PUERTO ESCONDIDO
According to TIME Magazine, Puerto Escondido is amongst the world's top 100 destinations. It is located in southern Oaxaca, on the Mexican Pacific coastline, between Acapulco and Huatulco; approximately 290 km south of the state capital Oaxaca de Juarez, and about 800 km south of Mexico City.
It is made up of eight beaches, each one with special features and activities that make them unique. Either solo or group travelers, visitors are often charmed with its authentic and chill vibe.
Zicatela beach is considered a surfers’ paradise and hosts a variety of surf tournaments throughout the year. Summer is definitely the best time to visit if you are looking for big waves and impressive surf performances.
The beaches
Small white sandy beach ideal for family outings.
One of Puerto Escondido’s main beaches and preferred by surfers due to its large and powerful waves. It's considered the third best beach break worldwide and by far the best Mexican one for extreme watersport lovers.
This beautiful beach has gained popularity due to its rocky surroundings, and it’s also a great place to witness baby turtle hatching.
In order to enjoy swimming in this beautiful turquoise calm water with fine white sand, one must first walk down a set of 169 steps that rewards visitors with incredible views. Carrizalillo is great for snorkeling, swimming, and learning how to surf.
Due to its calm waters and family oriented vibe, this beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Gentlewaved beach where fishermen normally anchor their boats. Ideal for people- watching and for those who are new to ocean swimming.
One of the less crowded and most attractive beaches. Easily one of Puerto’s best kept secrets. Great for swimming, snorkeling, and chilling out.
Food
Puerto Escondido has a large variety of gastronomic experiences. Oaxacan food, such as tlayudas, mole rojo, caldo de piedra, tasajo and tamales are only a few names in its wide repertoire that should not be ignored by visitors. Also, a good variety of international options, such as Italian, Thai, Japanese, and many others are also available in the city.
Fiestas
Puerto Escondido’s main social events are:
Carnival during March or April
Big wave surfing tournament during the summer
Fiestas de Noviembre during November
International Marlin Fishing Tournament during December
How to get there
Puerto Escondido has an international airport located a couple of kilometers away from the city center. You can expect daily flights from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca city. Also, a number of private flights are a common sight.
Driving or taking a bus is often a popular option for people coming from Mexico City, Puebla, Acapulco, Oaxaca, San Cristobal, Cancun, and other main cities.
Climate
Temperatures normally range between 22 and 35 degrees Celsius. May is the hottest and driest month, while summer months host the rainy season.
What to do in Puerto & surroundings
Puerto Escondido’s main attractions and events are:
Surfing at Zicatela beach
Surf lessons
Snorkeling
Sports fishing
Skydiving
Sunset watching and dinner at Punta Zicatela
Dinner in Rinconada
Strolling around El Adoquín
Turtle hatching
Manialtepec bioluminescent lagoon and bird watching
Dolphin and turtle spotting
Recommended day trips from Puerto Escondido:
Agua Blanca
Atotonilco hot springs
Barra de Colotepec
Roca Blanca
Reforma waterfall
Day Trip to Mazunte and Punta Cometa
Visiting Zipolite and its nudist beach
San Agustinillo
Mermejita