You’ll find Playa Carrizalillo tucked into a small cove near Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, so be ready to descend a long, steep staircase to reach the soft sand and sheltered turquoise water. It’s perfect for swimming, beginner surfing and snorkeling when the swell is moderate, and a few palapa restaurants and rental shops sit on the cliff above, but services and parking are limited so bring cash, water and sun protection. Go in the morning for calmer conditions and fewer crowds; note the stairs and rocky paths make it unsuitable for wheelchairs or heavy luggage, and currents can pick up at certain tides so swim where other people are present.