From surfing spectacular waves in the Pacific Ocean, to exploring its rich Oaxacan cultural essence, you can discover all this and more in this heavenly place
Whether you’re planning a week-long vacation or just have a few days for a quick visit to Puerto Escondido, you certainly don’t want to miss out on the most incredible local experiences, attractions, and activities this destination has to offer.
There is so much to discover when it comes to outdoor adventures and culture in Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido!
These are the most fabulous activities to do in the company of those you love the most on your next visit, try taking an eco-adventure tour, have fun practicing water sports, enjoy outdoor attractions, day trips and wildlife observation if visit Puerto Escondido.
1. Bioluminescence Tour in the Manialtepec Lagoon at Night
If you love being in contact with nature and enjoy silent nights, you definitely don’t want to miss the phosphorescence tour, an experience that is only available at certain times of the year when weather and environmental conditions are right.
It happens that a unique alchemy of ocean currents and water temperature attract dinoflagellate plankton to Laguna Manialtepec, located 20 minutes from Puerto Escondido.
Although it is beautiful to experience the lagoon at night during a full moon, the best time to see the plankton glow is on a moonless night.
2. Enjoy Carrizalillo BeachEnjoy Carrizalillo Beach
Although Puerto Escondido is home to the most beautiful beaches in Oaxaca such as Playa Coral and Playa Zicatela, if you only have time to visit one beach then visit Playa Carrizalillo.
This beach regularly tops lists of the best beaches in Mexico and also has many amenities including lounge chairs, restaurants, and public restrooms. Although there is occasionally enough action in the sea to catch a few waves, the turquoise blue waters of this beach are generally calm for even the most timid swimmers and families.
You may also be interested in: The most spectacular beaches you can visit in Puerto Escondido
3. Skydiving at Zicatela Beach
If you are one of those who loves to feel the adrenaline, then you will surely love skydiving in Puerto Escondido. You will jump out of a plane into the clouds and then catapult yourself through the air and land on the sands of Playa Zicatela.
This unique activity in Puerto Escondido usually takes place at sunset, this way you will enjoy better weather and a spectacular view.
4. Immerse yourself in the La Reforma jungle waterfall
Depending on the season, you will be able to explore the many waterfalls along the coast. The closest main waterfall to Puerto Escondido is the La Reforma Waterfall.
This is a trip that you can do completely independently. There is an entrance to the waterfalls (with an entrance fee), as well as a shop and restrooms. It is the perfect place to take a couple of selfies with the ones you love the most!
5. Explore the Puerto Escondido Night Market
At night in Puerto Escondido you can go to the open-air night market. It is located in El Adoquín, close to Avenida Alfonso Pérez Gasga near the Playa Principal, which is closed to traffic at night.
In this pedestrian area you will find vendors offering a variety of products, such as souvenirs and high-quality handicrafts. Find artisan products such as black pottery from Oaxaca and kitchen utensils made of parota wood.
As you stroll through the night market, you can also try some local mezcal or cool off with a frozen popsicle at Paletas Oaxaqueñas.
6. Escape to Laguna Chacahua National Park
Take a trip to Las Lagunas de Chacahua National Park to get away from the crowds. This extensive national park is located beyond the Manialtepec lagoon, near the town of Zapotalito and while it is possible to visit Chacahua on a day tour, it is best to spend at least one night.
If you manage to stay a few days in the Laguna Chacahua National Park you will be able to enjoy the beach, learn about the Afro-mestizo culture of the Oaxacan Coast, take a tour of the mangroves within its five lagoons and possibly even do some surfing.
7. Swimming with dolphins
In Puerto Escondido you can observe marine life in the ocean. From November you can enjoy whale watching as migrating humpback whales pass through the local waters.
Throughout the year you can see sea turtles, manta rays and many types of dolphins.
8. Take a day trip to the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Juquila
This little excursion is worth adding to your Puerto Escondido itinerary. The Virgin of Juquila is in a sanctuary located in the town of Santa Catarina Juquila, a 3-hour drive from Puerto Escondido or 5 hours from Oaxaca City.
The sanctuary is a major pilgrimage site throughout the year, attracting thousands of supplicants on December 8, the holy day. The object of veneration is a small wooden statue of the Virgin Mary originally brought to Oaxaca from Spain in 1552 by the Dominican friar Jordán de Santa Caterina.
The statue miraculously survived a fire and its color makes the morenita especially popular among the indigenous people of Oaxaca.
Located high in the mountains, the town of Santa Catarina Juquila is a designated Magical Town, an initiative of the Mexican Ministry of Tourism that recognizes places that offer unique experiences for visitors.
9. Horseback riding while soaking in hot springs
Travel into the foothills of the Sierra Madre Sur mountains on horseback with a local guide. Along the way, you will see lizards, butterflies and be surrounded by tropical vegetation. You will even cross the river on horseback.
The spectacular hot springs of Atotonilco are considered therapeutic, so you can plan to stay for a long period and relax for a while.
10. Go surfing in Puerto Escondido
Surfing is definitely the best outdoor adventure in Puerto Escondido. Playa Zicatela is considered one of the world’s top perfect surfing beaches thanks to the Oleoducto Mexicano, a challenging wave best attempted by experienced surfers.
In the summer season, Zicatela is known for its giant waves and international surfing tournaments that attract professional athletes like Coco Nogales and others. However, there are many other beaches in Puerto Escondido suitable for beginners.
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