Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary
Things to do
•
June 23, 2025
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary
Things to do
•
June 23, 2025
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca in one week
If you're planning a trip to Mexico and the West Coast is screaming out at you, you're in the right place. In this guide, we're giving a one-week itinerary for a trip to Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido.
Before you book your Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca trip
If you're not yet 100% sure that a Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City trip is the right choice for you, I'll start by saying I think it's a brilliant choice.
These two places make for the perfect one-week adventure, with food, culture, and city vibes in Oaxaca City, and beach, sun and more food in Puerto Escondido. Even though the places are geographically very close together, in terms of experience, Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca couldn't be further apart, so it's a great way to see two sides of Mexico in one week.
Both of these great places hold a very special place in our hearts. Oaxaca City is a really magical city, it's beautiful, the food is incredible, and we absolutely love how much creativity and culture there is. Whilst walking the streets, we've stumbled across everything from wedding parades and quinceañeras to art markets and hole-in-the-wall mezcal bars.
Puerto Escondido, on the other hand, is our home away from home. Being beach bums, we love to be near the sea, we love the tropical weather (and tropical diet), and we love being near the crazy Pacific coast, with that shoes off, shorts on West Coast vibe.
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary
A week is plenty of time to visit these two places. We're going to suggest splitting it pretty much in half, but depending on whether you prefer beach breaks or city breaks, you could adjust this Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary slightly.
Oaxaca itinerary 3 days
Day 1: Arrive in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has the bigger airport, with more international flights, so you'll probably want to land here first (assuming you're coming by plane). The airport itself is only around a 30-minute taxi from the city, so you won't have to spend too much time travelling to your accommodation.
To make the most of your 3 days in Oaxaca, we'd suggest staying in central neighbourhoods like Centro Histórico (which is a Unesco World Heritage Site) or Jalatlaco (which is a super creative neighbourhood, full of street art) . That way, you'll have more time for eating, drinking and sightseeing.
Assuming you arrive in the afternoon or early evening, here are a few ideas for your first day that will give you a good feel for the city without overwhelming you.
Walk past, or walk into, the Templo de Santo Domingo, a 16th-century monastery with gold-gilded interiors. There is also a botanical garden to the back of the church (which you have to pre-book tours for) and a museum to the side (which you're free to roam, after a small fee). The square in front of the church is also a great photo opportunity, thanks to the cacti and agave plants.
Head down to the Zócalo to get a really good feel of Oaxaca City. It's a great meeting place for the neighbours, there are plenty of restaurants and bars around the square, and there is often live music and salsa dancers swaying along.
For dinner, head to Benito Juarez marke,t which is just along from the main square. The market shuts at 5, so depending on what time you arrive, you might be able to browse around inside. Otherwise, there will be plenty of street food vendors outside selling all kinds of Mexican treats for you to sample. Make sure you find a tlayuda, and make sure there's loads of Oaxaca cheese in it.
After that tlayuda, which was probably the size of your head, it might be time to call it a night (or time to head back to the Zócalo for a nightcap).
Day 2: Day trip
We've visited Oaxaca a few times now, first on our own, secondly with family, and then the third time was with a couple of friends. We've also done this day trip tour each time, and we're still not bored of it.
Morning
First stop, preferably early in the morning, is Hierve el Agua (Spanish for 'the water boils', but don't be fooled, it's definitely not hot springs).
It's a must-see site and a brilliant way to cool off away from the city. Take a dip in the natural infinity pools, do the short hike to the petrified waterfall, and enjoy a cold Corona at the end, with the best views across the Oaxacan countryside.
We'd allow around 2 hours at Hierve el Agua itself, though the journey from the city is around 1.5 hours (if you hire a car or motorbike). It's best to try and get there as early as possible, to beat the crowds and the tour buses from the city.
