10 Must-Do Adventures in Puerto Escondido | Oaxaca

If you're heading to Puerto Escondido, you're in for a treat! This little spot in Oaxaca is a natural wonder, offering up ocean and mountain adventures.

Forget the usual tourist traps; these 10 experiences in Puerto Escondido will make your trip unforgettable!

1. Sunset Horseback Ride (Pure Romance)

Honestly, riding a horse along the beach while the sun dips into the Pacific is one of the best ways to spend an evening here. It's relaxed, totally beginner-friendly, and perfect for getting a feel for the coastline.

• Tip: Try to do this early in your trip—it’s a great way to start.

• Best Time to Go: The dry season, from November to May.

2. Bioluminescence Tour (A Real-Life Fantasy)

You have to see this to believe it. Head out to Manialtepec Lagoon after dark, where the water lights up with a blue-green glow whenever you move. Swimming in a million points of light is a surreal experience.

• Best Viewing: Aim for the new moon (darkest skies), especially from December through March.

• Heads Up: Bring mosquito repellent.

3. Release Baby Sea Turtles (Help Out)

This is more than a tour—it's a chance to help the local conservation groups. You get to gently release a tiny hatchling on the beach at sunset and watch it make its instinctive dash to the ocean. It’s an incredibly moving moment.

• Peak Time: You’re guaranteed to see a release from November through March.

• Remember: No flash photography! Follow your guide’s directions.

4. Whale Watching (Meet the Giants)

If you're here between December and March, do not miss a morning boat trip to see the humpback whales. They travel all the way from Alaska to have their babies here, so you often get to see breaches and mothers with their calves.

• Best Chance: January and February are the busiest months for the whales.

• Bonus: Keep an eye out for dolphins, too!

5. Hot Springs (Mountain Break)

Take a break from the sand and head into the Sierra Madre mountains. After a quick drive and a hike (or a horseback ride), you'll find natural pools heated by the earth. The mineral-rich water is a great way to relax tired muscles.

• You Choose: You can get there with a Hiking Tour (4-5 hours) or a Horseback Tour (5-6 hours).

• Don't Forget: Water shoes and plenty of water to drink.

6. Catch Your First Wave (Surfing 101)

You can’t visit a surf capital without trying it! While the main beach is for pros, Playa Carrizalillo has gentle waves perfect for learning. It’s a total rush.

• Best Spot: Carrizalillo for lessons; La Punta for the vibe.

• Tip: Book a local instructor for safety.

7. Day Trip to Mazunte (Hippie Chic)

An hour south is the "Pueblo Mágico" of Mazunte. It has a unique, laid-back vibe. The highlight is hiking Punta Cometa to watch the most famous sunset in Oaxaca.

• Getting There: Grab a taxi or a local "collectivo" bus.

• Must Do: Walk the cliffside trails at golden hour.

8. Eat at Mercado Benito Juárez (Foodie Heaven)

Skip the tourist spots and head to the central market. It’s a sensory explosion of mole, chocolate, and fresh fruit. Try a Tlayuda (Oaxacan pizza) or even spiced grasshoppers!

• Best Time: Mornings for fresh juice.

• Souvenir: Local coffee beans.

9. Sport Fishing (Ocean to Table)

Charter a panga boat at sunrise to catch tuna, mahi-mahi, or sailfish. The best part? Your captain will often prepare fresh ceviche right on the boat with your catch.

• Bonus: You’ll likely spot dolphins and turtles, too.

• Duration: 4-5 hours in the morning.

10. Watch the Pros at Zicatela (Spectator Sport)

Zicatela is famous for the "Mexican Pipeline" and its massive barrels. It’s strictly experts-only for swimming, but amazing for watching daredevils tackle the waves.

• Warning: Do not swim here - strong rip currents!

• Vibe: Grab a coconut and enjoy the show from the sand.

There you have it, ten diverse ways to soak up the magic of Puerto Escondido. Whether you're releasing baby turtles, hiking the mountains, or just watching the surf with a cold drink in hand, you’re going to fall in love with this coast. Pack your sunscreen, embrace the laid-back pace, and enjoy the adventure!