How to get to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a picturesque corner on the Pacific coast of Mexico that has long captured the hearts of travellers with its free and relaxed atmosphere. The former fishing village has transformed into a world surfing capital while preserving an authenticity and cosiness not found in noisy megacities.

The main point of attraction here is the ocean. The famous Zicatela Beach challenges experienced wave riders, while cosy bays surrounded by palm trees offer calm turquoise waters for swimming and snorkelling. A trip to Puerto Escondido is an opportunity to enjoy fantastic sunsets, taste the freshest seafood in local restaurants, and immerse yourself in a unique rhythm of life where no one is in a hurry.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the coast is by flying. The resort is served by its own Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), located literally within the city limits, just a few minutes' drive from the main beaches.

Direct flights depart regularly from Mexico City; the flight time from the capital is just over an hour. This makes the route through the country's main airport the most popular for international travellers. Flights are also available from Guadalajara and some other Mexican cities, making it easy to plan a convenient connection.

There is no direct rail connection to the Pacific coast, so getting to Puerto Escondido exclusively by train is not possible. There is no train station in the city, and passenger rail transport in this region of Mexico is practically undeveloped and not used for tourist routes.

When planning a trip through nearby major cities such as Oaxaca, Huatulco, or Acapulco, it is worth considering alternative transport options in advance. Since the railway is not available here, travellers usually choose comfortable intercity buses or rent a car to traverse the path to the ocean through scenic mountain winding roads.

Bus travel across Mexico is a reliable and scenic way to get to the coast, allowing you to see the change in landscapes from mountain peaks to tropical jungles. One of the most popular and shortest routes leads from the neighbouring resort of Huatulco: a journey of about 110 kilometres takes only 2–3 hours. This is an excellent option for those who want to combine visits to several beach locations in one holiday.

If you are departing from the state capital, the city of Oaxaca, the journey along the new express highway will take about three hours. This is a significant improvement in transport accessibility, as the road used to take much longer. However, adventure lovers can still choose the old winding road through the mountains to enjoy the breathtaking, albeit tiring, views of the Sierra Madre on the way to Puerto Escondido.

For those travelling along the Pacific Ocean from the north, a convenient option would be a direct route from Acapulco, which takes approximately 7–8 hours. Mexican first-class buses operating on these routes are distinguished by a high level of comfort, offering powerful air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and wide reclining seats. It is better to purchase tickets for popular routes in advance to guarantee a comfortable seat and enjoy the journey without unnecessary hassle.

Travelling by car offers complete freedom of movement, especially if you are driving from neighbouring Huatulco: the scenic route of about 110 kilometres along the coast will take no more than two hours. The road from colourful Oaxaca has also become much more comfortable thanks to the new express highway, which has reduced the travel time to the ocean to approximately three hours. This is a great opportunity to plan stops independently and enjoy the changing scenery without depending on public transport schedules.

A longer adventure awaits those heading from Acapulco: covering 400 kilometres on Highway 200 will take about seven hours, but the views of the Pacific Ocean are worth it. If you do not plan to rent a car, you can travel between cities by taxi or book a private transfer, which is particularly convenient for groups with luggage. The cost of a taxi ride will depend on the distance and negotiation skills, but it is often the fastest "door-to-door" way to get to your hotel.

Preparing for your trip to Puerto Escondido will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully enjoy your holiday on the Pacific coast. We have compiled a list of important recommendations that will make your trip comfortable, safe, and filled with vivid impressions.

1. Clothing and Essentials: A hot tropical climate prevails here, so the basis of your wardrobe should be light items made of natural fabrics, swimwear, and comfortable sandals. Be sure to bring high-quality sunscreen with high SPF, a hat, and mosquito repellents, as insects can be active in the evenings.
2. Transport: It is convenient to move around the city by taxi, which is relatively inexpensive here, or by "colectivo" — local shared vans running along the main streets. For greater freedom, you can rent a scooter, but do this only if you have driving experience, as the traffic can be chaotic.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Mexican Peso; although dollars or cards may be accepted in tourist areas, only cash pesos are needed in small shops and taxis. It is better to withdraw money from ATMs at official banks and always carry small notes for tips and purchases.
4. Health and Safety: It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water — buy only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Puerto Escondido is generally safe, but you should adhere to standard rules: do not leave belongings unattended on the beach and avoid unlit streets at night.
5. Communication: In tourist zones such as La Punta and Zicatela, many speak English, but in the city centre and markets, Spanish remains the main language. Learn a few basic phrases of greeting and gratitude — locals greatly appreciate such gestures of respect.
6. Local Etiquette: In Mexico, it is customary to be polite and relaxed; greet people ("Hola" or "Buenos días") when entering a shop or restaurant. Tips (propinas) form an important part of the staff's earnings, so it is customary to leave 10–15% of the bill amount if you enjoyed the service.
7. What to Avoid: Do not swim at beaches with red flags, especially on the famous Zicatela Beach, where waves and underwater currents are intended only for professional surfers. For calm swimming, choose Carrizalillo or Puerto Angelito beaches.
8. Extra Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Manialtepec Lagoon at night to see the plankton bioluminescence. This unique natural phenomenon, where the water begins to glow from any movement, is located just a 20-minute drive from the city.

By following these simple tips, you can easily blend into the relaxed rhythm of coastal life and feel at home in this hospitable corner. Puerto Escondido is a place where worries recede, giving way to the sound of the ocean, warm smiles, and unforgettable sunsets.