Afternoon
On the drive back towards the city, stop off at one of the many Mezcal farms for a tour and a quick (or leisurely) sample of this state's smoky, deep, and mysterious alcohol, just keep an eye on whoever is driving!
Early evening
On the way back to the city, make a pit stop at El Árbol del Tule (The Tree of Tule), the world's largest trunked tree (try saying that 3 times after 3 mezcals!). This might seem like a super touristy, and slightly odd thing to do, but we promise you, when you're actually there, you'll be mesmerised.
We haven't ever paid to go in, as you can see everything from outside, but it depends on how close you want to get. Usually, we stop for tacos here at Machin Torteria, which has great views of the tree and brilliant gringas.
Evening
After all that, it's back to the city for dinner and drinks. If you're happy to treat yourself, Selva is one of the most incredible cocktail bars we've ever been to. The decor and drinks are incredible, the staff are amazing, and if you're used to UK/US prices, you'll be happy to stay here for a few. After that, Los Danzantes is another must if you're a foodie. The menu is Mexican food like you've never seen it before, the setting is beautiful, and the service is incredible.
Day 3:
You've got a couple of options for the last day, depending on what kind of thing you're into.
History and culture buff
Head to Monte Alban, which was the capital of the Zapotec civilisation for over a thousand years, from around 500 BCE to 800 CE. You can easily get a bus or taxi from the city to Monte Alban, and it's only 9 miles away so it won't eat up a whole day (unless you want to spend a whole day there). Again, arrive early and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be getting plenty of steps in.
Foodie
If you're a foodie and you're in Oaxaca, you need to do a cooking class. I'm ashamed to say I personally haven't done one of these yet, even though it's been on my list for a while. There are loads of options online, though, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding one. Most of them will also tie in a food tour around one of the local markets, where you'll shop for produce before you get started on the cooking.
Best of both
If you like a bit of everything, I always find that a free walking tour is one of the best ways to see a city. One thing I love about walking tours is that they are so personal to whoever is hosting them. They're full of restaurant recommendations, local tips, and insider knowledge about wherever you are visiting. They're also usually free, with a donation for tips only, which makes them super budget-friendly.
Puerto Escondido itinerary 3 days
Day 4: Travel to Puerto Escondido
Time to travel away from the city, towards the seaside. There are a few ways you can get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca, but surprisingly, flying isn't one of them. There aren't really any direct flights from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, so you'd have to fly via Mexico City, which makes it a super long journey.
The easiest way to get between the two places is by ADO bus. Tickets are around £30, and the journey takes about 3 hours. The buses have toilets and AC, so you'll be more than comfortable for that time.
The other option is to hire a car and drive. We have done this a couple of times and can safely say the drive is not too bad! Since they built the new highway from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, the journey usually takes around 3 hours. However, that highway is still under construction and there are regular landslides, so it depends on how lucky you get on the day. The drive itself is beautiful, with plenty of places to stop for coffee, tacos and photos.
Once you arrive in Puerto Escondido, I'd say it's time to drop your bags off and head to one of the beautiful beaches, hopefully you make it in time for sunset (Punta Vida is a great place to watch it). Depending on where you're staying, you're probably going to end up either at Playa Carrizalillo, La Punta, or Playa Zicatela. Just be aware that the water is extremely rough, and the currents are very strong, so be super cautious about where and when you swim. We've got more about the best beaches in Puerto Escondido here.
For dinner, it's got to be fish tacos or ceviche. Some favourites include Fish Shack, Cocina Mexicana, and Casa del Surfer. Then, depending on how tired you are and whether you love a margarita or not, we'd suggest drinking your way into the evening.
Day 5: Day trips and dinner
Puerto Escondido can seem like a laid back, surfy beach town without much going on, but in reality, that's not quite true. Sure, if you're here to embrace the slow, surfy beach life, go ahead and lounge around all day, soaking up the sun and chugging down margaritas (no judgment here). But, if you want to get out, do, see, and explore, there's plenty to be getting on with.
On your first full day, we'd suggest booking an organised tour/day trip. Depending on what time of year you arrive in Puerto Escondido, you could go:
Spotting humpback whales and dolphins (we saw an Orca too when we did this tour).
Deep-sea fishing for tuna and Mahi Mahi.
On a wildlife guided tour to the Oaxaca coast lagoon, where you can see crocodiles and lagoon turtles.
On a day trip to Chacahua National Park, where you can enjoy the unique experience of swimming in the bioluminescent waters at Laguna Manialtepec.
To Escobilla beach, which is one of the many spots along the coast of Oaxaca where sea turtles stop to lay their eggs. You can also release a baby sea turtle at most of these sanctuaries.
To Mazunte, which is a Pueblo Magico (Mexican Magic Town), and Playa Zipolite, which is Mexico's first and only recognised nudist beach.
To Casa Wabi, which is an artist residence with galleries inside and several installations on the beach. Tour proceeds go towards an outreach program which offers workshops in 14 local communities in the state of Oaxaca.
Most of these tours will involve you waking up pretty early, and you'll use the best part of the day on them. So, once you're back from your sightseeing, it'll be time for dinner. Whether you want traditional Oaxacan food or something from home, there are loads of restaurants in Puerto Escondido. We've written about some of the best restaurants in Puerto Escondido here.
Day 6: Close to home
For the last full day, there are a few things you can do in and around Puerto Escondido itself, without needing to book a day trip. Some ideas below...
Spend the day sipping margaritas by the swimming pool at a beach club (Bacocho Beach Club is the best place to do this).
Arrange a surf lesson at La Punta or Playa Carrizalillo, these are the best places for beginner lessons.
Do a yoga, spin, circuit or strength class. Or, spend the day at Barbarenas where you can enjoy 3 yoga/wellness classes as well as a yummy, vegan breakfast and lunch.
Shop for gifts and souvenirs at Mercado 12 Diciembre.
Catch the sunset at Mirador las Tortugas, before one last dinner, is the perfect way to end your last night in Puerto Escondido.
For more things to do in and around Puerto Escondido itself, check out our what to do in Puerto Escondido guide.
Day 7: Time to go
The last day is for finishing anything you didn't get round to on the first couple of days, or, for topping up your tan before you leave. For more practical questions and answers about your trip to Puerto Escondido, like how to get around or the best time to visit, check out our Puerto Escondido travel guide.
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca in one week
If you're planning a trip to Mexico and the West Coast is screaming out at you, you're in the right place. In this guide, we're giving a one-week itinerary for a trip to Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido.
Before you book your Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca trip
If you're not yet 100% sure that a Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City trip is the right choice for you, I'll start by saying I think it's a brilliant choice.
These two places make for the perfect one-week adventure, with food, culture, and city vibes in Oaxaca City, and beach, sun and more food in Puerto Escondido. Even though the places are geographically very close together, in terms of experience, Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca couldn't be further apart, so it's a great way to see two sides of Mexico in one week.
Both of these great places hold a very special place in our hearts. Oaxaca City is a really magical city, it's beautiful, the food is incredible, and we absolutely love how much creativity and culture there is. Whilst walking the streets, we've stumbled across everything from wedding parades and quinceañeras to art markets and hole-in-the-wall mezcal bars.
Puerto Escondido, on the other hand, is our home away from home. Being beach bums, we love to be near the sea, we love the tropical weather (and tropical diet), and we love being near the crazy Pacific coast, with that shoes off, shorts on West Coast vibe.
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary
A week is plenty of time to visit these two places. We're going to suggest splitting it pretty much in half, but depending on whether you prefer beach breaks or city breaks, you could adjust this Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary slightly.
Oaxaca itinerary 3 days
Day 1: Arrive in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has the bigger airport, with more international flights, so you'll probably want to land here first (assuming you're coming by plane). The airport itself is only around a 30-minute taxi from the city, so you won't have to spend too much time travelling to your accommodation.
To make the most of your 3 days in Oaxaca, we'd suggest staying in central neighbourhoods like Centro Histórico (which is a Unesco World Heritage Site) or Jalatlaco (which is a super creative neighbourhood, full of street art) . That way, you'll have more time for eating, drinking and sightseeing.
Assuming you arrive in the afternoon or early evening, here are a few ideas for your first day that will give you a good feel for the city without overwhelming you.
Walk past, or walk into, the Templo de Santo Domingo, a 16th-century monastery with gold-gilded interiors. There is also a botanical garden to the back of the church (which you have to pre-book tours for) and a museum to the side (which you're free to roam, after a small fee). The square in front of the church is also a great photo opportunity, thanks to the cacti and agave plants.
Head down to the Zócalo to get a really good feel of Oaxaca City. It's a great meeting place for the neighbours, there are plenty of restaurants and bars around the square, and there is often live music and salsa dancers swaying along.
For dinner, head to Benito Juarez marke,t which is just along from the main square. The market shuts at 5, so depending on what time you arrive, you might be able to browse around inside. Otherwise, there will be plenty of street food vendors outside selling all kinds of Mexican treats for you to sample. Make sure you find a tlayuda, and make sure there's loads of Oaxaca cheese in it.
After that tlayuda, which was probably the size of your head, it might be time to call it a night (or time to head back to the Zócalo for a nightcap).
Day 2: Day trip
We've visited Oaxaca a few times now, first on our own, secondly with family, and then the third time was with a couple of friends. We've also done this day trip tour each time, and we're still not bored of it.
Morning
First stop, preferably early in the morning, is Hierve el Agua (Spanish for 'the water boils', but don't be fooled, it's definitely not hot springs).
It's a must-see site and a brilliant way to cool off away from the city. Take a dip in the natural infinity pools, do the short hike to the petrified waterfall, and enjoy a cold Corona at the end, with the best views across the Oaxacan countryside.
We'd allow around 2 hours at Hierve el Agua itself, though the journey from the city is around 1.5 hours (if you hire a car or motorbike). It's best to try and get there as early as possible, to beat the crowds and the tour buses from the city.
Afternoon
On the drive back towards the city, stop off at one of the many Mezcal farms for a tour and a quick (or leisurely) sample of this state's smoky, deep, and mysterious alcohol, just keep an eye on whoever is driving!
Early evening
On the way back to the city, make a pit stop at El Árbol del Tule (The Tree of Tule), the world's largest trunked tree (try saying that 3 times after 3 mezcals!). This might seem like a super touristy, and slightly odd thing to do, but we promise you, when you're actually there, you'll be mesmerised.
We haven't ever paid to go in, as you can see everything from outside, but it depends on how close you want to get. Usually, we stop for tacos here at Machin Torteria, which has great views of the tree and brilliant gringas.
Evening
After all that, it's back to the city for dinner and drinks. If you're happy to treat yourself, Selva is one of the most incredible cocktail bars we've ever been to. The decor and drinks are incredible, the staff are amazing, and if you're used to UK/US prices, you'll be happy to stay here for a few. After that, Los Danzantes is another must if you're a foodie. The menu is Mexican food like you've never seen it before, the setting is beautiful, and the service is incredible.
Day 3:
You've got a couple of options for the last day, depending on what kind of thing you're into.
History and culture buff
Head to Monte Alban, which was the capital of the Zapotec civilisation for over a thousand years, from around 500 BCE to 800 CE. You can easily get a bus or taxi from the city to Monte Alban, and it's only 9 miles away so it won't eat up a whole day (unless you want to spend a whole day there). Again, arrive early and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be getting plenty of steps in.
Foodie
If you're a foodie and you're in Oaxaca, you need to do a cooking class. I'm ashamed to say I personally haven't done one of these yet, even though it's been on my list for a while. There are loads of options online, though, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding one. Most of them will also tie in a food tour around one of the local markets, where you'll shop for produce before you get started on the cooking.
Best of both
If you like a bit of everything, I always find that a free walking tour is one of the best ways to see a city. One thing I love about walking tours is that they are so personal to whoever is hosting them. They're full of restaurant recommendations, local tips, and insider knowledge about wherever you are visiting. They're also usually free, with a donation for tips only, which makes them super budget-friendly.
Puerto Escondido itinerary 3 days
Day 4: Travel to Puerto Escondido
Time to travel away from the city, towards the seaside. There are a few ways you can get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca, but surprisingly, flying isn't one of them. There aren't really any direct flights from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, so you'd have to fly via Mexico City, which makes it a super long journey.
The easiest way to get between the two places is by ADO bus. Tickets are around £30, and the journey takes about 3 hours. The buses have toilets and AC, so you'll be more than comfortable for that time.
The other option is to hire a car and drive. We have done this a couple of times and can safely say the drive is not too bad! Since they built the new highway from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, the journey usually takes around 3 hours. However, that highway is still under construction and there are regular landslides, so it depends on how lucky you get on the day. The drive itself is beautiful, with plenty of places to stop for coffee, tacos and photos.
Once you arrive in Puerto Escondido, I'd say it's time to drop your bags off and head to one of the beautiful beaches, hopefully you make it in time for sunset (Punta Vida is a great place to watch it). Depending on where you're staying, you're probably going to end up either at Playa Carrizalillo, La Punta, or Playa Zicatela. Just be aware that the water is extremely rough, and the currents are very strong, so be super cautious about where and when you swim. We've got more about the best beaches in Puerto Escondido here.
For dinner, it's got to be fish tacos or ceviche. Some favourites include Fish Shack, Cocina Mexicana, and Casa del Surfer. Then, depending on how tired you are and whether you love a margarita or not, we'd suggest drinking your way into the evening.
Day 5: Day trips and dinner
Puerto Escondido can seem like a laid back, surfy beach town without much going on, but in reality, that's not quite true. Sure, if you're here to embrace the slow, surfy beach life, go ahead and lounge around all day, soaking up the sun and chugging down margaritas (no judgment here). But, if you want to get out, do, see, and explore, there's plenty to be getting on with.
On your first full day, we'd suggest booking an organised tour/day trip. Depending on what time of year you arrive in Puerto Escondido, you could go:
Spotting humpback whales and dolphins (we saw an Orca too when we did this tour).
Deep-sea fishing for tuna and Mahi Mahi.
On a wildlife guided tour to the Oaxaca coast lagoon, where you can see crocodiles and lagoon turtles.
On a day trip to Chacahua National Park, where you can enjoy the unique experience of swimming in the bioluminescent waters at Laguna Manialtepec.
To Escobilla beach, which is one of the many spots along the coast of Oaxaca where sea turtles stop to lay their eggs. You can also release a baby sea turtle at most of these sanctuaries.
To Mazunte, which is a Pueblo Magico (Mexican Magic Town), and Playa Zipolite, which is Mexico's first and only recognised nudist beach.
To Casa Wabi, which is an artist residence with galleries inside and several installations on the beach. Tour proceeds go towards an outreach program which offers workshops in 14 local communities in the state of Oaxaca.
Most of these tours will involve you waking up pretty early, and you'll use the best part of the day on them. So, once you're back from your sightseeing, it'll be time for dinner. Whether you want traditional Oaxacan food or something from home, there are loads of restaurants in Puerto Escondido. We've written about some of the best restaurants in Puerto Escondido here.
Day 6: Close to home
For the last full day, there are a few things you can do in and around Puerto Escondido itself, without needing to book a day trip. Some ideas below...
Spend the day sipping margaritas by the swimming pool at a beach club (Bacocho Beach Club is the best place to do this).
Arrange a surf lesson at La Punta or Playa Carrizalillo, these are the best places for beginner lessons.
Do a yoga, spin, circuit or strength class. Or, spend the day at Barbarenas where you can enjoy 3 yoga/wellness classes as well as a yummy, vegan breakfast and lunch.
Shop for gifts and souvenirs at Mercado 12 Diciembre.
Catch the sunset at Mirador las Tortugas, before one last dinner, is the perfect way to end your last night in Puerto Escondido.
For more things to do in and around Puerto Escondido itself, check out our what to do in Puerto Escondido guide.
Day 7: Time to go
The last day is for finishing anything you didn't get round to on the first couple of days, or, for topping up your tan before you leave. For more practical questions and answers about your trip to Puerto Escondido, like how to get around or the best time to visit, check out our Puerto Escondido travel guide.
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca in one week
If you're planning a trip to Mexico and the West Coast is screaming out at you, you're in the right place. In this guide, we're giving a one-week itinerary for a trip to Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido.
Before you book your Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca trip
If you're not yet 100% sure that a Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City trip is the right choice for you, I'll start by saying I think it's a brilliant choice.
These two places make for the perfect one-week adventure, with food, culture, and city vibes in Oaxaca City, and beach, sun and more food in Puerto Escondido. Even though the places are geographically very close together, in terms of experience, Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca couldn't be further apart, so it's a great way to see two sides of Mexico in one week.
Both of these great places hold a very special place in our hearts. Oaxaca City is a really magical city, it's beautiful, the food is incredible, and we absolutely love how much creativity and culture there is. Whilst walking the streets, we've stumbled across everything from wedding parades and quinceañeras to art markets and hole-in-the-wall mezcal bars.
Puerto Escondido, on the other hand, is our home away from home. Being beach bums, we love to be near the sea, we love the tropical weather (and tropical diet), and we love being near the crazy Pacific coast, with that shoes off, shorts on West Coast vibe.
Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary
A week is plenty of time to visit these two places. We're going to suggest splitting it pretty much in half, but depending on whether you prefer beach breaks or city breaks, you could adjust this Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca itinerary slightly.
Oaxaca itinerary 3 days
Day 1: Arrive in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has the bigger airport, with more international flights, so you'll probably want to land here first (assuming you're coming by plane). The airport itself is only around a 30-minute taxi from the city, so you won't have to spend too much time travelling to your accommodation.
To make the most of your 3 days in Oaxaca, we'd suggest staying in central neighbourhoods like Centro Histórico (which is a Unesco World Heritage Site) or Jalatlaco (which is a super creative neighbourhood, full of street art) . That way, you'll have more time for eating, drinking and sightseeing.
Assuming you arrive in the afternoon or early evening, here are a few ideas for your first day that will give you a good feel for the city without overwhelming you.
Walk past, or walk into, the Templo de Santo Domingo, a 16th-century monastery with gold-gilded interiors. There is also a botanical garden to the back of the church (which you have to pre-book tours for) and a museum to the side (which you're free to roam, after a small fee). The square in front of the church is also a great photo opportunity, thanks to the cacti and agave plants.
Head down to the Zócalo to get a really good feel of Oaxaca City. It's a great meeting place for the neighbours, there are plenty of restaurants and bars around the square, and there is often live music and salsa dancers swaying along.
For dinner, head to Benito Juarez marke,t which is just along from the main square. The market shuts at 5, so depending on what time you arrive, you might be able to browse around inside. Otherwise, there will be plenty of street food vendors outside selling all kinds of Mexican treats for you to sample. Make sure you find a tlayuda, and make sure there's loads of Oaxaca cheese in it.
After that tlayuda, which was probably the size of your head, it might be time to call it a night (or time to head back to the Zócalo for a nightcap).
Day 2: Day trip
We've visited Oaxaca a few times now, first on our own, secondly with family, and then the third time was with a couple of friends. We've also done this day trip tour each time, and we're still not bored of it.
Morning
First stop, preferably early in the morning, is Hierve el Agua (Spanish for 'the water boils', but don't be fooled, it's definitely not hot springs).
It's a must-see site and a brilliant way to cool off away from the city. Take a dip in the natural infinity pools, do the short hike to the petrified waterfall, and enjoy a cold Corona at the end, with the best views across the Oaxacan countryside.
We'd allow around 2 hours at Hierve el Agua itself, though the journey from the city is around 1.5 hours (if you hire a car or motorbike). It's best to try and get there as early as possible, to beat the crowds and the tour buses from the city.
Afternoon
On the drive back towards the city, stop off at one of the many Mezcal farms for a tour and a quick (or leisurely) sample of this state's smoky, deep, and mysterious alcohol, just keep an eye on whoever is driving!
Early evening
On the way back to the city, make a pit stop at El Árbol del Tule (The Tree of Tule), the world's largest trunked tree (try saying that 3 times after 3 mezcals!). This might seem like a super touristy, and slightly odd thing to do, but we promise you, when you're actually there, you'll be mesmerised.
We haven't ever paid to go in, as you can see everything from outside, but it depends on how close you want to get. Usually, we stop for tacos here at Machin Torteria, which has great views of the tree and brilliant gringas.
Evening
After all that, it's back to the city for dinner and drinks. If you're happy to treat yourself, Selva is one of the most incredible cocktail bars we've ever been to. The decor and drinks are incredible, the staff are amazing, and if you're used to UK/US prices, you'll be happy to stay here for a few. After that, Los Danzantes is another must if you're a foodie. The menu is Mexican food like you've never seen it before, the setting is beautiful, and the service is incredible.
Day 3:
You've got a couple of options for the last day, depending on what kind of thing you're into.
History and culture buff
Head to Monte Alban, which was the capital of the Zapotec civilisation for over a thousand years, from around 500 BCE to 800 CE. You can easily get a bus or taxi from the city to Monte Alban, and it's only 9 miles away so it won't eat up a whole day (unless you want to spend a whole day there). Again, arrive early and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be getting plenty of steps in.
Foodie
If you're a foodie and you're in Oaxaca, you need to do a cooking class. I'm ashamed to say I personally haven't done one of these yet, even though it's been on my list for a while. There are loads of options online, though, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding one. Most of them will also tie in a food tour around one of the local markets, where you'll shop for produce before you get started on the cooking.
Best of both
If you like a bit of everything, I always find that a free walking tour is one of the best ways to see a city. One thing I love about walking tours is that they are so personal to whoever is hosting them. They're full of restaurant recommendations, local tips, and insider knowledge about wherever you are visiting. They're also usually free, with a donation for tips only, which makes them super budget-friendly.
Puerto Escondido itinerary 3 days
Day 4: Travel to Puerto Escondido
Time to travel away from the city, towards the seaside. There are a few ways you can get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca, but surprisingly, flying isn't one of them. There aren't really any direct flights from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, so you'd have to fly via Mexico City, which makes it a super long journey.
The easiest way to get between the two places is by ADO bus. Tickets are around £30, and the journey takes about 3 hours. The buses have toilets and AC, so you'll be more than comfortable for that time.
The other option is to hire a car and drive. We have done this a couple of times and can safely say the drive is not too bad! Since they built the new highway from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, the journey usually takes around 3 hours. However, that highway is still under construction and there are regular landslides, so it depends on how lucky you get on the day. The drive itself is beautiful, with plenty of places to stop for coffee, tacos and photos.
Once you arrive in Puerto Escondido, I'd say it's time to drop your bags off and head to one of the beautiful beaches, hopefully you make it in time for sunset (Punta Vida is a great place to watch it). Depending on where you're staying, you're probably going to end up either at Playa Carrizalillo, La Punta, or Playa Zicatela. Just be aware that the water is extremely rough, and the currents are very strong, so be super cautious about where and when you swim. We've got more about the best beaches in Puerto Escondido here.
