Playa Conejos is a little-known gem in Mexico’s vast collection of beautiful beaches. On the eastern edge of the bay sharing its name, it’s ideal for a day trip or as a base for exploring the lovely bays of Huatulco.
Read on to see why this beauty of a beach should be on your travel radar.
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Where is Playa Conejos, Oaxaca?
Playa Conejos—or Rabbit Beach for the gringo—is located on the southern coastline of Mexico’s Oaxaca State in a small bay called Bahia Conejos (Rabbit Bay).
The series of picturesque bays (nine to be exact) that line this section of the coast is commonly known as Huatulco, after its largest settlement Santa Maria Huatulco.
From a traveler’s point of view, Huatulco refers to the entire string of lush, irregular coastline and its many beaches, with Playa Conejos a hidden pearl in this necklace of natural beauty.
Why Visit Conejos Beach, Huatulco?
Looking for that delicious combination of soft white sand, calm azure water, and a high level of seclusion?
Well, you’ve found it. This is a great place to lay your towel.
Even the nearby high-end resort doesn’t change the fact that this 500-meter-long (1,640 feet), slightly-sloped crescent of sand protected by rocky outcrops is a great place to relax away from the crowds.
As a bonus, the beach is known to be seaweed free—a vital selling point compared to other Mexican beaches plagued by sargassum at certain times of the year.
Things to do in Playa los Conejos, Huatulco
Once you’ve had your fill of lounging around in the sun in Playa Conejos, there are lots of things to do and see in the area.
Diving and Snorkeling
Those warm, clear waters that drew you to the shoreline are also a fun playground for divers and snorkelers. Good conditions and calm seas make exploring the underwater scenery fun for experts and beginners.
Huatulco National Park
Part of a UNESCO Biosphere Preserve, Huatulco National Park is a gorgeous natural attraction only about a 10-20 minute drive to the west. Comprising protected areas of both land and sea, you can immerse yourself in lowland jungle, mangroves, pristine reefs and coastline.
Visit on your own, or take an organized tour for an optimized experience.
Are There Any Facilities at Playa Conejos?
Despite the secluded vibe, there are some amenities available.
You’ll have access to loungers, umbrellas, and a beachside restaurant to keep you fueled on your day at the beach.
Is Playa Conejos Free?
Yes, you can enter Playa Conejos without spending even one peso.
Though all beaches in Mexico are open to the public and theoretically free, gaining access to them sometimes involves a fee. But not here.
Even the presence of the posh resort won’t prevent you from easily accessing the beach from the nearby road.
Nearby Beaches to Playa Conejos, Huatulco
With nine bays and 36 beaches, Playa Conejos isn’t your only venue for fun in the sun in Huatulco. Below are some of the best options.
Punta Arenas Beach
Best beach for walking
Just west of Playa Conejos and approximately one kilometer in length (.62 miles), Punta Arenas beach offers a broad, sandy expanse perfect for strolling–making it one of the best places for a beach walk.
You’re free to go for a swim here. Just bear in mind that the surf is relatively stronger here than at other area beaches.
Arena Beach
Best beach for viewing nature
The small Arena Beach is a great place to see some local flora and fauna—especially during turtle nesting season (approximately July-November) when marine turtles arrive to deposit their eggs.
Once you dig your toes into the smooth sand and warm, green-blue water, you’ll have no problem figuring out why they choose this spot.
Tejoncito Beach
Best beach for finding seclusion
Approximately five kilometers west of Bahia Conejos is the cozy yet private Tejoncito Beach or Little Badger Beach. Apparently, there is an animal-naming theme here.
For a secluded afternoon splashing around in warm, blue-green water, Tejoncito Beach is a great little getaway.
Where to Stay in Playa Conejos?
As mentioned, there’s a plush beach resort right on Playa Conejos’ doorstep. So if you wish to splurge in luxury, this is an excellent place to do so.
However, the greater Huatulco area contains many lodging options to fit all budgets. Hotels range from high-end all-inclusive resorts to small, boutique hotels.
In fact, you don’t even have to stay in a hotel at all.
With a growing expat community, many rental properties are available at reasonable prices to help make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Where to Eat in Playa Conejos?
Whatever your preference might be, you can take comfort in knowing that there is a wide range of dining options all along the coast.
Whichever bay you choose, you’ll have the option of great local fare and, on occasion, international cuisine as well.
Map of Playa Conejos
Now that you’re ready to book your tickets, check out this map so you’ll know all the places nearby.
How to Get to Playa Conejos
For international travelers arriving in Mexico by air, the best airport for Huatulco is Bahias de Huatulco International Airport (code HUX).
No matter where you are in the country, getting around in Mexico presents you with several options. You can either drive yourself, take a taxi, or for the sake of convenience, take a shuttle out to Playa Conejos from the airport, which is about 29 km (18 mi.) away.
A Few Final Words About Playa Conejos
This sweet beach is not an internationally renowned beach destination—and that’s exactly why you should come.
For a relaxing, authentic and natural outpost on Mexico’s lovely Pacific Coast, Playa Conejos is the perfect place for a beach vacation.
FAQ
It’s Bahia de Huatulco International Airport (HUX), 29 km (18 mi) away.
The closest town would be Santa Maria Huatulco, though all along the coast are villages and development.
As an established tourist destination, Huatulco and its bays are a safe area. Still, common sense and usual vigilance when traveling are always good ideas.
Absolutely! The water is warm, clear and inviting. So, by all means, take a dip!
