Oaxaca’s Coastal Beaches Playa Manzanillo & Angelito
Nestled in a sheltered bay with lush green cliffs, these side-by-side beaches are a local and tourist favorite in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.
With easy beach access, swimmable waters and a relaxed atmosphere, Playa Manzanillo & Playa Angelito are perfect to visit if you are looking for a fun, beautiful and safe beach.
Why Visit?
- Safe swimming & snorkeling – Perfect for families thanks to gentle waves and a reef full of marine life.
- Fresh seafood – Don’t miss the Dorado ceviche and fresh coconuts from beachfront restaurants like Puerto Angelito.
- Easy access – Just a short taxi ride from town, plus plenty of shade and lounge chairs for a full beach day.
Snorkeling and Swimming
The calm and shallow waters of the bay that surround both Manzanillo and Angelito make it an excellent spot for both swimming and snorkeling.
Rentals for snorkeling equipment and paddle boards are available here too.
There are some small fishing boats that navigate in and out of the bay (more so on the Playa Angelito side). Keep clear from the center of the bay if possible and stay along the sides near the coral reefs.
Thankfully, these fisherman do avoid any swimmers nearby. It’s a fun sight to see as the boats gear up and ram straight into the sand to pick up and drop off the next set of fishing tourists.
Playa Carrizalillo is another great beach for marine life sightings and calmer waters. You can rent paddle boards to watch the sea turtles swim below you, or snorkel and hang around the reefs near the edges of the bay as well.
Fresh Seafood
There are several seafood restaurants and palapa-type eateries to enjoy freshly caught seafood such as ceviche made from a local favorite, Dorado.
Dorado, or more commonly known as Mahi-mahi, is one of the most common types of fish caught in the area.
Restaurant Puerto Angelito was one of our favorite local restaurants for breakfast and lunch in the area.
There are ocean views from all seating arrangements with quick access to the beach. Regardless of the language barrier, the staff here were very friendly and accommodating. I loved drinking the freshly chopped coconut water!
Beach Access & Amenities
These beaches are both small and reside side-by-side to one another.
From the main road, there is a short pathway that takes you straight towards both beaches.
Once on the sand, there are plenty of shady palm trees and open lounge chairs. Available if you purchase food or beverages from the nearby cafés.
Vendors sometimes walk around selling souvenirs but are respectful to stay out of closed-off sections.
We found a perfect spot under a set of palm trees and ordered blended Piña Colada’s before jumping into the warm waters!
Travel Tip: Avoid peak holiday crowds by visiting on weekdays.
My Verdict
Manzanillo & Angelito feel like the best of both worlds – vibrant and lively, yet still relaxing.
It’s not a “hidden” beach, so expect company, but the atmosphere is friendly and the water is perfect for cooling off.
If you’re craving a mix of good food, safe swimming, and tropical scenery, this is a must-do in Puerto Escondido.
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