Things To Do
in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a vibrant coastal town located in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, known for its stunning beaches and surf culture. It offers a laid-back atmosphere that attracts both tourists and locals looking to enjoy sun-soaked days and lively nightlife. The town is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

With its rich cultural heritage, delicious local cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, Puerto Escondido is a must-visit destination in Mexico.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach Bliss and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to Playa Zicatela for a morning of sunbathing or surfing. The waves here are famous among surfers.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Manialtepec Lagoon for kayaking and birdwatching, enjoying the vibrant flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant and witness the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean, followed by exploring local bars for live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, take a boat trip to see dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat, exploring the beautiful coastline.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Playa Carrizalillo, a picturesque beach perfect for swimming and relaxation.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Oaxacan dinner at a local restaurant and explore the bustling night market for local crafts and snacks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
🛏️Budget hotel per night$30-$60
🌮Street food snack$1-$2
🚕Taxi ride$3-$10
🍹Cocktail at a bar$5-$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning beaches and surf spots
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local food
  • A variety of outdoor activities and natural beauty
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Some areas may have safety concerns after dark
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Puerto Escondido

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa Zicatela

Capture the surfers riding the waves and the picturesque sunset views.

Manialtepec Lagoon

Ideal for photographing the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Puerto Escondido's Street Art

Explore the vibrant murals throughout the town that showcase local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido offers a delightful culinary experience with fresh seafood, local ingredients, and traditional Oaxacan flavors.

Puerto Escondido Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tlayudas

A large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, avocado, and your choice of meat.

Must-Try!

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, served chilled.

Mole

A rich, flavorful sauce made from various ingredients, often served over chicken or pork.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Benito Juárez

A bustling market where you can find local produce, meats, and traditional foods.

Street Vendors

Try tacos, quesadillas, and elote (grilled corn) from street vendors for an authentic experience.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto Escondido has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, characterized by sunny days and cooler nights. The wet season, from May to October, brings higher humidity and occasional rain, particularly in the late afternoon. Temperatures typically range from 70°F (21°C) in winter to around 90°F (32°C) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a warm 'Hola' is common; use 'Buenos días' in the morning.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating, and it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.

Respect for Culture

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto Escondido is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Stay informed about local conditions and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Puerto Escondido

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are available; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Mild temperatures and dry weather make it perfect for beach activities.

Spring (March - May)

Warmer temperatures, ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring the coast.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid with occasional rain; the surf is great but prepare for crowds.

Fall (September - November)

Cooling down with fewer crowds; a great time for sightseeing and relaxation.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Escondido at Night

Puerto Escondido has a lively nightlife scene with a mix of beach bars, clubs, and local music venues. The vibrant atmosphere attracts both locals and tourists, especially in high season. Popular spots include beachfront bars where you can enjoy cocktails while watching the waves, as well as clubs featuring local DJs and live music that often go late into the night.

Hiking in Puerto Escondido

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hike to Punta Zicatela

A scenic hike offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the opportunity to see diverse wildlife.

Hiking in the Sierra Madre

Explore the lush trails in the nearby Sierra Madre mountains, rich in flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Escondido by plane.

Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM)

Located about 5 km from the town center, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections. It is the primary airport for accessing Puerto Escondido.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Escondido is quite walkable, especially around the main tourist areas like Zicatela and the town center. Sidewalks are available, but some streets may be uneven. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to various indigenous groups, including the Mixtec and Zapotec, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry.

Surfing Community

A vibrant community of surfers and beachgoers, both locals and expats, who contribute to the laid-back vibe of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

A major attraction in Puerto Escondido, with numerous surf schools and competitions held throughout the year.

Beach Volleyball

A popular pastime on the beaches, with many locals and tourists playing games in the sand.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto Escondido is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Most people get around by walking, biking, or using taxis. Public transportation is limited, but local colectivos (shared vans) are available for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Escondido.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in markets.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Mexican food is often gluten-free, check for ingredients in sauces and tortillas.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Puerto Escondido are limited, with a few pharmacies and clinics available for minor health issues. For more serious conditions, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Oaxaca. Many doctors and clinics speak English, but it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide