A Long Weekend Guide to Puerto Escondido: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore

How to Plan a Long Weekend in Puerto Escondido

Set on Oaxaca’s sun-drenched Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido has quietly emerged as one of Mexico’s most enchanting escapes. Here, wild surf, desert flora, and a creative energy collide along pristine beaches—making it equally beloved by surfers, design lovers, foodies, and those seeking laid-back adventure. This guide lays out all you need for a memorable long weekend: how to arrive, where to stay, savor, and play, plus insider tips for experiencing the area’s distinct charms.

Getting to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) offers a straightforward arrival point, with direct flights from Mexico City. The airport is compact, and transfers are seamless; pre-arranged taxis or hotel shuttles greet most arrivals just outside the terminal.

• Most flights are about one hour from Mexico City, connecting the metropolis with the coast quickly.
• The airport is a 30–40 minute taxi ride from popular hotels and beaches like Zicatela, La Punta, and Hotel Escondido.

While having a rental car makes the broader Oaxacan coast accessible, you can see much of the area by taxi, bike, or shuttle if you stay near the beach zones.

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotels on the Oaxaca Coast

The stretch between Hotel Escondido and Casa Wabi, west of the main beaches, is a sanctuary that feels distinctly apart from busier central Puerto Escondido. Here, you’ll find design-forward accommodations conceived to harmonize with the wild landscape, prioritizing comfort, privacy, and aesthetic delight.

• Hotel Escondido: Featuring oceanfront bungalows with palm-thatched roofs, this adults-only retreat blends rustic minimalism and pure relaxation. Enjoy a private plunge pool, open-air showers, hammocks, and an infinity pool with panoramic sea views.
• Casona Sforza: A striking architectural hotel with arched, modern design and warm, earthy interiors. Each suite faces the sea or lush gardens, and an eco-friendly ethos runs throughout.
• Casa Wabi: Not a hotel, but an extraordinary cultural foundation and artist’s residence founded by famed architect Tadao Ando. Visits are open by reservation; it’s an inspiring location to explore contemporary art and innovative local projects.
• Other Stay Options: Nearby, you’ll find luxury eco-lodges, intimate private homes, and even stylish hostels for every budget.

Neighborhoods and Main Areas

The broader Puerto Escondido area is comprised of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own vibe:

• Zicatela: The hub for surfing, nightlife, and international energy; famed for epic waves, beach bars, and frequent music events.
• La Punta: Laid-back, surf-centric, barefoot-casual with cafés, yoga studios, handcrafted boutiques, and sunset hangouts. A magnet for the backpacker crowd and locals alike.
• Centro: The local heart of town; home to bustling markets, authentic Oaxacan restaurants, and a more residential feel. Ideal for those wanting a deeper immersion into local life.
• Bacocho & Rinconada: Residential neighborhoods with access to tranquil beaches and family-run restaurants, great for a slower-paced experience.
• Playa Carrizalillo Area: Coveted for its stunning turquoise bay and gentle swimming conditions, popular with families and beginner surfers.

Essential Packing List for Puerto Escondido

• Light, breathable clothing (it’s hot year-round!)
• Swimsuits, rash guard for surfing
• Sunscreen (reef-safe), hat, and sunglasses
• Sandals and sturdy walking shoes
• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated in the heat)
• Basic medical kit, insect repellant
• Light sweater or jacket for evening breezes

The Best Beaches in Puerto Escondido

Whether you’re chasing epic swells, tranquil swims, or quiet sunbathing, Puerto Escondido’s beaches offer something for everyone:

• Playa Zicatela: World-renowned for its big wave surfing, especially during the summer pipeline season. While swimming is not advised due to strong currents, it’s perfect for sunset strolls and people-watching amidst the surf culture.
• La Punta: The mellow end of Zicatela and the place to go for beginner surf lessons, casual beach bars, and lively gatherings as dusk falls.
• Playa Carrizalillo: Favored for swimming, snorkeling, and learning to surf. Its scenic horseshoe-shaped cove requires descending a steep staircase, but the turquoise waters and gentler waves make it well worth the effort.
• Playa Manzanillo & Puerto Angelito: Two tranquil coves that sit side-by-side, ideal for calm swims and dockside seafood lunches. Popular with locals and families.
• Playa Bacocho: Spacious, wild, and usually uncrowded. This is the place for long walks and, notably, turtle releases at sunset—a moving local conservation initiative.
• Playa Coral: Pristine and often quiet, technically a nude-friendly beach. There’s a small access fee via a nearby hotel, or you can walk from Bacocho. Stunning waters and an off-the-radar feel.
• Playa Principal: The centrally located main beach, vibrant with fishing boats and street vendors. The pulse of Puerto Escondido’s local energy.

