Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido: 7 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

Most people would immediately think of a commercial flight, but there are actually several different options available to you.

Just because flying is quicker, doesn’t mean it is the option that you take. The best way for you will depend on your budget, how long you’re going to spend in Mexico, and how quickly you need to be in Puerto Escondido.

To help you decide, I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido simply and safely in seven fantastic different ways.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

Why Should You Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is worth visiting for so many reasons!

It is known for its rich cultural heritage, its beautiful colors everywhere, and its wonderfully friendly people.

There are breathtaking landscapes that will captivate you, and you’ll fall in love with its mouthwatering cuisine. It has beautiful buildings that are centuries old and breathtaking ruins that are thousands of years old.

Each year it holds unique traditional festivals such as Day of the Dead, La Guelaguetza, and Noche de Rábanos. There is also a vibrant artistic scene, wonderful markets and brilliant artisans of all kinds.

And if that isn’t enough, real wonders of the world like Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree are just a short drive away from Oaxaca City.

You’ll struggle to find a region as richly diverse as Oaxaca. There are just so many things for you to do that you will wish you could stay longer!

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

Why Should You Visit Puerto Escondido?

Like Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido is a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

If you love stunning beaches, awesome waves, and a relaxed vibe, you absolutely need to visit Puerto Escondido. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a coastal paradise tucked away in the beautiful state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

Puerto Escondido is known for having some of the best beaches in Oaxaca. There are great surfing beaches like Playa Zicatela, beaches with a more tranquil vibe like Playa Carrizalillo, and romantic beaches with sunsets you won’t forget like Playa Bacocho.

You don’t need to love the beach to enjoy the lazy seaside atmosphere of Puerto Escondido. Many of the best hotels in Puerto Escondido have fantastic sun-decks where you just can relax on a sun lounge by the pool.

And for nature-lovers, Puerto Escondido is a nesting ground for sea turtles. You can even participate in turtle releases, which is a heartwarming experience you won’t forget.

So, why should you visit Puerto Escondido? Well, basically because it’s a slice of heaven! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

So let’s look at how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

1. Fly to Puerto Escondido

If you think even briefly about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, it won’t surprise you that flying is the quickest and most convenient option.

For those same reasons, it’s also one of the more expensive options.

Fast Facts: Flying From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Where Do I Book A Flight From Huatulco To Oaxaca?

Your best bet is to book with Aerotucán. They’re a very small airline, but they’re the only one that flies non-stop from Huatulco to Oaxaca.

They fly once per day, so you’ll need to book well in advance. Their website isn’t great, so your best bet is calling them (and you may need someone who can speak Spanish to help you).

Their contact details are below:

Tip: Aerotucán offer a deals on a Thursday through their mailing list, so it is worth signing up for that on their website.

What is AeroVega?

AeroVega is a six-seater aircraft operated by a licensed local pilot named Juan Carlos Vega. If you can’t book Aerotucán, AeroVega is also a great option.

His aircraft is similar to Aerotucán, but he’s essentially a one-man band. Like Aerotucán, AeroVega also only offers one flight per day.

Don Vega is well-known in Oaxaca, and is a solid option to reach Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca. The only issue is that he may be a little harder to contact.

His details are set out below. If you go to his Facebook page, you can use the messenger app to ask his for the price per person and the current weekly flight timetable.

AeroVega Contact Details

What’s Great About Flying?

Flying has lots of advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido is very quick at around 45 minutes, which is a huge time saving compared with the up to 11 hour long bus trip.

If you’re short on time, every hour you lose travelling is time that you could spend soaking up the many attractions of Puerto Escondido.

2. Bird’s Eye View

Even after years of flying, I still like to stare out the window of a plane at the city as we’re getting ready to land.

The flight will also give you the chance to see the mountains and sprawling valleys of Oaxaca from above as you head out toward the sea.

3. safest Way To Travel

Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel in the world, and this holds true in Mexico.

Since 1919, Mexico has only had 158 air travel deaths in total, an average of about 1.5 people per year. By comparison, there were around 107 million air passengers in Mexico in 2022 alone.

That puts your chances of dying on a flight from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the WHO suggests based on 2019 data on Mexican road deaths that the odds of dying per year were 1 in 7,813.

That means that you are more than 9,000 times safer flying than taking the bus!

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Flying From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by air.

But if I haven’t answered your question yet, take a look at the FAQs and their responses below.

How Much Is A Commercial Flight From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season, but are typically around US$200 (MX$3,400).

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

There are five airlines servicing the route from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido. These are Aeromar, Volaris, Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobus and Aerotucán.

However, of these options, only Aerotucán offers direct flights. The others will fly you to Mexico City first (in the opposite direction!) and you’ll need to change.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around 45 minutes if you take the direct flight offered by Aerotucán or AeroVega.

If you fly to Puerto Escondido with Aeroméxico or Viva Aerobus, then at best you’ll have around 3.5 hours flight time, including changing at Mexico City.

Unless you are planning to spend a few days in Mexico City between visiting Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido, flying with Aerotucán or AeroVega is the better option.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 155 miles (250 km) from Oaxaca Airport to Puerto Escondido Airport.

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport in Oaxaca de Juárez to depart and you’ll land at Puerto Escondido International Airport when you arrive in Puerto Escondido.

How Far Is It From Puerto Escondido Airport To The City Centre?

Puerto Escondido International Airport is just 2 miles (3km) from the centre of Puerto Escondido.

How Can I Get From Puerto Escondido Airport To The City Centre?

Your best bet is to take a taxi to your hotel. Puerto Escondido Airport is very close to the city, so the taxi should only cost you around MX$200 (US$12).

If you’re on a budget, you can use the colectivo. The colectivo are privately operated buses or small vans that function as public transport (there are no public buses in Puerto Escondido).

The colectivo will cost you around MX$10 -20 (US$1), depending on how far your hotel is from the airport.

You can also arrange a private shuttle or rent a car at the airport.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

2. Private Jet to Puerto Escondido

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

And yes, it is monstrously expensive, but can’t be beaten for comfort and convenience.

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Where Can I Book A Private Jet From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend taking a look at AlbaJet, which sets out various options for the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido route.

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying privately as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a private jet below.

1. Glamour

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive in Puerto Escondido than in a private jet.

If you want to feel like a rockstar when you arrive, there’s no better way to do it.

2. Convenience

If you need to travel urgently on short notice, flying on a private jet is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Special Occasions

If you’re travelling as a group for a wedding or for a stag or hens night, a private jet is a great way to ensure that everyone arrives at the same time.

With a large group, the prices per person aren’t quite so eye-watering, although your wallet will still take a good beating.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Flying From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by Private Jet

If you still have questions about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by private jet, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Private Jet From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

If you want to fly privately to Puerto Escondido, you’re looking at around US$4,000 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$20,000 for a larger jet seating up to 14 people.

Extremely glamorous and wonderfully convenient, but not for those of us with weak wallets.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a private jet is around 20 minutes.

The overall travel time will probably be a little quicker than flying commercially. You’ll get through security faster and will be able to board and get off more quickly than on a commercial flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 155 miles (250 km) from Oaxaca Airport to Puerto Escondido Airport.

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport in Oaxaca de Juárez to depart and you’ll land at Puerto Escondido International Airport when you arrive in Puerto Escondido.

How Far Is It From Puerto Escondido Airport To The City Centre?

Puerto Escondido Airport is just 2 miles (3km) from the centre of Puerto Escondido.

How Can I Get From Puerto Escondido Airport To The City Centre?

Your best bet is to take a taxi to your hotel. Puerto Escondido Airport is very close to the city, so the taxi should only cost you around MX$200 (US$12).

If you’re on a budget, you can use the colectivo. The colectivo are privately operated buses or small vans that function as public transport (there are no public buses in Puerto Escondido).

The colectivo will cost you around MX$10 -20 (US$1), depending on how far your hotel is from the airport.

You can also arrange a private shuttle or rent a car at the airport.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

3. Bus To Puerto Escondido

If you want a more scenic experience while getting from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, the bus is an option for you.

Mexico has a great long-distance bus network of reputable operators, offering various options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Fast Facts: Bus From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Where Can I Book A Bus From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido are ADO and OCC (Omnibús Cristobal Colón).

Check out fare comparison sites like Busbud or Guatego to check availability.

Tip: there’s no WiFi in the bus, so download anything you need at the hotel. You might also want to bring a neck pillow to help you sleep and Benadryl or Dramamine if you get carsick.

What’s Great About Taking The Bus?

Okay, so it’s not a private jet and never will be. Still, there are some positives to taking the bus.

1. The Bus Is Cheaper

Taking the bus will usually work out a little cheaper than flying.

That’s especially the case if you are planning to take a taxi to and from the airport each time.

2. Buses Take Their Time

It might seem like a strange thing to say, but buses are a bit like slow-food.

As you wind through the approximately 160 miles (257km) to Puerto Escondido, you’ll get to soak in the natural beauty of Mexico’s southern countryside.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off In The City Centre

Another advantage of taking the bus from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido is that you’ll be dropped off close to the heart of the city.

When you’re dropped off, if you’re staying in the centre of the city, you can walk the few blocks to your hotel.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by bus.

How Much Is The Bus From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

Prices typically range between US$40 – 60 (MX$700 – 1100).

Which Buses Run From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

ADO and OCC (Omnibús Cristobal Colón) are the two largest operators in Oaxaca.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is 9 – 11 hours, depending on the trip.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

The bus route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Oaxaca, you’ll use the ADO Terminal in Barrio Jalatlaco, which is a few blocks north-east of Parque El Llano.

In Puerto Escondido you’ll be dropped off at the ADO Bus Terminal in the south end of the city center, just a few hundred metres from the beach.

Are The Buses Comfortable?

The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the seats are comfortable semi-recliners.

There is no WiFi, though, so download everything you need before you leave the hotel.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

4. Minibus To Puerto Escondido

If you are keen to keep the costs down and don’t mind a few bumps or being a little cramped, then the minibus could be a good option for you.

Fast Facts: Minibus From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Where Do I Book The Minibus From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

There are various minibus companies offering services to Oaxaca.

Two of the major operators are Servicio Express La Solteca and Villa del Pacífico. Both are located in. the historic center of Oaxaca and make frequent daily trips from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

Their contact details for these providers are below:

Servicio Express La Solteca

Villa del Pacífico

What’s Great About Taking The Minibus?

Although it’s a budget option, the minibus has some advantages.

1. The Minibus Is Cheaper Than The Bus

The minibus is hands down the cheapest way to travel short of hitchhiking.

At just US$15 per person, it really is dirt cheap.

2. The Minibus Is Faster Than The Bus

The minibus makes the same trip in 6 – 8 hours that the standard bus will do in 9 – 11 hours. That’s a huge time saving.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off At Your Hotel

Most minibuses will drop you off directly at your hotel.

That’s a big advantage over the standard bus, which will drop you at the depot.

You may need to be patient, as the minibus may have to drop off a few people before you, but door service is still a big plus.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Taking The Minibus From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by minibus.

How Much Is The Minibus From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

Prices are typically around US$15 (MX$250).

Which Minibuses Run From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

There are lots of minibus companies but two well-known ones in Oaxaca are Servicio Express La Solteca and Villa del Pacífico (contact details above).

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is 6 – 8 hours, depending on the trip.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

The minibus route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

Will The Minibus Take Me To My Hotel?

Yes, the minibus service is usually a door service, although you should confirm (or ask your hotel in Oaxaca) to confirm when you make your booking.

Are The Minibuses Comfortable?

The minibuses are known for being a little cramped.

If you are lucky enough to get a seat with some legroom, you might be a little more comfortable, but don’t expect much space.

Is It Safe To Travel By Minibus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

5. Rental Car To Puerto Escondido

A road trip from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido is a great option that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 5 or 6 gallons to get to Puerto Escondido.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

Your best bet is to use comparison websites to look for car rentals, just like when you’re looking for flights.

Try DiscoverCars, Booking.com or Alamo.com to get you started.

What Is The Best Route From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

The route from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido sets off heading south on highway 175. You’ll use it whether you rent in downtown Oaxaca or at the airport.

At a town called Vincente Guerrero, about 10 miles south of Oaxaca, you’ll need to switch to highway 131 and head south-west.

At a town called Zimatlán de Álvarez you’ll head south, staying on the 131. There are a few dog-legs as the road goes through different towns, but just follow the signs to stay on highway 131.

After about 40 miles in total, the road will start to climb up into the mountains. From here on, the road snakes and winds, so you’ll need to slow down and take it easy.

Once you come out of the mountains, the highway will straighten out and will take you the last stretch of the way into Puerto Escondido.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

There are some great advantages to renting a car and driving.

1. Freedom

Of all of the options, driving literally and figuratively puts you in the driver’s seat.

You get to choose every aspect of your journey, from departure time to the speed you travel to how often and where you stop.

2. Privacy

One of the best things about driving is that you don’t have to share your journey unless you want to.

If you’re travelling as a family, driving also means that you can have your familial privacy whilst you travel.

3. Convenience

Driving is the ultimate convenience. All you’ll need to do is book the car and pick it up whenever you’re ready to go.

This is particularly helpful if you have a family and it might take a little longer than expected to get everyone ready.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Rental Car From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by rental car.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

A rental car that you pick up in Oaxaca and drop off the next day in Puerto Escondido will cost around US$250 (MX$4,400).

That’s made up of about US$30 a day plus the one-way fee of US$220. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Oaxaca, then you’ll just pay the daily rate and the gas.

Most providers don’t charge you per mile travelled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

What is the Route From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

The route from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido sets off heading south on highway 175 and you then turn onto the 131 about 10 miles south of Oaxaca for the rest of the way.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are lots of little mountain towns along the way where you can stop and buy some great local food.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

As with the bus, the total route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Oaxaca?

Europcar and Alamo each have branches in the historic centre about three blocks north of the Zócalo where you can rent a car to drive to Puerto Escondido.

The other option outside the city is Xoxocotlán International Airport, 5.8 miles south of Oaxaca. You’ll find all of your major providers in close proximity.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

The short answer is yes, you will be able to rent a comfortable modern vehicle in Oaxaca.

However, the level of luxury that you enjoy depends very much on your budget.

Most major car rental providers have a range of vehicles that you can choose from, ranging from compacts up to luxury limousines.

Is It Safe To Travel By Car?

Yes, it is safe to travel by car provided you take basis precautions such as wearing your seatbelts, travelling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

6. Private Transfer To Puerto Escondido

If you’re keen on a road trip from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido but aren’t so keen to do the driving, you can arrange a private transfer.

This is a lot more expensive than renting a car and driving yourself, but it lets you relax and enjoy the scenery or even catch up on some sleep.

Fast Facts: Private Transfer From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Where Can I Book A Private Transfer From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Viator. You can book online and you can choose providers that have high reviews from recent customers.

If you would prefer to meet your driver in person before booking, speak to your hotel and ask for a recommendation and then go and visit them at their offices in Huatulco.

What’s Great About A Private Transfer?

Although it is more expensive than a rental car, there are some benefits of getting a private driver rather than driving yourself.

1. No Need To Focus On The Road

The best thing about being chauffeured is that you don’t need to worry about driving.

Watching the road for six hours or more is exhausting and means that you won’t be able to completely relax until you reach Puerto Escondido.

2. Great For Groups

A private transfer is great if you’re travelling as a group.

You get to share the cost and just focus on having fun and let the driver bring you to Puerto Escondido.

3. Capped risk

The other big benefit of having a private driver is that you don’t bear the risk of having an accident and damaging the car.

Your insurance would likely cover any damage, but having a driver just avoids the risk altogether.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Private Transfer From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by private transfer.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

A private transfer starts at around US$360 per trip.

What is the Route From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

The route from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido sets off heading south on highway 175 and you then turn onto the 131 about 10 miles south of Oaxaca for the rest of the way.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are lots of little mountain towns along the way where you can buy some great local food.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

As with the bus, the total route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

Are The Private transfer Cars Comfortable?

Yes, the Viator private transfer uses comfortable modern vehicles.

Is It Safe To Travel By Private Transfer?

If you travel with a reputable provider such as those arranged via Viator, you will be perfectly safe travelling by private transfer.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

7. Taxi To Puerto Escondido

The last land option to mention is the good old taxi.

However, unless you have an emergency, I wouldn’t recommend it. There are just better options available.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido

Tip: Make sure that you agree the price with the driver before setting off so that there are no misunderstandings.

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

If you want to book a taxi, you will need to try to find a reliable driver. The best way to do that is to get a recommendation from your hotel.

You may find that your hotel recommends that you instead book a private transfer, and I would also recommend this.

City taxis aren’t made for long distance trips the same way as a bus is. You won’t get air conditioning, reclining seats or a bathroom.

You also won’t be able to get up to stretch your legs, and your driver may not want to stop as often as you do.

I also don’t recommend just hiring a taxi from the street to take you from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

You should only travel with a reputable driver, and you won’t be able to confirm that from hailing a taxi on the street.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

FAQs: Taxi From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido by taxi.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

You’ll need to negotiate your fare upfront, but you can expect to pay anywhere from US$200 – 250, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

The route from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido sets off heading south on highway 175 and you then turn onto the 131 about 10 miles south of Oaxaca for the rest of the way.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?

As with the bus, the total route is approximately 160 miles (258km) from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Taxis aren’t made for long distance passenger travel like a bus or a plane.

If you’re going to travel by taxi, you should ask driver to stop for a few minutes every hour so that you can stretch.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

In all likelihood, you will be safe enough travelling by taxi from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido. This is particularly the case if you are travelling in a group.

However, one of the reasons that I don’t recommend travelling by taxi is that you just won’t be able to vet the driver at all unless he is recommended to you.

That increases your risk, and you don’t need to do it, because there are other options available to you.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

What Are The Best Things To Do In Puerto Escondido?

Puerto Escondido is loaded with brilliant things to do, and you’ll have no problem occupying your time.

