30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Puerto Escondido | Jan 2025

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What activities can I do in Puerto Escondido?

1. Surfing: Puerto Escondido is known for its world-class surfing conditions. Playa Zicatela is particularly famous for its huge waves, attracting experienced surfers from around the world. If you're a beginner, there are also other beaches with smaller waves where you can take lessons. 2. Visit the beaches: Besides Zicatela, Puerto Escondido has other beautiful beaches to explore. Playa Carrizalillo is a picturesque beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Playa Bacocho is another popular beach known for its tranquility and stunning sunsets. 3. Turtle Release: Puerto Escondido is home to the National Mexican Turtle Center, where you can learn about the conservation efforts to protect sea turtles. If you visit during the nesting season (usually from June to December), you might have the opportunity to participate in a turtle release, where you can help baby turtles make their way to the ocean. 4. Fishing: Puerto Escondido offers excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities. You can charter a boat and try your luck at catching marlin, sailfish, dorado, and other big game fish. Many local companies offer fishing tours and provide all the necessary equipment. 5. Visit the Mercado Benito Juarez: This local market is a great place to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Puerto Escondido. You can find fresh produce, local handicrafts, and traditional Mexican food. Don't miss trying some delicious seafood dishes, such as ceviche or grilled fish. 6. Explore the Manialtepec Lagoon: Located just outside Puerto Escondido, the Manialtepec Lagoon is a beautiful natural reserve with rich biodiversity. You can take a boat tour to explore the mangroves, spot exotic birds, and even witness the bioluminescence phenomenon at night. 7. Visit the Puerto Escondido Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is a hidden gem in Puerto Escondido. It showcases a wide variety of native plants and flowers, including orchids and cacti. The garden offers guided tours and has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. 8. Take a cooking class: Learn to prepare traditional Mexican dishes by taking a cooking class in Puerto Escondido. You'll have the chance to visit a local market, select fresh ingredients, and then learn how to cook authentic recipes under the guidance of a skilled chef. 9. Enjoy the nightlife: Puerto Escondido has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs where you can dance the night away. Zicatela Beach is a popular spot for live music, while the Adoquín, a pedestrian street in the town center, offers a variety of bars and restaurants. 10. Take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales: Puerto Escondido is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts. You can take a boat tour to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even migrating whales (during the winter months). It's a memorable experience to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

When is the best time to travel to Puerto Escondido?

The best time to travel to Puerto Escondido, Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall. The temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 27-32 degrees Celsius), making it perfect for enjoying the beaches and water activities. If you're interested in surfing, the best time to visit Puerto Escondido is during the winter months, from December to February, when the waves are at their peak. The famous Zicatela Beach is known for its powerful waves, attracting surfers from around the world. It's important to note that Puerto Escondido can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season, especially around Christmas and New Year's. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of November to early December or late April. During the rainy season, from May to October, Puerto Escondido experiences higher temperatures and increased humidity. While this period can still be enjoyable, there is a higher chance of rain showers and occasional tropical storms. Overall, the best time to travel to Puerto Escondido depends on your preferences. If you're looking for sunny beach days and great surf, the dry season is ideal. However, if you don't mind a bit of rain and want to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons can be a good option.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Oaxaca, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of beach relaxation, outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture. Here's a look at the travel culture in Puerto Escondido: 1. Surfing: Puerto Escondido is known as the ""Mexican Pipeline"" and is famous for its powerful waves, making it a haven for surfers from around the world. The town hosts international surfing competitions, attracting both professional surfers and enthusiasts alike. 2. Beach Culture: The beaches in Puerto Escondido are a hub of activity. Zicatela Beach is the main surfing beach, while Playa Carrizalillo and Playa Bacocho are popular for swimming and sunbathing. You'll find beachgoers enjoying the sun, sipping on refreshing drinks, and indulging in delicious seafood at the beachfront restaurants. 3. Nightlife: Puerto Escondido offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs catering to both locals and tourists. Zicatela Beach is particularly lively after sunset, with beachfront bars hosting live music, DJs, and fire shows. 4. Mexican Cuisine: Food plays a significant role in the travel culture of Puerto Escondido. You can savor traditional Mexican dishes like mole, tlayudas (large tortillas topped with various ingredients), and seafood delicacies such as ceviche and grilled fish. Don't miss trying the local specialty, the Oaxacan cheese. 5. Art and Handicrafts: Oaxaca is known for its rich artistic heritage, and Puerto Escondido is no exception. You'll find numerous art galleries and craft shops selling traditional Oaxacan ceramics, textiles, and paintings. The local markets, such as the Benito Juarez Market, are great places to explore and purchase unique souvenirs. 6. Festivals and Celebrations: Puerto Escondido hosts various festivals throughout the year, reflecting the region's cultural traditions. The Day of the Dead celebrations in November are particularly vibrant, with colorful altars, parades, and traditional dances. 7. Ecotourism: The surrounding natural beauty of Puerto Escondido attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can explore nearby attractions like the Manialtepec Lagoon, where you can witness bioluminescence at night, or take a boat tour to see dolphins, sea turtles, and whales. Overall, Puerto Escondido offers a blend of beach culture, surfing, local cuisine, art, and outdoor activities, making it a captivating destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Puerto Escondido

When visiting Puerto Escondido, Mexico, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular options: 1. Mexican Handicrafts: Puerto Escondido is known for its vibrant local handicrafts. Look for colorful textiles, embroidered clothing, hand-painted ceramics, and traditional wooden masks. 2. Oaxacan Coffee: Oaxaca is famous for its high-quality coffee. You can find various coffee beans and blends in Puerto Escondido. Look for local coffee shops or specialty stores to purchase some to take home. 3. Mezcal: Oaxaca is also renowned for its mezcal production. Mezcal is a traditional Mexican spirit made from agave plants. You can find a wide variety of mezcal brands and flavors in Puerto Escondido. 4. Alebrijes: These are brightly colored wooden sculptures of fantastical creatures. Alebrijes are a traditional art form originating from Oaxaca. Look for these unique and intricate pieces as a distinctive souvenir. 5. Huipil: Huipils are traditional embroidered blouses worn by indigenous women in Mexico. They are beautifully crafted and make for a unique and stylish souvenir. 6. Sea Salt: Puerto Escondido is located on the coast, and you can find locally harvested sea salt. This is a great item to bring back home for culinary purposes or as a small gift. 7. Jewelry: Look for handmade jewelry made from silver or local gemstones. Puerto Escondido has several artisanal jewelry shops where you can find unique and beautiful pieces. 8. Mexican Chocolate: Oaxaca is known for its delicious chocolate. Look for locally made chocolate bars, hot chocolate mixes, or even mole sauce, which often contains chocolate as an ingredient. 9. Hammocks: Puerto Escondido is a great place to find traditional Mexican hammocks. These are not only comfortable but also make for a great decorative item for your home or garden. 10. Surfing Gear: If you're into surfing, Puerto Escondido is famous for its waves. You can find surf shops where you can purchase surfboards, board shorts, and other surfing gear. Remember to shop from reputable stores and support local artisans when purchasing souvenirs in Puerto Escondido.

Puerto Escondido travel review

Puerto Escondido: A Hidden Paradise in Mexico Nestled along the picturesque Pacific coast of Mexico, Puerto Escondido is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable travel experience. With its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and incredible natural beauty, this coastal town has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. One of the main draws of Puerto Escondido is its stunning beaches. Whether you are a surfer looking for the perfect wave or simply seeking a peaceful spot to unwind, this town has it all. Zicatela Beach, known as the Mexican Pipeline, is famous worldwide for its powerful waves, attracting surfers from around the globe. Playa Carrizalillo, on the other hand, offers a more tranquil atmosphere, with its crystal-clear waters and golden sand. No matter which beach you choose, the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean are a sight to behold. Beyond its beaches, Puerto Escondido is also known for its vibrant culture. The town is home to a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries showcasing the works of local artists. Strolling through the streets, you will encounter colorful murals that depict the rich history and traditions of the region. The Mercado Benito Juarez, a bustling market, is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Here, you can sample traditional Mexican cuisine, purchase handmade crafts, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. For nature enthusiasts, Puerto Escondido offers a plethora of outdoor activities. The nearby Lagunas de Chacahua National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with its diverse array of bird species and tranquil lagoons. You can also explore the stunning Manialtepec Lagoon, famous for its bioluminescent phenomenon. Take a boat tour at night and witness the water come alive with glowing organisms, creating a surreal and magical experience. If you are seeking a thrill, Puerto Escondido has something for you too. The town is known for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers alike. Whether you want to take a lesson or ride the waves on your own, the surf breaks here are legendary. Additionally, the nearby Sierra Madre del Sur mountains offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and even zip-lining, providing an adrenaline rush amidst the stunning natural landscapes. When it comes to accommodation, Puerto Escondido caters to all budgets and preferences. From luxury beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, there is no shortage of options. The town also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with beachside bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment. In conclusion, Puerto Escondido is a true paradise that captivates the hearts of all who visit. Its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and abundance of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. So, pack your bags, grab your surfboard, and get ready to experience the magic of Puerto Escondido, Mexico.