Bacocho
Playa Bacocho: A tranquil Oaxacan beach known for its stunning sunsets and heartwarming baby turtle releases. Escape the crowds and embrace nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Turtle release time
Bacocho
Best Time
Turtle release time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Playa Bacocho: A tranquil Oaxacan beach known for its stunning sunsets and heartwarming baby turtle releases. Escape the crowds and embrace nature.
"A beautiful, quiet beach perfect for sunset and releasing baby turtles – a must-do in Puerto Escondido!"
🐢 Turtle Release Tickets
Purchase tickets directly at the Vive Mar sanctuary for the turtle release. It's cheaper than booking a tour.
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
There's no natural shade on Playa Bacocho, so pack an umbrella or beach tent for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baby Turtle Release
Vive Mar Turtle Sanctuary
Participate in releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean at sunset. A truly heartwarming and unforgettable conservation experience.
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Spectacular Sunsets
The entire beach
Playa Bacocho offers breathtaking sunset views, painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific. Perfect for romantic evenings or peaceful reflection.
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The Heart Photo Op
Shoreline
Create a memorable 'heart' shape with your hands or body on the sand for a unique photo opportunity against the ocean backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Release Timing is Key
+1Embrace the Natural Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Turtle Release Tickets
Purchase tickets directly at the Vive Mar sanctuary for the turtle release. It's cheaper than booking a tour.
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
There's no natural shade on Playa Bacocho, so pack an umbrella or beach tent for comfort.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities mean you should bring your own refreshments. Stay hydrated and fueled!
🚗 Taxi Tip
Taxis are available, but consider walking up the road for more options on your return trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Turtle Release Tickets
Purchase tickets directly at the Vive Mar sanctuary for the turtle release. It's cheaper than booking a tour.
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
There's no natural shade on Playa Bacocho, so pack an umbrella or beach tent for comfort.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities mean you should bring your own refreshments. Stay hydrated and fueled!
🚗 Taxi Tip
Taxis are available, but consider walking up the road for more options on your return trip.
📸 Heart Photo Pose
Get creative with your 'heart' photo on the sand; position it close to the shore for the best effect.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Bacocho is praised for its serene, natural beauty and the heartwarming baby turtle release. Visitors appreciate its quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and stunning sunsets. However, the lack of amenities like shade and convenient stores means visitors must come prepared.
"Beautiful long beach that is much quieter than the others in this area. The waves are bigger so not so great if you’re not a strong swimmer. Perfect spot to watch the sunset with a Pina colada from the beach bar. You can release baby sea turtles at 5pm everyday too."
Sophie Barton
"There’s no shade so be prepared to bring your own. It’s very quiet and has no water activities, rental gear, snack shacks or convenient stores nearby. It’s a walk down a dusty hill. It’s definitely not for folks who want to have conveniences or luxuries. It’s exactly my kind of beach…. It keeps the noisy and riff raft or tourists away."
FLUID BayArea
"Beautiful beach, not very crowded. You can release baby sea turtles at 5pm everyday, the hatchery is close to the parking lot. Lots of taxis but you may want to go up the road to get one on the way back"
Mitchell Wheatley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Bacocho is located north of Puerto Escondido. Many visitors take a taxi, which is a short ride. Some accommodations, like Posada Real, are within walking distance, saving on cab fare. If you're coming from further afield, consider local buses or colectivos.
Yes, Playa Bacocho is a well-known beach in Puerto Escondido. You can ask locals for directions or use GPS. The Vive Mar turtle sanctuary is a key landmark for the turtle release.
Yes, there is parking available near the beach, especially close to the turtle hatchery. However, be prepared for a walk down a dusty hill to reach the sand.
While taxis are common, local buses and colectivos can also get you close to the area. It's advisable to confirm routes and schedules with local transport providers.
Playa Bacocho is relatively close to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM). Some hotels near the airport, like Posada Real, are within walking distance of the beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for the baby turtle release at Playa Bacocho is typically around 100 pesos per person, paid directly at the Vive Mar sanctuary.
It's generally not necessary to book the turtle release in advance. You can purchase tickets on-site at the Vive Mar sanctuary before the daily release.
Playa Bacocho itself is accessible throughout the day. The main attraction, the baby turtle release, typically happens daily around 5 PM.
There is no general entrance fee for Playa Bacocho itself. The fee is associated with participating in the baby turtle release program at the Vive Mar sanctuary.
Yes, you can visit Playa Bacocho to enjoy the beach, watch the sunset, or relax without participating in the turtle release.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Playa Bacocho has larger waves and stronger currents, making it less ideal for casual swimming compared to other beaches like Carrizalillo. It's better suited for experienced swimmers or surfers.
Playa Bacocho is a natural beach with limited amenities. There is one snack bar, but it's recommended to bring your own shade, water, and snacks as there are no convenient stores nearby.
The sunset at Playa Bacocho is spectacular daily. Aim to be on the beach in the hour leading up to sunset for the most vibrant colors.
Yes, there are beach clubs like Club Bacocho and Club de Playa Villasol that offer pools, restaurants, and drinks, providing a more comfortable experience.
Playa Bacocho features golden sand. For the heart photo, the sand is denser near the shore, which is ideal for creating the shape.
📸 📸 Photography
The baby turtle release is a heartwarming photo opportunity.
Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. The turtle release also provides unique photographic moments.
The shoreline is perfect for the 'heart' photo. Many visitors also capture the expansive views of the beach and the ocean, especially during sunset.
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local ordinances and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sunsets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the waves can be strong, making swimming challenging, the beach offers plenty of space for kids to play in the sand. 💰 Budget Travelers
This is much cheaper than organized tours. Pack your own food and drinks to save on expenses, as there's only one snack bar on the beach. 💖 Couples & Romantics
The tranquil atmosphere and stunning ocean views create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening together. Consider visiting one of the beach clubs, such as Club Bacocho or Club de Playa Villasol, for a sunset cocktail and a romantic dinner with ocean views. +2 The baby turtle release can also be a shared, heartwarming experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Turtle Release
+2 This conservation effort allows visitors to actively participate in helping endangered sea turtles reach the ocean. The release typically occurs around 5 PM, just before sunset, making it a doubly magical experience. To participate, head to the Vive Mar sanctuary located near the beach. You'll pay a small fee, usually around 100 pesos, which directly supports their conservation work.
You'll be guided on how to gently hold and release the tiny hatchlings, a moment that is both educational and deeply moving. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting marine life and a highlight for many visitors to Puerto Escondido. +1Pro-tip: Arrive a little before 5 PM to get a good spot and learn about the turtles. While tours are available, visiting the sanctuary directly is more economical and offers a more personal experience.
Embracing the Natural Serenity of Bacocho
However, this natural charm comes with fewer amenities. Visitors should be prepared for this by bringing their own shade, such as an umbrella or beach tent, as there is no natural cover.
For those seeking a bit more comfort, beach clubs like Club Bacocho and Club de Playa Villasol offer amenities like pools, restaurants, and bars, providing a more curated beach experience.
+2 These clubs can be a great option if you want to enjoy the Bacocho scenery with added conveniences.Capturing Bacocho's Iconic Moments
The sunsets at Playa Bacocho are legendary, painting the sky with a spectacular array of colors.
+1 Aim to be on the beach in the late afternoon to capture the golden hour light and the dramatic transition from day to night. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the expansive ocean views and the vibrant sky. Of course, the baby turtle release provides incredibly photogenic and heartwarming moments.
Capturing the tiny hatchlings making their journey to the sea is a truly special experience. Remember to be respectful of the wildlife and the conservation efforts while taking your photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit