An Introduction To Puerto Escondido Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 09, 2025
Puerto Escondido surf is a true icon on Mexico’s Pacific coast—equal parts raw power & relaxed beach-town charm. From world-class waves to mellow beginner spots, this place has it all, & getting around is easy with bikes, taxis, or just your own two feet. It’s the kind of surf destination where you can pack light, unplug, & chase waves without needing a car.
At the center of it all is Playa Zicatela, known around the world for its massive, barreling waves. Nicknamed the “Mexican Pipeline,” it’s a heavy, advanced-level break that draws pros & thrill-seekers every season. Watching the lineup here is as exciting as surfing it—intense, beautiful, & humbling.
If you’re not quite ready for Zicatela, nearby breaks like La Punta, Playa Carrizalillo, & Playa Bacocho offer friendlier waves that are perfect for learning, progressing, or just having a fun, cruisy session. There’s a real sense of community in town, with plenty of surf schools, board rentals, & beachside cafés. Whether you’re chasing barrels or just soaking it all in, Puerto Escondido surf delivers something special for every kind of surfer.
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In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Puerto Escondido
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Peak Puerto Escondido Surf Season | May to August
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Puerto Escondido surf reaches full power from May through August when strong south swells hammer Zicatela Beach. Known as the “Mexican Pipeline,” Puerto Escondido surf during this season regularly pushes 6 to 12 feet, with heavy barrels & powerful rips.
It’s strictly for experienced surfers who can handle the intensity. Early mornings offer the cleanest conditions. Puerto Escondido surf is world-renowned during peak season for its raw power & commitment level.
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Shoulder Puerto Escondido Surf Season | March, April, September & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
In shoulder months, Puerto Escondido surf becomes more approachable while still packing a punch. Wave size ranges from 4 to 8 feet, with the beach break maintaining power but offering slightly more user-friendly conditions.
Puerto Escondido surf at this time still attracts core surfers, but the barrels are often more makable. September often brings early fall energy, while spring has a mix of clean days & building swell. Puerto Escondido surf remains high-quality for confident riders.
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Low Puerto Escondido Surf Season | November to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Puerto Escondido surf drops down between November & February, though occasional swells still roll through. Wave size generally stays in the 3 to 6-foot range, with fewer barreling days & more open faces.
Puerto Escondido surf becomes less intimidating, ideal for intermediate surfers wanting a challenge without the summer’s intensity. While consistency dips, this is a good time for practicing positioning & timing without heavy crowds.
Puerto Escondido Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Puerto Escondido Surf Temperature:
28–30°C (82–86°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are all you’ll need. The ocean is bath-warm, & sun protection is the main concern.
Rainfall:
Heavy tropical rain is common, with 12–16 rainy days each month. Showers are usually intense but short, often at night.
Puerto Escondido Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are ideal. The warm water lingers throughout the season.
Rainfall:
Rain begins to ease—expect 10–12 rainy days in September, falling to 4–7 in November.
Puerto Escondido Surf Temperature:
26–28°C (79–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini work perfectly all winter. Morning chill is rare & doesn’t call for a wetsuit.
Rainfall:
Only 1–2 rainy days per month on average. This is the sunniest, most settled time of year.
Puerto Escondido Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini remain the go-to option. Conditions are consistently warm & ideal.
Rainfall:
Very low rainfall early in the season (0–2 days), picking up slightly to 4–6 by May.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Puerto Escondido
| Puerto Escondido Surf Spots | Distance from Puerto Escondido | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Playa Principal |
In town centre |
1-4 foot |
Calm & beginner-friendly |
Beginner |
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Playa Zicatela |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) south |
3-10 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa Carrizalillo |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) northwest |
1-4 foot |
Gentle reef break |
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence |
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Playa Coral |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) northwest |
2-6 foot |
Sheltered reef break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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La Punta |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
2-8 foot |
Consistent point break |
Intermediate to advanced, beginners on smaller days |
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Playa Bacocho |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) northwest |
3-8 foot |
Quality beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Puerto Escondido Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa Principal is Puerto Escondido’s central beach break, performing best at mid tide under a southwest swell & clean easterly winds. Waves break both left & right over a shifting sandbar, creating waist- to chest-high rollers for learners & punchier peaks for intermediates. The take-off zone can become crowded due to easy beach access, but the multiple peaks offer alternatives.
While not as powerful as neighbouring Zicatela, Playa Principal provides reliable, approachable conditions for progression & fun. Its consistent shape & urban proximity make it a go-to spot for quick sessions.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Very High
Playa Zicatela, known as the Mexican Pipeline, excels at mid to high tide with a strong southwest swell & offshore east winds. It delivers heavy, barreling beach break waves with steep take-offs & powerful tubes. Wave faces range from head-high to double overhead, demanding advanced skill & commitment.
The lineup is very crowded during prime swell periods as surfers vie for early peaks. Playa Zicatela provides one of the world’s most intense beach-break experiences when conditions align.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa Carrizalillo is a sheltered cove break that shines at mid tide when a southwest swell & clean easterly winds combine. Waves break both directions over a rocky-sand bottom, yielding waist- to chest-high rollers with soft shoulders. The protected setting minimizes chop & creates glassy faces perfect for carving & beginner progression.