As a beach town, spending some time at Puerto Escondido’s amazing beaches is a must, and Puerto Escondido has dozens of them to choose from.

If you’re looking for somewhere to splash around or where you can let your kids swim without needing to worry about big waves and strong currents, then Playa Carrizalillo (pictured above) is a must.  It’s a beautiful sheltered beach in the Rinconada area that’s great for swimming and snorkelling and is also close to lots of great restaurants.

Another must-see beach is the 2-mile long Playa Zicatela.  If you’re a surfer, you’ll have heard about this beach, which is commonly known as the Mexican pipeline due to its enormous waves that can get up to 20 ft high.  

Playa Zicatela is also the hub for Puerto Escondido’s great nightlife.  Avenida del Morro is the main promenade that runs the whole length of the beach and it’s lined with bars, restaurants and nightclubs where you can party as much as you like.

Beyond the beaches, Puerto Escondido’s environment is truly beautiful, and there are lots of wonderful activities that you can do.  You can swim with dolphins, go whale watching, ride horses and participate in the release of baby sea turtles.  These are perfect to do with kids or as a couple.

There are also tours available to nearby lagoons to see bioluminescent algae and even crocodiles (yes, you read that correctly).  If that isn’t adventurous enough, you can also do ATV and rafting tours, take a helicopter tour, or even go skydiving.

For a small beach town, Puerto Escondido really is full of great things to do and you’ll have no trouble filling the hours.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Puerto Escondido?

When you make it to Puerto Escondido, the next obvious question will be where do you stay?

Even though Puerto Escondido is a relatively small town, it still has a great range of places to stay for you to choose from. Whatever your budget, you’ll find something great in Puerto Escondido.

If you’re looking for luxury close to the city center, then I think Villas Carrizalillo is a must.  It’s perched high up on a hill overlooking Playa Carrizalillo with amazing views out into the Pacific Ocean.  Another central option is Hotel Paraiso Escondido, which is great hotel that is also a little easier on the wallet.

For luxury outside the city, I think Casona Sforza is the best choice.  It’s hands down the most Instagram-able hotel in Puerto Escondido and it has the benefit of a great onsite restaurant as well.

If you’re keen to stay at Playa Zicatela, Hotel Santa Fe is a great option for an authentic Mexican feel.  If you’re looking for a little more luxury, Hotel Rockaway is also right on the beach and has the option of a room or a luxury residence.

There are also lots of great hostels in Puerto Escondido.  The most well-known is the Selina Puerto Escondido, which is known for having a great co-working area with reliable WiFi.  Puerto Dreams Hostel is another great option.

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

When is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido?

If you live in northern latitudes, you’re probably used to four defined seasons.  However, the more equatorial parts of the world like the state of Oaxaca don’t really follow this model. 

Instead, in Puerto Escondido, there are really only two distinctive seasons, which are a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season runs from December to the end of April and the rainy season runs from June through to October.

The average maximum temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year.  You can expect a fairly constant maximum of 85°F (30°C), with lower temperatures during the dry season.

Unsurprisingly, the dryer, cooler weather of the dry season means that it’s the most popular time for tourists. If you can put up with the occasional deluge, you’ll get better rates in the rainy season.  If you’re a surfer, you’ll also get bigger swells at Playa Zicatela during the rainy season. 

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

What Should I Pack To Go To Puerto Escondido?

Before you travel from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, you’ll need to know what to pack.

Puerto Escondido has warm days all year round, averaging a maximum of 85°F (30°C) cooling off to 72°F (22.5°C) at night. On that basis, other than a light jacket for the evenings, I’d leave the warm clothes at home. 

If you travel during the rainy season from June to October, you can expect some rain, so you’ll want to buy a fold-up umbrella when you arrive.  After a downpour, it can get a little humid, so you should also have a few more changes of clothes in case you get sweaty.

You’ll do a lot of walking in Puerto Escondido, so bring or buy a comfortable pair of walking shoes and a hat for the sun.  It should go without saying, but obviously bring your swimwear, because you’ll want to spend at least a few days enjoying the beautiful beaches.

You should also be aware that there are also mosquitoes in Puerto Escondido and it will be too hot to cover up entirely.  Mosquito repellent can be hard to come by, so I recommend that you bring some with you.  

How to Get From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido

Final Thoughts

So, you now know how to get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido using various methods. Travelling from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido is an experience you won’t quickly forget.

You’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially as you go through mountain ranges near Oaxaca and through the national park just before reaching Puerto Escondido.

Your options to get there are many, and all of them viable.

Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Puerto Escondido!