Puerto Escondido: World-Class Surf and Nature in Oaxaca
Puerto Escondido is a beach destination located on the Pacific Coast, famous for its pristine beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear waters.
The atmosphere in Puerto Escondido is more relaxed compared to other coastal cities. Many young travelers flock here every year to enjoy its beaches.
The beaches are perfect for vacations and seaside tourism. The city is located in the State of Oaxaca, 285 km from the state capital and 800 km from Mexico City. Puerto Escondido is served by the Puerto Escondido International Airport, which offers domestic flights.
Tourism in Puerto Escondido
The beaches of Puerto Escondido are renowned for their perfect surf waves. Surfers from all over the world come to experience them, making Puerto Escondido a cosmopolitan destination with a laid-back lifestyle. During the day, many young people surf and sunbathe on the beaches, while at night, they gather at the bars.
When it comes to accommodation, Puerto Escondido offers a variety of options. While large hotel resorts are rare, the area is known for its charming small hotels. Cabins and campgrounds are also available for those seeking a more rustic experience.
In addition to surfing, other popular activities in Puerto Escondido include diving and sport fishing for species like sailfish, dorado, and marlin.
Puerto Escondido is surrounded by natural environments that are well worth exploring.
Beaches in Puerto Escondido
Playa Principal
Playa Principal offers fine sand and turquoise waters. The calm sea makes it perfect for water sports and diving.
Playa Zicatela
Playa Zicatela is globally famous for its waves, which can reach over 5 meters in height, making it a prime spot for surfing. Surfers from around the world flock here every season to ride the waves of Zicatela.
Playa Embarcadero
Playa Embarcadero features calm waters and is surrounded by a pleasant natural environment, ideal for relaxation.
Places to Visit in Puerto Escondido
Manialtepec Lagoon: A beautiful natural spot with a lagoon surrounded by mangroves, home to many bird species. It’s highly recommended for those looking for a unique day trip. Manialtepec Lagoon is located 18 km from Puerto Escondido.
Chacahua Lagoons: A complex of three lagoons with rich wildlife and natural landscapes. The lagoons open up to the sea, where visitors can enjoy wild beaches. The Chacahua Lagoons consist of Pastoria, Chacahua, and Las Salinas, located 30 km from Puerto Escondido.
Mexican Turtle Center
The center conducts research and studies on the life of sea turtles for ecological purposes. It has a dedicated area for turtle reproduction in captivity. The center is open to the public.
Ventanilla Ecological Reserve
This reserve protects the fauna of the mangroves. Turtles come here to lay their eggs, and there is also a section dedicated to the study and reproduction of caimans.
Coffee in Puerto Escondido
The Puerto Escondido area is famous for its coffee plantations, and several establishments welcome visitors to taste the local coffee.
Oaxaca's Coast and Nearby Destinations
Puerto Escondido is part of the Oaxacan coastal paradise alongside Huatulco with its nine bays, and Zipolite and Mazunte, bohemian beach towns with sea turtle sanctuaries. Oaxaca City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about 6 hours by mountain road or 30 minutes by small aircraft. Check Puerto Escondido vacation packages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Puerto Escondido?
On the Pacific coast of the State of Oaxaca, 285 km from the city of Oaxaca and about 800 km from Mexico City.
Why is Puerto Escondido famous for surfing?
For Playa Zicatela, considered a world surfing mecca because of the size and power of its waves.
What is there to do in Puerto Escondido?
Surf at Zicatela, enjoy its beaches, visit the Manialtepec Lagoon and head to the Chacahua Lagoons and the Mexican Turtle Center.
How do you get to Puerto Escondido?
Through Puerto Escondido International Airport, with domestic flights, or by bus from Oaxaca and along the coast.
What is the atmosphere like in Puerto Escondido?
Relaxed and cosmopolitan, with small hotels, cabins and camping rather than large hotel complexes.