Puerto Escondido

A legendary Pacific beach town known for world-class surfing, pristine beaches, and a laid-back bohemian vibe. The coastal scenery, fresh seafood, and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for both adventure seekers and beach lovers.

Things to do

• Surf at Playa Zicatela — Ride some of the Pacific's most powerful and consistent waves at this legendary beach break that hosts international surfing competitions.
• Explore Playa Carillo — Relax on this sheltered, sandy cove with calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, just minutes from the main beach.
• Visit Playa Manzanillo — Hike down to this secluded northern beach framed by jungle cliffs for a more tranquil swimming and sunset experience.
• Take a lagoon tour — Paddle or boat through nearby Laguna de Manialtepec to spot crocodiles, birds, and bioluminescent plankton at night.
• Hike to Viewpoint Mirador — Climb to the scenic overlook above town for panoramic views of the coastline, especially stunning at sunset.
• Snorkel at Isla Manzanillo — Take a boat to this small offshore island to snorkel in clear waters teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles.

Food to try

• Ceviche de camarón — Fresh shrimp cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and jalapeños, a quintessential Oaxacan coastal dish served ice-cold.
• Humo de camarón — Smoked shrimp prepared over an open fire, a local specialty that captures the essence of Puerto Escondido's fishing heritage.
• Tamales negros — Dark mole-based tamales filled with chicken or pork, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, a traditional Oaxacan comfort food.
• Tostadas de atún — Crispy fried tortillas topped with fresh-caught tuna, avocado, onion, and a squeeze of lime, sold at beachside stands.
• Mole negro oaxaqueño — Complex dark sauce made with chocolate, chiles, spices, and over 30 ingredients, served over chicken or turkey.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the rip currents — Even experienced swimmers should be cautious of strong currents at Playa Zicatela; always ask locals about safe swimming conditions before entering the water.
• Adopt the sunset ritual — Most locals and visitors gather along the beach or at beach bars around 6 PM to watch the daily sunset, an unofficial community tradition.
• Learn basic Spanish — While some English is spoken in tourist areas, learning key phrases shows respect and significantly enhances interactions with locals who appreciate the effort.
• Visit the fish market early — Head to the central market in the morning to see fishermen unload the day's catch and sample the freshest seafood at the best prices.