Chingabal’e is a rock formation found right at the end of La Punta beach and it is one of Puerto Escondido’s hidden gems due to the fact that not many people know about it / don’t bother to visit.
Where is Chinagabal’e
Located right on the tip of the Punta Zicatela headland, Chingabal’e can be reached via La Punta beach.
How to get to Chingabal’e
After walking to the end of La Punta beach you will come to a rock wall that presents two options for getting to Chingabal’e.
Cliff walk
The cliff walk is fairly short and the climb and descent on the other side are fairly easy and not physically demanding. Just be sure to maintain three points of contact and take your time.
The top of the cliff walk offers stunning views in itself so ensure to stop and take photos while up top but make sure you don’t stop there. Following the narrow dirt path will take you down to the beach below.
Cave run
The cave run is a lot faster to get through to the other side rather than the cliff walk however it is important you only go through here at a low tide to ensure your safety.
Wait for a break in the waves and then pass swiftly around to the left where you will find yourself in a gorgeous setting surrounded by rocks and cactus.
After walking along the beach for a minute you will find yourself at the bottom of the cliff walk so the instructions from here are the same.
A rocky paradise
Although you find yourself in your own little paradise after stopping to take photos make sure you don’t stop there as you still have a little further to go.
Hugging the cliff and keeping it to your left you will continue around one more rocky outcrop which depending on the tide you may have to wait for a break in the waves.
After this point, you’ll definitely see Chingabal’e which is noticeable by the gap in the rock where at sunset you can take some nice silhouette pictures or climb on top to get a full panoramic view.
The climb itself is a little difficult at the start however after the initial boost it is fairly straight forward just make sure you once again take your time. The view from the top is definitely worth it.
Fishing at Chingabal’e
If you wanted to try some Puerto Escondido fishing from the beach or rocks here this is a great spot where you can fish from shore and you’ll notice this is where a lot of locals fish.
Using a rod or a hand reel you can cast out and jig for live bait which can be used to chase larger species such as trevally.
Using a small metal slug lure can also be useful however just ensure to take care if fishing from the rocks as large sets of waves can come through and easily knock you off if you’re not taking care.
Chingabal’e Summary
Chinagabal’e is one of Escondido’s hidden gems that many people may not know about or bother to visit. It is located at the tip of the Punta Zicatela headland and can be accessed via La Punta beach.
There are two options to get there – the cliff walk and the cave run. Once you arrive, you will find yourself in a rocky paradise with stunning views.
The climb up to Chingabal’e may be a little difficult at the start, but the view from the top is definitely worth it.
Additionally, fishing from the beach or rocks here is a great spot for locals to catch larger species such as trevally. Overall, Chingabal’e is a beautiful and adventurous destination that is definitely worth exploring.
