Things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Puerto Escondido is a gem on the Oaxacan coast of Mexico, and we fell in love with it during our travels in Mexico.
Known for its breathtaking beaches, world-famous surf and vibrant nightlife, Puerto (as the locals call it) offers all kinds of activities to satisfy every type of traveller. It can be a bit touristy, everyone knows English and the prices of food, drink and accommodation can be higher than in other places but you’ll still have a great time here.
Best things to do in Puerto Escondido
Go surfing
You have to get yourself on a surfboard here. Puerto is home to the legendary Playa Zicatela, a beach famed for its massive barrel waves that rival the ones you get in places like Hawaii. Zicatela itself is not suitable for beginners but you can make a short trip to La Punta or Playa Carrizalillo for some amazing views and more beginner-friendly waves.
We highly recommend Silva Surf School, who really helped us catch those waves. You can read more about our surfing experience here.
Apart from surfing, there are many activities that you can get involved with at Puerto such as:
Horseback riding on the beach
Zip-lining in the forest
Hiring ATVs and quad bikes
Eat, eat, eat
Indulge in the countless options of amazing food on offer at Puerto. It’s less traditional than in other parts of Mexico due to the high number of tourists and foreigners living here but you can find high-quality food all over the town. We were based in La Punta and there were many amazing restaurants we would recommend.
Attaraya - A fancy sit-down Mexican restaurant that also runs salsa lessons on certain evenings
Chicama - Peruvian restaurant with an amazing beachy vibe (the ceviche was outstanding)
Fish Shack - Coco fried shrimp tacos
Thai restaurant in the little food market to the north of La Punta - Really good Pad Thai
Chicama
Fish Shack
Visit The Mercado Benito Juárez
Mercado Benito Juárez is a bustling hub of activity. It's a place where locals and tourists alike mingle, exploring stalls laden with colourful fruits, handmade crafts, and an array of Oaxacan cheese, chocolate, and coffee.
Dance the Night Away
There is plenty of nightlife in Puerto Escondido if you want to party. Zicatela is the part of town where you can club with the surfers and travellers, or you can check out a more low-key salsa night at Attaraya.
Release baby turtles into the sea
Every day, at around 5 pm, turtle conservation charities release baby turtles along the beaces of Puerto Escondido and you can get in on the action. Head down to Zicatela or Playa Bacocho and you can make a contribution and participate in the turtle release.
You can also book a tour which includes transport to Playa Bacocho from your hotel here.
Go dolphin watching
Puerto is a hotspot for dolphin watching so why not take a boat tour to find them; with tours typically lasting around 3 hours. Boats leave from the bay of Puerto Angelito and you’ll also have a chance to snorkel with them if the weather permits.
Book a dolphin-watching tour here
Go fishing
Sport fishing is a thrilling way to explore the waters of Puerto Escondido. Set sail on a fishing charter for the chance to catch marlin, sailfish, and more.
Kayak the Laguna Manialtepec
This stunning body of water is a popular trip from Puerto and here you can also witness its bioluminescence, a natural spectacle that occurs under certain conditions when microorganisms in the water are disturbed and emit a glowing light.
People also come to the laguna to paddleboard, kayak and go bird-watching. It’s 16km away from Puerto so you will need a car or hop in a taxi to get there.
Chacahua National Park
Chacahua National Park is a captivating protected area spanning a breathtaking landscape of lagoons, mangrove forests, tropical jungles, and pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Huatulco National Park
With its nine bays and 36 stunning beaches, Huatulco spans a large area, most of which is designated as an ecological reserve and makes a perfect trip from Puerto Escondido.
Marvel at Stunning Sunsets
No visit to Puerto Escondido is complete without witnessing its spectacular sunsets. Whether from a beachside café or a boat on the ocean, the vibrant hues of the sunset will leave you spellbound.
Puerto Escondido is a treasure trove of experiences, from thrilling outdoor adventures to serene moments of beauty. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, this coastal paradise has something for everyone. Pack your bags and set off on a journey to discover the endless charms of Puerto Escondido.
