Puerto Escondido doesn't have one beach: it has a collection of bays, breaks and coves, each with its own character. Here's how to pick yours.
Playa Zicatela
The famous one. Powerful waves, golden sand and a surf crowd. It isn't for swimming — the currents are strong — but it is spectacular for the sunset and for watching the experts on the "Mexican Pipeline".
La Punta Zicatela
The southern end of Zicatela. Longer, gentler waves, ideal for learning to surf, and a bohemian feel with cafés, yoga and music at sunset. It's the most walkable, most relaxed part of town.
Playa Carrizalillo
A horseshoe cove reached by a flight of steps. Turquoise water, soft swell and surf lessons for beginners. Perfect for a morning and lunch with your feet in the sand.
Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito
Two sheltered bays, calm and clear. The best ones for swimming with family and for snorkelling.
Playa Bacocho
Long, wide and uncrowded. Turtle releases take place here at sunset. The sea is rough, so it's better for walking than swimming.
Playa Principal
The heart of town, with fishing boats and palapas. Dolphin, turtle and whale watching tours leave from here.
Practical tips
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, water and cash. Respect the flags and always ask about currents before going in. The best light is before 11 am and after 5 pm.
Where to stay to explore them
Beach hopping is easier from a well-placed base: Raíz Hotel Boutique is in La Punta Zicatela, at one end of the bay, within easy reach of Zicatela, Carrizalillo and Bacocho. Write to us on WhatsApp at +52 954 124 0793 and we'll tell you which beach suits the swell and the time of day.
From La Punta the beach is steps away and the other bays are 10–15 minutes by taxi, so you can change beach every day without any fuss.
