Thinking about a day out on the water in Puerto Escondido? This private fishing boat trip with a buffet lunch offers a relaxed yet engaging way to enjoy the ocean, learn some fishing, and maybe even spot dolphins or sea turtles. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a leisurely day that combines nature, a bit of activity, and good local food.
What we really like about this experience is the personal touch—it’s private, so you won’t be stuck in a big group, and a local captain is there to help you learn the ins and outs of fishing. Plus, the chance to see marine life like dolphins and humpback whales makes it all the more memorable. On the flip side, a potential downside is that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or anyone prone to seasickness, so a little planning is needed if you fall into those categories.
This tour feels best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, appreciate learning new skills, and love fresh seafood. If you’re after a laid-back but engaging ocean adventure—this might just hit the spot.
Key Points

- Private Experience: You get a boat ride with your own crew and captain, making it a more personalized adventure.
- Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles, and humpback whales add a special touch.
- Culinary Highlight: The buffet lunch featuring the catch of the day offers a tasty reward for your efforts.
- Learning Opportunity: Beginners and seasoned fishers alike can try their hand at fishing with guidance.
- Transport Included: Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy.
- Time Commitment: About 6 to 6.5 hours total, giving plenty of time for both activities and relaxation.
A Closer Look at the Experience

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Starting with Convenience and Comfort
Once you book this tour, the logistics are straightforward. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Puerto Escondido, which is a huge plus because it means no fuss of finding your way to the marina yourself. The pickup process is smooth — they’ll contact you when they’re outside your location — and the short 15-minute van ride to the marina gets you quickly into the adventure.
The Boat and Setting
The boat itself is private, meaning it’s just your group and the crew. This setup appeals if you’re after a more intimate experience or traveling with friends. The boat ride lasts about 4 to 5 hours, during which you’ll be out on the open water, surrounded by some of the most stunning views Puerto Escondido has to offer. Expect to cruise along the coast, with chances to spot marine life—dolphins are a common sight, and whales might also make an appearance, depending on the season.
Fishing Experience
This isn’t just a sightseeing tour; it’s hands-on. You’ll learn how to fish with the help of an experienced captain and crew, which is great if you’re curious about the craft or want a more active experience. They provide fishing rods, lines, and permits, so all you need to do is show up ready to try. If you catch a small fish, you’re encouraged to release it back into the ocean — a nice touch that emphasizes respect for marine life.
A recurring theme in reviews is how much travelers appreciate the guidance: “We loved the way the crew explained everything and made fishing accessible even for beginners.” It’s a relaxed environment, and the crew is there to help you get the hang of it, not to rush you.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife Watching and Ocean Views
The ocean around Puerto Escondido is a vibrant place. Guests often report seeing sea turtles, playful dolphins, and even humpback whales, which can be quite a highlight. Watching these creatures in their natural habitat offers a different perspective on the region’s marine biodiversity, and it’s a reminder of how special ocean adventures can be.
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Lunch: The Catch of the Day
After fishing, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring the catch of the day. This is a highlight for many—fresh, flavorful, and a true taste of local seafood. The buffet is set at a local restaurant, providing a relaxed atmosphere to unwind and enjoy your meal. Several reviews note how fresh and well-prepared the fish is, and it’s a nice way to conclude the active part of the day.
Considerations and Limitations
A couple of things to keep in mind: drinks and beverages at the restaurant aren’t included, so if you want a cold drink with your meal, bring some along or plan to buy at the restaurant. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back issues, and seasickness could be a problem for some—so if you’re prone, prepare accordingly.
Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Pickup and Departure
The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is convenient and saves you time. The short van ride to the marina is a good opportunity to get excited about what’s ahead, and the crew is friendly and communicative.
The Boat Ride and Fishing
Once on the boat, the atmosphere is laid-back. You’ll set sail into the waters in search of fish, with fishing rods and lines provided. The crew’s guidance makes this accessible for beginners, and they’re happy to explain fishing techniques.
During the ride, keep your eyes peeled for marine life—dolphins are a common sight, and some travelers have reported seeing sea turtles and whales. The boat ride offers a perfect chance to appreciate the scenic coastline and soak up the sun.
The Fishing Session
Fishing can range from quiet patience to excited activity, depending on luck and skill. Several reviews mention that the crew is attentive and helpful, making the experience more enjoyable even for first-timers. If you succeed in catching a fish, you can keep it or release it—either way, you’re participating in the local fishing tradition.
Lunch and Relaxation
After the fishing, you’ll head to a local restaurant where the catch of the day is prepared as a buffet. The fresh seafood is generally praised for its quality. It’s a perfect time to relax, share stories, and savor the flavors of Puerto Escondido’s seafood bounty.
Return Journey
Post-lunch, you’ll be taken back to your hotel, wrapping up a day that balanced activity with relaxation. The total duration allows enough time to enjoy each element without feeling rushed.
How Good Is the Value?

