Carrizalillo Beach Puerto Escondido
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Carrizalillo Beach Puerto Escondido

4.5
·1k reviews·, Mexico

A stunning cove with turquoise waters, perfect for beginner surfers, swimmers, and snorkelers, accessed by a scenic staircase.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer waters

CrowdLow
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Carrizalillo Beach Puerto Escondido

Carrizalillo Beach Puerto Escondido

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer waters

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning cove with turquoise waters, perfect for beginner surfers, swimmers, and snorkelers, accessed by a scenic staircase.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"The most beautiful beach in all of Puerto Escondido. Highly recommend for any visitors!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Stair Workout Ahead!

Be ready for ~160 steps down and up. Wear comfy shoes and bring water! :athletic_shoe:

🏄‍♀️ Learn to Surf Here

Carrizalillo is perfect for beginner surfers with its gentle waves. Lessons available! :surfer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turquoise Waters & Gentle Waves

Turquoise Waters & Gentle Waves

Main beach area

Crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. Ideal for a refreshing dip.

Instagram+1
Beginner Surf Spot

Beginner Surf Spot

Western end of the beach

Gentle, rolling waves make it a prime location for learning to surf. Surf lessons are readily available.

TikTokInstagram+1
Snorkeling Adventures

Snorkeling Adventures

Rocky areas near the shore

Discover vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and even turtles, in the calm waters.

TikTokReddit
Scenic Overlook Views

Scenic Overlook Views

Top of the stairs

Breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and coastline. Perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Carrizalillo Stairs

Be prepared for the descent and ascent! Around 160 steps lead down to Carrizalillo Beach, offering a workout with a stunning reward. Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. TikTokReddit

Beat the Crowds for Serenity

Carrizalillo can get busy, especially mid-day. Arrive early morning to enjoy the tranquil turquoise waters and gentle waves before the crowds arrive. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Carrizalillo my love🌊🌴 #fyp #parati #fypシ #mexico #oaxaca #oaxacamexico #puertoescondido #puertoescondidooaxaca #carrizalillo #playacarrizalillo #playa #rainbow #overtherainbow
@carlosortuo
222K likes • 2.3M views

👟 Stair Workout Ahead!

Be ready for ~160 steps down and up. Wear comfy shoes and bring water! TikTokReddit :athletic_shoe:

🏄‍♀️ Learn to Surf Here

Carrizalillo is perfect for beginner surfers with its gentle waves. Lessons available! TikTokInstagram :surfer:

🫣🫣🫣🫣 🌀🌀🌀 #puertoescondido #puertoescondidooaxaca #puertoescondidomexico #oaxaca
@vero.casillas1
194.1K likes • 5.1M views
Escondida en Puerto Escondido, la playa Carizalillo es un rincón mágico con hermosos paisajes y el perfecto oleaje para aprender a surfear. ¿Listo para explorarlo? Envíanos un mensaje y vive Puerto Escondido como nunca antes. —— 
Hidden in Puerto Escondido, Carrizalillo Beach is a magical spot with stunning landscapes and the perfect waves to learn how to surf. Ready to explore it? Send us a ...
bahiasplus
21 likes • 1.1K views

🐠 Snorkel for Sea Life

Great spot for snorkeling; you might see fish and turtles! TikTokReddit :tropical_fish:

💰 Pack Cash for Extras

Palapa rentals and some vendors may be cash-only. Prices can be a bit higher. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido Oaxaca 🇲🇽 . Visita la playa más limpia y hermosa de Puerto Escondido. Si vienes no olvides llevarte tu basura o ponerla en su lugar. Ayudemos a mantener las playas de esta hermosa costa lo mas limpias posible. . #puertoescondido #puertoescondidooaxaca #puertoescondidooaxaca🌊☀️🏄 #surf #surfing #surfboard #carrizalillo #carrizalillobeach #carrizalillooaxaca #beach #b...
ecoadventurespuertoescondido
831 likes • 17.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Stair Workout Ahead!

Be ready for ~160 steps down and up. Wear comfy shoes and bring water! TikTokReddit :athletic_shoe:

🏄‍♀️ Learn to Surf Here

Carrizalillo is perfect for beginner surfers with its gentle waves. Lessons available! TikTokInstagram :surfer:

🐠 Snorkel for Sea Life

Great spot for snorkeling; you might see fish and turtles! TikTokReddit :tropical_fish:

💰 Pack Cash for Extras

Palapa rentals and some vendors may be cash-only. Prices can be a bit higher. Reddit :moneywithwings:

♻️ Pack Out Your Trash

Help keep this beautiful beach clean by taking your trash with you. Instagram :recycle:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Carrizalillo Beach is lauded as one of Puerto Escondido's most beautiful spots, praised for its clear turquoise waters, gentle waves perfect for beginner surfers and swimmers, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors appreciate the scenic views and the convenience of beachside amenities, though some note the stairs can be a workout and prices for rentals and services can be on the higher side.

"Good place to chill, strong waves,but heard that other places you can't even get in the water. Be ready to spend some money for everything, even to throw your trash away. Overall, great place to visit for sure, even getting surf lessons."

Edgar Castillo

"Beautiful place to relax. Good wave action but tame enough for a lot of people to swim in. I think I counted about 160 steps or so from the parking area above, so it's a workout. A little pricey to sit under a palapa. A lot of surfers come here."

Duncan McAuley

"Great local beach… be careful of the strong waves and be prepared for some steps.. otherwise great place to spend the day.. rent a chair and relax"

Akash Singh

What People Like

Beautiful turquoise water
Great for beginner surf
Good for swimming & snorkeling

What People Dislike

Many stairs to access
Can get crowded
Higher prices for rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Carrizalillo Beach is located a short distance from the main town of Puerto Escondido. Taxis or colectivos (shared vans) are common ways to get there. Many visitors opt for a taxi for convenience. Once you arrive at the top, you'll see signs for the beach and the stairs leading down. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is parking available at the top of the cliff before you descend the stairs. It's often a small lot, so arriving early can help secure a spot. TikTok

Motorcycles and taxis are popular choices for getting around Puerto Escondido and accessing its various beaches. Colectivos are also an option for budget-conscious travelers. TikTok

The primary access to Carrizalillo Beach involves descending and ascending a significant number of stairs (around 160). This may pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues. TikTokReddit

Depending on your starting point, it might be a considerable walk. It's generally recommended to take a taxi or colectivo for efficiency, especially if you're not staying very close by. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Carrizalillo Beach itself is free to access. You only pay for services like chair rentals, food, and drinks. Instagram

The beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times, but it's advisable to leave before it gets too dark for safety reasons. TikTok

No advance booking is required to visit Carrizalillo Beach. It's a public beach, and you can simply show up. TikTok

While you can bring your own snacks and drinks, there are beachside restaurants and bars that offer food and beverages. Some visitors note that prices can be a bit higher. Reddit

Yes, you can rent lounge chairs and palapas (thatched umbrellas) at Carrizalillo Beach. Be prepared for these rentals to be on the pricier side, with some reviews mentioning around $15 USD. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

Carrizalillo Beach is perfect for swimming, relaxing, learning to surf, and snorkeling. The calm waters are ideal for a variety of water activities. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Carrizalillo Beach is known for its gentle, rolling waves, making it an excellent spot for beginner surfers. Experienced surfers might find it less challenging. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The clear waters and rocky areas make it a great place for snorkeling, where you can spot various fish and even sea turtles. TikTokReddit

Carrizalillo Beach can become quite crowded, especially during peak hours and seasons. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to avoid the biggest crowds. Instagram+1

The water at Carrizalillo Beach is known for being clear, calm, and turquoise, making it very inviting for swimming and other water activities. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are beachside restaurants and bars where you can enjoy food and drinks while relaxing on the sand. InstagramReddit

You can typically find fresh seafood, local Oaxacan dishes, and refreshing drinks like cocktails and juices at the beachside eateries. Reddit

Some visitors note that prices for food, drinks, and chair rentals can be a bit higher than in other parts of Puerto Escondido, so it's good to be aware of this. Reddit

While you can bring your own, it's common for visitors to purchase from the beachside establishments. It's always a good idea to check local regulations if you plan to bring a large cooler. Reddit

Expect to find refreshing options like coconuts, fresh juices, and cocktails, perfect for a hot day at the beach. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoint at the top of the stairs offers stunning panoramic shots of the bay. The beach itself, with its turquoise water and surfers, also makes for beautiful photos. TikTok

