Puerto Escondido has been the best kept secret in the Mexico and it looks like that status is set to not last after the New York Times named it one of the 52 must-see spots for 2020.
This charming corner of the Pacific is not as famous as the Mayan Riviera, Puerto Vallarta ou Los Cabos, but offers incredible landscapes and beautiful beaches.
So if you want to hop on this travel trend, do it soon before the place gets overrun!
Here's a beach lover's guide to one of Mexico's most beautiful stretches of coast, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.
Best beaches in Puerto Escondido
Zicatela Beach
There's a reason Puerto Escondido is known as a world-class surfing destination, and Playa Zicatela has played a big part in shaping that reputation.
It is the site of the so-called Mexican Pipeline, which means only one thing: perfect surfing conditions, although with a strong undertow that makes it dangerous for non-professional surfers.
Either way, it's a must-see stretch of coastline in Puerto Escondido, even if you're just here to watch the world-famous surfers instead of catching a wave.
La Punta Beach
Located just below Playa Zicatela, at the southeastern end of the stretch of sand, is La Punta.
If you want all the atmosphere of Zicatela, but with safer waves for beginners, this is the beach for you.
In addition to beginners, classes and bodyboarders, you will regularly see runners exercising along this beach as the sand is compact and ideal for a quick run.
Plus, this beach has the best chocolate croissants in Puerto Escondido.
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Main Beach
Right in the center of Puerto Escondido, you can find Playa Principal, which is particularly popular with locals, especially fishermen.
While surfers should look elsewhere, if you want to try bodyboarding or just go for a gentle swim, Playa Principal offers the ideal conditions for it.
While you won’t be blessed with powdery white sand, you’ll find the family-friendly atmosphere here is second to none, and the speedboat connections to other beaches in the area make it incredibly convenient.
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Playa Marinero
Between Playa Principal and Playa Zicatela, you'll find Playa Marinero, which has a similar atmosphere and vibe.
For those who like to sunbathe and enjoy the surroundings, especially if you enjoy people watching, this is the beach to visit.
Again, swimming and bodyboarding are popular on this stretch of surf, and there are plenty of beachfront restaurants where you can enjoy a quick and delicious lunch before continuing your day.
Playa de Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito
Puerto Angelito
I decided to combine Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito because even though they are technically separate, they are so small and intimate that if you visit one, you can visit the other!
Located in a small crescent-shaped bay not far from the city center, Manzanillo and Angelito have relaxed and laid-back vibes due to their calm waters.
Manzanillo Beach
For this same reason, diving is a popular activity in both, as is swimming.
You're likely to find more Mexican families having lunch here than foreign tourists.
Playa de Carrizalillo Puerto Escondido
Don’t let the hard-to-pronounce name put you off this beautiful, secluded Puerto Escondido beach.
To get to Playa Carrizalillo you have to put in a bit of effort, so go there if you think you can climb the 167 steps that take you to a beautiful cliff!
You’ll find a jaw-dropping beach that offers perhaps the best swimming conditions in the area and a truly romantic atmosphere. As you can imagine, it’s mostly uncrowded.
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Bacocho Beach
Finally, the party beach that is known for its high-quality beach clubs.
If what you're looking for on the beach is a comfortable sun lounger, good music and someone on hand to serve you cocktails all day long, Playa Bachoco could be the ideal spot for you; we recommend checking out the excellent Villa Sol Beach Club.
Best hotels in Puerto Escondido
Hotel Escondido
O Hotel Escondido lives up to its name, being on a virgin beach.
Located just a short distance from Puerto Escondido, Mexico's surfing mecca, this peaceful haven offers an escape from the routine and stress of everyday life, leaving you with no choice but to enjoy yourself.
Its sixteen cabins, spa, pools and restaurant make guests feel like they are in Mexico at all times.
Its colors, cuisine and, above all, human service and warmth, make this unmistakably Mexican hideaway perfect.
See more details and photos here
Hotel Rockaway Puerto Escondido
O Rockaway Hotel, located just steps from world-famous Playa Zicatela, is an intimate boutique hotel with an outdoor pool.
It is located in Santa María, 1 km from the center of Puerto Escondido.
Hotel Rockaway has a small supermarket, as well as a bar, 24-hour reception, garden, terrace and tourist information desk.
There are bars and restaurants in the beach area and in the center of Puerto Escondido.
The beaches of Brisas de Zicatela are a 5-minute drive away and Puerto Escondido Airport is 5 km away.
See more details and photos here
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Vivo Resorts Puerto Escondido
O Vivo Resorts has luxurious apartments fully equipped with living room, dining room, kitchen, laundry room and terrace with stunning sea views.
Located approximately 25 minutes from the center of Puerto Escondido, in a quiet area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and with numerous planted fields and fenced gardens, this hotel is an excellent accommodation option if you want to have several amenities or take a long vacation in the surroundings of Puerto Escondido.
The hotel has two children's pools and one adult pool, mini-supermarket, kids' club, gym, business center, library, restaurant and bar.
See more photos and details here
Selina Puerto Escondido
Selina Puerto Escondido It is located in the heart of this coastal city that offers the best conditions to enjoy the sun, surf and lots of partying.
Wake up to a morning yoga session on the terrace before refueling with a healthy breakfast in a beautiful restaurant.
You can also enjoy the good vibes at the outdoor pool with a mezcal cocktail. The hotel is ideal for relaxing and enjoying everything this beautiful destination has to offer.
See more photos and details here
Villas Carrizalillo
Located in a popular area of Puerto Escondido, the Hotel Villas Carrizalillo It has a sun terrace, a bar and a library. It also offers a balcony that opens up to a fantastic view.
The hotel is well located and you will have quick access to Bacocho Beach which is just 1,8 km away.
The center of Puerto Escondido is just 1,1 km away. For dining, guests can visit Espadin, El Buzo Restaurant-Bar and Turtle Bay Restaurant, which are located close to the property.
See more photos and details here
Airbnb Puerto Escondido
If you prefer a more “homey” environment, you can look for good Airbnb deals in Puerto Escondido. Just access Airbnb and look for the option that best fits your needs.
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