How to Spend 1 Day in Puerto Escondido

As a secluded beach town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Escondido is a perfect escape for surfers and food lovers. This off-the-beaten-path town lets you break away from Mexico’s larger tourist hubs while still enjoying gorgeous beaches and Mexican culture. Here’s how. 

Morning: Surf’s Up

Kick off your first day with a walk along the beach that brought Puerto Escondido to the attention of international travelers. Playa Zicatela’s waves draw surfers from across the globe, so it’s a great spot to watch the world-class action. Though these waves are only suitable for experienced surfers, there are ample beaches for swimming and beginner surfing opportunities. If you’re a first-time surfer, book a surf lesson on Playa Cardisarillo. Intermediate surfers can rent a surfboard or take lessons at La Punta.

Afternoon: Seafood and Sea Turtles

After a morning of surfing or relaxing on the beach, refuel at a seafood restaurant on the seashore. Follow a cliffside path to the quiet cove of Puerto Angelito, where you can enjoy freshly-caught fish and take a break from the crowds of the beach. 

Then, see a different side of the region on a tour of a sea turtle conservation camp. Tours typically reveal the importance of sea turtle conservation and let you help newly-hatched sea turtles make their way into the ocean for the first time. Then, watch the sunset from the remote beach before the return trip to PE.

Night: Bioluminescent Displays

To sample authentic Mexican cuisine such as Oaxaca State’s renown mole sauce, head to the bustling El Adoquinado. The historic strip is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants and is closed to cars at night. Be sure to pick up locally-made crafts and souvenirs here.

Spend your evening on a boat tour that reveals the bioluminescent plankton of the Manialtepec Lagoon. As darkness sets in, you can swim through the sea of underwater stars or appreciate the natural phenomenon from aboard the boat. Either way, its a grand finale for your last day in Puerto Escondido.