Welcome to Puerto Escondido in Mexico!
Puerto Escondido is quite the hot spot among travellers seeking a quiet and beautiful beach destination.
In this blog post, we will give you a full guide to Playa Carrizalillo, one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Escondido, one you CANNOT MISS when you are travelling in this area.
If you want to delve into other captivating places in Mexico? Read our must-visit spots in Mexico in 2023: Nayarit Playas, Cenote Calavera Tulum and Punta Sur Isla Mujeres.
Location
Playa Carrizalillo is located a few kilometres south of Puerto Escondido and can be accessed by car, bike, or scooter.
It’s about 10-15 minutes away from the main town. The beach is sheltered by two cliffs making it secluded and untouched by the rest of the world.
Playa Carrizalillo provides an extraordinary view, with a combination of cliffs and lush tropical vegetation surrounding its crystal-clear waters.
Things To Do in Playa Carrizalillo
Families, couples, and groups of all kinds may enjoy a range of activities at Playa Carrizalillo.
Snorkelling
Are you curious about what’s beneath the water?
Puerto Escondido is known for having an ABUNDANCE of marine life, you can expect to see manta rays, pufferfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, octopus and a variety of colourful corals.
The water is so crystal clear you will have an amazing experience!
Sunbathing and Swimming
The beach in Playa Carrizalillo is a terrific area to spend the day swimming, tanning, and relaxing with loved ones or friends.
There is plenty of room to swim and sunbathe; if you’d like additional shade, you can also hire a chair or an umbrella.
However, be wary of the cost of the sun beds; we advise comparing your alternatives BEFORE choosing one.
Surfing
Playa Carrizalillo is a fantastic surfing spot for those who are more daring, especially if this is your first time.
The waves here are great and not too aggressive! Along the beach, you will find many places where you can rent a surfboard or take a lesson. We recommend SILVA SURF SCHOOLÂ to learn how to surf! They offer both private and group lessons. On top of this, they even offer to film you with a GoPro so you can show your friends how good you are (or how often you fell in the water). You can see their page here!
Dolphin Watching
This is an absolutely magical experience! How often in your life do you get the chance to see dolphins and swim with them?
Robert’s Ecotours (a local travel agency) offers you this opportunity! The boat leaves at 7 am, for a 3-hour boat trip which takes you around 5 miles from shore where most certainly at least 1 of the 4 dolphin species are located! The tickets are around 1000MXN and include transport from your hotel in Puerto Escondido and even snorkeling equipment.
You can book the tour here.
Getting Around Playa Carrizalillo
It is very easy to get to Playa Carrizalillo from the town of Puerto Escondido, you could actually walk to all your destinations BUT sometimes the distances can be very long and waste your time if you want to get to places faster.
Taxi
Taking a taxi is one of the most common options. They are widely available and quite trustworthy. The cost is often in the range of 25 to 30 Mexican pesos (about $1.20 to USD 1.50).
Bicycle or Scooter
It’s relatively easy to find rental shops in Puerto Escondido if you wish to hire a scooter or bicycle.
For a bicycle, typically the cost is 60 Mexican pesos (3.50 USD) per hour.
If you’re up for a more exciting journey then renting a scooter could be the best choice. The cost is often between 300 to 400 Mexican pesos per day (17 and 24 USD).
Bus
If you’re on a budget, another option is to take the bus. You can find them in Puerto Escondido, they will take you to Playa Carrizalillo for around 20 Mexican pesos (1.10 USD).
The buses usually leave every hour from 7 am to 6 pm.
Collectivos
You can also take the collectivos, which are small buses that operate like shared taxis that run from Puerto Escondido to Playa Carrizalillo and other nearby beaches.
The price is usually around 10-15 Mexican pesos (0.50 – 0.80 USD).
They usually leave every 30 minutes from 7 am to 5 pm.
Rent a Car
From the city, you could rent a car and go to Playa Carrizalillo.
This is the most practical and inexpensive method to reach the beach and, once there, to explore the neighbourhood.
ESPECIALLY if you want to experience more off the beaten path, renting a car provides you far more freedom to explore a destination.
When we travel to a new country, where we will be moving around a lot we prefer to rent a car from Rentalcars.com.
They have an extensive range of vehicles to choose from, you can select a car that perfectly suits your travel needs, from small cars to spacious SUVs for families and groups.
Additionally, it’s simple to compare prices from several vehicle rental agencies, ensuring you receive the best bargain.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Playa Carrizalillo and Puerto Escondido largely depends on what you’re looking for from your trip.
For surfers seeking the biggest waves, the prime period is between May and October, when the swells are at their peak.
BUT do keep in mind that this is also the rainy season, which means occasional tropical downpours, though the rain is typically short-lived and quickly replaced by sunshine.
If you prefer swimming and sunbathing, the dry season, from November to April, is your best bet.
During these months, the sea is calmer, the skies are clear, and the temperature hovers around a comfortable 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for relaxing on the sand or exploring the colourful underwater world through snorkelling.
For those who are interested in observing the fascinating phenomenon of bioluminescence, the ideal time to visit is during the new moon, especially between November and May.
