La Punta and Playa Marinero

La Punta is the neighborhood that sits where the old town meets the surf coast. It takes its name from the rocky point at the end of Zicatela, and over the years it has become a bohemian corner with small cafes, bakeries, yoga studios, bars, boutique guesthouses and international restaurants. A short stroll away is Playa Marinero, a quieter stretch of sand with gentler water than Zicatela, popular with local families and travelers who want a swim. Together, the two places form a relaxed alternative to the busier beachfront: easier to wander, easier to eat well, and easier to rest between more energetic activities.

La Punta’s appeal is its scale. The streets are small, the buildings are low and the spaces between them are filled with hammocks, plants and painted walls. In the morning, travelers gather at cafes for coffee, smoothie bowls and eggs, and surfers walk through with boards under their arms. In the evening, restaurants shift to dinner service, and a few bars and live music venues come to life.

The mix of travelers, long-stay visitors and locals gives the area a friendly, slightly international feel. It is an ideal place to try different cuisines, from local seafood to wood-fired pizza and vegetarian plates, without traveling far.

Playa Marinero lies close by and is easier to enjoy than the exposed surf beaches. Here the sand is gentler and the waves often smaller, which makes it better for casual swimming and for watching the sun go down over the water. Fishermen sometimes launch boats from the sand, and in the evening families, dog walkers and vendors move along the shoreline.

Conditions still change with the swell, so check the water and respect any flags. Because the bay is more sheltered, it is also a calmer place to read, nap and listen to waves. Wear sun protection, because shade can be limited.

For a simple day, begin with a long breakfast in La Punta, then walk down to Marinero for a swim. Afterward, wander the lanes browsing shops and cafes, and stop for a snack or fresh juice. As the heat fades, return to the sand to watch the sunset and then pick a restaurant for dinner. The area is a short taxi ride from Zicatela and the old town, so it is easy to combine with other plans.

Prices tend to be moderate, and many places accept cards, though cash remains useful. If you are staying nearby, the area is easy to explore on foot, and a few local studios offer classes in yoga, surfing or Spanish for those who want to stay longer.

Because this part of town lives on foot, it also suits travelers who dislike relying on taxis. You can find a pharmacy, a laundry service, a small grocery and a bike rental within a few blocks, which makes longer stays comfortable. Evenings are friendly rather than rowdy, so it is a good base for people who want music and conversation but still plan to get up early for a wave or a morning swim.