One Day from Oaxaca Getaway to Puerto Escondido

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape from Oaxaca City to experience some of the best beaches along Mexico’s Pacific coast, this tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day packed with boat excursions, stunning views, and a chance to see marine life like turtles and dolphins. To be transparent, this isn’t a tour for those seeking luxury or a completely seamless experience, but if you’re into exploring and don’t mind the travel time, it could be worth considering.

What we particularly like about this trip is the expert guide aspect and the diverse itinerary—from boat rides to beach lounging, plus optional activities like surf lessons or turtle releases. These features can make your day feel full and varied. However, the long travel time—around 5 to 6 hours of driving—may be a concern if you’re hoping for more beach time or a leisurely pace.

This trip works best for travelers who love a mix of adventure and sightseeing, are comfortable with early mornings, and don’t mind a few hours on the road. It’s ideal if you want to see Puerto Escondido in a day without fuss, but keep in mind that weather and traffic can influence the experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes long drives more bearable.
• Diverse activities keep the day interesting, from boat tours to beach time.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local tips.
• Travel time can be lengthy, especially if weather or traffic delay the trip.
• Optional activities like surf lessons or turtle releases add memorable moments.
• Reviews suggest the experience can vary based on weather and group size.

What the Tour Includes and What to Expect

This tour offers a fairly comprehensive day trip from Oaxaca, with some notable advantages and a few points to consider. For one, the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 2 hour 45-minute drive each way, which is helpful given the long day ahead. The trip includes beach tours by boat, giving you a chance to see Puerto Angelito, Carrizalillo, Manzanillo, Playa Coral, and Zicatela from the sea. These are some of the most popular beaches in Puerto Escondido, and exploring them by boat offers a different perspective from the usual land-based visits.

The boat ride itself is a highlight, especially if you’re into wildlife spotting. The tour promises a chance to see dolphins, turtles, or whales during their migration season. Several reviews highlight the value of having knowledgeable guides who go beyond just navigation—they share insights that make the trip more engaging. One reviewer specifically appreciated the guides Eduardo and Angel, calling them accommodating and insightful.

Once ashore, you’ll visit Playa Zicatela, known for its legendary surf, and enjoy some free time to soak up the sun, browse local crafts, or take photos from scenic viewpoints. The walk around Zicatela includes a peek into local weaving workshops, giving you a taste of regional artistry. This part of the trip is usually about two hours, giving you a decent window to relax, explore, or grab a snack.

The final stretch involves time at Punta Zicatela, where the tour slows down for rest or optional activities—things like enjoying local cuisine, renting bikes or ATVs, or taking surf lessons. For some, this is the most memorable part of the day, especially if you’re into active beach fun. Tour participants often mention the opportunity to release baby turtles as an unforgettable experience, though keep in mind that this activity is optional and might not be included in the standard package.

After a relaxed afternoon, the group gathers back in the vehicle for the return trip to Oaxaca, which is roughly another 2 hours and 45 minutes. Some reviews note that the travel time can get extended due to road conditions or weather, so patience is key.

The Experience in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Long Drive

The day kicks off early at 7:00 am with a hotel pickup in Oaxaca. The journey via the new speedway is mostly comfortable, though one reviewer pointed out that construction activity has extended travel times. As you leave Oaxaca, you’ll cross the Sierra Madre del Sur, and the scenery promises to be eye-catching—mountains, forests, and rolling hills that highlight how diverse the landscape is.

While the drive is quite long, it’s a good chance to enjoy some scenic views and maybe catch up on sleep if you’re an early riser. Just be prepared for the possibility of delays, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Boat Tour: A Marine Perspective

Once in Puerto Escondido, the boat tour is where the magic begins. You’ll explore major beaches from the water, which offers a unique angle on these popular spots. Reviewers emphasize the value of this perspective, especially at beaches like Puerto Angelito and Carrizalillo, known for their calm waters and scenic beauty. The boat ride is also an opportunity to glimpse local marine life—dolphins are often spotted, and if you’re lucky, you might see turtles or even whales during migration season.

This part of the tour lasts around an hour, but it’s packed with visual delights. Bring your camera, and maybe some snacks if you’re hungry. Remember, the boat tour is included in the price, and there’s no additional cost unless you opt for extra activities.

Time on the Beaches and Scenic Highlights

After the boat tour, you’ll disembark at Puerto Escondido’s well-known beaches. The walk around Zicatela is a highlight, especially if you’re into surfing or just want to soak up the lively beach atmosphere. One review mentions the local craft shops and viewpoints that make for great photo ops. Expect about two hours here to relax, explore, or people-watch.

The area has a vibrant vibe with a mix of surfers, locals, and travelers. If you’re into photography, the viewpoints provide excellent angles of the coast and surfers catching waves.

Relaxation and Optional Activities at Punta Zicatela

This segment is about four hours long, giving you ample opportunity to unwind or get active. You can simply unwind on the hot sand, grab a cold drink, or dive into one of the optional activities. Many travelers enjoy taking surf lessons here, especially since Zicatela is renowned for its waves. Others prefer to rent bicycles or ATVs to explore the area further.

One of the most talked-about optional experiences is the turtle release. While not included in the standard package, it’s highlighted as an unforgettable moment by those who participate.

The Return to Oaxaca

After a leisurely afternoon, the group boards the vehicle again around sunset, heading back to Oaxaca City. The drive is similar in length, with some reviews mentioning delays due to traffic or road conditions. Expect to arrive back in the city late evening, around 8 pm or later, depending on the day and circumstances.

The Overall Value and Practical Considerations

At $125 per person, this tour offers a packed day with multiple highlights, especially considering the included boat tour and transportation. The experience is ideal for those who want a taste of Puerto Escondido’s beaches without planning a multi-day trip or dealing with transport logistics themselves.

However, the long travel time is a significant factor. If you’re not used to lengthy bus rides, this might feel tiring, especially if the highway is under construction or weather delays occur—as some reviews have noted. The experience might also vary depending on group size; with a maximum of 30 travelers, it’s not overly crowded, but groups can still influence the overall vibe.

Some travelers have expressed satisfaction with the guides, mentioning Eduardo and Angel as friendly and insightful, which can make a big difference in making the day smoother and more enjoyable. On the other hand, a few reviews mention that weather and traffic can impact the experience, and that the itinerary might need some revamping to improve flow.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for adventurous souls eager to see Puerto Escondido’s beaches in a day, especially those who enjoy boat rides and scenic viewpoints. It’s also good for travelers comfortable with long drives and flexible schedules. If relaxing on the beach all day without much movement is your idea of vacation, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

In terms of value, the tour delivers what it promises: a full day of exploration with chances to see marine life and enjoy the vibrant beaches of Puerto Escondido. The guided aspect adds a layer of education and insight, making the experience richer than just a bus ride. Just stay prepared for the long journey, and consider your personal comfort with extended travel.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Oaxaca, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 to 13 hours, including travel time, activities, and breaks.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $125 per person, which covers transportation, boat tour, and some activities, but not extra options like bike rentals or turtle releases.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, optional activities like surf lessons, bicycle or ATV rentals, or turtle releases are not included and would be an extra.

How experienced are the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like Eduardo and Angel as friendly and insightful, making the journey more engaging and comfortable.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour offers an energetic way to see Puerto Escondido’s coastal charm, but it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and optional beach fun. Keep your expectations in check, be flexible, and you might just find it a memorable slice of Oaxaca’s Pacific coast.