For dinner, it's got to be fish tacos or ceviche. Some favourites include Fish Shack, Cocina Mexicana, and Casa del Surfer. Then, depending on how tired you are and whether you love a margarita or not, we'd suggest drinking your way into the evening.
Day 5: Day trips and dinner
Puerto Escondido can seem like a laid back, surfy beach town without much going on, but in reality, that's not quite true. Sure, if you're here to embrace the slow, surfy beach life, go ahead and lounge around all day, soaking up the sun and chugging down margaritas (no judgment here). But, if you want to get out, do, see, and explore, there's plenty to be getting on with.
On your first full day, we'd suggest booking an organised tour/day trip. Depending on what time of year you arrive in Puerto Escondido, you could go:
Spotting humpback whales and dolphins (we saw an Orca too when we did this tour).
Deep-sea fishing for tuna and Mahi Mahi.
On a wildlife guided tour to the Oaxaca coast lagoon, where you can see crocodiles and lagoon turtles.
On a day trip to Chacahua National Park, where you can enjoy the unique experience of swimming in the bioluminescent waters at Laguna Manialtepec.
To Escobilla beach, which is one of the many spots along the coast of Oaxaca where sea turtles stop to lay their eggs. You can also release a baby sea turtle at most of these sanctuaries.
To Mazunte, which is a Pueblo Magico (Mexican Magic Town), and Playa Zipolite, which is Mexico's first and only recognised nudist beach.
To Casa Wabi, which is an artist residence with galleries inside and several installations on the beach. Tour proceeds go towards an outreach program which offers workshops in 14 local communities in the state of Oaxaca.
Most of these tours will involve you waking up pretty early, and you'll use the best part of the day on them. So, once you're back from your sightseeing, it'll be time for dinner. Whether you want traditional Oaxacan food or something from home, there are loads of restaurants in Puerto Escondido. We've written about some of the best restaurants in Puerto Escondido here.
Day 6: Close to home
For the last full day, there are a few things you can do in and around Puerto Escondido itself, without needing to book a day trip. Some ideas below...
Spend the day sipping margaritas by the swimming pool at a beach club (Bacocho Beach Club is the best place to do this).
Arrange a surf lesson at La Punta or Playa Carrizalillo, these are the best places for beginner lessons.
Do a yoga, spin, circuit or strength class. Or, spend the day at Barbarenas where you can enjoy 3 yoga/wellness classes as well as a yummy, vegan breakfast and lunch.
Shop for gifts and souvenirs at Mercado 12 Diciembre.
Catch the sunset at Mirador las Tortugas, before one last dinner, is the perfect way to end your last night in Puerto Escondido.
For more things to do in and around Puerto Escondido itself, check out our what to do in Puerto Escondido guide.
Day 7: Time to go
The last day is for finishing anything you didn't get round to on the first couple of days, or, for topping up your tan before you leave. For more practical questions and answers about your trip to Puerto Escondido, like how to get around or the best time to visit, check out our Puerto Escondido travel guide.
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© Pieces of Puerto
2025
Everything shared here is based on our personal experiences and opinions. We are not paid, sponsored, or given freebies to write about anything. We just write what we love (or don’t). If you decide to follow any of our tips, just know you're doing it on your own terms.
© Pieces of Puerto
2025
Everything shared here is based on our personal experiences and opinions. We are not paid, sponsored, or given freebies to write about anything. We just write what we love (or don’t). If you decide to follow any of our tips, just know you're doing it on your own terms.
© Pieces of Puerto
2025
Everything shared here is based on our personal experiences and opinions. We are not paid, sponsored, or given freebies to write about anything. We just write what we love (or don’t). If you decide to follow any of our tips, just know you're doing it on your own terms.