Puerto Escondido isn’t your typical Mexican beach town.
Yeah, there are palm trees and beaches for days. But Puerto Escondido has this edge to it—like it hasn’t been polished up for Instagram yet. Maybe it’s the surfers who never leave. Or the way the market still serves locals first, tourists second.
This beach destination in Mexico sits on the Pacific coast in Oaxaca state. It’s been attracting visitors for decades. Some come for a weekend. Many end up canceling their return flights.
I’m skipping the generic tourist board nonsense. This is what you actually need to know before you go.
Best Things to Do in Puerto Escondido
Here’s where it gets good. Puerto Escondido packs more into a small beach town than most cities manage.
1. Surf the Legendary Waves at Playa Zicatela
Zicatela is the main event. Period.
This beach runs for miles along the coast. The sand glows golden in the afternoon light. And the waves? They’re some of the heaviest in the world. Here a detailed guide to Playa La Ropa Beach.
First time I stood at the edge during a big swell, I felt this vibration in my ribs. Not just sound—actual pressure. The kind of power that makes experienced surfers nervous and beginners rethink their choices.
If there’s one thing Puerto Escondido is famous for, it’s this stretch of water.
Surfing in Puerto Escondido: What You Need to Know
Look, I’m going to be blunt: don’t try to learn surfing at Zicatela.
These waves hit hard. Ten to fifteen feet on a regular day. Bigger during swells. The current pulls. The bottom comes up shallow in spots. People get seriously hurt here.
The locals call it the Mexican Pipeline. That’s not tourism marketing. It’s a warning.
But for surfers who know what they’re doing? This is the spot. The consistency is wild. Good waves show up almost daily. The shape is world-class. International competitions happen here for a reason.
I’ve seen too many overconfident guys paddle out and get absolutely humbled within five minutes. The ocean will humble you real quick.
Best Surf Schools for Beginners
Now, if you’re new to surf, don’t give up yet.
Several surf schools operate around town. They know the calmer spots. Places where beginners won’t get destroyed. Most lessons run about two hours and cost $30 to $50.
Top-rated schools for beginners:
- Oasis Surf School – runs beginner sessions at Playa Manzanillo (the protected bay). Small groups, patient instructors.
- Central Surf – offers multi-day packages. Good for people staying a week who want progressive lessons.
- Carrizalillo Surf – teaches right at Carrizalillo beach. Calm water, perfect for first-timers.
You’ll get a board, a rash guard, and someone who actually knows what they’re doing. The instructors take newbies to protected beaches. Spots where the waves are manageable.
Book directly at their beach kiosks or through your hotel. Most places speak enough English to get you sorted. One or two surf lessons is usually enough to get up on the board. Whether you keep going after that? Your call.
2. Swim at the Beautiful Playa Carrizalillo
After Zicatela’s intensity, Playa Carrizalillo feels like a completely different world.
This small cove sits tucked between rocky cliffs. The water is actually calm here. Swimmable. The kind of place where kids splash around without their parents freaking out.
Top 5 Best Beaches In Holbox Island
And the color? That turquoise you see in photos that looks fake? It actually looks like that.
The beach has a relaxed vibe. A few restaurants serve fresh fish. Cold beer. Nothing fancy. Just good beach stuff.
Also experience swimming with Whale Sharks in Holbox
How to Get to Playa Carrizalillo
There’s a price of admission, though: 150 steps straight down a cliff.
About 150 steps lead down from the road. They’re solid. Well-maintained. Not dangerous. But they’re there.
Getting there: Take a taxi from Zicatela (about $3-4 USD, 5 minutes). Or rent a scooter and park at the top. The beach is well-signed from the main coastal road.
Going down takes five minutes. Coming back up in the afternoon heat? That’s the tax you pay for paradise.
Bring water. Take breaks. The view halfway down is worth stopping for anyway. There are also porters who’ll carry your stuff up and down for a small tip ($1-2 USD) if you’re traveling with beach gear or small kids.
My calves disagreed with me the first time, but yeah—totally worth it.
3. Watch Surfers at La Punta
La Punta sits at the west end of Zicatela. Over the past few years, it’s become the social center of Puerto Escondido.
