La Punta Puerto Escondido

La Punta Puerto Escondido, located along Mexico’s Pacific coast, has become a sought-after destination for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. This picturesque coastal area, known for its stunning La Punta beach, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and thrilling water activities. The charm of La Punta lies in its laid-back atmosphere and world-class waves, attracting surfers from across the globe to test their skills on its renowned breaks.

Beyond its reputation as a surfing paradise, La Punta Puerto Escondido boasts a vibrant local culture and diverse attractions. Visitors can explore the area’s culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes. The nightlife and entertainment options add to the allure, providing a perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. I go into the various aspects of La Punta, from its prime location to its bustling surf scene and local flavors. After you read a bit more, it should become clear why this coastal haven has captured the hearts of travelers seeking an authentic Mexican beach experience.

La Punta’s Location

La Punta Puerto Escondido, a small fishing village on the southern coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, boasts a distinctive geographical setting that sets it apart from other coastal towns in the region. Situated on a rocky peninsula jutting into the Pacific Ocean, La Punta offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic positioning.

Geography and Climate

La Punta’s location on the Emerald Coast of Oaxaca provides it with breathtaking scenery. The area is characterized by rocky cliffs ranging from 15 to 30 meters in height, which adjoin the bay and create a dramatic backdrop for the coastline. This picturesque setting contributes to La Punta’s appeal as an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers seeking an authentic Oaxacan coastal experience.

The climate in La Punta is tropical and humid, with an average annual temperature of 28°C (82°F). This pleasant weather makes it an attractive destination year-round. The area experiences a rainy season during the summer months, with September being the wettest and most humid month, often seeing humidity levels above 70%. Despite this, La Punta enjoys beautiful weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.

Accessibility from Puerto Escondido

La Punta’s proximity to Puerto Escondido, one of Mexico’s top surf spots, enhances its appeal to visitors. The village is easily accessible, located just a 20-minute drive from Puerto Escondido along a scenic coastal highway. This convenient location allows travelers to experience the tranquility of La Punta while still having easy access to the amenities and attractions of the larger town.

For those arriving by air, Puerto Escondido International Airport offers flights to major cities such as Oaxaca, Monterrey, and Mexico City. From the airport, La Punta is approximately a 20-minute drive away. Visitors can reach La Punta by taxi for around 400 pesos or by colectivo for about 80 pesos.

A new three-lane superhighway project is underway, connecting the city of Oaxaca to Ventanillas, which is about 13 km east of Puerto Escondido. Once completed, this superhighway is expected to reduce travel time from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido to just two hours, making La Punta even more accessible to visitors.

Nearby Attractions

La Punta’s strategic location provides easy access to several nearby attractions, enhancing its appeal as a destination. One notable site is the Laguna de Manialtepec, a large coastal lagoon located about 10 km west of Puerto Escondido. This ecological wonder is home to a diverse array of bird species, including pelicans, seagulls, ibis, storks, and kingfishers. The lagoon also hosts various wildlife such as raccoons, deer, and crocodiles, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts.

En route to the lagoon, visitors can explore the small village of Bajos de Chila, which features a small archaeological zone of the Chatino culture. This site includes a Sun Stone representing the solar deity and a statue of a high-ranking priest, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

For those seeking hidden gems, La Punta beach serves as a starting point for a walk to the gorgeous hidden beach and lookout point known as Chingabal’e. This secluded spot offers visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Oaxacan coastline away from the more frequented areas.

The Surfing Scene in Puerto Escondido

Wave Types and Best Spots

La Punta Puerto Escondido has become a mecca for surf enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of wave types suitable for various skill levels. The area boasts an exposed beach break with consistent surf, particularly during the summer months. The waves at La Punta are predominantly left-breaking, providing surfers with exciting opportunities to showcase their skills.

For those seeking more challenging waves, Playa Zicatela, often referred to as the “Mexican Pipeline,” offers some of the most powerful and hollow waves in the region. This beach is renowned for its strong undercurrents and large swells, making it ideal for advanced surfers looking for an adrenaline rush. The waves at Zicatela can reach heights of up to 20 feet during peak season, attracting professional surfers from around the world.

Intermediate surfers will find La Punta to be an excellent spot for honing their skills. The breaks here are softer and the waves are smaller compared to Zicatela, making it a great place to practice and improve technique. For beginners, Playa Carrizalillo offers calmer conditions and smaller waves, perfect for those just starting their surfing journey.

Surf Schools and Rentals

Puerto Escondido caters to surfers of all levels with numerous surf schools and rental shops available throughout the area. Most surf lessons in Puerto Escondido take place at either Carrizalillo or La Punta, where the conditions are more suitable for learning. These schools offer small group or private lessons tailored to individual skill levels and needs.

For those who don’t have their own equipment, many surf schools and rental shops provide boards and safety gear as part of their packages. This makes it convenient for travelers to experience the thrill of surfing without the hassle of transporting their own equipment.

Seasonal Surfing Conditions

The surfing conditions in La Punta Puerto Escondido vary throughout the year, with each season offering unique experiences for surfers. The best time for consistent, clean waves typically occurs during the winter months, with November being particularly favorable. During this time, clean, surfable waves can be found approximately 57% of the time, while 41% of the time, conditions may be less ideal due to strong winds.

Summer brings the most favorable conditions for surfing, with offshore winds coming from the north-northeast. The ideal swell direction is from the south-southwest, which combines with these offshore winds to create optimal surfing conditions. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from 22.3°C (72.2°F) to 29.1°C (84.4°F), eliminating the need for wetsuits.

It’s worth noting that even during the off-season, such as January, surfing is still possible in Puerto Escondido. However, the waves may be smaller compared to the peak months of spring and summer. Regardless of the season, La Punta Puerto Escondido continues to attract surfers with its consistent waves and beautiful coastal setting, solidifying its reputation as a premier surfing destination in Mexico.

La Punta’s Culinary Delights

La Punta Puerto Escondido has become a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. The vibrant culinary scene in this charming coastal town showcases a blend of traditional Mexican flavors and innovative cooking techniques, making it a must-visit destination for foodies.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

La Punta boasts an abundance of plant-based options, catering to the growing demand for vegan and vegetarian cuisine. One standout establishment is Mictlan, located within the enchanting food court El Árbol. This unique eatery takes classic Mexican dishes and gives them a creative vegan twist. Visitors can savor innovative creations such as carrot tinga and mushroom chicharron, showcasing the restaurant’s ability to transform traditional favorites into delectable plant-based meals.

Another notable spot for vegans and vegetarians is Ya’ab Vegan Kitchen. This restaurant offers a simple yet satisfying menu featuring smoothies, smoothie bowls, and various types of hummus. Their dishes are not only flavorful but also substantially filling and healthy. Ya’ab takes pride in crafting its own vegan cheese from almonds and cashews, which adds a unique touch to many of their offerings.

Seafood Specialties

La Punta’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean ensures a steady supply of the freshest catch, allowing local chefs to create mouthwatering seafood dishes. One such establishment is a fish shack located on a narrow alley leading to the beach. This unpretentious eatery serves up some of the best seafood in town, with their grilled fish sandwich being a standout item. The thick and juicy fish filet, layered with shredded iceberg and cabbage, pickles, and a zesty serrano tartar sauce, exemplifies the quality of seafood available in La Punta.

For those seeking a more diverse seafood experience, many restaurants in the area offer a variety of dishes that highlight the flavors of the sea. From classic ceviche to grilled fish and hearty seafood stews, La Punta’s culinary scene truly showcases the bounty of the ocean.

International Fusion Cuisine

While La Punta is renowned for its traditional Mexican fare, the town has also embraced international influences, resulting in a unique fusion cuisine. Many local restaurants blend Mexican ingredients and techniques with global culinary traditions, creating innovative dishes that tantalize the taste buds.

One example of this fusion trend is the modern take on Latin America’s classic raspados (shaved ice with fruit syrup) found at a pink truck in La Punta. This charming establishment offers creative bases like guava lychee and mango creme, which can be customized with various toppings and even a splash of mezcal for an adult twist.

The culinary landscape of La Punta Puerto Escondido continues to evolve, with chefs and restaurateurs constantly pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation. Whether visitors are seeking plant-based delights, fresh seafood, or innovative fusion cuisine, La Punta’s diverse dining scene has something to offer every palate.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Puerto Escondido boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to various tastes and preferences. The town’s two main areas, La Punta and Zicatela, offer a diverse range of entertainment options for locals and visitors alike.

Beach Parties and Bonfires

La Punta, known for its laid-back atmosphere, is the perfect spot to kick off the evening. Beachfront venues like Punta Vida exemplify the relaxed side of Puerto Escondido’s nightlife, with parties typically winding down around midnight. Savanna, a beachfront cafe and restaurant, provides a chill option for those seeking an early start and end to their night.

For budget-conscious partygoers, Bonita Escondida, a popular party hostel near La Punta, hosts some of the best pool parties in town. These gatherings often feature bonfires and extend into the early hours, offering a unique beach party experience.

Live Music Venues

Puerto Escondido offers several venues for live music enthusiasts. In La Punta, Juana Mezcala and Piyoli frequently host bands, providing an excellent atmosphere for enjoying drinks and live performances. For those interested in Latin music, Cañabrava is the place to be on Friday nights. This beachfront venue features a rooftop with private tables for a more exclusive experience.

Congo Bar, located behind Playa Principal beach, is famous for its ambiance and live music. On Wednesdays, salsa lovers can head to Congo Bar for a night of dancing. Another popular spot is Punta Origen, which hosts an open mic night on Thursdays, showcasing talented local and visiting musicians.

Bars and Clubs

As the night progresses, the party shifts from La Punta to Zicatela, where clubs stay open until the early morning hours. Xcaanda, a lively nightclub with locations in both areas, is a popular spot for partygoers after things quiet down in La Punta.

Cactus Beach Club is one of the most popular bars in Puerto Escondido, attracting a mix of visitors and locals, especially on Monday nights. Nearby, Piedra de la Iguana is a funky after-hours bar with an open-air dance floor, where the party really gets started around 3 am.

Mar & Wana, opposite Cactus Bar, hosts live events every weekend and features both local and international DJs, keeping the dance floor packed until 5 am. For those seeking a more alternative vibe, The Boneyard in La Punta caters to the skater and surfer crowd, staying open until around midnight.

Chula, with its sand dance floor and casual atmosphere, is the go-to club for locals and visitors on weeknights. Mombasa, one of the newer additions to La Punta’s bar scene, is usually packed in the late evenings and stays open until around 1 am.

Whether you’re looking for beach parties, live music, or all-night dancing, Puerto Escondido’s nightlife scene has something for everyone. From the relaxed vibes of La Punta to the energetic clubs of Zicatela, visitors can experience a diverse range of entertainment options throughout the week.

FAQs About La Punta Puerto Escondido:

Can you swim in La Punta Puerto Escondido?

Yes, you can swim at La Punta Puerto Escondido, but it’s important to be cautious as the waves can be strong, especially near the point where surfers gather. La Punta Zicatela, Puerto Escondido is known for its powerful surf breaks, making it popular among surfers. For swimming, it’s best to stay in areas where the waves are calmer, such as near the shore.

What is the quietest beach in Puerto Escondido?

Carrizalillo Beach is often considered one of the quietest and most tranquil beaches in Puerto Escondido. Unlike the busier La Punta or Zicatela beaches, Carrizalillo offers a more relaxed atmosphere with calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and lounging. It’s a bit more secluded and requires a walk down a set of stairs, which helps keep the crowds at bay.

Is Puerto Escondido cheaper than Tulum?

Yes, Puerto Escondido is generally cheaper than Tulum. While Tulum has become a trendy and upscale destination with higher prices for accommodation, food, and activities, Puerto Escondido, including areas like La Punta and Zicatela, remains more affordable. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly lodging or local eateries, you’ll find Puerto Escondido to be a more economical choice.

How do I get from Puerto Escondido Airport to La Punta?

To get from Puerto Escondido Airport to La Punta, you can take a taxi or a colectivo (shared van). The ride is about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic, and taxis are readily available outside the airport. La Punta Zicatela, Puerto Escondido is a popular area, so most drivers will know how to get there directly.

Is it safe to walk around Puerto Escondido at night?

Walking around Puerto Escondido at night is generally safe, especially in well-populated areas like La Punta and Zicatela. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone late at night. La Punta, Puerto Escondido is a lively area, but taking basic precautions will help ensure a safe experience.

Which is better, Huatulco or Puerto Escondido?

Whether Huatulco or Puerto Escondido is better depends on what you’re looking for. Huatulco offers a more developed, resort-like atmosphere with pristine beaches and luxury accommodations. Puerto Escondido, including areas like La Punta and Zicatela, is more laid-back and attracts surfers, backpackers, and those looking for a more authentic and relaxed vibe. If you’re into surfing and a bohemian lifestyle, Puerto Escondido might be the better choice.

Is Puerto Escondido worth it?

Yes, Puerto Escondido is definitely worth visiting, especially if you’re interested in surfing, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. La Punta, Puerto Escondido is particularly famous for its surf culture and vibrant community. Whether you’re a surfer or just want to enjoy the beach life, Puerto Escondido offers a unique and enjoyable experience.

Is the ocean warm in Puerto Escondido?

The ocean in Puerto Escondido is warm year-round, making it perfect for swimming and surfing. The water temperature typically ranges between 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F), providing comfortable conditions whether you’re at La Punta, Zicatela, or any other beach in the area.

What is the best month to go to Puerto Escondido?

The best months to visit Puerto Escondido are between November and April. During this period, the weather is warm, the ocean is calm, and there’s little to no rain, making it ideal for beach activities and surfing at La Punta and Zicatela. This time also coincides with the high season, so there’s a lively atmosphere and plenty of events.

Why is Puerto Escondido famous?

Puerto Escondido is famous for its world-class surfing, particularly at Zicatela Beach, known as the “Mexican Pipeline.” La Punta, Puerto Escondido, is another popular surf spot attracting surfers from around the globe. The town’s laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife also contribute to its fame as a top destination in Mexico.

Is Puerto Escondido a party town?

Yes, Puerto Escondido, particularly areas like Zicatela and La Punta, is known for its lively nightlife and party scene. The town has a range of bars, beach clubs, and events that draw both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. However, Puerto Escondido also offers plenty of quieter spots for those seeking relaxation.

Mexico, Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido