Puerto Escondido, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Oaxaca, is a paradise for beach lovers, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, impressive waves, and a relaxed atmosphere that entices travelers from all walks of life. This article takes you on a journey to uncover the secrets of Puerto Escondido’s beaches, revealing hidden gems far from the crowds, where nature expresses itself with splendor and tranquility.

 

1. Playa Carrizalillo: A Hidden Gem of Beauty

Playa Carrizalillo is a small paradise beach accessible only by a staircase of 167 steps, nestled between lush cliffs. This isolation contributes to its intimate and peaceful ambiance, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more frequented beaches. Its turquoise and calm waters make it the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing under the Mexican sun. Few beaches in Puerto Escondido offer such an idyllic setting to admire the sunset, making Carrizalillo a must-visit for romantics and photographers.

2. Playa Bacocho: Vast Stretches of Sand and Sea Turtles

Playa Bacocho, with its kilometers of fine sand and crystal-clear waters, represents another well-kept secret of Puerto Escondido. Less crowded than Zicatela, it offers a haven of peace for tranquility seekers. A unique feature of Bacocho is its sea turtle release program, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to participate in marine conservation by helping young turtles reach the ocean. This rewarding experience adds an educational and emotional dimension to your stay on this beautiful beach.

3. Playa Manzanillo: A Peaceful Refuge for Families

Playa Manzanillo, located near Puerto Angelito, is a little slice of paradise ideal for families. Its calm and shallow waters allow children to play safely, while adults can enjoy traditional fishing or explore the seabed with snorkel gear. Local restaurants offer sea delicacies, allowing you to taste authentic Oaxacan cuisine with your feet in the sand.

4. Playa Zicatela : the jewels of Puerto Escondido

Playa Zicatela stands out as the most renowned beach, captivating surfers and beach lovers alike with its world-famous waves. Known as the Mexican Pipeline, it offers some of the most powerful and consistent surf breaks in the world, making it a magnet for professional surfers and enthusiasts eager to test their skills against its formidable waves. Beyond the surf, Zicatela’s vibrant beach culture, bustling with lively bars, international restaurants, and colorful markets, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its energetic atmosphere. The beach stretches for kilometers, providing ample space for sunbathers to soak up the sun and for walkers to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky each evening. Despite its popularity, Zicatela retains a charm that embodies the spirit of Puerto Escondido, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting this paradise.

5. La Punta Zicatela: An Underrated Surf Spot

While Zicatela is globally known for its powerful waves attracting experienced surfers, La Punta, at the southern end of the beach, remains a well-kept secret. With gentler waves, it’s the ideal place for intermediate surfers or those wishing to learn to surf in a more relaxed atmosphere. La Punta also offers a glimpse into the bohemian lifestyle of Puerto Escondido, with its small cafes and local craft shops.

6. Playa Plataforma: A Paradise for Surfers Seeking Authenticity

Playa Plataforma is a hidden wonder, often overshadowed by the more popular beaches of Puerto Escondido, but it represents a true paradise for surfers in search of authentic and uncrowded waves. Besides surfing, its crystal-clear waters offer ideal conditions for snorkeling, allowing visitors to discover abundant marine life in a tranquil setting. The beach, bordered by golden sand and surrounded by lush vegetation, provides an idyllic backdrop not only for water activities but also for those looking to relax away from tourist hustle. Playa Plataforma embodies the essence of tranquility and adventure, offering an immersive experience in the natural beauty of the Mexican Pacific coast.

7. Tierra Blanca: A Haven for Surfers and Snorkeling Adventurers

Tierra Blanca, located a few kilometers north of Puerto Escondido, is a wild and isolated beach that attracts surfers looking for unique spots and snorkeling enthusiasts eager to explore pristine waters. This beach offers perfect waves for an unforgettable surfing experience, far from the crowds of more known spots. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Tierra Blanca reveals a rich and preserved underwater world, where marine fauna and flora thrive in a pure environment. The beach is bordered by majestic cliffs and fine sand, offering spectacular panoramas and an atmosphere of absolute tranquility. The limited accessibility of Tierra Blanca ensures a more intimate and exclusive experience, making this beach a jewel for adventurers seeking solitude and communion with nature.
Be cautious at Tierra Blanca and Playa Plataforma, as the waves can be very powerful and large depending on the season.

8. Playa Agua Dulce: Serenity in its Purest Form, 15 km from Puerto Escondido

Located 15 km from Puerto Escondido, Playa Agua Dulce is a wild beach where tranquility and natural beauty prevail. This beach is the perfect escape for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy moments of absolute serenity. The golden sand, gentle waves, and pristine expanse of the beach offer an ideal setting for relaxing days, meditation, or contemplative walks along the coast. The distance from Puerto Escondido guarantees a peaceful atmosphere, making Agua Dulce a sanctuary for nature lovers and those seeking a return to the basics.

A Treasure Trove of Beaches to Discover

Puerto Escondido, with its hidden beaches and secret spots, offers a multitude of unique experiences for travelers seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deep connection with nature. Whether you are passionate about surfing, snorkeling, or simply looking for peaceful beaches to relax, this destination has something special to offer. The beaches of Playa Plataforma and Tierra Blanca, with their unique features for surfing and snorkeling, as well as the tranquil Playa Agua Dulce, illustrate the diversity and richness of experiences that Puerto Escondido can offer. Embrace the spirit of adventure and let this exceptional destination unveil its best-kept secrets.

 

Read :Beaches in Puerto Escondido: Guide 

1. What makes Playa Carrizalillo unique compared to other beaches in Puerto Escondido?

Playa Carrizalillo stands out for its secluded and intimate setting, accessible only by a staircase of 167 steps. Its calm turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a peaceful escape from the more crowded beaches. The idyllic sunset views from Carrizalillo are also a major highlight, making it a favorite among romantics and photographers.

2. Can visitors participate in the sea turtle release program at Playa Bacocho?

Yes, visitors can participate in the sea turtle release program at Playa Bacocho. This unique experience allows tourists to contribute to marine conservation efforts by helping young sea turtles make their way to the ocean. It’s an enriching activity that adds an educational and emotional dimension to your visit to Playa Bacocho.

3. Is Playa Manzanillo suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! Playa Manzanillo is ideal for families, thanks to its calm and shallow waters where children can safely play. Adults can enjoy traditional fishing or snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life. The beach’s proximity to local restaurants also means that visitors can savor authentic Oaxacan cuisine right on the sand.

4. What attracts surfers to La Punta Zicatela?

La Punta Zicatela attracts surfers with its gentler waves, making it an excellent spot for intermediate surfers or those looking to learn in a more relaxed atmosphere. Despite being part of the famous Zicatela Beach, La Punta has a more laid-back vibe and offers a glimpse into the bohemian lifestyle of Puerto Escondido, complete with quaint cafes and craft shops.

5. Are the waves at Tierra Blanca and Playa Plataforma suitable for beginner surfers?

Tierra Blanca and Playa Plataforma are known for their powerful and sometimes large waves, which can vary significantly with the season. While these conditions create perfect opportunities for experienced surfers seeking a challenge, beginners might find the waves at these beaches too daunting. Novice surfers are advised to exercise caution and consider other beaches with more suitable conditions for learning