In the 1960s, this jewel of the Mexican Pacific came to light. Since then, national, and international tourists have visited it to marvel at what this tourist destination offers.
Although it is famous for welcoming surfers and backpackers worldwide, Puerto Escondido offers options for tourists looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and have a first-class experience.
Puerto Escondido is famous for its challenging waves, sunsets, gastronomy, and weather, which can be enjoyed almost all year round.
The destination has positioned itself as one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country, attracting some 300,000 visitors a year. It still retains all the charm of a small fishing village and has first-class places to stay and exclusive activities and experiences.
"You can walk barefoot into any place -restaurants, bars, stores, or hotels- and no one will look at you," says María Prieto, filmmaker, and founder of Puerto by María, a boutique agency dedicated to creating personalized tourist experiences.
The vast Oaxacan gastronomy and the multiple and diverse activities for children and adults invite tourists to enjoy its dishes, unique flavors, and sites and activities that will leave an indelible and pleasant mark of that visit. Here are some recommendations to enjoy exceptional food.
Ceviche in Mexico. (Photo Credit: Guajillo studio/Adobe)
Four Places to Dine in Puerto Escondido
Almoraduz is considered the best restaurant in Puerto Escondido. This signature cuisine spot has a 10-course tasting menu combining techniques and local ingredients. Maria defines it as "a dining room of unique flavors, although its owners, chefs Shalxaly and Quetzalcoatl, are the best of the place. I recommend any of their rice dishes or the smoked oysters with fine herbs," she says.
At Nene Bar & Grill, they specialize in serving grilled seafood and land products. The place is necessary for those who enjoy good food in a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere. You can taste a delicious tuna with crust, a fantastic grilled octopus, or exquisite fish tacos. The cocktail bar is also worth a try; the combination of mezcal with hibiscus and passion fruit is a delight.
Kakurega Omakase is a small Japanese restaurant immersed in the jungle and only has space for 12 diners; reservations must be made in advance. "Chef Keisuke Harada arrived several years ago from Kyoto and settled in Puerto Escondido. Every night, he prepares in front of your eyes the most incredible fusion of Japanese flavors with ingredients from Oaxacan lands." This is highly recommended, says Maria.
El Coste is a cozy palapa offering famous ceviches with the freshest ingredients. Their menu has delicious sashimis and agua chiles, although most people always go for the ceviches. There are also grilled fish or tuna carpaccio.
Puerto Escondido Baby Sea Turtle Release. (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Top Things to Do in Puerto Escondido
Turtle Release
This activity is highly recommended to share with young children. Committed to the preservation of the environment, several ecotourism activities are offered, ranging from camping to climbing and parachuting, and María explains that "only in Puerto Escondido can we see the nesting of three of the six species of turtles that arrive in Mexico: olive ridley, leatherback, and Pacific green turtles."
Whales and Dolphins
Unlike the whales, which only pass by the coasts of Puerto Escondido from November to March, the dolphins are in their habitat all year round, making them a must-see for nature-loving tourists. Humpback whales travel along the coast of Oaxaca along with large groups of dolphins. It is a majestic spectacle and a memory for life!
Puerto Escondido is famous for its waves for expert surfers and has places for beginners. (Photo Credit: Ministry of Tourism of Mexico, Sectur)
Surfing
Although there are huge waves almost all year round, the International Surfing Tournament is one of the most awaited events; it is held in November. Men and women compete, demonstrating their skills at Zicatela Beach.
Can't-Miss Sites in Puerto Escondido
- Zicatela at sunset. Sit on the sand and become a spectator of the surfers.
- Casa Wabi. It is a foundation for artists founded by sculptor Bosco Sodi. The place itself is a spectacle. A project by architect Tadao Ando. They always have different art shows, and the residents work on unique projects. Plus, they collaborate hand in hand with the local communities.
- Manialtepec Lagoon. You can take the bird-watching tour. There are dozens of species living in the lagoon. The tour is by boat.
- Luminescence at night. It is quite a show.
- A surfing lesson. Everyone can surf. And you have the best teachers available in Puerto Escondido. Book a surf lesson and live the experience of catching your first wave. You will always remember it.
The Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido
All year round is a good time of the year. Every month has its charms, but from October to March is "the dry season"; it rains less, and there is less humidity and less heat.
Puerto Escondido is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself and disconnect from everything else. It is surrounded by jungle and sea. Take it easy for a few days in Puerto. Listen to the waves, wake up, slow down, and rest. Take the time to get to know the locals. Taste the Oaxacan food. Sit and watch the sunsets on those long beaches. Look up at the stars at night and taste a good mezcal.
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