Puerto Escondido is renowned for its killer surf, but it’s also a place where adventure, nature, and local culture come together in a way that keeps travelers coming back. Whether you want to float on a boat in search of dolphins, sip mezcal made the traditional way, or learn to cook authentic Oaxacan dishes, this lively town offers a wide range of tours that showcase its authentic charm. We especially love the guided mezcal distillery tour for its personal touch and the chance to learn about Mexico’s national spirit from local families. For wildlife lovers, the dolphin watching and marine life boat trips bring you eye-to-eye with ocean creatures in their natural habitat. And, if good food and local flavors excite you, the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour will introduce you to genuine recipes and culinary secrets.
Puerto Escondido is a place that combines natural beauty with authentic experiences. Whether you spend your days chasing waves, exploring marine life, or tasting regional specialties, the tours below cover a wide spectrum of interests and activity levels. Here, you can find everything from relaxing experiences like blissful water healing to adrenaline-packed surf lessons. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated tours in detail.
1. Guided tour of an ancestral Mezcal distillery with transport
At number 1, this mezcal distillery tour offers a rare glimpse into the traditional methods of making Mexico’s favorite spirit. You’ll travel outside Puerto Escondido to a local family-run distillery, where the process of turning agave into mezcal has been passed down for generations. The tour includes an explanation of the distillation process and a guided tasting of various mezcals, often accompanied by snacks and a traditional Oaxacan lunch. It’s a small-group experience, which means more personalized attention from your guide. Travelers rave about the family’s warmth and the depth of information shared — “A perfect balance of learning and tasting,” one reviewer says. This tour is ideal for those interested in Mexican culture or spirits, offering excellent value at around $78 per person.
Bottom Line: Authentic, informative, and tasty — a must for spirit lovers or anyone wanting a genuine Oaxacan experience without the fuss.
2. Dolphin Watching in Puerto Escondido
Next up, the dolphin watching tour ranks high for its fun and natural adventure. For about $52, you’ll hop on a boat and search for pods of wild dolphins in the Pacific. The guides are passionate about marine life and will share insights into dolphin behavior and local ecosystems. What sets this tour apart is the effort to find less crowded dolphin schools, so you get a more authentic experience. Reviewers mention swimming with dolphins or spotting sea turtles and manta rays, making it perfect for nature lovers. The three-hour trip also includes a visit to scenic beaches, providing plenty of photo ops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and education, with a good chance to see dolphins and other marine creatures.
3. Puerto Escondido: Boat Tour to see Dolphins and Marine Life
For a comprehensive marine experience, the boat tour to see dolphins and marine life is an excellent choice. Starting from Puerto Angelito Beach and lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll sail along the coast and offshore to observe dolphins, turtles, whales, and colorful reef fish. The tour offers snorkeling gear, so you can dip into the water and admire the coral and fish. It’s especially suitable if you want flexibility in your day — the trip includes relaxing music, drinks, and sunbathing on the boat beds. Travelers mention spotting multiple species, including whale sightings in winter, which makes it a versatile pick.
Bottom Line: An all-around marine adventure, this tour caters well to those who love exploring under and above water with the chance for whale watching in season.
4. 2-Hour Surf Lesson in the Waves of Puerto Escondido
No visit to Puerto Escondido is complete without trying surfing. The 2-hour surf lesson is tailored for beginners and offers personal coaching in small groups of up to eight. The lesson takes place at Playa Carrizalillo, known for its gentle surf, making it ideal for first-timers. Reviewers praise the instructors’ patience and the smooth, manageable waves — many say they managed to stand up on their first try. You can choose your start time, and upgrade options include videos of your ride. The price is around $62, which is fair considering the personalized attention and quality of instruction.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time surfers or anyone wanting to improve their skills in a friendly, supportive environment.
5. Dolphin Watching Tour
This dolphin watching tour provides a longer, three-hour window of marine discovery. You’ll sail with a guide skilled in locating dolphin pods and other sea life like whales and turtles. Many reviewers highlight the abundance of dolphins and whales, with some swimming alongside the boat. The tour is ideal for travelers focused on wildlife and photography, with opportunities to capture amazing photos of sea creatures in their natural environment. The boat departs early morning, enhancing your chances for sightings and avoiding crowds later in the day.
Bottom Line: If wildlife is your main goal, this trip offers a high likelihood of seeing a variety of marine animals, with the benefit of expert guidance.
6. Boat Trip to See Marine Life in Puerto Escondido
The marine life boat trip is designed for travelers eager to explore ocean habitat in a flexible way. Over about three hours, the crew takes you to spots where whales, dolphins, rays, and turtles often appear. Snorkel gear and water are included, so you can get close to the action. It’s suitable for all fitness levels and includes hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free option. Reviewers note the diverse sightings and the captain’s skill in finding wildlife.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a relaxed, wildlife-focused boat trip with snorkeling options and convenient logistics.
7. Made in Oaxaca Food Tour
Food lovers will appreciate this Made in Oaxaca Food Tour. This 3-hour 15-minute walking tour takes you to local markets and eateries, many of which are off the typical tourist path. You’ll sample authentic Oaxaca dishes, learn about regional ingredients, and enjoy personalized attention in small groups. Reviewers love the guide’s stories and the chance to try 8-9 different dishes, including traditional beverages. It’s perfect for curious travelers and those eager to connect with the local culinary scene.
Bottom Line: A delicious and educational way to experience Puerto Escondido’s culinary heritage, recommended for foodies and cultural explorers.
8. 2-Hour Surf Classes in Puerto Escondido!
This surf class suits all levels, from complete beginners to those wanting to refine skills. It’s a two-hour private or semi-private lesson at one of three surf spots, with a friendly instructor guiding you through safety, technique, and wave-riding. Reviewers mention that the waves are “smooth for beginners,” and many say they caught their first wave here. The class is flexible with scheduling and includes all necessary gear. It’s a great way to get started with surfing in a supportive environment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for newcomers and those wanting personalized coaching, this tour makes catching your first wave easier.
9. Dolphin Watching
Another highly-rated dolphin tour, this dolphin watching offers an immersive three-hour experience on a 27-foot boat. The tour includes opportunities to swim with dolphins and see whales, turtles, and seabirds. Reviewers emphasize the professionalism of the captain and mention encountering two breaching whales. It’s a lively trip that balances wildlife viewing with a fun boat ride, making it suitable for families and adventure seekers alike. Make sure to bring seasickness tablets, as the water can get choppy.
Bottom Line: For a dynamic, wildlife-filled experience with a strong chance of memorable encounters, this tour delivers.
10. Mexico on Your Plate: Hands-On Cooking Experience
Foodies will love this cooking class, led by Jazmin in her home. The class includes hands-on preparation of traditional Mexican dishes, using local ingredients, and ends with enjoying your creations. Vegetarian options are available. Guests highlight Jazmin’s energy and the opportunity to learn recipes that you can recreate at home. It’s ideal for travelers who want a deeper culinary connection and a relaxed, intimate setting.
Bottom Line: A practical, engaging way to learn authentic Mexican cooking directly from a local, perfect for foodies.
11. Puerto Escondido: Turtle Release Experience
Participate in the conservation effort with this turtle release. For around $38, you’ll help release hatchlings into the ocean and learn about local turtle species. The experience lasts about two hours and is especially meaningful for families or eco-conscious travelers. Reviewers mention the beautiful sunset views and the thrill of helping endangered animals make their way to the sea. It’s a gentle, educational experience that connects you with nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-minded travelers, this tour combines fun with environmental awareness.
12. Blissful Healing Experience in the Water
For those seeking relaxation, the healing water experience offers personalized massage, stretching, and water cradling. In approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a tailored session designed to melt stress away. Reviewers call it “incredible” and say it’s perfect for de-stressing after active days. It’s an excellent choice if you want to unwind and indulge in self-care.
Bottom Line: Truly relaxing, this private water-based therapy provides a personalized way to rejuvenate.
13. Surf Classes in Puerto Escondido!
This private surf class caters to all levels, offering expert guidance at your preferred location. It’s suitable for complete beginners and experienced surfers alike, with lessons focusing on technique and safety. Reviewers mention seeing turtles and tropical fish while practicing. The flexible scheduling and small class size ensure a tailored experience that can help you cruise your first wave or improve your skills.
Bottom Line: Great for all skill levels, this customizable lesson makes surfing accessible and fun.
14. Mexico Magico Food Tour
The Mexico Magico Food Tour offers a half-day tour of Puerto Escondido’s culinary scene, visiting both old and new neighborhoods. You’ll sample multiple dishes, from street snacks to restaurant specialties, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about each. The tour also includes drinks and a chance to explore the city’s vibrant streets. Reviewers mention the “delicious food” and the “local stories” that make the experience memorable. It’s perfect for those who love food and want to see the city beyond the beaches.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to enjoy local cuisine and city sights, ideal for curious travelers.
15. Chacahua Afternoon Journey
This Chacahua tour is a full-afternoon trip to explore the natural beauty of the Chacahua lagoon. The highlight is witnessing bioluminescence in the water, rated as one of the best places in Mexico for it. You’ll enjoy a beautiful sunset and learn about the ecosystem from your guide. At around five hours, it’s a relaxing, scenic escape to experience nature’s spectacle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and sunset chasers, this tour offers a memorable night-time sight.
16. Hot Springs Horseback Riding Adventure
Last but not least, the hot springs horseback ride takes you through the countryside to natural thermal pools. It’s a five-hour trip suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. You’ll enjoy a scenic ride, soak in mineral-rich waters, and return comfortably to Puerto Escondido. Reviewers note the friendly guides and the chance to see parts of the landscape inaccessible by car.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers seeking a mix of culture, scenery, and relaxation in thermal pools.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, budget, and fitness level. If you’re a culinary enthusiast, the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour or the Mexico Magico Food Tour are excellent choices. For outdoor adventure and wildlife, the dolphin and marine life tours provide unforgettable encounters with sea creatures. Surfing newbies should consider the 2-hour surf lesson, while experienced surfers might upgrade to the private surf classes. Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the turtle release experience, and those wanting ultimate relaxation might opt for the blissful water healing.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like dolphin watching or culinary tours, which fill quickly during peak seasons. Think about the type of experience you want—active, relaxing, educational, or cultural—and match it with the tour that excites you most.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Escondido offers a wide array of tours that can suit every kind of traveler. If you’re after a taste of authentic Mexico, the mezcal distillery visit is a standout. For wildlife lovers, the marine life boat trips and dolphin tours promise memorable encounters. Foodies should not miss the Oaxacan food tours, which combine tasty bites with local stories.
No matter your interests, booking these experiences beforehand will ensure you don’t miss out on the best of Puerto Escondido’s natural and cultural treasures. From surfing to snorkeling, tasting to toasting, there’s a tour waiting to make your trip one to remember.