Town in Oaxaca, Mexico
Puerto Escondido
Pacific surf town with Mexico's heaviest beach break, a growing nomad and backpacker scene, yoga and cheap food. Rough waves, hot weather, a small town feel and limited healthcare are the trade-offs.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$1,430–2,310Comfortable, one person · MX$26,000–42,000Details
- Value for money36/100Better value than 35% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goNov–AprWarmest: Apr, 36°CDetails
- Internet118 MbpsFixed broadband, Mexico medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or purified water; most hostels offer refill stations.Details
- LGBTQ+4/5WelcomingDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: common in tourist areasDetails
- Doctor's visit$22–66Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundTaxi / mototaxiWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMostly cashCards at hotels, bigger restaurants and surf shops; cash for taquerías, taxis, markets and small shops.Details
Where to stay in Puerto Escondido
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Zicatela | Surfers and backpackers: hostels, bars, big waves, noisy |
| La Punta | Quieter surf and yoga, boutique hotels, cafés |
| Playa Carrizalillo | Calm cove for learners; steep stairs, close to Zicatela |
| Centro / Rinconada | Local town: markets, cheaper food, ATMs and pharmacies |
Apps that work in Puerto Escondido
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Google Translate: Spanish menus and conversations
- Taxis: No ride apps in town; use taxis, mototaxis or hostel-arranged drivers. Agree the fare first and carry small bills.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Mexico.
- Mostly cash Cards at hotels, bigger restaurants and surf shops; cash for taquerías, taxis, markets and small shops. ATMs run out on weekends.
- Currency: Peso (MXN). US$1 ≈ MX$18.21 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: Bank ATMs charge foreign cards roughly MXN 30–150 per withdrawal; always decline the ATM's currency conversion.
- Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants (check whether service is already added), MXN 10–20 for gas attendants and grocery baggers; app rides optional.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay work at many card terminals in cities; local bank transfers need a Mexican account.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Air arrivals get a digital FMM (QR code) at immigration; the visitor fee is already included in your airfare.
- Officers set your stay and may grant fewer than 180 days; carry a return ticket, accommodation details and proof of funds.
- Land arrivals going beyond the border zone need an FMM; the visitor fee applies for stays over seven days.
Emergency numbers
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · Tourist police 078 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 127 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Telcel or AT&T SIMs at airports, OXXO stores and carrier shops, about MXN 100–300 with data. Bring your passport to register the line. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Mexico
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.