Private Tour of the Beaches of Puerto Escondido in Lancha

If you’re considering a private boat tour of Puerto Escondido’s beaches, you’re in for a treat. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what it’s like and whether it might be a good fit for your trip. From the comfort of a modern boat, you’ll get to see some of the most iconic beaches in the area—think Playa Bacocho, Colorada, Coral, Carrizalillo, and Manzanillo—without the hassle of crowded shorelines or busy streets.

Two things I really like about this experience are its personalized nature and the chance to combine sightseeing with swimming and marine spotting. Plus, the boat’s modern setup sounds super comfortable, making it easy to relax while enjoying the scenery. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour lasts around 2 hours, so if you’re craving a longer adventure or more in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for those wanting a quick, scenic, and private sea journey, it’s a solid choice.

This tour is likely best suited for travelers who appreciate easy access to beaches from the water, enjoy snorkeling or swimming in clear waters, and want a private experience rather than a crowded group outing. It also suits those looking for a relaxing break from land-based activities, with the added possibility of spotting marine creatures like sea turtles and manta rays.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour: Only your group participates, making it a more intimate experience.
• Comfortable boat: Modern vessel with music, scenic views, and space to relax.
• Includes snorkeling gear: Life jackets and scopes available for those who want to snorkel or swim.
• Flexible beaches: Stops at multiple beaches with opportunities to go down and swim.
• Marine life spotting: Possible sightings of turtles, rays, and other sea creatures.
• No food included: Be prepared to bring snacks or plan for meals beforehand.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour costs $178.34 per group (up to 7 people), which breaks down to roughly $25 per person if you’re a small group. For that price, you get use of snorkeling equipment, including life jackets and scopes, which enhances the fun, especially if you’re into exploring underwater. The entrance fee is also covered, so you won’t have to worry about additional charges during the trip.

However, the tour doesn’t include meals or beverages. So, if you’re planning to spend a full day at the beaches or want to enjoy some local snacks afterward, it’s worth bringing your own or planning to buy food on land before or after the tour.

Meeting Point and Duration

You’ll meet at the Monumento al Pez Vela in Puerto Escondido—a familiar landmark and easy to access via public transport. The tour lasts about 2 hours, which strikes a good balance between seeing multiple beaches and not feeling rushed. The activity concludes back at the starting point, so it’s straightforward to include as part of a day of exploring Puerto Escondido.

What You’ll See and Do

The Beaches

The main draw is the chance to see Puerto Escondido’s most important beaches from the water. On the boat, you’ll glide past Playa Bacocho, Colorada, Coral, Carrizalillo, and Manzanillo. Many travelers love the views from the sea, as it offers a perspective you simply can’t get from land. The boat allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of these beaches—white sands, rocky outcroppings, and lush green scenery—without the crowds.

Swimming and Snorkeling

At some points during the tour, you’ll be invited to go down for a swim. The waters are described as crystal clear, ideal for cooling off and exploring marine life. The boat’s snorkeling gear makes it easy to dip below the surface and observe underwater life, including the potential sighting of sea turtles and manta rays, which can make for some memorable moments.

Marine Wildlife

One review mentions a “very professional” captain and highlights the “best fishing in the world,” which may hint at the abundance of marine life in this area. While fishing isn’t explicitly part of this tour, the presence of marine fauna like turtles and rays adds a layer of excitement for nature lovers. Keep your eyes peeled—many travelers report seeing interesting creatures during their boat trips.

The Experience on Board

The boat is described as modern and comfortable, with music to set a relaxing mood. This makes the tour feel less like a hurried excursion and more like a chance to unwind and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The private aspect means fewer distractions and more tailored moments—if you want to linger at a spot or take your time swimming, you can.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

One possible limitation is the duration—two hours might not be enough if you’re eager to spend a whole day exploring beaches or doing multiple activities. It’s a quick snapshot of Puerto Escondido’s coastline, which means you’ll want to combine it with other land-based adventures.

Another consideration is the weather dependency. Since the tour relies on good weather conditions, poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The provider’s policy states that if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, but that doesn’t guarantee the timing works for everyone.

Finally, with only up to 7 people per group, this is a private experience, which can be fantastic for a personal escape or small family, but it might feel limited if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat tour is perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic experience without the hassle of land transportation. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and marine wildlife, or if you simply want a different perspective of Puerto Escondido’s beaches. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate private outings, as only your group will participate.

Families with older children or teens might find it enjoyable, especially if they’re comfortable in the water. Those looking for a quick, scenic escape with included snorkeling gear and opportunities to spot sea creatures will appreciate its straightforward, no-fuss setup.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers an accessible, relaxing way to enjoy Puerto Escondido’s stunning coastline from the water. The modern boat, personalized service, and opportunity to swim and spot marine life make it a worthwhile addition to many itineraries, especially if you’re after a calm, scenic break.

While it’s not a lengthy excursion, the brief but immersive experience can leave lasting memories—whether it’s the peaceful views, the thrill of swimming in clear waters, or the chance to see some marine animals up close. For travelers who prefer private, flexible outings, and want an easy way to connect with nature, this tour hits the right notes.

For those seeking a more extensive or active day, combining this with land visits or longer water adventures might be better. But if quiet, scenic, and personalized are what you’re after, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Q: How many people can join this private tour?
A: Up to 7 people per boat, making it great for small groups or families seeking privacy.

Q: Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
A: Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, with life jackets and scopes available if you want to go swimming or explore underwater.

Q: Are food and drinks included?
A: No, the tour does not include food or beverages. You’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan for meals before or after.

Q: What beaches will I see?
A: You’ll visit Playa Bacocho, Colorada, Coral, Playa Carrizalillo, and Manzanillo, among others, from the sea.

Q: Can I swim during the tour?
A: Yes, at certain stops, you’ll be invited to go down and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Q: What is the duration of the tour?
A: Approximately 2 hours, providing a quick but scenic overview of Puerto Escondido’s coast.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: It’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable in the water and enjoy boat rides. Families with older children or teenagers should be fine.

Q: What is the meeting point?
A: The tour starts and ends at the Monumento al Pez Vela in Puerto Escondido.

Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
A: If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Q: Can I book this tour if I’m traveling alone?
A: It’s a private tour, so it’s best suited for groups up to 7. Solo travelers can join if they find a small group, but it’s primarily designed for private groups.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic way to experience Puerto Escondido’s beaches with the comfort of a private boat, this tour can be a real highlight. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, snorkeling gear if you have your own, and a sense of adventure—then sit back and enjoy the ride.