The surf break here is gentler than Zicatela’s main section. Longboarders love it. Intermediate surfers too. But even if you don’t surf, La Punta works.
This is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Puerto Escondido. Maybe the best.
Restaurants and Bars in La Punta
La Punta has some seriously good restaurants. Like, surprisingly good for a beach town.
Must-try spots:
- La Punta Zicatela – right on the point. Fresh fish tacos, cold beer, tables in the sand. Gets packed at sunset.
- Almoraduz – upscale for the area. Great cocktails, creative menu. Reservations recommended for dinner.
- Kermit Surf Bar – casual beachfront spot. Live music some nights. Good vibe.
- Banzai – sushi and Asian fusion. Surprisingly good quality for a beach town.
Many places have communal tables right in the sand. It’s social. Welcoming. Easy to end up chatting with strangers.
As the sun drops, the whole area shifts. Vendors set up. Sometimes there’s live music. Everyone gathers to watch the sky do its thing.
Orange. Pink. Purple. The works.
Honestly? These sunsets are the reason I keep coming back to Mexico.
4. Release Baby Turtles at Bacocho Beach
Okay, full disclosure: this experience made me tear up a little.
Conservation groups around Puerto Escondido protect turtle nesting sites. They collect eggs, keep them safe, and then release the hatchlings when they’re ready.
You can help with the releases. Hold a tiny turtle. Place it on the sand. Watch it scramble instinctively toward the waves.
I’m not usually sentimental about wildlife stuff, but watching those tiny turtles scramble toward the ocean? Yeah, that got me.
Turtle Release Season and Times
The season runs June through December. Peak time is August to October.
Releases happen at sunset. That’s when the babies have the best shot at survival. Fewer predators in the dimming light.
How to participate:
- Vive Mar – one of the most active conservation groups. Find them on Facebook or ask at hotels. Usually releases start around 5:30-6:00 PM.
- Palmarito Sea Turtle Camp – runs organized releases. Small donation requested ($5-10 USD).
- Many hotels in Puerto Escondido can arrange transportation and bookings.
Show up 15-20 minutes early. Bring cash for donations. No flash photography (it disorients the hatchlings).
Local groups coordinate everything. That money goes straight to conservation work.
It’s one of those experiences that sticks with you.
5. Experience Bioluminescence at Manialtepec Lagoon Near Puerto Escondido
So you’re paddling through pitch black water—can’t see anything—and then suddenly… Every paddle stroke creates an explosion of blue-green light.
That’s bioluminescence. And Manialtepec Lagoon is where it happens.
The lagoon sits about 20 minutes outside of Puerto Escondido. After dark, it transforms. Microscopic organisms light up when disturbed. The effect is surreal. Like paddling through a sci-fi movie.
Best Time for Bioluminescence
New moon phases are best. The darker the sky, the brighter the glow.
Warmer months work better too. November through May typically delivers the most dramatic shows.
Recommended tour operators:
- Hidden Escondido Tours – small groups, knowledgeable guides. Book through their website or WhatsApp.
- Lalo Ecotours – local operator. Good prices, reliable. Most hotels can book for you.
- Manialtepec Adventures – includes dinner sometimes. Slightly pricier but comprehensive.
Tours leave in the evening and last 2-3 hours. Cost is usually $35-50 USD per person. Guides paddle you out into the lagoon. Once you’re far enough from shore, they’ll tell you to splash around. Some even let you jump in for a swim.
Pro tip: Check the lunar calendar before booking. Tours still run during full moon but the effect is much less dramatic. Also, book directly with operators to save on commission fees.
I jumped in and watched my arms glow blue-green underwater. Legitimately one of the weirdest things I’ve ever seen.
6. Go Whale Watching in Puerto Escondido
Every winter, humpback whales cruise through these waters.
Seeing them up close is something else. These animals are massive. Watching a mother teach her calf, or seeing a male breach dramatically? It puts things in perspective.
Whale watching in Puerto Escondido runs from December through March. February usually offers the best sightings.