Top Activities and Unforgettable Experiences

• Surfing: Puerto Escondido is a legendary surf town. Sign up for a surf lesson at La Punta or Carrizalillo if you’re a beginner, or simply take in the spectacle of the world’s best tackling Zicatela’s iconic waves.
• Sunset Cocktails: The sunsets here are blazing and long. Choose a beach bar—like Lychee, Las Olas, or Punta Vida—for margaritas or mezcal drinks as the sky glows orange and pink.
• Bike or Walk the Coastal Path: Stroll or cycle the dirt roads that run along the wild shore out toward Hotel Escondido and Casa Wabi. Desert plants, coastal breeze, and sea views are constant companions.
• Yoga and Wellness: Morning classes overlooking the Pacific are plentiful in La Punta and Zicatela.
• Explore Casa Wabi: Take a guided tour of this architectural and creative haven. Rotating artist residencies, art installations, and a stunning cactus garden await.
• Turtle Release: Participate in a conservation project at Playa Bacocho, releasing baby turtles into the wild at sunset—a unique and touching experience.
• Bioluminescent Lagoon Tour: Just outside Puerto Escondido, paddle or boat at night to see the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton.
• Boat Tours and Whale Watching: Seasonal tours reveal dolphins, whales, and abundant birdlife. The best time for whales is December through April.
• Mangrove Kayaking: Hire a local guide to navigate the serene coastal mangroves, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
• Visit a Local Market: Stop in the town center for Oaxacan handicrafts, fragrant produce, and quick bites like tlayudas and tamales.

Where to Eat and Drink in Puerto Escondido

Pooled from beachside palapas to stylish design-driven spaces, Puerto Escondido’s culinary scene fuses Oaxacan roots with creative coastal flair.

• Almoraduz: A chic restaurant near Bacocho, helmed by a decorated chef serving up local ingredients in modern Mexican dishes. The tasting menu is a highlight for special occasions.
• El Espadin: Set atop the cliffs above Playa Carrizalillo, offering fresh-caught fish, mezcal cocktails, and jaw-dropping views. Arrive before sunset for the best seats.
• Lychee Thai: A vibrant spot at La Punta for inventive Thai food, mezcal drinks, and a buzzing vibe on weekend nights.
• Punta Vida: Perfect for brunch, with healthy bowls and organic coffee steps from the sand.
• El Cafecito: A local institution for hearty Mexican breakfasts, famous for chilaquiles and fresh pastries, with locations in both Zicatela and Rinconada.
• Smoked Fish Tacos: Street-stall favorites and seaside shacks offer exceptional variations on this Oaxacan specialty. Don’t miss to try them on your visit.

Wellness, Creatives, and Culture

• Casa Wabi: Both an architectural landmark and a vibrant art space; book a guided visit to experience exhibitions, installations, and the property’s serene landscapes.
• Local Craft Markets: Shop vibrant textiles, pottery, woven palm goods, and unique homeware—all crafted by Oaxaqueño artisans.
• Yoga and Pilates: Studios abound near La Punta, offering seaside and rooftop sessions with a mix of locals and visitors.

Travel Tips and Practical Advice

• Weather is warm and sunny throughout the year, with the rainiest months from June to September.
• Bring sufficient cash, as many off-the-beaten-path spots do not accept cards and ATMs may be limited outside the main town zones.
• If you stay further from town, confirm your hotel can arrange taxis or shuttles. Roads can be bumpy, so allow extra time for travel.
• Most experiences are relaxed and not overly scheduled. Embrace the slow pace—this is a place designed for lingering and living in the moment.

Sample Weekend Itinerary

FAQs: Puerto Escondido Travel Tips

Is Puerto Escondido safe for travelers?

Puerto Escondido is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any destination, it’s wise to use common sense: avoid isolated areas after dark, don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, and use authorized taxis for longer rides.

When is the best time to visit Puerto Escondido?

The dry season, November through April, is considered the best time weather-wise, offering endless sun, manageable humidity, and prime surf conditions. Visit in summer for fewer crowds and lush, green surroundings, but be prepared for occasional rain.

What is the surf scene like for beginners and experts?

Zicatela is world-famous for its big waves and surf competitions, catering mostly to experienced surfers. Beginners do better at La Punta, Carrizalillo, or with one of the area’s friendly surf schools.

Are there cultural or art attractions to visit?

Yes, Casa Wabi stands out as a must-see for architecture and art lovers. There are also regular pop-up markets, artisan fairs, and creative workshops in the La Punta and Zicatela neighborhoods.

What local foods should I try?

Don’t miss Oaxacan staples like tlayudas, fresh ceviche, smoked fish tacos, chocolate concha pastries, and mezcal cocktails.

Quick Local Tips

• Embrace “mañana mode”—things happen at a slower pace here, and that’s part of the appeal.
• Support local artisans and independent eateries—they are at the heart of Puerto’s unique culture.
• If you can, wake early for sunrise on the beach—it’s when Puerto Escondido is at its magical, golden best.

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