Puerto Escondido is far more than a destination of idyllic beaches. The Oaxaca region, known for its rich biodiversity and striking landscapes, offers a wide range of trips for anyone who wants to explore beyond the coast. From outings that bring you close to nature to places where you can simply enjoy the quiet, here are 7 day trips you can take near Puerto Escondido. Set out and discover some of the region's best-kept secrets.
1. Ventanilla Lagoon, Mazunte and Zipolite
If you want to discover the best of the coastal landscape, this trip is perfect. Start the day exploring Ventanilla Lagoon, a natural sanctuary where you can take a boat ride through the mangroves. In this haven you can see crocodiles, exotic birds and learn first-hand about the sea turtle conservation work. A local guide takes you through the channels, explaining why this ecosystem matters.
Then travel on to Mazunte, a picturesque coastal village where you can relax on the beaches and visit the Mexican Turtle Centre, home to important marine species protection programmes. Next, enjoy the beach at Zipolite, one of the calmest and most alternative in Oaxaca, ideal for sunbathing, swimming or simply resting. To close the day, head to Punta Cometa, a spectacular natural viewpoint with one of the most beautiful sunsets and panoramic views over the Pacific.
Total travel time: about 1 hour from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: from Puerto Escondido, take the coast road south. Mazunte is 40 minutes away and Zipolite is 10 minutes from Mazunte.
2. Casa Wabi, Roca Blanca and Manialtepec Lagoon (bioluminescence)
This day offers a perfect mix of art, nature and a bioluminescent show. Begin at Casa Wabi, a contemporary art and cultural centre designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. The building is surrounded by nature, which makes the visit as much a sensory experience as an artistic one.
Then head to Roca Blanca, one of the most beautiful unspoilt beaches on the Oaxacan coast. With clear water and its characteristic calm, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun. You can walk along the beach or simply stay by the shore taking in the setting.
In the afternoon, visit Manialtepec Lagoon, famous for its bioluminescence. By day the lagoon is a quiet natural refuge, but the magic happens after dark. The water begins to glow with a phosphorescent blue light thanks to the microorganisms that light it up. A night-time trip across the lagoon is a unique chance to marvel at this natural phenomenon.
Total travel time: about 1 hour 30 minutes from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: Casa Wabi is 30 minutes south of Puerto Escondido, near the village of Puerto de la Escopama. Roca Blanca is about 20 minutes further south, and Manialtepec Lagoon is around 40 minutes from Roca Blanca.
3. The 7 Bays of Huatulco
If you like taking in several beaches in a single day, a trip to the 7 Bays of Huatulco is one of the best options. About two hours by car from Puerto Escondido, these bays are ringed by mountains and tropical forest. You can take a boat tour and enjoy beautiful ocean views and clear water that invites you to swim or snorkel over seabeds full of life.
Bays such as Tangolunda, Maguey and Cacaluta are among the most popular, each with its own charm. Whether you want to relax on the sand, do water sports or enjoy a good lunch at one of the local restaurants, every bay offers something of its own in impressive natural surroundings.
Total travel time: about 2 hours from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: from Puerto Escondido, take the coast road west towards Huatulco, roughly 170 km. Once there, you can take a boat tour of the 7 bays or explore the beaches at your own pace.
4. The Chipehua Dunes
For lovers of adventure, the Chipehua Dunes are a must. These golden sand dunes lie some 200 km from Puerto Escondido and offer a landscape more like a desert. It is an ideal place for sandboarding, sliding down the dunes, or simply walking the area and enjoying the silence and the calm.
The views from the dunes are striking, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the golden tones of the sand blend with the colours of the sky and create a magical atmosphere. It is a perfect place for photography, for a landscape unlike any other, and for stepping out of routine.
Total travel time: about 2 hours 30 minutes from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: from Puerto Escondido, take the road north. The dunes are near the community of Chipehua, and access is relatively easy by car.
5. The Copalitilla Magic Waterfalls
If you love nature and waterfalls, don't miss a visit to the Copalitilla Magic Waterfalls. Set in the mountainous region of Oaxaca, these falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer a spectacular landscape. You can swim in the natural pools formed by the falls, or simply enjoy the sound of the water while you relax in a completely natural setting.
The walk to the falls is quite accessible and, along the way, you'll enjoy beautiful scenery and panoramic views of the area. The Copalitilla falls are a perfect place for lovers of photography, adventure and nature.
Total travel time: about 2 hours from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: from Puerto Escondido, head northeast, taking the road towards Candelaria Loxicha. The route to the falls is accessible, but a guided tour is recommended to make access easier.
Tip: since it's a little out of the way, if you have the chance we recommend camping for a night for a magical experience.
6. La Reforma Waterfall
If you're after adventure and exploring, La Reforma Waterfall is one of the best options to add to your itinerary. This majestic fall lies in a mountainous area about two hours from Puerto Escondido and is an excellent destination for lovers of hiking and nature. Along the way you'll enjoy lush vegetation and the freshness of the river that accompanies the waterfall.
The drop at La Reforma is impressive, and the setting around it makes the experience even more special. On arrival you can swim in the cool water and enjoy a refreshing dip after the walk. It is one of the most surprising trips for anyone looking to disconnect and enjoy nature in its purest form.
Total travel time: about 1 hour 30 minutes from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: head into the mountains of the region. The road is unpaved, so a suitable vehicle is recommended. It is possible to take a guided tour to get more out of the trip.
7. Chacahua
Chacahua is a national park, famous for its striking mangrove landscapes and its beautiful beaches. Here you can take a boat ride through the mangroves and watch the local wildlife, including crocodiles, birds and turtles.
You can also enjoy its calm beaches, ideal for swimming but also for learning to surf, since the waves are very good and long, perfect for beginners.
The island of Chacahua offers a relaxed, genuine atmosphere away from mass tourism, which makes it a perfect destination for enjoying nature at its purest.
Total travel time: about 1 hour 30 minutes from Puerto Escondido.
Getting there: from Puerto Escondido, take the road to La Boquilla and then follow the road to Chacahua, passing through the village of Chacahua. You can drive or take a tour that includes transport and a guided visit.
