From Oaxaca City: Puerto Escondido Freediving Experience

Traveling from the bustling streets of Oaxaca City to the stunning coastline of Puerto Escondido for a freediving day trip sounds like a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure to your Mexico trip. While we haven’t personally done this tour, we’ve looked into what it offers, and it seems like a well-rounded experience for anyone curious about the underwater world, especially if you’re eager to learn the basics of freediving in a safe environment.

What we really like about this experience is the focus on safety and education—learning breathing techniques and stretching exercises from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the combination of underwater practice and enjoying local cuisine makes it feel like a balanced, immersive day. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this is a short, introductory experience; it’s not meant for seasoned freedivers or those seeking advanced training. Still, it’s likely perfect for beginners or travelers who want a taste of what freediving is about without a huge time or cost commitment.

This tour probably suits those who are comfortable in the water, interested in trying something new, and looking for an active, scenic escape from Oaxaca City. Families with older children, non-swimmers who meet water comfort requirements, or adventure seekers craving a unique underwater experience may find this trip just right.

Key Points

• Introductory experience designed for beginners curious about freediving
• Includes essential breathing techniques and stretching exercises
• Guided underwater immersion from the comfort of a boat in warm Pacific waters
• Scenic travel from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido with beautiful views
• Local food tour in La Punta offers a flavorful break
• All equipment provided; no prior experience needed, but comfort in water is a must

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This full-day tour kicks off early in the morning, with transportation arranged from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido. The drive itself is part of the charm—scenic views unfold along the route, building anticipation for the day ahead. Once you arrive, the focus shifts quickly to the heart of the experience: the freediving session.

The Freediving Class

The core of this tour is the 3-hour introductory freediving class on a boat. Here, you’ll learn breathing techniques that help extend your underwater breath-hold, along with stretching exercises to prepare your body. The guides, proficient in both Spanish and English, walk you through the basics in a safe, encouraging way. The actual underwater immersion is guided and conducted from the boat, which means you’re in warm Pacific waters but not in the open sea—making the experience less intimidating for newcomers.

A common comment from previous participants is how safe and supportive the environment feels. They appreciated the clear instructions and the way the guides made the activity accessible without feeling rushed or overwhelming. Whether you’re standing on the boat practicing breath-holds or gently gliding underwater, you’ll find that the focus is on personal comfort and learning at your own pace.

What You’ll Experience Underwater

While the immersion is guided and introductory, many reviewers mention that the stunning views under the water are worth the trip. Expect to see the warm ocean in a relaxed setting, with perhaps some fish or marine life that come close in these protected waters. It’s more about gaining confidence and understanding your own limits than pushing to depths.

The Food Tour in La Punta

After your aquatic adventure, your day continues with a food tour through La Punta, one of Puerto Escondido’s most lively and charming neighborhoods. Here, you’ll have the chance to savor local delicacies, including vegetarian options, and recharge after your underwater activities. Previous visitors have enjoyed the flavorful local treats and found this part of the day a nice balance to the physical activity.

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Return Journey and Overall Timing

The trip wraps up with the return drive to Oaxaca City in the evening. While the schedule is tight, many appreciate the comprehensive nature of the tour—combining adventure, cultural exploration, and scenic travel in just one day. Keep in mind that it’s a private group experience, which means a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere compared to larger tours.

Evaluating the Value

At $272 per person, this trip offers quite a lot: transportation, a 3-hour freediving class, guided underwater practice, and a local food tour. For those genuinely interested in trying freediving for the first time and wanting a scenic, well-organized day trip, it seems like a reasonable investment. The inclusion of all necessary equipment and the small group size can add to the sense of safety and comfort.

If you’re someone who’s looking for a quiet, introductory experience that emphasizes safety and learning, you’ll find this tour hits the mark. But if you’re already experienced in freediving or looking for a longer, more intense underwater adventure, this might not match your expectations.

Practical Details

• Transportation: Round-trip from Oaxaca City, with scenic views along the way.
• Duration: Full day—roughly 8 hours, including travel, activities, and food.
• Group Size: Private group, which promotes a more personalized experience.
• Inclusions: All equipment, guided class, boat, and food tour.
• Not Included: Personal expenses outside the itinerary.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions.
• What to Bring: Swimwear and a towel are recommended. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather.
• Environmental Note: Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.

Authentic Feedback and What to Expect

From traveler reviews, we gather that many appreciated the beautiful scenery and the chance to learn something new in a relaxed environment. One reviewer mentioned how the “scenic views from the boat made the entire trip,” and others appreciated the supportive guidance that made them comfortable trying breath-hold techniques they never thought possible.

Some travelers noted that the underwater experiences are more about confidence-building than depth or technical skill. If you’re looking for a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to freediving with a focus on safety and scenic beauty, this tour seems like a solid choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for beginners and curious travelers who want to get a taste of freediving without committing to a full certification course. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives, culture through local food, and are comfortable in water. If you’re traveling with someone who wants an active, memorable day on the coast but isn’t an avid swimmer or diver, this could be a great fit.

It’s also suitable for those who enjoy learning new skills in a safe environment and want to explore Puerto Escondido’s beautiful waters without diving deep into technicalities. However, it’s not tailored for children under 12, pregnant women, or people with serious health issues, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is prior freediving experience necessary?
No, this is an introductory class designed for beginners, so no prior experience is needed. Just be comfortable in water.

How long is the underwater immersion?
The guided immersion session lasts about 3 hours from the boat, where you’ll practice breathing techniques and gentle underwater exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life. Dress appropriately for the weather and the drive.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 12, as the activity requires comfort in water and some physical activity. Check with the provider if you’re unsure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to book with confidence.

What language are the guides?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making communication easy for most travelers.

How scenic is the drive?
Very scenic. The route from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido offers beautiful views, making the journey part of the adventure.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, the 3-hour freediving class, the boat for underwater practice, and a food tour in La Punta are included.

Are there any environmental considerations?
Yes, bring biodegradable sunscreen and be mindful of littering. The tour emphasizes protecting the marine environment.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a unique, beginner-friendly way to experience Puerto Escondido’s waters and learn the basics of freediving, this tour offers a compelling mix of education, scenic beauty, and local culture. It’s a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure to your Oaxaca journey without requiring extensive time or skill.

While it’s not aimed at seasoned divers or adrenaline junkies, it delivers a safe, supportive environment for those wanting to try something new. Expect stunning water views, friendly guidance, and a flavorful break in La Punta. For travelers seeking a well-organized, culturally rich, and physically engaging day trip, this experience could be just what you’re looking for.

Enjoy your trip and make the most of the incredible waters of Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido—you might find yourself hooked on freediving after just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: