Puerto Escondido It is one of the most magical destinations in Mexico. This little paradise on the coast of Oaxaca It combines spectacular beaches, extraordinary marine life, authentic local culture, and nature experiences you won't find at any resort. If you're planning your visit and wondering... What to do in Puerto Escondido, This comprehensive guide for 2026 has everything you need: from swimming in bioluminescent waters to releasing turtles into the sea at sunset.
1. Swimming in the Bioluminescence of the Manialtepec Lagoon
The most unique and memorable experience for travelers visiting Puerto Escondido. Manialtepec Lagoon, Just 14 km from the city center, this lagoon is home to millions of dinoflagellates that illuminate the water with an otherworldly blue glow at the slightest movement. Putting your hands in the water and seeing them glow is one of those life-changing experiences.
He Bioluminescence tour with Paraíso Laguna This tour operates nightly from Puerto Escondido, with transportation included, an expert guide, and time to swim in the lagoon. The best time to visit is from November to May, on moonless nights.
2. Dolphin and Whale Watching at Sunrise
One of the most impressive spectacles on the Mexican Pacific coast takes place off the shores of Puerto Escondido: hundreds of dolphins leaping at dawn alongside your boat. From November to March, the humpback whales They migrate through these waters and are commonly sighted from local boats.
The sunrise tour is a completely different experience from the night tours: the orange sky, the calm sea and the dolphins circling the boat create unforgettable images.
3. Releasing Sea Turtles on Bacocho Beach
From July to November, the sea turtles They come to lay their eggs on the beaches of Puerto Escondido. At Playa Bacocho, there's a protected hatchery where you can participate in releasing the hatchlings into the ocean at sunset. Watching the little turtles make their way to the sea is one of those moments that travelers remember for a lifetime, especially with their families.
4. Surfing in Zicatela, the Mexican Pipeline
Puerto Escondido is world-renowned for its wave of Zicatela Beach, Considered one of the most powerful waves on the planet, it received the designation of World Surfing Reserve in 2025. If you're a beginner, La Punta and Carrizalillo are perfect for learning. There are dozens of surf schools with certified instructors.
5. Explore the Chacahua Lagoon
The Chacahua Lagoon It's a national park 60 km from Puerto Escondido that seems like something out of another planet: mangrove labyrinths, caimans soaring above pelicans, uninhabited beaches, and its own bioluminescent lagoon. The tour from Puerto Escondido lasts all day and includes a boat trip through the mangroves and free time on the beach.
6. Swimming at Carrizalillo Beach
Considered the most beautiful beach in Puerto Escondido, Carrizalillo Beach It's a sheltered cove with turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Access is via a stone staircase. Arrive early (before 9 AM) to enjoy it peacefully before the other visitors arrive.
7. Kayak in Manialtepec Lagoon
In addition to the nighttime tour, Manialtepec Lagoon is ideal for daytime kayaking. Among mangroves, exotic birds, and calm waters, the kayak trip is relaxing and offers the opportunity to observe local wildlife: herons, pelicans, iguanas, and even crocodiles.
8. Visit the Benito Juárez Market
The heart of local Puerto Escondido. In the Benito Juárez Market You'll find traditional Oaxacan breakfasts (tlayudas, memelas, fish soup) for 40-80 pesos, tropical fruits, handicrafts, and a glimpse of daily life away from the tourist crowds. Ideal for an early morning visit.
9. Snorkeling in Puerto Angelito
Just a few minutes from the center, Puerto Angelito It's a cove beach with calm waters ideal for snorkeling. The shallow reef is home to colorful tropical fish, the occasional turtle, and starfish. You can go on your own by renting equipment on the beach (100-150 pesos).
10. Sunset from La Punta
The Point It's the coolest neighborhood in Puerto Escondido: specialty cafes, restaurants with ocean views, hammocks overlooking the waves, and the most laid-back atmosphere on the Pacific coast. Watching the sunset from here with a cold coconut in hand is the quintessential Oaxacan experience.
11. Take Oaxacan Cooking Classes
Oaxaca is known as the culinary capital of Mexico. In Puerto Escondido, there are workshops where you can learn to prepare mole negro, tlayudas, and artisanal chocolate using ingredients from the local market. It's the perfect activity for cloudy days or for tourists who want to take away more than just photos.
12. Mezcal Tour
The Oaxacan coast has its own distilleries artisanal mezcal Located a few kilometers from Puerto Escondido. Tours include a visit to the factory, an explanation of the agave distillation process, and a tasting. An unmissable cultural experience for adults.
13. Hike to Cerro del Viejón
20 km from Puerto Escondido, the Old Man Hill It offers one of the most spectacular panoramas on the Oaxacan coast: the Pacific Ocean, coastal lagoons, and the mountains in the background. The hike lasts 2-3 hours and is moderate. A local guide can be hired in the town of Cacalotepec.
14. Visit the Reforma Waterfalls
Located 45 minutes from Puerto Escondido are the Reform Waterfalls, A series of waterfalls amidst dense tropical vegetation. The trail passes through indigenous communities and coffee plantations. It's one of those places that few tourists know about and that leaves you speechless.
15. Enjoy the Zicatela Night Market
As night falls, the street in front of Zicatela Beach transforms into a lively night market with artisans, local jewelers, street food, and live music. It's the best time to buy souvenirs at fair prices directly from the artisans.
When is the best time to visit Puerto Escondido?
The ideal season to visit Puerto Escondido The best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season. The days are sunny, the sea is calmer, and the temperature is perfect (25-30°C). If you want to see whales, visit between December and February. For bioluminescence, any time of year works, but nights with a new moon are the best.
| Month | Climate | Highlight | Concurrence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec – Feb | Dry and fresh | Humpback whales | High |
| Mar – May | Dry and warm | Surfing, Easter Week | High (Holy Week) |
| June – October | Moderate rain | Sea turtles | Lower (better price) |
| Nov | Transition | Whale season begins | Average |
How to get to Puerto Escondido
Plane: Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM) has direct flights from Mexico City (1 hour 20 minutes) with Aeromexico and VivaAerobus. The airport is expanding with new international routes.
Road: From Oaxaca city via the new highway (approx. 3.5 hours), it previously took 7+ hours via mountain roads. From Mexico City, the fastest route goes through Puebla and Tehuacan (8-9 hours).
Book your tours with Paraíso Laguna
If you want to experience the best of Puerto Escondido with expert local guides, small groups, and a personalized approach responsible ecotourism, book your bioluminescence tour Or contact us directly via WhatsApp. We're a passionate team born in the lagoon, and we know every corner of this paradise.