A calm fishing village on Mexico's Pacific coast with white-sand beaches. Popular for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling in marine-rich waters. Nearby islands offer boat tours.
Puerto Escondido, a coastal town in Oaxaca, Mexico, is known for its world-class surfing beaches and unique wildlife experiences. You can watch baby turtles crawl into the ocean, swim in a glowing lagoon, or relax on golden sand beaches. Despite its growing popularity, the town maintains a laid-back atmosphere, appealing to both thrill-seekers and those looking for a calm getaway.
Surfing the Mexican Pipeline at Zicatela Beach
Puerto Escondido's beaches suit different preferences and skill levels. Zicatela Beach, nicknamed the "Mexican Pipeline," draws professional surfers with waves up to 20 feet high. Beginners should head to Carrizalillo Beach, where calmer waters and smaller waves create ideal learning conditions. You can rent boards and take lessons from local surf schools. At Playa Principal, the town's main beach, you'll see fishing boats and seafood restaurants that reflect the local way of life.
Savoring Fresh Seafood and Oaxacan Specialties
Puerto Escondido's food scene centers on fresh seafood and traditional Oaxacan dishes. Beachside palapas serve grilled fish, ceviche, and coconut shrimp caught the same day. For regional specialties, try tlayudas - large, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat, often called "Oaxacan pizza." Local markets sell tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and guavas. Small cafes offer Oaxacan coffee grown in the nearby Sierra Madre mountains, known for its rich, chocolatey flavor.
Participating in Sea Turtle Releases and Bioluminescent Tours
At Playa Bacocho, you can join sea turtle releases, helping newly hatched Olive Ridley turtles reach the ocean. These events typically happen between June and February. In the evening, take a boat tour of Manialtepec Lagoon to see bioluminescent plankton that illuminate the water when disturbed. As you move your hand through the water or swim, you'll see blue-green sparks appear around you. The lagoon's nearby mangrove forests are excellent for birdwatching, where you might spot herons, pelicans, and frigatebirds.
Navigating Puerto Escondido's Spread-Out Layout
Puerto Escondido extends along several miles of coastline, so you'll need transportation to explore fully. Taxis are common and affordable, with set rates between different areas of town. A ride from Zicatela to the town center typically costs around 40-50 pesos. For more independence, consider renting a scooter or bicycle. Many hotels rent bikes for about 150 pesos per day, letting you explore at your own pace. If you're staying near Zicatela or La Punta, you can walk to nearby beaches, restaurants, and bars, but you'll want wheels to venture further afield.