Whale Watching Season
Tours last 2-3 hours and cost $50 to $80 per person.
Reputable operators:
- Deep Blue Dive – runs whale watching tours with experienced captains. Also offers diving/snorkeling trips.
- Fishing With Tico – primarily fishing tours but does whale watching in season. Small boats, personal attention.
- Lalo Ecotours – eco-focused operator. Good for families. Respectful whale-watching practices.
Book at least a day ahead during peak season (January-February). Hotels can arrange it, or book directly to save 10-20%.
Good operators keep their distance. They follow guidelines from Mexican environmental authorities (SEMARNAT). They don’t chase the whales or stress them out.
Bring sunscreen. A hat. A camera with decent zoom. The boat ride can get bumpy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, take something for it. Dramamine works. Take it 30 minutes before departure.
Expensive? Sure. Worth it? Absolutely.
7. Take a Puerto Escondido Food Tour
I could write 3,000 words just about the food here, but I’ll restrain myself.
A Puerto Escondido food tour runs 3-4 hours. A guide takes you to spots you’d never find alone. Street food. Family-run places. Hidden gems.
Recommended food tour operators:
- Puerto Food Tours – runs daily tours focused on local markets and street food. $45-65 USD.
- Oaxaca Food Tours – occasionally runs trips from Oaxaca City that include Puerto Escondido.
- Many hotels partner with local guides for private food experiences.
You’ll taste traditional Oaxacan dishes like tlayudas (giant crispy tortillas), tasajo (thin grilled beef), and fresh ceviche. Learn about ingredients. Understand why Oaxaca food culture is considered one of the best in Mexico.
Most tours include 6-8 tastings plus drinks. Come hungry.
Best Places to Eat in Puerto Escondido
From taco stands to sit-down restaurants, the range is impressive.
Top recommendations by category:
Breakfast:
- Cafecito – La Punta location. Best coffee in town. Great breakfast burritos.
- El Cafecito – different from above. On Zicatela. Acai bowls, avocado toast, healthy options.
- Frutas y Verduras – local market. Fresh juice, fruit plates. Super cheap ($2-3).
Seafood:
- La Olita – family-run. Been here forever. Amazing fish tacos and whole grilled fish.
- El Nene – right on the beach. Fresh catch daily. Try the aguachile.
- Pascale – upscale Italian-Mexican fusion. Great seafood pasta.
Street Food:
- Taco stands along Calle del Morro – multiple options after 7 PM. Fish, pork, beef. All good.
- Tacos El Charly – local favorite. Cheap. Delicious. Cash only.
Some of my best meals here cost $3 from a street cart. Others were $40 at sit-down places. Both were incredible. Sometimes it’s a humble cart. Sometimes it’s a place with actual napkins.
Oaxaca is known throughout Mexico for its cuisine. Puerto Escondido represents that tradition well. Fresh ingredients. Traditional recipes. Coastal seafood. The combination works.
8. Browse Mercado Benito Juárez
For a real taste of local life, hit the market in Puerto Escondido.
The market is complete sensory overload—in a good way, if you’re into that. Colorful produce piled high. Spices you can smell from across the room. Vendors calling out prices. Tourists trying to figure out what half the fruits are.
Morning is the best time to visit. Everything’s freshest. The energy is high.
This is where locals shop. Prices reflect that. You’ll find tropical fruits you’ve never seen. Dried chilies in every variety. Fresh-caught fish. Handmade crafts.
Grab some mangoes. Try the local cheese. Pick up textiles as souvenirs. If you need things neat and orderly, this will stress you out. Fair warning.
9. Rent a Scooter and Explore
One of the best ways to explore Puerto Escondido is by scooter.
Having a scooter completely changed my trip. Suddenly I could go anywhere without waiting for taxis. Zip between beaches. Stop at viewpoints. Venture outside of Puerto Escondido to hidden spots. Do it all at your own pace.
Rentals are everywhere. Daily rates run $15 to $25. Check the scooter’s condition first. Always wear a helmet. The roads get hilly and winding.
Where to rent:
- Alka Renta – multiple locations. Well-maintained fleet. Insurance options available.
- Rent a Scooter Puerto Escondido – near Zicatela. Good prices, flexible on pick-up/drop-off times.
- Most hotels can arrange rentals, though you’ll pay slightly more.
What you need: Valid driver’s license, passport, and cash deposit (usually $100-200 USD or credit card hold).
The coastal road toward Mazunte is particularly good. Ocean views. Multiple beaches. Places worth exploring Puerto Escondido wouldn’t show you otherwise.
Safety note: Roads are narrow with occasional potholes. Watch for speed bumps (topes). Drive defensively. Mexican insurance doesn’t always cover scooter accidents, so ride carefully.
Best Day Trips from Puerto Escondido
Got extra time? The surrounding area is worth it. A day trip from Puerto Escondido opens up even more options.
Mazunte and Zipolite Beaches
About an hour’s drive gets you to these two beaches.
Mazunte has a turtle conservation center. Bohemian vibe. Small. Walkable. The kind of place where everyone knows everyone.
Zipolite is different. It’s Mexico’s only official nude beach. Alternative culture. Acceptance. Not for everyone, but interesting.
You can easily hit both beaches in one day if you start early. The drive itself is scenic too.
Laguna de Chacahua National Park
This protected wetland sits about 90 minutes west.
The journey to Chacahua from Puerto Escondido takes you through small villages. Eventually you reach boat launches. From there, you transfer to a panga—a small boat—for the ride through mangrove channels.
The park has crocodiles. Tons of bird species. Beaches that feel completely private. Many tours include lunch at restaurants you can only reach by boat.
Chacahua feels like stepping back 30 years. Way more remote, barely any development.
Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido
Where you stay completely changes your experience. Zicatela, La Punta, and Rinconada might as well be different towns.
Best Area for Surfers: Zicatela Beach
If surf is your thing, stay on Zicatela.
You’ll be steps from the waves. Fall asleep to the sound of crashing water. Wake up ready to paddle out. The vibe is casual. Active. Lots of hotels to choose from in Puerto Escondido, from cheap hostels to nicer spots.
Hotel recommendations on Zicatela:
- Bungalows Zicatela – mid-range, pool, close to the action. $60-80/night.
- Hotel Arcoiris – budget-friendly, social atmosphere. $30-50/night.
- Hotel Escondido – luxury boutique property. Beautiful design, excellent restaurant. $200+/night.
- Casa Losodeli – hostel. Dorms from $15. Party vibe. Young crowd.
Book early during high season (November-March) as the best places fill up.
Best Area for Families: Rinconada
This neighborhood is quieter. Calmer beaches. More residential.
Perfect for families with young kids. Swimmable water. Relaxed atmosphere. Several hotels here have pools and space.
Best Area for Nightlife: La Punta
Want to be where things happen? La Punta is it.
Close to the best restaurants. Bars. That sunset spot everyone talks about. The energy is vibrant. Social. Easy to meet people.
If you’re looking for one of the best places to stay in Puerto Escondido for nightlife, this is the answer.
Hotels in La Punta area:
- Punta Zicatela Hotel – right on the beach. Modern. Social atmosphere. $70-100/night.
- Casa Marcelina – boutique property. Walking distance to everything. $90-130/night.
- Casablanca Hostel – budget option with great rooftop bar. Dorms from $18.
Book accommodations with good soundproofing if you’re a light sleeper. The area gets lively at night, especially weekends.
How to Get to Puerto Escondido
Getting here is easier than you’d think. Several solid options exist.
Flying to Puerto Escondido International Airport
The airport in Puerto Escondido gets direct flights from Mexico City and Oaxaca City. Sometimes other hubs too.
It’s small. Easy to navigate. Just a few minutes from the hotel zones.
Taxis and shuttles wait at arrivals. The ride to your hotel runs $5 to $15 depending on location. Simple enough.
Driving from Oaxaca City
Already in Oaxaca? The drive from Puerto Escondido—or rather, to Puerto Escondido—takes 6-7 hours.
The route cuts through mountains. Winding roads. Spectacular views. It’s scenic but slow. Many people break it up with an overnight stop.
Route options:
- Highway 175 (via Pochutla) – more scenic, mountains, winding. Takes longer but beautiful.
- Highway 131 (via Sola de Vega) – slightly faster, still mountainous.
Good stopover towns:
- San José del Pacífico – mountain village famous for mushrooms (both kinds). About halfway.
- Pochutla – coastal town near Puerto Escondido, good for a break.
Roads are generally decent. Just be careful during rainy season (June-October). Occasional landslides. Drive during daylight only.
Car rental: Rent from Oaxaca City rather than the airport to save money. Companies like Alamo, Budget, and local operators available. Mexican car insurance is mandatory.
How to Get Around Puerto Escondido
Once you’re here, moving around spots in Puerto Escondido is straightforward.
Scooter and Motorcycle Rentals
Scooters give you the most flexibility. They’re the most popular way to get around Puerto Escondido for anyone staying more than a couple days.
Economical. Fun. Perfect for the coastal roads.
Taxi and Colectivos
Taxis are everywhere. Cheap too. A ride within town costs $2 to $5. Just agree on price before you get in. Meters aren’t really a thing here.
Taxi tips:
- From Zicatela to Carrizalillo: ~$3-4
- From town to airport: ~$10-15
- After midnight, prices sometimes increase 20-30%
- Ask your hotel or restaurant to call a trusted taxi if you’re unsure
Colectivos are shared vans that run set routes. They cost a dollar or two. Look for white vans with route signs in the windshield.
Common colectivo routes:
- Along the coastal road (Zicatela ↔ La Punta ↔ Puerto Angelito)
- To/from town center (El Centro)
Flag them down like a bus. Pay the driver directly. They leave when full. Authentic way to travel. Super budget-friendly.
Where to Eat in Puerto Escondido
The food scene here rivals any beach town in Mexico. Quality at every price point.
Best Breakfast Spots
Starting your day right is easy. Fresh fruit. Strong coffee. Good breakfast.
Many cafes open around 7-8 AM. Outdoor seating. Perfect for watching the town wake up. You’ll find traditional Mexican breakfast or international options. Whatever you’re craving.
Top picks:
- Cafecito (La Punta) – local roasted coffee, best in town. Try the chilaquiles.
- Pan Tumaca – Mediterranean-style breakfast. Great bread. Busy on weekends.
- Frutas y Verduras (market) – fresh juice blends ($1.50), fruit plates, cheap and authentic.
- El Cafecito (Zicatela) – healthy options, smoothie bowls, good WiFi for digital nomads.
The best breakfast spots tend to get busy 9-11 AM, so go early if you want a table without waiting.
Top Seafood Restaurants
Being on the coast means the seafood is ridiculously fresh.
The best restaurants get their fish daily from local guys. Grilled whole fish. Ceviche. Seafood tacos. All of it excellent.
Best seafood spots:
- La Olita – family-run, been here forever. Try the pescado zarandeado (whole grilled fish).
- El Nene – beachfront, super fresh. Great aguachile and ceviche.
- Mariscos El Toro – local secret. Cheap prices, huge portions. Cash only.
- Pascale – upscale Italian-Mexican fusion. Excellent seafood pasta. Reservations recommended.
Sometimes the best seafood comes from the most basic-looking places. Family-run spots that have been doing the same thing for decades. Don’t judge by appearance.
Price guide: Expect $8-15 for a full seafood meal at casual spots, $20-35 at upscale restaurants.
Street Food and Tacos
Street food culture is strong here. Especially in the evenings.
Taco stands set up along busy streets after 7 PM. For a few bucks, you can eat like royalty. Fish tacos. Pork. Whatever they’re serving that night.
Best street food areas:
- Calle del Morro – multiple taco stands. Competition keeps quality high and prices low.
- Tacos El Charly – legendary. Always packed with locals. Tacos de asada and al pastor.
- Near Mercado Benito Juárez – daytime street food. Tamales, quesadillas, fresh juice.
Eating street tacos under the stars, music playing nearby, locals all around? That’s the experience. Don’t skip it.
Safety tip: Look for stands with high turnover (lots of customers = fresh food). Avoid places where food sits out uncovered. Your stomach will thank you.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido
When you come changes everything. Weather. Crowds. Prices.
Weather by Season
It’s warm year-round here. But there are wet and dry seasons.
Dry season runs November through May. Sunny skies. Calm water. This is peak season. December and January especially get packed.
Rainy season is June through October. Afternoon showers are common. But mornings are often gorgeous. The landscape turns super green. And hotel prices drop significantly.
Pick your poison.
Best Time for Surfing
Surfers get different conditions depending on timing.
The biggest waves at Zicatela show up May through September. Pacific swells. This is when competitions happen.
But honestly? There are surfable waves year-round at various breaks. So there’s never really a bad time in Puerto Escondido for surfers.
Puerto Escondido Itinerary Suggestions
Got limited time? Here’s how to structure it.
3-Day Puerto Escondido Itinerary
Three days gives you a solid taste without rushing too hard.
Day 1: Beaches and Sunset
Start with the main beaches. Walk Zicatela. Swim at Carrizalillo. End at La Punta to watch the sunset in Puerto Escondido while having drinks and dinner beachfront.
Easy day. Gets you oriented.
Day 2: Surfing and La Punta
Morning surf lesson. Or just watch the pros. Spend the afternoon relaxing. Maybe try paddleboarding. Maybe just read a book on the beach.
Return to La Punta in the evening. That atmosphere is worth experiencing twice.
Day 3: Lagoon and Wildlife
Book a bioluminescence tour to Manialtepec Lagoon. Or if it’s winter, go whale watching.
These nature experiences balance out the beach days nicely. Different energy. Different perspective.
Practical Guide to Puerto Escondido
Some practical stuff worth knowing.
Is Puerto Escondido Safe?
Same rules as any beach town: don’t leave your phone on the beach unattended, don’t walk around waving expensive cameras, etc.
Tourist areas are generally safe. Locals are friendly. Welcoming. Petty theft happens, so keep valuables secure. Don’t flash expensive stuff.
Walking around at night in well-lit areas? Usually fine. Most people have zero problems. The community is pretty chill.
Cost of Visiting Puerto Escondido
Budget travelers can survive on $30-50 a day. Basic accommodation. Street food. Local transport.
Mid-range is $75-150 daily. Comfortable hotels. Restaurant meals. Tours in Puerto Escondido.
Luxury exists here too, though the overall vibe stays pretty casual even at the high end.
Specific cost breakdown:
- Budget hotel/hostel: $15-40/night
- Mid-range hotel: $60-100/night
- Luxury hotel: $150-300+/night
- Street food meal: $2-5
- Restaurant meal: $10-20
- Upscale dinner: $25-50
- Beer: $1-3
- Surf lesson: $30-50
- Scooter rental: $15-25/day
- Bioluminescence tour: $35-50
- Whale watching: $50-80
Money-saving tips:
- Eat at markets and street stalls
- Travel during shoulder season (May, October)
- Book tours directly with operators
- Use colectivos instead of taxis
- Stay in Zicatela for cheaper accommodation than La Punta
Essential Mexico Travel Tips for Puerto Escondido
A few things to prep before you go.
What to Pack for Puerto Escondido
Light, breathable clothes. Good swimsuit. Reef-safe sunscreen. Hat.
Essential packing list:
- Swimwear: At least 2 suits (one dries while you wear the other)
- Sun protection: Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen damages coral), wide-brim hat, sunglasses
- Footwear: Flip-flops/sandals, water shoes for rocky beaches, sneakers for town
- Clothing: Light cotton or linen, cover-up for beach, light sweater for AC
- Rain gear: Light rain jacket (if visiting June-October)
- Tech: Universal adapter (Mexico uses Type A/B plugs), power bank, waterproof phone case
- Health: Bug spray (DEET-based works best), basic first aid kit, any prescription meds
- Extras: Reusable water bottle, dry bag for beach days, Spanish phrasebook or app
What NOT to bring: Expensive jewelry, designer bags, too many dressy clothes (it’s a beach town).
Visa Requirements for Mexico
Most visitors from US, Canada, and EU don’t need a visa for stays under 180 days.
