Playa Marinero
A beautiful Oaxacan beach known for its morning fishing, beginner-friendly surf, and stunning sunsets, adjacent to the famous Zicatela.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas & fresh fish
Playa Marinero
Best Time
Calm seas & fresh fish
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful Oaxacan beach known for its morning fishing, beginner-friendly surf, and stunning sunsets, adjacent to the famous Zicatela.
"Calm mornings, fresh fish, and beautiful sunsets make this beach a must-visit."
🎣 Morning Fish Market
Buy fresh fish directly from fishermen in the morning for a delicious meal.
🏄♀️ Beginner Surf Spot
Waves are gentler here than Zicatela, great for learning to surf.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Morning Fishing Scene
Shoreline
Witness local fishermen bringing in their fresh catch as the sun rises. A vibrant and authentic start to the day.
Surfing for Beginners
Between Marinero and Zicatela Bays
Moderate waves make this spot ideal for beginner surfers or those wanting to practice in a less intense environment than Zicatela.
Tranquil Beach Vibes
Beachfront
Enjoy a less crowded beach experience with white sand and beautiful ocean views, perfect for relaxation.
Stunning Sunsets
Western Horizon
The sky puts on a spectacular show as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Morning Calm, Afternoon Waves
Proximity to Zicatela
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Morning Fish Market
Buy fresh fish directly from fishermen in the morning for a delicious meal.
🏄♀️ Beginner Surf Spot
Waves are gentler here than Zicatela, great for learning to surf.
💰 Affordable Loungers
Rent beach chairs for around 100 pesos, a good deal compared to other beaches.
🚶♀️ Walkable to Zicatela
Easily walk to the neighboring Zicatela beach for more dining and activity options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Morning Fish Market
Buy fresh fish directly from fishermen in the morning for a delicious meal.
🏄♀️ Beginner Surf Spot
Waves are gentler here than Zicatela, great for learning to surf.
💰 Affordable Loungers
Rent beach chairs for around 100 pesos, a good deal compared to other beaches.
🚶♀️ Walkable to Zicatela
Easily walk to the neighboring Zicatela beach for more dining and activity options.
🌊 Be Wary of Strong Waves
While calmer than Zicatela, some areas still have powerful waves; swim with caution.
🤝 Donate Surf Gear
Donate unused surf items for local kids at Playa Marinero.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Marinero is appreciated for its beautiful scenery, especially during the tranquil mornings and stunning sunsets. Visitors enjoy the opportunity to buy fresh fish from local fishermen and find it a good spot for beginner surfers. However, the strong afternoon waves make it unsafe for swimming for many.
"In the morning you can buy fresh fish from fishermen"
Yaro Traveler
"Beautiful"
Abel Martinez
"Small beach that is used a lot for fishing in the morning, it is next to Zicatela so the waves are still huge and very violent, the difference in sea level does not allow swimming. But the view is beautiful."
Dani nc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Marinero is conveniently located next to Playa Zicatela. You can take a taxi or local transport to Zicatela and walk over. Some videos mention it's only about a 30-minute journey from Puerto Escondido itself.
Yes, you can easily walk between Playa Marinero and Playa Zicatela. Some travelers note you can walk from one beach to another in under a minute.
Local buses and colectivos run along the main road in Puerto Escondido, which will get you close to the Zicatela area, from where Playa Marinero is a short walk.
While not explicitly mentioned, parking is generally available in the vicinity of Zicatela, and from there, it's a short walk to Playa Marinero.
Hotel Santa Fe, located between Playa Zicatela and Marinero, is about 4 km from the Puerto Escondido International Airport, making it a relatively short transfer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playa Marinero is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it.
Beaches in Puerto Escondido are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Early mornings are popular for fishing and calmer seas.
No, booking is not required for general access to Playa Marinero. It's a public beach.
General beach rules apply. Be mindful of the powerful waves, especially in the afternoon, and respect the local environment.
While not guaranteed, you might find opportunities to rent surfboards or bodyboards, especially in the areas catering to surfers.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Playa Marinero has calmer waters in the morning, making it suitable for swimming. However, by afternoon, the waves become very large and violent, similar to Zicatela, making it unsafe for swimming.
You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming (in the morning), surfing (especially for beginners), watching the sunset, and observing local fishing activities. 
Yes, lounge chairs are available for rent, typically around 100 pesos, which is considered affordable.
Yes, facilities like bathrooms and showers are available for visitors.
Playa Marinero is generally less crowded than its neighbor, Zicatela, offering a more relaxed atmosphere, especially in the mornings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While direct vendors might be limited on the beach itself, the proximity to Zicatela means there are numerous restaurants and beach clubs nearby offering food and drinks.
The adjacent Playa Zicatela has a wide array of restaurants, from casual beachfront palapas to more upscale dining options.
Absolutely! In the early morning, you can buy fresh fish directly from the fishermen who are returning from their catch.
While Playa Marinero itself might not have dedicated beach clubs, the nearby Zicatela area offers several options, some with day passes. +1
Food prices can vary. Beach clubs might have minimum spends or day pass fees, while local eateries offer more budget-friendly options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant morning fishing scene, the dramatic waves crashing, and the breathtaking sunsets. The meeting point of the lagoon and the sea is also picturesque.
Yes, Playa Marinero offers stunning sunset views, making it a prime spot for photographers looking to capture golden hour.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers and wildlife before flying a drone.
Early morning offers soft light and activity, while late afternoon provides dramatic light for sunsets. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing wave action.
Look out for the local fishermen, the unique marine life if you're lucky, and the dramatic interplay of waves and coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the early morning to enjoy the calmer conditions and witness the local fishing activity, which can be educational and engaging for kids. While direct amenities like playgrounds might be scarce on Marinero itself, the proximity to Zicatela means you're not far from areas with more services. Bringing your own beach toys and snacks is recommended.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Even if you're not surfing, the dynamic wave action is captivating to watch. The beach's location, bordering Zicatela Bay, means you're right in the heart of Puerto Escondido's surf culture. For those looking to donate gear, there's a community initiative to give surf equipment to local children.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Lovers
+1It's a less commercialized spot compared to some other beaches, allowing for more natural and candid shots. The dramatic waves crashing against the shore, especially as the sun dips below the horizon, create incredibly photogenic moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing and Water Activities
Beyond surfing, the beach's unique geography, where a freshwater lagoon meets the sea, creates interesting conditions. In the early mornings, the sea is typically calmer, providing a safer window for swimming and cooling off. However, as the day progresses, the waves can become quite strong and violent, characteristic of the Oaxacan coast. Visitors are advised to be aware of the sea conditions and swim in designated safe areas, often found between the main bay and Zicatela Bay.
For those interested in marine life, there are opportunities to witness it, especially during calmer periods. Some visitors have noted the possibility of seeing marine life, adding another layer of appeal to the beach's natural beauty.
The Local Fishing Culture
This morning ritual creates a lively and authentic atmosphere. It's a chance to interact with the local culture and experience a slice of daily life in Puerto Escondido. The sight of the colorful fishing boats against the backdrop of the rising sun is a memorable scene.
Beyond the morning sales, the presence of fishing boats and nets adds to the visual character of the beach. It's a reminder of the deep connection between the community and the sea, a heritage that defines many coastal towns in Oaxaca.
Sunset Spectacles and Beach Relaxation
+1While the afternoon waves can be challenging for swimming, the beach itself offers a relaxing environment. Visitors can rent lounge chairs for a nominal fee, allowing them to comfortably soak in the sun and the ocean views. The beach is generally less crowded than its famous neighbor, Zicatela, providing a more peaceful experience.
Playa Marinero's appeal lies in its dual nature: a hub of morning activity with its fishing culture and a serene spot for evening relaxation and sunset appreciation. Its proximity to Zicatela also means you can easily experience the best of both worlds.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit