Enjoy Puerto Escondido with Beach and Nature from Oaxaca

Exploring Puerto Escondido with a Day Trip from Oaxaca: A Practical Guide

Planning a full-day getaway from Oaxaca City to the beautiful coast of Puerto Escondido? This tour offers a well-rounded mix of scenic landscapes, relaxing beach time, and authentic local experiences — all packed into roughly 12 hours. We’ve looked into what makes this trip appealing and what to consider before booking.

What draws us to this adventure? First, the beautiful drive through Oaxaca’s southern mountain range promises some of the best vistas on the way to the coast. Second, the chance to unwind on Carrizalillo Beach, one of the most photogenic and quiet spots, is truly tempting. That said, a potential drawback is the long travel time — about 2.5 hours each way — which might eat into your relaxation if you prefer shorter trips. This is ideal for travelers who love exploring with a bit of a scenic journey and want a taste of authentic beach life.

If you’re looking for a day filled with nature, stunning scenery, and light adventure — perhaps combined with a gentle introduction to local conservation efforts — this tour could be a great fit. It’s perfect for those who value small groups, a relaxed pace, and the chance to connect with nature without straying too far from Oaxaca.

Key Points

• Scenic Drive: The journey through Oaxaca’s mountain range offers beautiful views and a sense of adventure.
• Beach Relaxation: Carrizalillo Beach is a peaceful, picturesque spot ideal for swimming and lounging.
• Optional Activities: Surf lessons and turtle releases are available, adding a bit of fun and purpose.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and breakfast included make for a hassle-free experience.
• Small Groups: With a maximum of 6 travelers, expect more personalized attention.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting from Oaxaca City
Your day begins early — the tour kicks off at 7:00 am from Jardín Etnobotánico. The pickup is straightforward, and the small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd. The vehicle, an air-conditioned 7-passenger van with a phone charger, offers comfort on the 2.5-hour scenic drive. We loved the way the route meanders through the mountainous landscape, offering glimpses of Oaxaca’s diverse terrain and lush greenery — a perfect way to build anticipation for what’s ahead.

Breakfast at the Hidden Port
We arrive at a lesser-known port for breakfast — a highlight for those wanting to see local life beyond the tourist spots. The included breakfast is a nice touch, setting you up for the day with simple, fresh options. The port’s quiet charm offers a glimpse into everyday coastal life, away from the crowds and commercialism.

Carrizalillo Beach — A Photo-Ready Paradise
One of the tour’s main highlights is Carrizalillo, often praised for its beauty and calm currents. This beach is known for its clear, turquoise waters and small, sandy cove that makes it perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking up the scenery. The beach’s natural amphitheater-like layout also makes it very photogenic, which is why many travelers mention it as a highlight. The gentle waves are suitable for beginners or those just looking to float and unwind.

Optional Surf Lessons
For the more adventurous, surf lessons are available. This adds a playful element to your beach time, and from reviews, it seems many enjoy giving surfing a try — even if just for a quick lesson. If surfing isn’t your thing, you can simply relax on the sand or take a dip.

Connecting with Nature — Turtle Releases
As the day winds down, the tour offers the chance to participate in turtle releases — a wonderful activity that supports conservation and leaves a meaningful memory. It’s a gentle way to contribute to local efforts to protect sea turtles, and many find it a touching experience.

Return to Oaxaca
After a full day, the return trip offers ample time to unwind and reflect on the beauty encountered. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple.

The Value of This Tour

At $122.38 per person, this trip offers good value considering the included breakfast, bottled water, tolls, and private transportation. The small group size means more personalized attention. The scenic drive, combined with beach time and optional activities, makes this more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s a sampler of Oaxaca’s diverse coastal environment.

While the long travel time might seem daunting, it’s part of the authentic experience — the chance to see parts of Oaxaca you might not otherwise visit, and to arrive at a relatively quiet, untouched beach. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for those eager to explore with a relaxed pace and an interest in nature and conservation.

Practical Tips

• Bring your swimsuit and towel — the beach is the main attraction.
• Sun protection is essential — hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses will make your day more comfortable.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the port area.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid any last-minute rush.
• Optional activities like surfing and turtle releases require prior interest or participation, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience shines for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, small-group intimacy, and authentic beach encounters. It’s excellent for those who want a taste of Mexican coastal life without a week-long trip, especially if they enjoy gentle adventures and connecting with nature. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, provided they’re comfortable with the travel time.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour includes breakfast, bottled water, tolls, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. It’s a straightforward package, designed to keep things simple and comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it more manageable. However, the long drive might be tiring for some elderly travelers or young children. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and outdoor activity.

Can I participate in the turtle release?
Yes, the turtle release is an optional activity. If you’re interested, you can take part as part of the tour, supporting conservation efforts.

Are surf lessons included?
No, surf lessons are optional and not included in the base price. You can choose to add this activity if available.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, a hat, and perhaps a light snack if you prefer. The tour provides bottled water and breakfast, so no need to carry much.

How long is the drive?
The drive to and from Puerto Escondido takes about 2.5 hours each way. It’s a scenic, mountain route with plenty to see along the way.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic travel, tranquil beaches, and meaningful activities like turtle releases. It’s well-suited for those eager to experience Oaxaca’s coastal beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re looking for a day that combines nature, culture, and relaxation, this trip will likely meet your expectations — especially if you enjoy small-group travel and authentic experiences.