Things To Do
in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a charming coastal town located on the Pacific coast of Colombia, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. It offers a laid-back atmosphere combined with a variety of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. The town is famous for its surfing spots, particularly at Zicatela Beach, which attracts surfers from around the world.

With its warm climate, local cuisine, and welcoming locals, Puerto Escondido is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Playa Carrizalillo, where you can enjoy the calm waves and beautiful scenery. Grab a breakfast smoothie at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Head to Zicatela Beach for lunch at a beachfront restaurant, followed by some surfing lessons or sunbathing. Be sure to take a stroll along the beach promenade.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a local seafood restaurant, then explore the vibrant nightlife along the beach with live music and dancing.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the local artisan markets and browse handmade crafts while enjoying breakfast at a local bakery. Don't forget to try some traditional Colombian coffee.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to the nearby Manialtepec Lagoon for bird watching and kayaking. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Escondido and have dinner at a traditional Colombian restaurant, followed by a stroll through the town's central plaza to experience local music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
🌮Street Tacos$2
🏨Budget Hotel Night$30
🚌Local Bus Fare$1
Coffee at a Café$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning beaches and natural beauty
  • Vibrant local culture and friendly locals
  • Excellent outdoor activities such as surfing and kayaking
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Puerto Escondido

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa Zicatela

Famous for its surf culture, this beach offers stunning sunset views and vibrant beach life.

Manialtepec Lagoon

A beautiful natural setting that is perfect for capturing local wildlife and serene landscapes.

Punta Zicatela

A scenic viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the coastline and excellent opportunities for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido offers a delightful culinary experience, blending fresh seafood with traditional Colombian flavors. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that highlight the region's bounty.

Puerto Escondido Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and spices.

Must-Try!

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, avocado, ground meat, chicharrón, and fried plantains.

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes often filled with cheese, meats, or vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Puerto Escondido

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local snacks.

Street Tacos

Sample delicious tacos from street vendors, filled with a variety of meats and toppings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto Escondido enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season, from December to April, features sunny skies and temperatures averaging around 28-32°C (82-90°F). The rainy season, from May to November, brings higher humidity and afternoon showers, with temperatures remaining warm but slightly cooler due to cloud cover. The best time to visit for ideal weather is during the dry season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is customary when meeting someone.

Respect for Environment

Always dispose of trash properly and respect local wildlife and nature.

Dress Code

Beach attire is acceptable during the day, but it's advisable to dress modestly when visiting local shops or restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto Escondido is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Stay informed about local customs and avoid displaying wealth. Always use reputable transportation services and be cautious when consuming alcohol.

Tipping in Puerto Escondido

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to April)

Expect sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

Rainy Season (May to November)

Expect increased humidity and afternoon showers; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Hurricane Season (June to November)

Although rare, be aware of possible tropical storms; check forecasts before traveling.

Peak Tourist Season (December to February)

Expect larger crowds and higher prices, particularly around holidays.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Escondido at Night

Puerto Escondido boasts a lively nightlife scene, particularly along Zicatela Beach where beach bars and clubs come alive after sunset. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance the night away, and experience the friendly atmosphere that characterizes this coastal town. Many venues offer a mix of local and international music, catering to diverse tastes and creating a vibrant party scene.

Hiking in Puerto Escondido

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking to La Punta

A scenic trail leading to La Punta, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Cerro Bicu

A challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views of Puerto Escondido and the surrounding natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Escondido by plane.

Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM)

Located just a few kilometers from the town center, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Escondido is quite walkable, especially in the beach areas where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. The town's layout encourages exploration on foot, and the scenic views along the coastline make it a pleasant experience. However, be mindful of the heat during the day; early morning or evening strolls are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

Many residents depend on fishing as their primary source of income, contributing to the town's seafood offerings.

Tourists

A diverse group ranging from backpackers to families, tourists flock to Puerto Escondido for its beaches, culture, and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

Surfing is the most popular sport in Puerto Escondido, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe to its world-class waves.

Beach Volleyball

Many beaches have volleyball courts, and locals often play matches, inviting visitors to join in on the fun.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto Escondido is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. The town can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, particularly around popular beach areas. Public transportation includes local buses and taxis, which are affordable and easily accessible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Escondido.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available but may be limited; always check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Puerto Escondido is limited to a few local clinics and small hospitals. For serious medical issues, travelers may need to travel to larger cities like Oaxaca for better facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facility in case of emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide