Things To Do
in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido, Colombia is a laid-back Pacific coast town known for its long sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The town celebrates a vibrant, Afro-Colombian-influenced culture with lively markets, seafood-centric cuisine, and friendly locals who welcome visitors with warmth. Surfers flock to the area for consistent waves, while mangrove estuaries and nearby hills offer tranquil nature escapes.
The overall vibe blends rustic coastal charm with accessible hospitality, making it an ideal spot to unwind and explore at a slower pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and fresh fruit juices. After breakfast, stroll through the vibrant streets of the historic center, appreciating the colorful colonial architecture. Stop by the local markets to experience the rich culture and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Plaza de los Tres Reyes to soak in the lively atmosphere. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in local seafood dishes while watching the world go by. Afterward, explore the small art galleries showcasing works by local artists, gaining insight into the region's artistic heritage.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a rooftop bar to enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline. Savor a cocktail made with local spirits while listening to live music from a nearby venue. Wrap up your day by dining at a restaurant that specializes in traditional Oaxacan cuisine, experiencing the flavors of the region.
Kick off your day with a refreshing swim at Playa Zicatela, known for its stunning waves and surf culture. After some beach time, grab breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoying a smoothie bowl made with fresh tropical fruits. Take a surfing lesson with a local instructor to learn the basics of riding the waves.
After mastering the surf, relax on the sandy shores or rent a kayak for an afternoon adventure on the water. Discover the coastline as you paddle along, keeping an eye out for playful dolphins in the distance. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside shack, sampling the catch of the day while listening to the soothing sound of the ocean.
As dusk falls, walk along the beach to watch the sunset, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Afterward, head to a local seafood restaurant for dinner, where you can feast on fresh ceviche and grilled fish. Join in the nightlife at a nearby bar, enjoying live music and dancing under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚎Local transportation or taxi (short ride) | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe and welcoming locals
- Excellent seafood and fresh fruit
- Consistent surf and abundant nature nearby
- Affordability relative to many tourist destinations
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Seasonal rain can affect outdoor plans
- Healthcare facilities are smaller than in major cities; plan for contingencies
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Qué bonito!" - How beautiful!
Places to Visit in Puerto Escondido
Visit one of these nice places.
A cliffside viewpoint near the lighthouse offering sweeping ocean panoramas, perfect for golden-hour photography.
Elevated paths overlook the mangrove estuary, ideal for reflections, birds, and tranquil water shots.
Long sandy beach with dramatic silhouettes of palm trees and colorful skies during sunset.
Quiet waterway with boats and mangroves, ideal for atmospheric wide-angle water shots.
Food in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fish stew with yucca, plantains, and corn, served with lime and cilantro at many seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried whole fish (often snapper or sea bass) served with lime, rice, and patacones.
Coconut-infused rice cooked with spices, a staple pairing with seafood.
Fried green plantain slices topped with hogao (tomato-onion sauce); a crunchy side dish.
Citrusy, cured fish with onions, cilantro, and peppers, often served with plantain chips.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, seafood, prepared foods, and snacks to sample as you wander.
Street-side vendors serve fried fish, arepas, patacones, and fresh fruit cups, ideal for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “hola” or “buenos días.” Shake hands or exchange a light kiss on the cheek with close acquaintances in familiar settings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Conversations tend to be warm and relaxed; avoid loud or confrontational tones in public spaces. Bargaining should be friendly and courteous in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Escondido
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service isn’t included. Taxis and tour guides often appreciate small tips (rounding up or a few dollars). Cash tips are most reliable in smaller establishments.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many hotels and larger restaurants accept debit/credit cards. Mobile wallets and contactless payments are becoming more common in tourist-friendly spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect many sunny days with calmer seas and lighter humidity. Great for beach days, boat trips, and outdoor photography, though evenings can still bring refreshing breezes.
Tropically rainy with brief heavy showers in the afternoons. Lush landscapes, vibrant greenery, and dramatic skies provide excellent photography opportunities; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof camera protection.
Puerto Escondido at Night
Hiking in Puerto Escondido
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering coastal views and optional wildlife spotting.
Mangrove-focused trail with a boardwalk and birdwatching opportunities.
Waterfall hike through lush terrain, with a refreshing swim at the base.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Escondido by plane.
Closest major international hub with connections to many destinations; transfers to the coast via domestic flight or long road trips.
Another well-connected option with regional flights; drive or take a domestic flight to the coast from here.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Indigenous and European ancestry common across coastal Colombia.
A significant cultural presence with rich music, dance, and culinary traditions along the coast.
Smaller communities in the surrounding highlands and forested areas with distinct heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular beachfront activity with dedicated spots for different levels.
Local matches and casual games on the beach or in town fields.
Common on the sand with friendly pickup games in the evenings.
Coastal fishing trips and shore fishing for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Escondido.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants; look for veggie stews, plantain-based dishes, rice with beans, and salads. When in doubt, request no fish sauce and request cooking oil free of cross-contamination with seafood.