Playa Zicatela

Playa Zicatela is the biggest and one of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido. It’s easy to reach from the town with street parking nearby. The 3.5km long sandy beach is a popular surfing spot with plenty of wave action from the famous “Mexican Pipeline” at the northern end of the beach. This tubular wave can reach up to 20 feet in height providing a spectacle to watch pro-surfers riding it.

However, the surf can be treacherous for swimmers with a lethal undertow - beginner surfers beware! There are lifeguards on duty who perform rescues on a regular basis. Red flag warnings are almost a permanent fixture.

However, even for non-surfers, the beach is beautiful with golden sand and a laid-back ambience. The water is clean but often murky due to the strong wave action and currents.

There are local bars, restaurants and cafes lining the bay with everything from Mexican street food to upscale European cuisine. It’s a good spot for nightlife too.

The south end of the beach is popular with backpackers and those in search of a more alternative lifestyle. Unpaved roads lead to yoga retreats and vegan cafes all near or overlooking the beach. The gentler wave action at this end is also good for beginner surfers.

Other popular activities at Playa Zicatela include beach volleyball, sunbathing, yoga and watching the sunset from a swinging hammock.