Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

Welcome to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido, a paradise on the coast of Oaxaca that offers a unique blend of traditional Mexican culture and modern tourist amenities. This guide is designed to provide visitors with clear and accurate information about the city, its history, attractions, safety, accommodations, transportation, local events, currency exchange rates, cultural customs, emergency services, weather, and appropriate dress. Whether you’re coming for the surfing, the food, the festivals, or just to relax on the beach, we hope you find this guide helpful in planning your trip to Puerto Escondido.

Culture, History, and Traditions
Puerto Escondido is located in the state of Oaxaca, which is known for its rich indigenous cultures and ancient civilizations. The city itself was founded in the 1920s as a small fishing village, and it has since grown into a popular tourist destination. One of the most important cultural traditions in Oaxaca is the Day of the Dead, which takes place every November 1st and 2nd. During this time, families gather to honor and remember their deceased loved ones through elaborate altars, parades, and offerings. Other important cultural traditions in the region include the Guelaguetza, a dance and music festival that takes place every July, and the Night of the Radishes, a unique holiday celebration that involves carving giant radishes into intricate sculptures.

Tourist Attractions, Monuments, and Sites of Interest
Puerto Escondido has plenty to offer visitors, whether you’re interested in beaches, nature, history, or adventure. Some of the most popular attractions include:

Playa Zicatela: Known as one of the best surfing beaches in the world, this long stretch of sand is also great for swimming, sunbathing, and people watching.
Laguna de Manialtepec: A bioluminescent lagoon that glows at night thanks to tiny organisms called dinoflagellates. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the light show up close.
Mercado Benito Juarez: A bustling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Puerto Angelito: A calm and picturesque cove with clear waters and white sand, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Casa de la Cultura: A museum and cultural center that showcases the history and traditions of Oaxaca, including indigenous art, textiles, and music.
El Adoquín: A pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, perfect for a night out or a stroll.

Safety Tips and Precautions
Puerto Escondido is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take common sense precautions. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas like markets and festivals.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas.
Only take licensed taxis, and negotiate the price before getting in.
Be careful when swimming in the ocean, as some beaches can have strong currents and undertows.
Keep an eye on your belongings when at the beach or in public areas, and don’t leave valuables unattended.
Accommodations, Restaurants, and Local Transportation Puerto Escondido offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget hostels. Some popular options include beachfront hotels like Hotel Santa Fe and Hotel Escondido, as well as more affordable options like the Selina Puerto Escondido hostel. When it comes to dining, visitors can find everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international dishes. Some local favorites include La Termit

Accommodation, Restaurants, and Local Transportation Options
Puerto Escondido has a wide range of accommodation options for visitors to choose from, including hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and resorts. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly options to more luxurious accommodations. Some of the popular hotels and resorts in Puerto Escondido include Vivo Resorts, Hotel Escondido, and Casa Wabi.
If you prefer a more local experience, you can also look into renting a room or apartment from a local resident. Websites such as Airbnb and Vrbo offer many options for vacation rentals in the area.
When it comes to dining, Puerto Escondido offers a diverse selection of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Seafood is a popular choice, given the town’s location on the Pacific coast. Some of the must-try local dishes include ceviche, tlayudas (a large tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and meat), and seafood tacos.

For those looking for a more authentic experience, the local markets are a great place to explore. The Benito Juarez market is one of the most popular, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and other local goods.
Getting around Puerto Escondido is relatively easy. Taxis and public transportation are widely available, and most destinations in town are within walking distance. Buses run frequently to nearby towns and attractions, such as Mazunte and Zipolite.

Local Events and Festivals
Puerto Escondido is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular include:

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – A traditional Mexican holiday celebrating the lives of deceased loved ones, typically held on November 1st and 2nd.
Fiestas de Noviembre – A month-long celebration in November featuring music, dance, food, and cultural events.
Festival Costeño de Danza y Arte (Coastal Dance and Art Festival) – A week-long festival in July showcasing the best of traditional and contemporary dance and art from the region.
It’s always a good idea to check the calendar of events before planning your trip to see if there are any festivals or events that coincide with your travel dates.

Local Currency and Exchange Rates
The currency used in Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN). It’s recommended to exchange money at banks or official exchange houses to avoid scams. Major credit cards are accepted at many establishments in Puerto Escondido, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and markets.
As of February 2023, the exchange rate is approximately 20 MXN to 1 USD. However, exchange rates can fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check the current rate before exchanging money.

Cultural Customs and Etiquette
When visiting Puerto Escondido, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and etiquette. Mexicans are known for being friendly and welcoming, but it’s always a good idea to brush up on cultural norms before traveling.
Some tips to keep in mind include:

Greet people with a handshake or hug, depending on their familiarity.
Use “buenos días” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), and “buenas noches” (good evening) as appropriate.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.
When dining out, it’s common for the bill to be split evenly among the group, regardless of what each person ordered.
Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo, especially if they are a stranger.
By being aware of these customs, visitors can ensure a more pleasant and respectful

Best time to visit and typical climate of the region Puerto Escondido is a tropical paradise that is warm and sunny year-round. The best time to visit depends on what kind of activities you’re interested in. If you’re looking for the perfect beach vacation, then the months of November to May are the best time to visit. During these months, the skies are clear, the temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the humidity is low. It’s the perfect time to sunbathe, swim, surf, and take long walks along the beach.
If you’re interested in whale watching, then the best time to visit is between December and March when humpback whales migrate to the region. You can go on a whale-watching tour and see these magnificent creatures up close.
If you’re interested in surfing, then the best time to visit is between April and August when the waves are at their best. You’ll find surfers from all over the world coming to Puerto Escondido during these months.
The rainy season in Puerto Escondido is from June to October. During these months, you can expect occasional showers and thunderstorms, but they usually don’t last very long. The rain helps keep the region lush and green, and it’s a great time to explore the rainforest and waterfalls.

Tips on how to dress appropriately for the climate and local culture Puerto Escondido is a laid-back beach town, so you can dress casually most of the time. Lightweight clothing made from natural fibers like cotton and linen is the best option as it will keep you cool and comfortable in the warm weather. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
When visiting local markets and other cultural sites, it’s important to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding revealing or provocative clothing. It’s also a good idea to remove your shoes before entering a temple or other religious site.

In conclusion, Puerto Escondido is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers something for everyone. From beautiful beaches and world-class surfing to ancient ruins and delicious food, this town has it all. By following these tips and guidelines, you can make the most of your visit and experience everything that Puerto Escondido has to offer.

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Welcome to Puerto Escondido

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