From Oaxaca: One day in Puerto Escondido

Traveling from the colonial charm of Oaxaca to the breezy coast of Puerto Escondido is a popular choice for those craving sun, surf, and a splash of adventure. This guided day trip offers a chance to explore some of the most iconic beaches along Mexico’s Pacific coast, combined with boat tours, wildlife sightings, and optional activities like surfing or turtle releases.

What makes this tour really appealing is its combination of scenic transportation through the Sierra Madre del Sur—where the views are nothing short of breathtaking—and a carefully curated itinerary that highlights both natural beauty and local culture. It’s a well-rounded experience for travelers who value authentic coastal scenery but also want the convenience of guided logistics.

One potential drawback is the long travel time, with over 4 hours in transit round-trip, which can be tiring, especially in a packed schedule. This tour suits those with a sense of adventure and a desire to see the highlights of Puerto Escondido without the hassle of planning each step themselves. It’s ideal for active travelers, first-timers, or anyone eager for a full day of coastal exploration.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Experience

2 What’s Included and What’s Not

3 Who Will Love This Tour?

4 The Sum Up

5 FAQs

Key Points

Stunning landscapes: Traverse the Sierra Madre del Sur for memorable mountain views.
Sea excursions: Boat tours reveal multiple beaches from the water, offering a different perspective.
Wildlife encounters: Look out for turtles, dolphins, and possibly whales during the sea journey.
Flexible activities: Optional experiences like surf lessons, beach clubs, or turtle releases cater to varied interests.
Value-packed: The comprehensive itinerary, including transportation, guides, and marine viewing, offers good value for a full-day adventure.
Group size & timing: Expect a group experience with an early start and return by evening, suitable for those who like organized excursions.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puerto Escondido

Starting in Oaxaca: Early Departure and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off with an early pickup in Oaxaca, which is crucial because the drive to Puerto Escondido takes approximately 2.5 hours by van. This stretch, traveling through the Sierra Madre del Sur, offers constantly changing scenery. You’ll pass lush hillsides, small villages, and expansive mountain vistas—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views.

Many reviews mention how the drive is comfortable and how the landscapes make the long bus ride worth it. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the mountains opened up to reveal the coast—such a beautiful journey.” It’s the kind of start that sets a relaxed tone, knowing you’re heading toward an adventure filled with natural wonders.

Exploring Puerto Escondido’s Beaches from the Sea

Once you arrive, the highlight is the boat tour that takes you to several key beaches: Puerto Angelito, Carrizalillo, Manzanillo, Playa Coral, and Zicatela. Seeing these from the water provides a perspective that’s both visually stunning and refreshing—no crowds, just the beauty of the coast in all its glory.

The boat cruise isn’t just about scenery; it’s also about marine life. If luck is on your side, you might spot dolphins, turtles, or whales during migration seasons. The tour mentions that we will venture into the sea in search of wildlife, which adds an element of excitement and the chance for memorable photos. One reviewer shared, “Seeing dolphins jump alongside our boat was a pure thrill—an experience I’ll never forget.”

This part of the trip is relaxed and informative, with guides providing context on each beach’s unique features. The calm waters and clear views make it an easy and enjoyable ride, even for those who might be prone to motion sickness—though it’s worth noting that those with such sensitivities should consider their comfort.

Relaxing at Zicatela Beach and Punta Zicatela

After the boat tour, you’ll visit Zicatela Beach, famous worldwide for its surf—particularly its powerful waves that attract surfers from all over. You’ll have free time here to lounge on the sand, soak up the sun, or dip your toes in the surf.

Punta Zicatela offers a more laid-back atmosphere where you can relax, grab a drink, or just people-watch. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to unwind after the boat cruise, especially since the tour offers the flexibility to participate in optional activities.

Some travelers even choose to take surf lessons or rent bicycles or ATVs to explore further. For those interested in a meaningful activity, the turtle release at sunset is a highlight—an emotional and eco-friendly experience that feels like giving back.

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Wildlife and Sunset at Escobilla

A special feature of this tour is its visit to Escobilla at sunset, where you can enjoy wildlife viewing, particularly turtle conservation efforts. Releasing baby turtles at the end of the day leaves many visitors with a sense of purpose and joy. The timing around sunset adds a cinematic touch, with golden light illuminating the coast and animals in their natural habitat.

Guests have mentioned that the wildlife viewing is memorable, with some noting the chance to see various animals in their natural environment. The 3-hour stop here allows enough time to appreciate the scenery and the local conservation work.

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Return Journey and Practicalities

After a full day of exploring, the group boards the van for the approximately 3.5-hour return trip to Oaxaca. The long day is balanced by the diverse experiences and the comfort of air-conditioned transportation.

The tour is designed for flexibility, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve without immediate payment, making it easier to plan with confidence. It’s good to keep in mind that a minimum of 4 people is required for the tour to run, which might influence scheduling during quieter months.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $136 covers transportation, a certified guide, the boat tour, and marine life viewing—pretty impressive for a full-day, all-inclusive experience. It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning to buy at the beaches is advisable.

Additional activities, such as surf lessons, ATV rentals, bicycle rides, or turtle releases, come at extra cost. If these experiences appeal to you, they’re worth considering as they can make the day even more memorable.

The tour also includes liability and traveler insurance, giving some peace of mind. As always, read the fine print for cancellation policies and consider weather conditions which can impact marine and wildlife viewing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a taste of Mexico’s Pacific coast without the hassle of organizing transportation and logistics. It’s great for families (over 7 years old), wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to experience coastal beauty and marine life in one go.

If you’re someone who enjoys active days but appreciates a well-organized schedule, this tour hits the right note. Conversely, those looking for a more relaxed, leisure-only beach day might find the early start and packed itinerary a bit tiring.

The Sum Up

This tour from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to experience Mexico’s Pacific coast with minimal fuss. You’ll get stunning mountain and ocean views, the thrill of boat excursions, and the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. The optional activities like turtle releases and surf lessons add personalized touches that make the day special.

It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the coast’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture—without the need to plan every detail themselves. The long travel time is a tradeoff for the comprehensive experience, so it’s best suited for those with plenty of energy and curiosity.

This tour delivers memorable scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to explore the lesser-known corners of Oaxaca’s coast.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?
The drive takes about 2.5 hours each way, crossing scenic mountain landscapes along the Sierra Madre del Sur.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a certified guide, boat tour, marine life viewing, and insurance are included. Food, beverages, and extra activities are not.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 years old. The schedule and activities are more suited for older kids and adults.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, snacks, and swimwear for the beaches and boat ride. A camera for photos and a light jacket for the drive are also good ideas.

Can I participate in turtle releases?
Yes, turtle releases are among the optional activities and happen at sunset during the wildlife viewing stop in Escobilla.

What if I have motion sickness?
The boat tour and long drive might cause discomfort if you’re prone to motion sickness. Consider taking precautions or consulting with your doctor beforehand.

This guided day trip from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido strikes a nice balance between adventure, relaxation, and nature appreciation, making it a compelling option for those wanting to see the coast’s highlights without a multi-day commitment.