Things To Do
in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido in Colombia is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The laid-back atmosphere and charming streets lined with colorful buildings make it a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Surfing is a major draw in Puerto Escondido, with world-class waves attracting surf enthusiasts from around the globe.
The town also boasts delicious seafood restaurants, lively bars, and opportunities for eco-tourism activities like whale watching and hiking.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café. Enjoy the morning sun while sipping coffee and listening to the waves.
Head to Playa Zicatela for some swimming and surfing. Rent a board and catch some waves or simply relax on the sand.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant. Savor fresh fish tacos while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Visit Playa Carrizalillo for a calm morning swim. The beautiful scenery is perfect for photography.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby beach hut and then go snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life. The clear waters are inviting.
Take a sunset walk along the beach. The colors in the sky will create a perfect end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with clear waters and great surf conditions
- Rich local culture and friendly community
- Abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and fishing
- Vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine
- Less touristy than other popular coastal destinations
- Limited access to some amenities and services compared to larger cities
- Infrastructure can be lacking, with unpaved roads in some areas
- Internet connectivity may not be reliable in certain locations
- Seasonal fluctuations in weather can affect travel plans
- Safety concerns in certain areas related to crime and local conditions
Best Activities in Puerto Escondido
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Puerto Escondido is known for its powerful waves, making it a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts. Zicatela Beach offers some of the best surfing conditions in the area, attracting surfers from around the world.
Enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the beautiful beaches of Puerto Escondido, taking in the stunning coastal views and feeling the rush of the ocean breeze.
Explore the vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes at the Manialtepec Lagoon through snorkeling or diving excursions, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Places to Visit in Puerto Escondido
Visit one of these nice places.
This location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and countryside. It's an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A unique and picturesque hostel located on a small island, offering stunning views of the ocean and coastline. Perfect for capturing memorable photos.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Puerto Escondido and its beautiful beaches. Great for capturing the coastal landscape and sunsets.
Food in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made of fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, often mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Must-try at El Cafecito or La Olita.
Must-Try!
Coconut rice is a staple dish in Puerto Escondido, combining the sweetness of coconut with savory seasonings. Best enjoyed at Restaurante Oasis.
Fried fish is a beloved local specialty, often served with plantains and a side of fresh vegetables. Head to Playa Zicatela for the best servings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering an incredible variety of fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls serving delicious empanadas, tamales, and local snacks.
A vibrant street market where you can savor an array of authentic street food such as grilled meats, fresh fruit juices, and traditional Colombian arepas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puerto Escondido, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles like 'señor' and 'señora' when addressing them. It's also common to greet older people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
Personal space is highly valued in Puerto Escondido, so it's important to be mindful of people's personal boundaries, especially when interacting in crowded spaces or public transportation.
Puerto Escondido has a rich cultural heritage, and locals appreciate visitors who show an interest in traditional music and dance. Attending local performances and participating in cultural events is a great way to show respect for the community's traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Escondido
Ensure a smooth experience
In Puerto Escondido, Colombia, it is customary to leave a small tip for good service at restaurants, cafes, and for other services such as taxi rides and tour guides. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is usually appreciated.
In Puerto Escondido, Colombia, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in smaller establishments and for services such as taxis and local markets. However, some larger businesses and hotels may accept credit cards, and ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm, sunny weather and ideal surfing conditions. Expect crowded beaches and higher accommodation prices.
Good time to visit with fewer crowds, lower rates, and still pleasant weather. May experience occasional rain showers.
Expect heavier rainfall and higher humidity. May still be a good time for surfing with fewer tourists but limited outdoor activities.
Puerto Escondido at Night
Hiking in Puerto Escondido
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A popular hiking destination that provides a panoramic view of Puerto Escondido and the Pacific coast, perfect for sunset treks.
Located a bit further from Puerto Escondido, this national park features several hiking routes that showcase diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery.
An adventurous trail that winds through tropical forests, it is known for its rich biodiversity and the chance to spot various bird species.
This trail offers a challenging hike with steep sections, leading to magnificent views of cliffs and ocean waves crashing below.
Aiports
How to reach Puerto Escondido by plane.
Located in Puerto Escondido, this is the closest airport to the city offering international flights.
Main international airport in Madrid, Spain, providing various long-haul connections.
Main airport serving Bogotá, Colombia, offering numerous connections to international destinations.
Located near Medellín, this international airport accommodates flights to various global destinations.
Located in Cartagena, this airport provides international flights and is a major tourist hub.
Found in Santa Marta, Colombia, this airport caters to both domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Puerto Escondido, comprising individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
Several Indigenous groups inhabit the region, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
People of African descent who contribute significantly to the cultural diversity of Puerto Escondido.
A smaller population of individuals with European ancestry, often involved in tourism and business.
A mix of expatriates and migrants from other regions or countries, contributing to the local community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Puerto Escondido is renowned for its world-class surfing spots, particularly Playa Zicatela, which attracts surfers from around the globe.
Soccer is a popular sport in Puerto Escondido, played by many local residents and youth, with matches often held in local fields.
Sport fishing is a favored activity in Puerto Escondido, taking advantage of the abundant marine life in the Pacific Ocean.
Beach volleyball is commonly played on the sandy shores, providing a fun and social activity for locals and tourists alike.
With emerging skate parks, skateboarding has gained popularity among the youth in Puerto Escondido.
Many fitness enthusiasts engage in yoga on the beach or in studios, promoting wellness and relaxation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Escondido.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is abundant, vegetarian options are available in most eateries, and some restaurants like Escondido Brewery offer specific vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that many restaurants and cafes offer gluten-free alternatives, and it's best to inquire with the staff for suitable options.