The Ultimate Puerto Escondido Travel Guide (2025)
- Ulises Lopez Rodriguez
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Puerto Escondido, nestled along the rugged Oaxacan coast of Mexico, has long been a hidden gem for surfers, beach lovers, and travellers craving an authentic escape. Today, it has blossomed into one of Mexico’s most captivating destinations, offering a perfect balance of world-class surf breaks, pristine beaches, rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and laidback barefoot luxury. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another dose of paradise, this comprehensive Puerto Escondido travel guide will help you uncover the best things to do, where to stay, when to visit, and how to make the most of your time in this coastal haven.
Why Visit Puerto Escondido?
Unlike Mexico’s more polished resort towns, Puerto Escondido retains an authentic, bohemian charm. It’s a place where fishermen bring in their daily catch at sunrise, surfers ride barrels at Zicatela, and visitors slow down to the rhythm of the Pacific.
Here’s what makes Puerto Escondido stand out:
World-class surf: Legendary waves at Playa Zicatela, known as the Mexican Pipeline, attract professional surfers from around the globe.
Diverse beaches: From calm, swimmable coves like Playa Carrizalillo to vibrant hotspots like La Punta, every beach has its own personality worth exploring.
Authentic culture: Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s cultural phenomenons, known for its food, traditions, and warmth.
Nature and adventure: Bioluminescent lagoons, dolphin and whale watching, turtle releases, and jungle hikes await.
Barefoot luxury stays: Boutique hotels like Casa Badú offer a modern yet relaxed way to experience Puerto Escondido.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit depends on what you’re seeking:
High Season (November – April): Pleasant dry weather, calmer seas, and a lively social scene. Ideal for beach lovers and travelers wanting sunshine without heavy rain.
Surf Season (May – October): The rainy season brings massive swells to Playa Zicatela, attracting pro surfers. Expect morning or afternoon showers, lush green landscapes, and fewer crowds.
Shoulder Seasons: May and late October are fantastic for budget-friendly trips with fewer tourists and great weather.
How to Get to Puerto Escondido
By Air: Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) has direct flights from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Tijuana, and Monterrey. International travelers often connect through Mexico City. Flights from Puerto Escondido to the United States and Canada will begin at the end of 2025.
By Road: Overnight ADO buses from Mexico City or Chiapas offer a scenic and budget friendly route to Puerto Escondido.
By Car: Driving from Oaxaca City via the new highway takes approximately three hours and adds another must-see destination to your itinerary.
Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido offers a wide range of accommodation options, from beachfront hostels to boutique hotels and luxury villas.
Casa Badú – Barefoot Luxury in the Heart of Puerto Escondido
If you’re seeking a stay that combines design, comfort, and authenticity, Casa Badú is a standout choice. Located in Tamarindos, conveniently wedged between Zicatela and La Punta, this boutique hotel blends Oaxacan soul with modern simplicity.
Highlights include:
Seven uniquely designed rooms (Magno, Kiwi, Coco, Limón, Maracuyá, Papaya, and Guayaba).
A serene rooftop pool ideal for sunset views and cold beers.
A coworking space with Starlink and fiber-optic internet for remote workers.
A relaxed, community vibe where guests feel right at home.
Other popular areas to stay include:
La Punta: Trendy, laidback surf village with beach bars, boutique stays, and yoga studios.
Zicatela: Best for surfers, nightlife, and ocean-view hotels.
Carrizalillo & Rinconada: Great for families and those seeking calm, swimmable beaches.
Best Beaches in Puerto Escondido
Playa Zicatela: World-famous surf beach with massive waves, beach clubs, and nightlife.
La Punta: A bohemian surf hub with smaller waves perfect for beginners and sunset lovers.
Playa Carrizalillo: A postcard-perfect cove with turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Playa Manzanillo & Puerto Angelito: Calm, family-friendly beaches where locals gather.
Playa Bacocho: Wide sandy stretch, known for its turtle release programs and dramatic sunsets.
Top Things to Do in Puerto Escondido
Surfing: From beginner lessons at La Punta to advanced barrels at Zicatela, Puerto is a surfer’s paradise.
Bioluminescent Lagoon: Witness glowing waters at Manialtepec Lagoon - an unforgettable natural phenomenon.
Turtle Release: Join a conservation program at Playa Bacocho and help baby turtles make their first journey to the ocean.
Dolphin & Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to spot dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and whales.
Explore Rinconada: A charming neighbourhood with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Nightlife: From beach clubs to mezcal bars, Puerto’s nightlife is vibrant yet unpretentious.
Day Trips: Visit nearby Mazunte, Zipolite, and Ventanilla for eco-tours and a slower coastal pace.
Food & Drink in Puerto Escondido
Oaxaca is Mexico’s gastronomic capital, and Puerto Escondido brings those flavors to the coast.
Local Staples: Tlayudas, mole, fish tacos, fresh seafood, and mezcal are must-tries.
Where to Eat:
El Cafecito – An institution for breakfast and casual dining.
Almoraduz – Elevated Oaxacan cuisine in Rinconada.
Chicama – Peruvian flavors with lively ambiance in La Punta.
Casa del Surfer – Fresh fish tacos and acai bowls in Casa Badu.
Zicatela Market – For authentic local bites.
Practical Travel Tips for Puerto Escondido
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Cash is king; ATMs are widely available in town but those in La Punta or Zicatela can run out quickly.
Language: Spanish is the main language, though English is spoken in tourist areas.
Getting Around: Taxis and colectivos are common. Walking and scooters are popular in La Punta and Zicatela.
Safety: Puerto Escondido is one of the safest destinations for travellers.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is common, but digital nomads should choose accommodations with reliable internet (Casa Badú offers both Starlink and fibre-optic).
Why Puerto Escondido Belongs on Your Mexico Bucket List
Puerto Escondido is more than a surf town; it’s a destination where raw natural beauty meets authentic culture and slow living. For travellers seeking barefoot luxury and a true taste of Oaxaca’s coast, Casa Badú is the perfect home base.
Looking for a place to stay in Puerto? Casa Badú offers boutique rooms, rooftop sunsets, and the most laidback vibe in town.
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