Though the beach’s stair-access point draws moderate crowds, the bay’s width provides space for multiple peaks. Playa Carrizalillo offers scenic, user-friendly waves in a unique cove environment.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Playa Coral is a reef break inside Puerto Escondido’s bay that works best at mid tide with a southwest swell & light easterly winds. Waves break both ways over coral & sand, creating quick, chest-high peaks with occasional barrel sections. The reef bottom requires careful navigation, but it delivers consistent, punchy waves favored by intermediate surfers.
Low to moderate crowds form due to limited beach width & shallow water. Playa Coral provides a distinctive reef-break experience with reliable shape & clean conditions.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
La Punta is a right-hand point break just north of Playa Coral that performs at mid tide when a southwest swell meets offshore east winds. Waves peel along a sandy-rock shelf, producing chest-high walls & occasional tubes. The take-off can be critical but rewards precision with long, fast rides.
Moderate lineups gather for this performance-oriented wave, yet the point’s expanse allows for open peaks. La Punta delivers a high-quality point-break experience in clean, offshore conditions.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Playa Bacocho is a quieter beach break west of Puerto Escondido’s lagoon, peaking at mid tide under southwest swells & northeasterly offshore winds. Waves break both ways over a soft sandbar, yielding waist-high rollers & smooth shoulders ideal for beginners & intermediates.
Its broad shoreline & minimal beachside development keep crowds low, offering peaceful sessions. Occasional larger sets produce chest-high faces with rippable sections, making Bacocho a versatile surf spot for all levels.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To Puerto Escondido Surf Spots
| Puerto Escondido Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Playa Principal |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa Zicatela |
Approx. 20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Playa Carrizalillo |
Approx. 25 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
Not required |
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Playa Coral |
Approx. 40 min. |
15-20 min. |
10 min taxi |
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La Punta |
Approx. 50 min. |
10-15 min. |
10 min taxi |
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Playa Bacocho |
Approx. 50 min. |
15-20 min. |
15 min taxi |
Puerto Escondido Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Puerto Escondido surf schools offer high-quality instruction in a world-famous surf town, catering to everyone from cautious beginners to thrill-seeking intermediates. Puerto Surf House & School provides comprehensive lessons designed to help surfers build confidence and master the basics or refine advanced techniques.
Soul Surf School offers a friendly and supportive environment, ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. The Surfing Tribe is a fantastic option for those seeking personalized coaching from experienced instructors.
Vida Surf Eco Tours combines surf instruction with an eco-conscious approach, offering a unique experience for surfers who appreciate sustainability.
From gentle waves at La Punta to more advanced spots, Puerto Escondido surf schools provide the expertise & flexibility needed for steady improvement.
Puerto Escondido Surf Camp
8-Day Puerto Escondido Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Experiencia Puerto Escondido
Join Experiencia Puerto Escondido for a transformative 8-day surf & yoga retreat designed for beginner surfers. Enjoy five semi-private surf lessons, three yoga sessions, & a private surf photo session in one of Mexico’s most renowned surf spots.
This camp offers personalized attention with a maximum of two students per instructor, ensuring you receive top-notch guidance. The perfect blend of surf & yoga will help you develop your skills, relax, & connect with fellow surf enthusiasts.
What’s Included:
Your retreat includes 7 nights of accommodation, five surf lessons, all equipment (boards & lycras), & three yoga sessions. The program also features a private surf photo session & video coaching to analyze your progress.
Meals are not included but you will have ample free time to explore the local area & enjoy nearby dining options. Airport transfers are available on request. Find Out More
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Mexico and around the world!
Puerto Escondido Surfboard Hire
Puerto Escondido surfboard hire is abundant & diverse, offering everything from beginner foamies to high-performance shortboards. Pacific Surf Academy offers a wide range of boards tailored to the area’s famous waves, ensuring you have the perfect equipment for your session.
Soul Surf School provides well-maintained boards for rent, catering to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. The Surfing Tribe also offers high-quality rentals, giving you the freedom to enjoy the surf at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing barrels or practicing basics, there’s a board to match your needs.
With a wide range of boards & easy access to equipment, Puerto Escondido surfboard hire ensures you’re ready for the area’s varied & powerful waves.
Puerto Escondido Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Puerto Escondido surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Puerto Escondido surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
How To Get To Puerto Escondido Surf
- Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM) To Puerto Escondido
Distance: 4km (2.5mi)
To reach Puerto Escondido surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM) & then take a taxi or local bus to your destination.
Below is a guide with estimated costs & various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Puerto Escondido based on your preferences & budget.
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 15-30 mins.
- Cost: Approx. $2-5 USD per person
Details:
From the airport, you can take a colectivo or walk to the main road & catch a bus or shared van toward Zicatela, La Punta, or central Puerto Escondido. These services are frequent, cheap, & ideal for budget-conscious travelers without much gear.
Although it’s a short distance, public transport can be crowded & slower than private options.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 20-30 mins.
- Cost: Approx. $10-$20 USD per person
Details:
Several private companies operate airport shuttles that stop at popular zones like Zicatela Beach, La Punta, or Carrizalillo. While these are slightly more expensive than colectivos, they offer a comfortable & air-conditioned ride with secure storage for surfboards.
Shared options operate on demand or set schedules, while private services can be reserved to your accommodation.
Accommodation In Puerto Escondido
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€20 to €40 |
$25 to $45 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€60 to €180 |
$65 to $200 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€220 to €520+ |
$240 to $550+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Puerto Escondido, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
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