The coastal paradise of Puerto Escondido delivers big on memorable boat experiences. Three standout tours showcase the region’s natural beauty and culture: The Chacahua Lagoons trip combines mangrove exploration with a scenic hike to the “Arc of Love.” Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Manialtepec Lagoon tour for its excellent bird-watching opportunities. The Boat Cruise and Market combo hits the sweet spot – mixing coastal views with authentic Oaxacan food sampling.
I especially love the Chacahua tour for its perfect blend of adventure and scenery, while the Market combo offers the best culture. All tours include convenient hotel transfers, expert guides, and necessary amenities.
Let’s explore the top boat tours worth your time in Puerto Escondido.
Key Points
- The Chacahua Lagoons Day Trip offers a 9-hour tour exploring the lagoons and mangroves of Zapotalito, with highlights like swimming and bioluminescence experiences.
- The Birdwatching on a Boat excursion provides a 5-hour boat ride through Manialtepec Lagoon, allowing visitors to spot local and migratory birds.
- The Boat Cruise and Market Visit combines a scenic 6-hour boat cruise with a visit to a local market, offering opportunities to sample Oaxacan cuisine and browse organic products.
- All tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, knowledgeable local guides, and free cancellation policies, enhancing the overall experience.
- Accessibility and meal quality receive mixed reviews, so advanced planning and research are recommended before booking any boat tours in Puerto Escondido.
Puerto Escondido: Chacahua Lagoons Day Trip and Boat Ride
One of the top boat tours in Puerto Escondido is the Lagunas de Chacahua Day Trip and Boat Ride. This 9-hour activity takes visitors on a journey to explore the lagoons and mangroves of Zapotalito.
Priced at $147.24 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local nature guide, and water, food, and drinks.
Highlights of the tour include swimming in Chacahua’s clear waters, hiking to the “Arc of Love” for sunset views, and experiencing the bioluminescence during the boat return trip.
Guests are advised to bring a hat, sunscreen, cash, sunglasses, and biodegradable insect repellent, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Reviews for the Chacahua Lagoons tour are generally positive, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and the overall experience.
However, some found the price a bit high for the inclusions, and there were mixed opinions on the meal quality and duration of beach time.
Read our full review: Puerto Escondido: Chacahua Lagoons Day Trip and Boat Ride Review
Book now: Check availability
From Puerto Escondido: Birdwatching on a Boat
For those looking to explore the rich birdlife of the Puerto Escondido region, the Birdwatching on a Boat tour provides an excellent opportunity. Priced from $61.35 per person, this 5-hour excursion departs from Puerto Escondido and takes guests on a scenic boat ride through the Manialtepec Lagoon in Las Negras town.
During the tour, visitors can expect to spot a variety of local and migratory birds, including wood storks, cormorants, snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, and white ibises. The highlight of the experience is the view of the river, sea, and lagoon merging.
After the boat ride, guests can disembark at Puerto Suelo for a chance to walk, swim, or dine. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all food and drinks.
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those carrying large bags. Guests are advised to bring cash, a towel, swimwear, and a change of clothes.
With a 5-star rating based on a single review, this birdwatching adventure is highly recommended for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: From Puerto Escondido: Birdwatching on a Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Puerto Escondido: Boat Cruise and Market Visit
This 6-hour excursion in Puerto Escondido combines a scenic boat cruise along the coastline with a visit to the lively Benito Juarez Market.
The boat tour offers the chance to admire the area’s stunning beaches, from Zicatela to Bacocho, and potentially spot dolphins, turtles, and whales.
At the market, guests can enjoy local culture, sample traditional Oaxacan cuisine and drinks, and browse organic products like mole, chocolates, and hibiscus jellies.
The experience is priced from $41.23 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat ride, mezcal tastings, and all food and drinks.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, it has received an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.
Guests praise the knowledgeable tour guides and the boat tour experience, though some recommend an earlier tour for better wildlife sightings.
Booking is available with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Puerto Escondido: Boat Cruise and Market Visit Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Puerto Escondido offers various boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural wonders. From day trips to the Chacahua Lagoons to birdwatching excursions and market visits, these activities provide an immersive experience of the region’s diverse ecosystems and local culture. Travelers can choose the option that best suits their interests and preferences for a memorable adventure in this picturesque coastal destination.