Puerto Escondido

A legendary surf destination famous for its powerful beach breaks and laid-back bohemian vibe attracting surfers from around the world. Beyond surfing, it features colorful beachfront restaurants, a beautiful main beach for swimming, and a genuine local character.

Things to do

• Surf Mexican Pipeline — Challenge yourself on Puerto Escondido's famous beach break, known for massive waves and hollow barrels that attract professional surfers during the November-April swell season.
• Explore Playa Zicatela — Walk along the iconic main beach with its golden sand, colorful palapas, and beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and cold beverages with ocean views.
• Visit Laguna de Manialtepec — Take a boat tour through this nearby lagoon to spot crocodiles, birds, and experience the magical bioluminescent plankton that glows at night.
• Hike to Punta Zicatela — Trek to this dramatic rocky outcrop at the southern end of the beach for panoramic sunset views and spotting sea turtles nesting below.
• Snorkel at Playa Bacocho — Head to this protected cove north of town where calm waters and rocky reefs offer excellent opportunities to see tropical fish and sea life.
• Learn Surfing at Playa Carrizalillo — Practice on gentler waves at this smaller beach accessed by a steep stairway, ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Food to try

• Ceviche de Camarón — Fresh shrimp cured in lime juice with tomato, cilantro, and avocado, served ice-cold as a refreshing appetizer or light meal typical of coastal Oaxaca.
• Pescado a la Sal — Whole fish encased in a salt crust and baked, then cracked open tableside to reveal perfectly steamed flesh—a specialty at beachfront restaurants.
• Huevos Rancheros — Fried eggs served on corn tortillas with black beans, fresh salsa, and avocado, eaten for breakfast or late-night meals at local comedores.
• Tlayudas — Large crispy corn tortillas topped with beans, chorizo, cheese, and lettuce, reflecting Oaxacan street-food tradition sold by vendors throughout town.
• Fresh Fruit Batidos — Blended drinks made with local mangoes, papayas, and coconut milk, refreshing beverages sold at beach stands and juice bars.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Ocean and Local Surfers — Puerto Escondido's waves are dangerous and locals take surfing seriously; observe the lineup from shore first, follow break etiquette, and never drop in on another surfer's wave.
• Embrace the Laid-Back Pace — This is a bohemian beach town where 'mañana time' is standard—shops close for siesta, restaurants serve dinner late, and the rhythm revolves around tides and sunsets rather than rigid schedules.
• Learn Basic Spanish — While tourist areas speak English, speaking some Spanish shows respect and opens doors to authentic conversations with locals in markets, small shops, and family-run restaurants.
• Support Local Businesses — Eat at independent comedores and family restaurants rather than tourist chains, shop at the local market for souvenirs, and hire local guides for tours to support the community.