Puerto Escondido is a paradise for beach lovers, surfers, divers, and nature lovers. In this article, you will discover some of the best things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico – this tropical fishing village: from surfing the Mexican Pipeline to kayaking in a bioluminescent lagoon. Join me as I explore one of Mexico’s most stunning destinations.
Contents
- 1 What is Puerto Escondido famous for?
- 2 Things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
- 2.1 Participate in baby sea turtles releasing on Playa Bacocho
- 2.2 Take surf lessons
- 2.3 Go on a dolphin-watching or whale-watching tour
- 2.4 Learn Spanish at Experiencia or at Oasis Language School
- 2.5 See the bioluminescent plankton during a new moon
- 2.6 Join the daily volleyball match on La Punta
- 2.7 Eat at one of Rinconada’s many restaurants
- 2.8 Go kayaking in Puerto Suelo
- 2.9 Visit La Reforma waterfall
- 2.10 Take a food tour
- 2.11 Watch the sunset at Playa Bacocho
- 2.12 Explore Puerto Escondido town
- 2.13 Go horseback riding on the beach
- 2.14 Visit nearby beaches
- 2.15 Enjoy fresh seafood at Puerto Escondido restaurants
- 2.16 Learn how to make mezcal
- 2.17 Relax at a beach club
- 2.18 Visit Oaxaca City
- 2.19 Go hiking in the mountains
- 2.20 Visit Atotonilco hot springs
- 2.21 Shop for souvenirs at El Adoquin
- 2.22 Watch a movie under the stars
- 3 FAQ
- 3.1 Is Puerto Escondido worth visiting?
- 3.2 Is Puerto Escondido a party town?
- 3.3 How many days do you need in Puerto Escondido?
- 3.4 How many days do you need in Puerto Escondido?
- 3.5 How to get to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, from Mexico City?
- 3.6 How good are the reviews from the people who visited Puerto Escondido?
- 3.7 Is Puerto Escondido safe?
- 3.8 Where can I buy the Puerto Escondido map with all the points of interest marked?
- 3.9 Are there any beaches within the walking distance of the downtown Puerto Escondido hotels?
- 4 Conclusion
- 5 Book your trip today!
What is Puerto Escondido famous for?
Puerto Escondido is a coastal town in the state of Oaxaca, in the south of Mexico’s pacific coast.
It is part of the Emerald Coast – a region known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Puerto Escondido is surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers that create a stunning contrast with the blue sea and the golden sand.
The town is located in a bay that has several rocky cliffs along its edges.
The bay has seven beaches that offer different options for visitors: from surfing to swimming, from snorkeling to boating.
Puerto Escondido is also close to other attractions in the region, such as:
Laguna de Manialtepec, where you can see bioluminescent plankton at night;
Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua, where you can explore mangroves and wetlands;
Casa Wabi – an artistic center that hosts international artists in a modern building.
Puerto Escondido has a rich history and culture that reflects its mix of indigenous, mestizo, and foreign influences.
The town was originally a fishing village that was discovered by pirates in the 16th century. Later it became a port for coffee exports from the nearby plantations.
Today, it is a popular tourist destination that attracts people from all over the world who want to enjoy its relaxed atmosphere and friendly vibe.
Puerto Escondido has something for everyone, there are always things to do.
In Puerto Escondido, you can have an unforgettable experience.
Things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
So, what Puerto Escondido, Mexico, offers? Let’s look closely at some examples.
Participate in baby sea turtles releasing on Playa Bacocho
One of the most rewarding things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, is to participate in a baby turtle release program at the secluded beach of Playa Bacocho.
This beach is home to a sea turtle conservation project that collects and protects sea turtle eggs from poachers and predators.
When the eggs hatch, you can help release the baby sea turtles into the ocean and watch them start their journey.
This is a great way to support wildlife conservation and have a memorable experience.
Take surf lessons
If you would like to learn how to surf or strengthen your skills, Puerto Escondido is the perfect place for you.
