Where to stay in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido, a sun-soaked paradise on Mexico's Pacific coast, is renowned for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Whether you're a surfer chasing the perfect wave at Zicatela Beach, a family looking for a peaceful retreat, or a solo traveller eager to explore the local culture, Puerto Escondido offers a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Puerto was one of our favourite stops during our Mexico travels, but you need to ensure you stay in the right place. We read a few blogs about Puerto from people who didn’t have a great time and if you stay in the wrong place, it can make a big difference.
In this post, we’ll break down the different areas of Puerto Escondido, who they are best for and what’s nearby.
Puerto Escondido is quite small so no matter where you stay you can still get around everywhere easily. We recommend hiring a car (or bike) for total freedom but you can also use taxis and collectivos.
TLDR: Stay in La Punta. It’s amazing with great food options, a beautiful beach as well as some nightlife. You can enjoy the central area and then retreat to your villa in the residential part to the south and relax.
Centro
Centro is the bustling heart of Puerto Escondido where most of the locals live and work. There are lots of hotels for backpackers and easy transport links for day trips to surrounding national parks.
It’s the part of town you want to be in if you want more of a budget experience/backpacker vibe with local culture but you won’t be on the beachfront so you will spend a lot of time in taxis / driving to nearby places to spend the day.
Nearby beach: Playa Principal, Playa Manzillano, Puerto Angelito
Rinconada and Bacocho
Rinconada and Bococho are two neighbourhoods on the western fringes of Puerto Escondido. They are smaller and more laid back than the other parts of town. Bacocho is a residential area near one of the best beaches in Puerto whereas Rinconada has a lively central strip filled with cafes and yoga studios.
This area is good for people who want to be away from the touristy buzz of Zicatela or La Punta but still have some amenities nearby.
Nearby beach: Playa Bacocho
Zicatela
Zicatela is Puerto Escondido's epicentre of surf culture, buzzing with energy and lined with an array of beach clubs that pulse with music and life.
Known globally for its monstrous waves, this stretch is a magnet for surfers eager to test their skills against the powerful sea. The area has a distinctly touristy vibe, drawing international travellers who come not only for the surf but also for the robust party scene that lights up the night.
Zicatela isn’t the quintessential Mexican experience so if you’re coming for the surf and party, its the place for you. If not then stay elsewhere.
(most of the bars and clubs are located towards the north end of Zicatela)
Nearby beach: Playa Zicatela
La Punta
(Our top pick of where to stay)
This bohemian quarter of Puerto Escondido attracts a community of surfers and travellers seeking a more relaxed and intimate experience. The area is renowned for its gentler waves, making it an ideal spot for beginner surfers or those looking to hone their skills in a less intimidating environment.
The streets of La Punta are lined with an eclectic mix of small, locally-owned shops, casual dining spots, and quirky bars that exude a friendly, welcoming vibe. The architecture here is distinctly low-key, with thatched roofs and driftwood signs.
Evenings in La Punta are often marked by stunning sunsets that paint the sky in shades of orange and pink, followed by nights where live music and laughter float gently on the ocean breeze.
This corner of Puerto Escondido retains a sense of authenticity (although it is still touristy). You can spend your time on the main strip delving into delicious food and then walk 5 mins back to your villa in the peaceful residential area just to the south.
Nearby beach: La Punta Zicatela
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