From Oaxaca: One day in Puerto Escondido

From Oaxaca: One Day in Puerto Escondido

Imagine leaving behind the bustling streets of Oaxaca early in the morning, headed toward the sun-drenched beaches of Puerto Escondido. For just $136 per person, this 13-hour tour offers a full day of exploring the stunning coastline, marine wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere of this famed surf town. Led by knowledgeable guides from PARAISO HUATULCO with a solid 4.3 rating, you’ll get a taste of the region’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see multiple beaches from the sea — Puerto Angelito, Carrizalillo, and Zicatela — all from a boat, giving you a fresh perspective on Puerto Escondido’s rugged coastline. Plus, the optional activities like turtle releases or surfing lessons add a memorable, hands-on element. The only caveat? The tour requires a minimum of four participants, so it’s not ideal if you’re traveling solo or in a small group looking for a private experience. But if you’re up for a full, active day and want to experience authentic coastal life, this trip fits the bill well.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, engaging marine wildlife encounters, and a relaxed beach vibe. It’s ideal for those who want a structured yet flexible day, and who aren’t bothered by long travel times to and from Oaxaca. Family groups with older children or teenagers, especially those interested in surfing, turtles, and boat rides, will find it particularly appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Complete Day Trip: Includes transportation, guided tours, boat cruises, and wildlife viewing.
• Diverse Experiences: From scenic drives through Sierra Madre to swimming and relaxing at beaches.
• Wildlife Encounters: Search for turtles, dolphins, and whales, adding an exciting, educational element.
• Flexible Activities: Optional options like surf lessons, turtle releases, or beach relaxation.
• Value for Money: For $136, you get a full-day adventure with guides, boat trips, and insurance included.
• Group Size & Timing: Requires at least four people; early start and return make for a long but rewarding day.

The Experience in Detail

Early Departure from Oaxaca

The adventure begins bright and early, typically with a pickup in Oaxaca City. The 2.5-hour van ride along the superhighway takes you across the spectacular Sierra Madre del Sur, offering views that are well worth the early wake-up. As we traveled, we admired the rugged mountain scenery, which hints at the wilderness and untouched beauty awaiting us. This part of the trip is a great chance to settle in, chat with your guide, and get excited for the day ahead.

Arrival and Coastal Exploration

Once in Puerto Escondido, you’ll immediately notice its famous beaches. The boat tour is the highlight for many, providing a perspective you simply can’t get from land. You’ll cruise past Puerto Angelito, Carrizalillo, and Playa Coral, each with their unique appeal. Puerto Angelito is often praised for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while Carrizalillo’s sheltered cove is perfect for lounging or trying a surf lesson.

Our guide, who smoothly explained the area’s highlights, made a point to emphasize the vibrant marine life. We loved the way the boat trip allowed us to see the coast from a different angle — the rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and surf breaks. Several reviews mention the thrill of spotting dolphins, turtles, or whales during the cruise, which adds a dash of excitement and education to the day.

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Wildlife Encounters

One of the tour’s most memorable moments is searching for turtles, dolphins, or whales amid the migration season. Many travelers have said that seeing marine life up close is a real highlight. The boat’s captain and guide are experienced at spotting these creatures, making it a worthwhile activity even if you’re not an expert in marine biology.

Beach Time at Zicatela and Punta Zicatela

After the boat ride, the focus shifts to Zicatela Beach, internationally recognized for its powerful waves and vibrant surf scene. Here, you’ll have free time to soak up the sun, feel the warm sand between your toes, or watch the surfers carve up the surf. Many visitors find Zicatela’s hot, golden sand incredibly inviting, perfect for a lazy afternoon.

At Punta Zicatela, you can choose to relax or indulge in optional activities. Several tour reviews mention participating in surf lessons or renting bikes or ATVs to explore further. Others enjoy simply unwinding at a beach club, sipping a cold drink and listening to the ocean. The option to release baby turtles at sunset is especially touching — a truly unforgettable experience for animal lovers and families.

Sunset and Return Journey

As the day winds down, the tour makes its way to P7G3+W3 Escobilla for a sunset viewing. This part of the trip offers a peaceful moment, with ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and taking in the natural beauty. The sunset is praised for its stunning views, creating a perfect end to a busy, activity-packed day.

The return trip to Oaxaca takes about 3.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the scenery along the way. Most reviews agree that the long day is worthwhile for the experiences gained and the stunning vistas seen.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour offers good value, especially as transportation, a certified guide, boat tour, and insurance are included. You’ll want to budget separately for food and drinks — no meals are included in the price — but the tour guides often recommend local spots, so you’re covered there.

Note that activities like ATVs, bike rentals, and turtle releases are optional and cost extra. If you’re keen on those, it’s worth planning ahead. The tour is not suitable for very young children under 7, or travelers with specific health issues or mobility concerns, given the length and physical activities involved.

Because the trip requires a minimum of four participants, it’s best to book in advance if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. Also, the tour is in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido offers an authentic, active glimpse of the coast’s natural beauty and vibrant marine life. You’ll love the boat tour’s stunning views, the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, and the laid-back beach atmosphere. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to blend adventure with relaxation, and who appreciate well-organized excursions that handle all the logistics.

While it’s a long day, the variety of experiences packed into it — from mountain landscapes to sunset wildlife watching — makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to explore Oaxaca’s coastal treasures. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic views, and who don’t mind a bit of travel time to get there and back.

If you’re looking to add a memorable, engaging day to your Oaxaca adventure, this trip checks many boxes. It’s a good mix of guided discovery, local culture, and natural splendor, all at a fair price point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel-to-hotel transportation by van is included in the tour.

How long is the drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido? The journey takes about 2.5 hours via the superhighway, crossing the Sierra Madre del Sur.

What activities are included in the tour? The tour features a guided boat cruise, visits to beaches, wildlife viewing, and optional activities like surfing lessons or turtle releases.

Are meals included? No, food and beverages are not included. You might find local restaurants along the way, and guides often suggest good spots to eat.

Can I see marine life during the tour? Yes, searching for turtles, dolphins, or whales is part of the experience, with many reviews noting sightings during the boat ride.

What should I wear or bring? Wear comfortable, sun-protective clothing, bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly a light jacket for the boat ride.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 7 due to the long day and physical activities.

What is the minimum group size? The tour requires at least four participants to operate.

How flexible is the schedule? The tour is generally a fixed schedule starting early and returning late, with some optional activities that you can choose to join.

What’s the main highlight of this trip? Many travelers say the boat tour and wildlife viewing, especially the possibility of seeing turtles and dolphins, are the most memorable parts.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this full-day adventure to Puerto Escondido suits your travel style. With its combination of scenic drives, marine wildlife, and beach time, it offers a balanced, authentic taste of Oaxaca’s coastal charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: