Relax under swaying palms and sip cocktails at laid-back beach bars in Puerto Escondido. The resort faces the Pacific Ocean and combines tropical scenery with lively nightlife. Stunning beaches, colourful cafes and a flourishing expat community make Puerto Escondido a firm favourite on the Oaxaca circuit.
Things to do in Puerto Escondido
Surfers flock to Playa Zicatela, a 3.5-kilometre-long stretch of sand with a legendary surf break. Head to the northern end of the beach to watch surfers ride the famous Mexican Pipeline. The southern end of the beach is better for beginners. Learn to surf in the whitewash or bask on the golden sand. Head to one of the nearby vegan cafes for a freshly tossed salad and a green smoothie.
Steep cliffs frame Playa Carrizalillo, a gorgeous beach accessed by a steep stone stairway. The sheltered setting makes the beach the perfect place to swim, bodyboard and surf. Rent a board or sign up for surfing lessons. Satisfy your appetite with ocean-fresh seafood at a “palapa” thatch-roofed beach bars and rehydrate on fresh coconuts.
Drag yourself off the beach and visit Laguna de Manialtepec. Surrounded by mangroves, the six-kilometre-long lagoon is a sanctuary for local birds. Spot colourful kingfishers, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, parrots and several different birds of prey. There’s also a chance to spot iguanas perched in the trees. Boat tours are the best way to explore the lagoon and tick off as many species as possible.
Getting around Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is walkable and easy to get around on foot, while taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around or you can use local buses. Other options include “colectivo” shared vans and “camioneta” pick-up trucks. Puerto Escondido is in the state of Oaxaca, a seven-hour drive from Oaxaca City. Puerto Escondido International Airport is a five-minute drive away.