You’ll get a tourist card (FMM – Forma Migratoria Múltiple) on arrival. Keep it. You need it to leave.
Important visa details:
- FMM card: Issued free at airport/border. Don’t lose it—replacement is a hassle
- Duration: Officers typically grant 30-180 days. Politely ask for the maximum if you’re staying longer
- Extensions: Possible at immigration offices (INM), but complicated. Plan accordingly
- Countries requiring visa: Some nationalities need advance approval. Check Mexico’s official immigration website (INM)
For current requirements specific to your nationality, visit the official Mexican immigration authority website or contact your nearest Mexican consulate before traveling.
Pro tip: Make photocopies of your passport and FMM card. Store separately from originals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Escondido Oaxaca
How many days should I spend in Puerto Escondido?
I’d say give yourself at least 4-5 days. A week is even better if you can swing it.
Enough time in Puerto Escondido to see multiple beaches. Take a day trip. Experience the nightlife. Actually relax instead of rushing around.
Sample time allocations:
- 3 days: Hits the highlights but feels rushed. Good for weekend getaway.
- 5 days: Comfortable pace. Covers main attractions plus one day trip.
- 7+ days: Ideal. Time to really settle in, find favorite spots, take multiple excursions.
I’ve met so many people who booked 3 days and ended up scrambling to extend their stay. The laid-back vibe makes it easy to lose track of days.
Can beginners surf in Puerto Escondido?
Yes, but not at Zicatela’s main break.
Take lessons at calmer spots. Instructors know where to take newcomers. Safe conditions. Manageable waves.
A few sessions is usually enough to get the basics down.
What is Puerto Escondido known for?
Puerto Escondido is really good for world-class surfing. Beautiful beaches. Bioluminescence. Whale watching. Great food.
Specifically famous for:
- Zicatela Beach: The “Mexican Pipeline”—one of the world’s top surf breaks
- Bioluminescence tours: Magical glowing water at Manialtepec Lagoon
- Laid-back vibe: Less developed and touristy than places like Puerto Vallarta or Cancún
- Oaxacan cuisine: Incredible food scene blending traditional and coastal flavors
- Turtle conservation: Active programs for endangered sea turtle species
- Consistent waves: Surfable conditions year-round
Puerto Escondido has that sleepy beach town energy that’s getting harder to find in Mexico. That’s what people remember most.
Unlike heavily commercialized resorts, Puerto Escondido maintains authentic Mexican character while offering world-class experiences.
Do I need a car in Puerto Escondido?
Not really. Main areas are walkable. Or use scooter, taxi, colectivo.
But renting wheels—scooter or car—gives you flexibility to explore outside the main town. Your call.
Things to do at night in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido at night has beach bars. Live music. Social scene at La Punta.
Evening bioluminescence tours. Fire dancers on the beach sometimes. Or just dinner with your feet in the sand.
Free activities to enjoy in Puerto Escondido
Best things are often free. Watching surfers. Swimming at public beaches. Walking the shore. Sunsets. Exploring town.
The atmosphere alone is worth the trip.
What to do in Puerto Escondido when it rains
Rainy afternoons work for cafes. Market browsing. Massages. Cooking classes. Art galleries.
Many restaurants have covered areas. You can eat while watching the rain. Not the worst way to spend an afternoon.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Puerto Escondido Adventure
This place sticks with you. I’ve been back four times now and I’m already planning trip number five.
You can spend the morning getting tossed around by waves and the afternoon napping in a hammock. Both are equally valid activities here. Where you can surf world-class waves in the morning and watch glowing water at night. Where every meal tastes better than it should and sunsets never get old.
Come to surf. Come to explore. Come to eat. Come to unplug. Whatever your reason, this part of Mexico delivers.
The combination of natural beauty, real culture, and welcoming people creates something rare. Something you can’t quite find anywhere else.
Pack light. Learn some Spanish. And get ready to understand why so many visitors end up extending their stay.
My friend literally rebooked her flight from the beach before her first trip was even over. That’s the Puerto Escondido effect.
This is Mexico at its best. And it’s waiting.