While drone footage can capture the beauty of Carrizalillo Beach, be mindful of local regulations and other beachgoers. The cove's layout can offer unique aerial perspectives. TikTok

Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon provides a warm, golden hour glow. Instagram

Capturing surfers catching waves, the vibrant turquoise water, and the lush green cliffs surrounding the bay are popular photo subjects. TikTokInstagram

Yes, some local services offer photo and video sessions, especially for surf lessons, allowing you to capture your experience. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Carrizalillo Beach offers a more relaxed swimming experience compared to some of Puerto Escondido's wilder beaches, making it a good option for families. The turquoise waters are generally calmer, and the gentle waves are suitable for younger swimmers. TikTokInstagram However, parents should be aware of the ~160 stairs down and back up, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. TikTokReddit There are beachside spots to grab snacks and drinks, adding to the convenience for families. Reddit Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure a more comfortable experience for everyone. Instagram

🏄‍♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts

Carrizalillo is a prime spot for beginner and intermediate surfers due to its consistent, gentle waves. TikTokInstagram+1 You'll find plenty of surf schools offering lessons and board rentals right on the beach. TikTok Beyond surfing, the clear waters are excellent for snorkeling, with opportunities to see marine life. TikTokReddit While not as powerful as Zicatela, the waves still offer a fun challenge for those looking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the ocean. TikTok

📸 Photographers and Content Creators

The scenic beauty of Carrizalillo Beach makes it a photographer's delight. The viewpoint at the top of the stairs provides a breathtaking panorama of the cove, perfect for capturing the essence of Puerto Escondido. TikTok The vibrant turquoise water, lush green cliffs, and surfers add dynamic elements to photos and videos. TikTokInstagram Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer distractions, ideal for capturing serene shots. Instagram Local services are also available for those looking to document their surf lessons or beach experience professionally. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Stairs and Access

The most distinctive feature of Carrizalillo Beach is its access. A set of approximately 160 stairs descends from the cliff top to the sandy shore. TikTokReddit This means it's a bit of a workout to get down and, more importantly, back up! Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear and bring water, especially on warmer days. While this can be a deterrent for some, the effort is widely considered worth it for the beauty that awaits. Reddit

For those with mobility concerns, this beach might present a challenge. However, for most visitors, the stair climb is a manageable part of the experience, often described as a good way to earn your relaxation time on the beach. Reddit The top of the stairs offers a fantastic viewpoint, providing a preview of the stunning cove below and a great spot for initial photos. TikTok

Carrizalillo for Surfing and Snorkeling

Carrizalillo Beach is a gem for water sports enthusiasts, particularly for beginners. The waves here are known for being gentler and more consistent than some of the more powerful breaks in Puerto Escondido, making it an ideal spot to learn how to surf. TikTokInstagram+1 Numerous surf schools operate on the beach, offering lessons and board rentals for all skill levels. The calm, clear waters also make it a fantastic location for snorkeling. TikTokReddit You can often spot a variety of colorful fish and even sea turtles swimming near the rocky areas of the bay. Reddit

While Zicatela is famous for its challenging surf, Carrizalillo offers a more relaxed and accessible experience for those wanting to try surfing or enjoy a peaceful swim. TikTok The combination of good waves for learning and excellent snorkeling conditions makes Carrizalillo a versatile beach destination within Puerto Escondido. TikTokReddit

The Vibe and Amenities at Carrizalillo

Carrizalillo Beach is often described as a beautiful, secluded cove with a relaxed atmosphere. Instagram+1 Despite its charm, it can get quite busy, especially during peak times, leading some to compare it to a bustling market. Instagram However, the presence of beach bars and restaurants adds to the convenience and enjoyment of a day spent here. Reddit You can rent lounge chairs and palapas for shade, though be prepared for these to be on the pricier side. Reddit Many visitors enjoy the convenience of having food and drinks readily available, contributing to a hassle-free beach day. Reddit

It's important to note that while the beach is beautiful, some reviewers mention that prices for services like chair rentals can be higher than expected. Reddit Additionally, a strong emphasis is placed on environmental responsibility, with visitors encouraged to take their trash with them to help maintain the beach's pristine condition. Instagram This blend of natural beauty, available amenities, and a community focus on cleanliness defines the Carrizalillo experience. Instagram

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