There are many surf schools and instructors that offer lessons for all levels and ages.
So, it’s pretty much a no-brainer – you just can’t have any better things to do!
In Puerto Escondido, you can rent surfboards at different beaches – choose depending on your preference and ability.
For example, Playa Carrizalillo is ideal for beginner surfers, as it has gentle waves and shallow water.
Playa La Punta is more suitable for intermediates who want to practice their maneuvers on longer waves.
And of course, the famous Zicatela Beach is reserved for experienced surfers who dare to challenge the Mexican Pipeline.
Go on a dolphin-watching or whale-watching tour
Another cool thing to do in Puerto Escondido is marine life watching in the ocean.
From November onward, it’s possible to enjoy whale watching as migrating humpback whales pass through local waters.
Year-round you can see sea turtles, manta rays, many types of dolphins, and other marine life.
You can book a boat tour from Playa Principal or Playa Puerto Angelito and enjoy a few hours of sailing along the coast while spotting these amazing creatures.
Learn Spanish at Experiencia or at Oasis Language School
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and language, while expanding your Spanish skills and having fun, you can enroll in a Spanish course at Experiencia.
This language school offers classes for all levels and also organizes cultural activities such as cooking classes, salsa lessons, yoga sessions, volunteer projects, excursions, etc.
Another great option for that is an Oasis Language School.
This is a reputable Puerto Escondido school that offers different levels and formats of Spanish classes, from intensive courses to private lessons.
You can also combine your classes with cultural activities such as salsa dancing, cooking, pottery, etc.
The school is located near Playa Zicatela and has friendly teachers and modern facilities.
See the bioluminescent plankton during a new moon
One of the most magical things to do in Puerto Escondido is to witness the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence.
This occurs when microscopic organisms, called plankton, emit light when they are disturbed by movement.
The best place to see this spectacle is at Laguna Manialtepec – a lagoon that merges with three ecosystems: freshwater, saltwater, and mangroves.
You can take a night tour from Puerto Escondido that will take you by boat or kayak to see this glowing show.
The best time to go is during a new moon when there is less light pollution.
Join the daily volleyball match on La Punta
If you are looking for some fun and exercise, you can join one of the daily volleyball matches that take place on Puerto Escondido La Punta beach.
This sandy beach has a laid-back vibe and attracts many backpackers, surfers, hippies, and locals who enjoy playing volleyball on its soft sand.
You don’t need any equipment or skill level; just show up around 5 PM (or earlier if you want) and join one of the teams that form spontaneously.
The games are friendly but competitive; expect some cheering, trash-talking, high-fives, and laughter.
Eat at one of Rinconada’s many restaurants
Rinconada is an area near Puerto Escondido Playa Carrizalillo that has many restaurants offering different cuisines.
You can find Mexican food (of course) but also Italian, Thai, French, Japanese, Mediterranean, etc.
The quality and variety are impressive; you can have anything from tacos al pastor (spit-roasted pork) to sushi rolls (raw fish).
Some of the best places to eat in Rinconada are:
- El Cafecito: A popular spot for breakfast and brunch that serves Oaxacan coffee, sweet bread, eggs, pancakes, smoothies, etc.
- La Olita: A trendy place for lunch and dinner that specializes in tacos and seafood with a fusion twist.
- Pascale Restaurant: A fine dining place for dinner that serves Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and ocean views.
Go kayaking in Puerto Suelo
Puerto Suelo is a small fishing village near Puerto Escondido that offers a tranquil escape from the crowds.
You can rent a kayak and explore its calm waters, mangroves, and birdlife.
You can also visit a nearby beach called Playa Coral, which is one of the most secluded beaches in Puerto Escondido.
It has clear water, white sand, and coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling.
You can also enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Visit La Reforma waterfall
There are not only things to do in Puerto Escondido, but also around it.
For example, if you want to cool off in a natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation, you can take a day trip to La Reforma waterfall.
This waterfall is located about an hour away from Puerto Escondido, in the Southern Sierra Madre mountains.
You can hike to the waterfall through a scenic trail that passes by coffee plantations, banana trees, and tropical flowers.
The waterfall is about 30 meters high and forms a refreshing pool at its base.
You can swim, relax, or jump from the rocks into the water.
Take a food tour
One of the best ways to experience Puerto Escondido culture and cuisine is to take a food tour.
You can join a local guide who will take you to different places where you can taste some of the most delicious dishes and drinks in town.
You can try things like tlayudas (large tortillas with cheese and meat), mole negro (chocolate-based sauce with chicken), quesillo (Oaxacan string cheese), mezcal (smoky liquor made from agave), chapulines (fried grasshoppers), and more.
A food tour will not only fill your stomach but also your mind with interesting stories and facts about Puerto Escondido’s history and traditions.
Watch the sunset at Playa Bacocho
Playa Bacocho is the longest and widest beach in Puerto Escondido.
It has golden sand, turquoise water, and gentle waves that make it ideal for swimming or relaxing.
It is also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Puerto Escondido, as it faces westward toward the horizon.
You can sit on a sunbed or hammock at one of the region’s best beaches, enjoying fresh fruit, while watching the sky change colors.
Playa Bacocho is a peaceful and romantic spot to end your day in Puerto Escondido.
Explore Puerto Escondido town
Puerto Escondido is not just a beach destination; it also has a charming town that offers plenty of things to see and do.
You can stroll along Avenida Perez Gasga – the main pedestrian street that runs parallel to the beach, which has many shops, cafes, bars, and famous Puerto Escondido restaurants.
You can also visit El Mercado – the local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, handicrafts, souvenirs, and more.
If you would like to learn more about Puerto Escondido’s history and culture, you can check out Casa de la Cultura – a cultural center that hosts exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and events.
Go horseback riding on the beach
One of the most fun things to do in Puerto Escondido is to go horseback riding on the beach.
You can book a tour with one of the local operators that will take you along Playa Bacocho or Playa Zicatela.
You can enjoy the scenery of the ocean, sand, and palm trees while riding a friendly horse.
You can also choose between different times of day; for example, you can go in the morning for a refreshing ride or in the evening for a romantic sunset ride.
Visit nearby beaches
If you are eager to explore more of Oaxaca’s coast, you can take some day trips from Puerto Escondido to visit one of the surrounding beaches. Some of them are:
- Playa Mazunte: A hippie beach town that has a laid-back vibe and a sea turtles conservation center, where the baby turtles hatch.
- Playa Zipolite: A Bohemian beach town that is famous for being Mexico’s only legal nude beach.
- Playa Ventanilla: A wildlife sanctuary that has a lagoon with crocodiles, birds, and monkeys.
- Punta Cometa: A scenic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great spot to watch the sunset.
- Puerto Angel: A fishing village that has a picturesque bay with calm waters and colorful fishing boats.
Enjoy fresh seafood at Puerto Escondido restaurants
One of the best things to do in Puerto Escondido is to enjoy its delicious seafood.
You can find many restaurants that offer fresh fish, shrimp, lobster, octopus, oysters, clams, etc.
Some of them are prepared in the traditional Oaxacan style with mole sauce or tlayudas; others are cooked in international ways, such as ceviche or sushi.
Some of the best places to eat seafood in Puerto Escondido are :
- El Coste Cevicheria: A trendy restaurant that specializes in ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice) and other Peruvian dishes.
- Pascale Restaurant: A fine dining restaurant that serves Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and ocean views.
- Espadin Restaurant & Bar: A cozy restaurant that offers fusion food with Mexican and Asian flavors and live music.
- La Juquileña: A casual restaurant that serves traditional Oaxacan food such as mole negro (chocolate-based sauce with chicken), quesillo (Oaxacan string cheese), and chapulines (fried grasshoppers).
Learn how to make mezcal
Mezcal is a smoky liquor made from agave plants that is very popular in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, and the rest of the region.
If you would like to learn how it is made and taste different varieties, you can take a mezcal distillery guided tour from Puerto Escondido.
You will visit an artisanal mezcal factory where you will see how they harvest, cook, ferment, and distill the agave to produce this drink.
You will also learn about the history and culture of mezcal and its role in Oaxacan society.
You will end the tour with a tasting session where you will try different types of mezcal, such as Blanco (unaged), Reposado (aged in oak barrels), Añejo (aged for longer), or flavored with fruits or herbs.
Relax at a beach club
If you want to spend a day in style and comfort, you can visit one of the clubs at Puerto Escondido beaches.
These are places where you can enjoy a sunbed, an umbrella, outdoor swimming pools, beach bars, and a restaurant for a fee or a minimum consumption.
Some of them also offer spa services, massages, yoga classes, etc. Some of the best beach clubs in Puerto Escondido are:
Villa Sol beach club: a luxury resort that has two beach clubs on Playa Bacocho and Playa Coral. You can access them for 300 MXN per person (redeemable for food and drinks) and enjoy their facilities, views, and service.
Coconuts: a cozy place on Playa Coral that has a pool, sunbeds, umbrellas, hammocks, showers, lockers, etc. You can enter for 200 MXN per person (redeemable for food and drinks) and enjoy their fresh seafood and cocktails.
Casa Wabi: a cultural foundation that has an art gallery, a library, a garden, and a club on Playa Bacocho beach. You can enter for 100 MXN per person (not redeemable) and enjoy their minimalist architecture, contemporary art, and ocean views.
Visit Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City is the capital of Oaxaca state and one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico.
It is famous for its colonial architecture, colorful markets, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals.
It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has many historical attractions such as churches, museums, palaces, etc.
From Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca City is in about six hours away by bus, or one hour by plane.
You can visit it on day trips or stay for a few nights to explore its charms.
Go hiking in the mountains
If you want to escape from the heat and humidity of Puerto Escondido, you can go hiking in the mountains that surround the town.
You can find many trails that will take you through the jungle, waterfalls, rivers, and villages.
You can also see some wildlife such as birds, butterflies, monkeys, and more.
Some of the best places to go hiking in Puerto Escondido are:
La Reforma: a scenic trail that passes by coffee plantations, banana trees, and tropical flowers until reaching a 30-meter waterfall (Cascada La Reforma) with a natural pool.
San Pedro Mixtepec: a rural community that has several trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking Puerto Escondido bay.
San Isidro Llano Grande: a mountain village that has several trails that lead to waterfalls such as Cola de Caballo (Horse Tail) and Cascada Encantada (Enchanted Waterfall).
Visit Atotonilco hot springs
If you want to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind, you can visit Atotonilco hot springs.
These are natural pools of mineral-rich water that are heated by volcanic activity.
They are located about 40 minutes away from Puerto Escondido by car or taxi.
You can enjoy soaking in the warm water, surrounded by nature and tranquility.
There are also cabins, palapas, and a restaurant on site.
Shop for souvenirs at El Adoquin
El Adoquin is a pedestrian street that runs parallel to Playa Principal.
It is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs in Puerto Escondido.
You can find many stalls and shops that sell handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, pottery, paintings, etc.
You can also find some local products such as coffee, chocolate, mezcal, cheese, etc.
It’s also a lively place at night, with many bars and restaurants, that often feature live musical performances and other entertainment.
Watch a movie under the stars
If you want to enjoy a unique cinema experience, you can watch a movie under the stars at Cine en la Playa.
This is an outdoor movie theater that sets up a giant screen on Puerto Escondido Playa Carrizalillo every Wednesday night.
You can bring your snacks and drinks or buy them from local vendors.
You can also rent a chair or a blanket.
