Playa Carrizalillo

Introduction

From the moment we glimpsed Playa Carrizalillo from the top of the cliffs, we knew we had found a truly special place. This small cove, nestled in the heart of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, is a refuge of peace and natural beauty that has deeply captivated us. Unlike the beaches better known for their surfing waves, like Zicatela, Carrizalillo offers us an experience of absolute serenity, with its turquoise and calm waters inviting us to dive in and forget the world.

Access to this gem requires a small effort: descending a flight of stairs that, although it may seem intimidating at first, rewards each step with more spectacular views. Once at the bottom, we find a golden sandy beach and a bay protected by rock formations, which ensure the tranquility of its waters. It is a favorite destination for families, couples, and anyone seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle, a place where time seems to stand still and nature embraces us with its calm. The Oaxaca beaches are diverse, but Carrizalillo has a singular charm that sets it apart.

How to Get to Playa Carrizalillo

Getting to Playa Carrizalillo is part of the adventure and charm of this destination. Located in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, it is relatively easy to access from any point in the city, though with a particularity that makes it unique. While you cannot drive directly onto the sand, the journey to the viewpoint or the base of the stairs is very straightforward and well-signposted.

From Puerto Escondido

If we are in Puerto Escondido, we have several options to get there. The most common and convenient is to take a taxi. These are plentiful in the city and can take us directly to the top of the stairs that descend to the beach. The trip from the center or from areas like Zicatela or La Punta is usually not very long, perhaps 10-15 minutes, and the cost is quite affordable. We always recommend agreeing on the price before getting in to avoid surprises. Another economical alternative is the 'colectivos' or 'peseros', which are shared taxis with fixed routes. We can ask the locals which one gets us closest to Carrizalillo.

The Descent via the Stairs

Once our transport drops us off at the top, a picturesque descent down some stone stairs awaits us. There are approximately 160 steps, which may sound like a lot, but the truth is that the path is well-maintained and offers spectacular panoramic views of the bay and the Pacific Ocean as we go down. It's a perfect opportunity to take photographs and admire the beauty of the surroundings. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and, if we are carrying a lot, making stops to rest and enjoy the scenery. For the return, the ascent can be a bit more demanding, especially under the midday sun, so many choose to climb slowly or wait until the late afternoon hours when the heat is less intense. The reward is undoubtedly worth every step.

The Sand and the Water

The experience at Playa Carrizalillo begins with the feeling of its sand under our feet. It is a fine sand, of a soft golden color that contrasts wonderfully with the turquoise blue of the ocean. Walking along the shore, we notice its soft and clean texture, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sun. Children love building sandcastles here, and adults find a natural comfort to spread out their towels and let themselves be carried away by the tranquility of the surroundings. The cleanliness of the sand is notable, a reflection of the care given to this small coastal jewel.

But if the sand is a pleasure, the water is a true marvel. The waters of Playa Carrizalillo are known for their exceptional clarity and emerald color, almost transparent in the shallower areas. The predominant type of seabed is sand, which makes entering the sea easy without worrying about sharp rocks or pebbles. What surprises us most is the calmness of its waves; being protected by cliffs and rock formations, the bay acts like a natural swimming pool, where the surf is minimal. This makes it an ideal place for safe swimming, even for the little ones or for those who are not comfortable with the strong waves of other Mexico beaches.

The water temperature is warm and pleasant for most of the year, inviting us to spend hours immersed in it. It is perfect for a refreshing dip after sunbathing or for practicing water activities in total comfort. The combination of fine sand and serene, transparent waters makes Carrizalillo one of the most attractive Oaxaca beaches for those seeking relaxation and safety in the sea.

Services and Facilities

Despite being a relatively small cove with unique access, Playa Carrizalillo is well-equipped with services that ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay for all its visitors. It is not a virgin beach in the strict sense, but one that has managed to integrate amenities without losing its natural charm.

Services on the Beach

Once we descend the stairs and reach the sand, we find a series of palapas and small local businesses offering a variety of essential services. The first thing we notice is the availability of umbrellas and sun loungers for rent. This is ideal for protecting ourselves from the intense Oaxacan sun and enjoying a beach day in total comfort. Prices are usually reasonable and we can rent them for the whole day. Furthermore, there are small chiringuitos or food and drink stalls where we can buy everything from soft drinks and cold beers to fresh coconuts or snacks. These places usually also have basic bathrooms/WCs, which is very convenient.

Gastronomy and Security

Regarding