Playa Carrizalillo Hotels
Luxury
Casa Loulette is a beautiful boutique hotel located across from Playa Carrizalillo. It boasts luxurious amenities, including a pool and outdoor lounge area with an ocean view. You can also get complimentary breakfast here every day!
Mid Range
Hotel Sanmara is located a few minutes from Playa Carrizalillo. It offers comfortable and modern rooms with air conditioning, private balconies, and WiFi. The hotel also has an outdoor pool for guests to enjoy!
Budget
Posada Mixteca H is an adult-only accommodation at an affordable price. The accommodation with free bikes, a shared lounge and a terrace. The property is located 2.2 km from Commercial Walkway. Free WiFi and a shared kitchen are featured.
Where To Eat in Playa Carrizalillo
Carrizalillo Restaurante Bar: Mexican and foreign food are both served at this beachfront restaurant. This location is ideal for romantic dinners or family gatherings because of the beautiful ocean views from the outside seats.
Almoraduz Cocina de Autor: If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, head to Almoraduz Cocina de Autor. Here you will find creative dishes made with the finest ingredients and served with sophistication.
La Spezia: This restaurant is great for casual dining. Here you will find delicious Italian dishes like fresh pizza, pasta and seafood. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is friendly.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond the blissful beach life, the Puerto Escondido area has some incredible attractions that travellers should consider exploring:
Bioluminescent Lagoon
An ABSOLUTE MUST is the Manialtepec Lagoon, about 13km northwest of Puerto Escondido, known for its bioluminescent plankton. On moonless nights, you can kayak through the lagoon and marvel at the glowing water around you.
Local Markets
Visit Mercado Zicatela or Mercado Benito Juarez to really experience local culture.
Fresh vegetables, regional handicrafts, and traditional delicacies are all throughout these marketplaces.
It’s a fantastic chance to sample local food and buy some trinkets.
Coffee Plantations
Visit the luscious coffee farms in the Sierra Madre Mountains, which are close by.
In addition to learning about coffee production, tours of the Finca Las Nieves coffee plantation allow visitors to take in the surrounding scenery.
Dona Ana Beach
South of Playa Carrizalillo, this area is renowned for its mesmerising sunsets.
It’s a terrific place to observe the sky’s colour changes as the sun paints the horizon with orange and pink light.
Final Tips and Tricks
The Playa Carrizalillo beach provides basic amenities for the convenience of its visitors such as showers, public restrooms and lifeguards.
Trained lifeguards monitor the beach during the most active hours, ensuring that all swimmers are protected, and are available to respond in case of any emergencies.
Don’t forget to bring cash, as many places do not accept cards.
Bring a hat or umbrella to protect yourself from the sun.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Puerto Escondido and exploring the area.
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered water throughout the day.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially away from populated areas.
Conclusion
It’s a wrap for this blog post!
We hope you found it very helpful to plan your next trip to Puerto Escondido and that you are definitely including Carrizalillo in your itinerary.
Let us know in the comments below your experience.
FAQ
How to get from La Punta to Playa Carrizalillo?
The best way to get from La Punta to Playa Carrizalillo is by taxi. The trip should take around 15 minutes and cost approximately 150 pesos.
Are there lifeguards at Playa Carrizalillo?
Yes, there are lifeguards at Playa Carrizalillo during the most active hours of the day. They monitor the beach to ensure the safety of all swimmers and are available to respond in case of any emergencies. It’s still important for
swimmers to stay vigilant, follow the safety instructions provided, and avoid risky behaviour in the water.
Where is Playa Carrizalillo?
Playa Carrizalillo is located in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico. It’s a stunning beach surrounded by cliffs and known for its picturesque sunsets. Visitors come from all over to enjoy the white sand and turquoise waters of this paradise.
Can you swim in Puerto Escondido?
Yes, you can swim in Puerto Escondido. Playa Carrizalillo and other nearby beaches offer clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities. It’s important to remember to stay within the designated areas and follow the safety instructions provided by lifeguards.
Is Puerto Escondido expensive?
Puerto Escondido can be expensive depending on where you’re staying and what activities you participate in. Generally, accommodation costs are relatively low but dining out, renting a car, and taking tours can add up quickly. Be sure to plan and budget accordingly for your trip.
Is the ocean warm in Puerto Escondido?
Yes, the sea temperature in Puerto Escondido is usually quite warm throughout the year. The waters are typically around 25°C (77°F) during the day, making it a great spot for swimming and other water activities. It’s important to wear sun protection when spending time in the sun as well.
What is the best month to go to Puerto Escondido?
The best month to visit Puerto Escondido is typically during the dry season, which runs from October to May. During this period, temperatures are pleasant and there is less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like swimming and surfing. However, it’s important to note that summer months can be quite hot and humid.
What is the rainiest month in Puerto Escondido?
The rainiest month in Puerto Escondido is typically June, with an average of around 110mm (4.3 inches) of rainfall. The rainy season runs from May to September and often brings with it strong winds and rough seas. It’s best to avoid visiting during this time if you plan on engaging in water activities or spending time at the beach.