The movies are usually in English with Spanish subtitles and vary from classics to recent releases.
FAQ
Is Puerto Escondido worth visiting?
Yes, it’s definitely worth visiting.It is a charming and lively destination that will surprise you with its beauty and diversity.There are plenty of things to do in Puerto Escondido: you can experience the best of the Mexican coast, from the stunning beaches to the rich culture and cuisine.Puerto Escondido is a place where you can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
Is Puerto Escondido a party town?
If you’re looking for some fun after dark, Puerto Escondido has plenty of options.Enjoy the nightlife at La Punta – one of the most lively areas in Puerto Escondido when it comes to nightlife.It has many beach bars, restaurants, and clubs that offer live music, DJs, dancing, and drinks.You can find different genres of music such as rock, reggae, salsa, electronic, etc.Some of the most popular places to enjoy nightlife at La Punta are:
• Casa Babylon: a trendy beach bar that specializes in mezcal cocktails and craft beers. It also has live bands playing rock, blues, funk, etc.Bar Fly: a cozy bar that offers cheap drinks, pool tables, karaoke nights, and a rooftop terrace with a view.Sativa Terraza Bar: a cool place for dinner and drinks that serves fusion food and has a DJ spinning electronic music.
Or you can chill out at Zicatela Bar – a laid-back spot that offers cocktails, beers, and snacks.
How many days do you need in Puerto Escondido?
That depends on what you want to do and see in this amazing place.Some people say that 4-5 days are enough to experience the main attractions and beaches, but others say that you will never get bored even if you stay for a month or more.If you would like to explore the nearby lagoons, waterfalls, and villages, you might want to extend your stay even longer.The bottom line is: Puerto Escondido is a place where you can create your own adventure and have the time of your life.
How many days do you need in Puerto Escondido?
That depends on what you want to do and see in this amazing place.Some people say that 4-5 days are enough to experience the main attractions and beaches, but others say that you will never get bored even if you stay for a month or more.If you would like to explore the nearby lagoons, waterfalls, and villages, you might want to extend your stay even longer.The bottom line is: Puerto Escondido is a place where you can create your own adventure and have the time of your life.
How to get to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, from Mexico City?
There are two main ways to get to Puerto Escondido from Mexico City: by plane or by bus.The plane is the fastest and most convenient option, as it takes only about 2 hours including airport transfers.You can find direct flights with several airlines, such as Aeromar, Viva Aerobus, Volaris, and Aero Mexico.The bus is the cheapest option, but it takes much longer: about 18 hours on a direct bus to Puerto Escondido or 14 hours with a change in Oaxaca.The bus ride can also be uncomfortable due to the bumpy and windy roads after Oaxaca.You can book your bus tickets online with ADO or OCC.
How good are the reviews from the people who visited Puerto Escondido?
The reviews from the people who’s been to Puerto Escondido are mostly positive.They praise the town for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, seafood restaurants, natural scenery, and friendly atmosphere.They also appreciate the diversity of activities and attractions that Puerto Escondido offers, from snorkeling and kayaking to art and culture.Some negative reviews mention the long bus ride from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, bumpy roads after Oaxaca, the riptides at some beaches, and the crowds during peak season.However, most visitors agree that visiting Puerto Escondido is a good idea: it’s a charming and lively destination that is worth experiencing.
Is Puerto Escondido safe?
Yes, it is. Puerto Escondido is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico and has a lower crime rate than many other cities.However, you should still use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.The main things to remember are: don’t flaunt or leave your valuables unattended, take taxis rather than walking at night, avoid poorly lit or empty areas after dark, and say no to drugs.It is also recommended to stay off the beach at night as there have been reports of police harassment or bribery.
Where can I buy the Puerto Escondido map with all the points of interest marked?
To always know what things to do in Puerto Escondido, you can:
• Download a digital map of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca from websites such as TripAdvisor or Google Maps.
• Buy a printed map from local shops or kiosks that sell souvenirs, magazines, or newspapers. You can find them along Perez Gasga street, which is the heart of the Puerto Escondido tourist scene.
• Get a free map from your hotel or hostel reception or any tourist information center in Puerto Escondido.
Are there any beaches within the walking distance of the downtown Puerto Escondido hotels?
There are several beaches within walking distance from the downtown hotels:
• Playa Principal
Playa Principal is the most central beach in Puerto Escondido. It is located near the lighthouse and next to Playa Marinero. It’s a small and busy beach with calm water and fine sand. It is one of the best beaches for swimming and fishing in Puerto Escondido.
• Playa Marinero
Playa Marinero is located between Playa Principal and Playa Zicatela. It’s a less crowded and more relaxing beach than its neighbors. It has calm water and fine sand that are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It also has lifeguards to ensure your safety.
• Playa Puerto Angelito
Playa Puerto Angelito is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Puerto Escondido. It is located west of the lighthouse and next to Playa Manzanillo. Puerto Angelito is a small and protected cove with clear water and white sand.
It is one of the safest beaches for swimming and snorkeling in Puerto Escondido. You can see colorful fish and coral around the rocks.
There are also some other beaches in Puerto Escondido that you can visit, that are not very close to the downtown hotels, but you can take a taxi or a bus to get there:
• Playa Zicatela
Playa Zicatela (also known as Zicatela beach) is one of the most famous surfing spots in Mexico and the world.
It has huge waves that attract professional surfers and spectators, and it hosts several international surfing competitions every year, such as the Puerto Escondido Cup and the Big Wave Challenge.
It is not recommended for swimming or beginners, but you can enjoy the sun, sand, and scenery.
Zicatela beach has two main sections: Zicatela Norte and La Punta. Zicatela Norte is where you can find the biggest waves and most of the action.
La Punta is at the southern end of the beach and has smaller waves and a more relaxed vibe. You can find more restaurants, cafes, and hostels there. Zicatela Beach is a must-see if you visit Puerto Escondido.
• La Punta
La Punta is another surfing beach at the southern end of Zicatela beach. It has smaller waves than Zicatela beach and a more laid-back vibe. You can find many restaurants, bars, and shops along the beach.
• Playa Carrizalillo
Playa Carrizalillo is located in the Rinconada neighborhood, between downtown and Bacocho. It’s a small and stunning cove with turquoise water and soft sand. It is one of the best beaches for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling in Puerto Escondido.
You can see many fish and coral around the rocks. Playa Carrizalillo has a lively atmosphere, with many tourists and locals enjoying the beach. You have to walk down 160 steps to reach it, but it is worth it. Playa Carrizalillo is a must-see if you visit Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.
• Playa Manzanillo
Playa Manzanillo is located west of the lighthouse and next to Playa Angelito. It’s a small and protected cove with fine white sand and clear water. It is one of the safest beaches for swimming and snorkeling in Puerto Escondido.
You can see colorful fish and coral around the rocks.
It has many restaurants and bars along the beach where you can rent sun loungers, umbrellas, snorkeling gear, or kayaks. You can also enjoy delicious seafood, drinks, and snacks while admiring the view.
You can also walk to Playa Angelito or watch the sunset from the headland.
• Bacocho beach
Bacocho beach is long and wide, with gentle waves and golden sand. It is less crowded than other beaches and perfect for relaxing or watching sunsets. You can also join a turtle release program at this beach.
Conclusion
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico is a destination that will captivate you with its charm and diversity.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, you will find something that suits your taste and budget in this tropical town.
Puerto Escondido is more than just a beach town; it is a place where you can experience the authentic Mexican spirit and create unforgettable memories.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Puerto Escondido, this hidden gem on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
There are a lot of things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico.
Book your trip today!
And I hope this little Puerto Escondido itinerary will help you thoroughly enjoy your visit.
Learn More: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico!
