 1970s.
This sandy haven is a favorite among international visitors, particularly backpackers, who can find accommodation in the numerous rustic cabins or beachfront camping areas that dot the shoreline.
Mazunte
Mazunte, is renowned for its commitment to turtle conservation, stunning beaches, ecotourism, holistic wellness offerings, a bohemian atmosphere, and a general sense of relaxation and harmony with nature.
It is a unique destination for those seeking a more immersive and natural experience on the Mexican coast.
Cerro Hermoso
Playa Cerro Hermoso, ranked 47th among 95 Oaxaca region beaches, nestles in an urban setting amid towering mountains.
This beach enchants with its turquoise waters and pristine, soft sands, eliminating the need for special footwear. Its gentle water entry caters to diverse visitors, from solitary travelers to relaxation seekers.
While it gets partly crowded in the high season, it remains accessible to all. Amenities include sun umbrellas, a beachfront restaurant, toilets, and lifeguard supervision during the season.
Roca Blanca
Nicknamed “Roca Blanca” or “White Rock” for the abundant bird guano on an offshore boulder, this beach has more to offer than its name implies.
Seclusion is abundant here, allowing for a tranquil getaway, and you might even cross paths with a celebrity like Gael García Bernal. Roca Blanca, also featured as “Boca del Cielo,” served as a filming location for the 2001 drama “Y Tu Mamá También.”
FAQ
What are the Best Beaches in Puerto Escondido?
The best beaches in Puerto Escondido are La Punta, Carrizalillo and Zicatela.
Carrizalillo, the optimal choice for surf novices, also extends its charm to swimmers seeking a splendid beach experience.
La Punta beckons to experienced surf enthusiasts, boasting an intermediate to advanced wave level. Additionally, it claims the title of the most sought-after spot to witness Puerto Escondido’s mesmerizing sunset.
Zicatela, spanning 3.5 km (2.1 mi), invites leisurely strolls and sunset seekers. Renowned for top-tier surfing, it merits mention that this beach exclusively caters to seasoned surfers, standing as one of Puerto Escondido’s most perilous surf locales.
The array of Puerto Escondido beaches caters to diverse preferences during your sojourn.
Selecting the ideal beach becomes a straightforward choice: whether you crave the thrill of surfing, the tranquility of swimming, or simply relishing the sun while savoring delectable fare and drinks with loved ones.
What ocean is Puerto Escondido on?
Puerto Escondido is located on the Pacific Ocean. It is a coastal town on the southern coast of Mexico, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Can you swim on the beaches at Puerto Escondido?
Swimming is generally possible at most of Puerto Escondido’s beaches, but caution is advisable due to potentially strong undercurrents.
It’s wise to carefully observe the ocean and wave conditions before taking a dip. Among the safer options for swimming are Playa Angelito, Playa Manzanillo, Playa Carrizalillo, and Playa Coral.
What is the main beach in Puerto Escondido?
The main and most famous beach in Puerto Escondido is Playa Zicatela. This beach is renowned for its powerful waves, making it a top destination for experienced surfers.
It’s also a vibrant area with restaurants, bars, and a lively atmosphere. While it’s a hub for surfing, it may not be ideal for swimming due to its strong currents.
What is the quietest beach in Puerto Escondido?
Playa Coral is a hidden gem along this coastal stretch, and it’s a must-visit destination. It boasts a tranquil bay with calm waters, fine sandy shores, and lush green surroundings. Without a doubt, Playa Coral in Puerto Escondido is a true slice of paradise!
What are the best beaches for surfing?
The waves at Zicatela Beach are globally renowned and often referred to as the Mexican Pipeline. This moniker is earned because the waves here can reach impressive heights of up to 40 feet, drawing elite surfers from across the globe.
Additionally, La Punta is celebrated as a destination for advanced surfers, while Carrizalillo caters to those just starting their surfing journey.
Summary of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido has a number of awesome beaches with their own unique features and activities to experience.
Some of the most popular choices are Carrizalillo Beach for swimming and beginner surfing, Manzanillo Beach and Playa Puerto Angelito for snorkeling and swimming, La Punta for intermediate surfing and sunset watching, Bacocho Beach for turtle releases and beach clubs, and Playa Coral for secluded and tranquil experience.
Regardless of which beach you choose, you’ll be sure to create memorable experiences.
