Playa Carrizalillo

Tucked away in a cozy cove, Carrizalillo Beach is considered one of the most picturesque and tranquil spots in the city of Puerto Escondido. This small lagoon in Mexico is surrounded by steep cliffs and lush tropical greenery, creating an atmosphere of a true hidden paradise. The main features of the beach are its turquoise water and soft golden sand.

The journey to this natural wonder is an adventure in itself: to touch the water, visitors must descend a staircase of more than 150 steps. However, the effort is well rewarded — thanks to its location, the bay is protected from strong ocean waves, making it ideal for safe swimming and family relaxation.

A rating of 4.5 stars confirms the love tourists have for this place. There is no noise from large resorts here; instead, you'll find crystal clear water and the chance to see rays or turtles right near the shore. Carrizalillo is not just a beach, but a true landmark of the state of Oaxaca, attracting connoisseurs of natural aesthetics and privacy.

Carrizalillo Beach is a natural attraction, so it doesn't have a standard reception desk or administrative building. However, you can use the official district address for navigation.

First and foremost, Carrizalillo Beach is an ideal playground for those who want to try their hand at surfing. The waves here are moderate and predictable, so you can always find instructors and rent a board on the shore. While it might seem too calm for experienced surfers, the conditions are perfect for beginners.

Underwater enthusiasts should bring a mask and fins. You can go snorkeling near the rocky edges of the bay: sea turtles and schools of bright tropical fish are frequently spotted here. If you prefer a more leisurely break, you can simply rent a sun lounger at one of the local cafes (for example, by ordering pizza at Luna Rossa) and enjoy the sun to the sound of the surf.

Be sure to find the small freshwater spring at one end of the bay where you can rinse off after the salty ocean water. And, of course, don't forget a photo session — the views from the stairs overlooking the azure basin of water are considered some of the best in the city. The atmosphere here is friendly and calm, without pushy vendors, allowing for total relaxation.

This scenic corner is located in the charming Rinconada district. To reach the shore, you need to head to the bay entrance where the famous staircase begins. The descent consists of approximately 167 steps carved into the rock. The stairs are in good condition but require some physical effort, especially on the way back up under the hot sun.

From the center of Puerto Escondido, it is most convenient to take a taxi — the ride takes only a few minutes. You can also use local transport (pasajeros) or enjoy a walk if you are staying in the nearby neighborhoods. A small parking area for cars and scooters is available near the entrance to the stairs.

Before you begin your descent, be sure to linger at the viewpoint at the top. From here, you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the turquoise bay and tropical greenery — it's the perfect spot for photos that will highlight your trip to Mexico.

The beach gets its name from the word "carrizo," which refers to a type of reed or cane that once grew abundantly in the area. For decades, Carrizalillo Beach remained a secret spot for local fishermen, hidden from tourists behind high cliffs and dense vegetation.

Unlike the larger and more open beaches in the region, this bay is shaped so that the cliffs protect it from the strong currents of the Pacific Ocean. It is this geological feature that turned Carrizalillo into a natural pool with remarkably calm and clear water, which is a rarity for this coastline.

Gradually, as Puerto Escondido developed as a tourist hub, a permanent staircase was built to the beach. Before that, descending to the water was an extreme challenge. Today, this place harmoniously combines wild natural beauty with basic comforts, remaining one of the most photogenic spots in the state of Oaxaca.

Interestingly, despite its growing popularity, the bay has retained its secluded spirit. The lack of direct vehicle access to the water's edge helps maintain a special atmosphere of tranquility and protects the beach's ecosystem from excessive human impact.

For a complete visit to Carrizalillo Beach, it is recommended to budget between 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely navigate the famous staircase, swim in the calm waters of the bay, and soak up the local atmosphere.

If you plan to take a surfing lesson or want to have lunch at one of the beachfront cafes, it's better to set aside half a day. Keep in mind that climbing back up the steps in hot weather may require extra time for resting in the shade, especially if you are visiting with children or the elderly.

Since Carrizalillo Beach is a natural site, it is accessible 24/7. However, for your safety and comfort, it is best to plan your visit during daylight hours, typically from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

It is worth noting that cafes and equipment rental shops operate on their own schedules, usually closing by sunset. Before your trip, it's a good idea to check the official websites or social media of local establishments to confirm their hours for a specific day.

After relaxing in the azure waters of the bay, it's worth exploring the surrounding area. The district around the beach is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent dining spots that will complement your trip experience.