At $517 for a group of up to three, the price might seem a bit steep at first glance. However, considering that it includes private boat time, fishing equipment, a guided experience, transportation, and a generous buffet lunch, it’s actually a fair deal—especially if you’re traveling with a small group. The personalized touch and wildlife opportunities add to the value, making this a satisfying choice for those who want a more tailored ocean adventure.
Who Would This Tour Suit?

This trip is well-suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, trying their hand at fishing, and experiencing marine wildlife firsthand. It offers a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in stunning ocean vistas. It’s perfect for those who prefer small, private groups rather than large tours, and it’s a good fit if you’re comfortable with a full day on the water.
That said, it’s best avoided by pregnant women, people with back problems, or anyone prone to seasickness, due to the boat setting. If you’re looking for a quick, action-packed fishing trip or a high-adrenaline adventure, this might feel too laid-back.
The Sum Up

The Puerto Escondido Fishing Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch offers a well-rounded day of relaxation, learning, and wildlife spotting. With a private boat experience, expert guidance, the chance to catch local fish, and a delicious seafood meal, it’s a solid choice for those who want to connect with the ocean in a meaningful way. The opportunity to see dolphins, sea turtles, and whales adds an extra layer of excitement that makes the trip more memorable.
If you’re after a laid-back day that combines gentle activity with stunning ocean views, this tour will serve you well. It’s ideal for curious travelers who enjoy nature, good food, and personalized service, all wrapped up in a relatively comfortable package.
Puerto Escondido: Fishing Boat Trip with Buffet Lunch
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience is private and relaxing, but since it involves a boat trip with water activities, it’s better suited for older children or teenagers. Be aware of the boat ride duration and the activity level.
Are drinks included in the lunch?
No, beverages at the restaurant aren’t included. You might want to bring your own drinks or plan to purchase them there.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, water, a camera, and comfortable clothing. These will help you stay comfortable and prepared.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is included, making it convenient to join the tour.
How long is the entire experience?
Expect about 6 to 6.5 hours from pickup to return, giving ample time on the water, for lunch, and some downtime.
What marine animals might I see?
Dolphins are common, and you may also spot sea turtles and humpback whales, depending on the season.
What’s the fishing like?
It’s a guided, beginner-friendly experience—luck and patience play a role, but the crew provides all necessary equipment and instruction.
Is this experience suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the boat setting and activity nature.
This tour offers a balanced mix of activity, relaxation, and wildlife, wrapped into a day that showcases Puerto Escondido’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for a personalized, scenic, and tasty ocean adventure, it’s worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Puerto Escondido
More Tour Reviews in Puerto Escondido
- Cooking classes in Puerto Escondido (Learn how to cook Mole de Oaxaca).
- Puerto Escondido: Family Private Boat Tour
- Puerto Escondido: Turtle Release and Bioluminescent Plankton
- Puerto: Fishing Experience Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna or Dorado
- Private Tour of the Beaches of Puerto Escondido in Lancha
- Surfing Lessons in Puerto Escondido!
More Puerto Escondido experiences we've covered
- Cooking classes in Puerto Escondido (Learn how to cook Mole de Oaxaca).
- Puerto Escondido: Family Private Boat Tour
- Puerto Escondido: Turtle Release and Bioluminescent Plankton
- Puerto: Fishing Experience Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna or Dorado
- Private Tour of the Beaches of Puerto Escondido in Lancha
- Surfing Lessons in Puerto Escondido!
- Dolphins,Turtles Watching
- Preserving Baby Sea Turtles And Filling You With Energy In Bioluminescent Lights
- Roundtrip Private Airport Transfer Puerto Escondido (PXM) – City
- Exotic Food Tasting: Taste the Unexpected
- Puerto Escondido: Boat Tour among Dolphins and Turtles
- From Puerto Escondido: Birdwatching on a Boat
