Best Hotels Puerto Escondido: Where to Stay?
There’s no doubt about it: Puerto Escondido is one of my favorite cities in Mexico.
It’s no coincidence that I’ve returned three times to enjoy its laid-back, peaceful atmosphere.
For me, it’s undoubtedly the best destination if you’re looking to spend time on the beach during your visit to Oaxaca.
However, the city is becoming increasingly touristy and gentrified. That’s why it’s essential to make responsible choices during your stay.
One key decision is to opt for hotels rather than Airbnbs, which contribute to rising rents for locals.
Here’s my curated list of hotels in Puerto Escondido that I recommend for your next visit. Discover the best hotels Puerto Escondido!
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Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido? Neighborhoods + hotels
Puerto Escondido in a few words
Here’s a brief introduction to this coastal town.
Puerto Escondido is located in the state of Oaxaca, facing the Pacific Ocean. Covering an area of 21 km², it’s home to 45,000 residents.
The city is made up of various neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe for travelers to enjoy.
As you probably already know, the main attraction in Puerto Escondido is its stunning beaches, where time seems to slow down.
For sports enthusiasts, it’s the Pacific waves that have put this charming city on the map. In fact, it’s also considered one of the world’s top surf destinations.
Zicatela Beach, nicknamed the Mexican Pipeline, is renowned for its massive waves, which can reach over 6 meters high.
It’s no surprise that many international competitions are held here.
ALSO READ: What to Do in Puerto Escondido?
BEST HOTELS IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO
Most tourists stay in Zicatela and La Punta.
Personally, I avoid these neighborhoods because I travel mainly to connect with locals.
However, if you have limited time to enjoy Puerto Escondido and want to make the most of the beach, these are the most recommended areas.
To help you choose the best area to book your stay, I’ll introduce you to 5 neighborhoods and share some hotel recommendations in Puerto Escondido. Let’s discover where to stay in Puerto Escondido!
1. Centro
If you ask me, it’s definitely the best neighborhood to immerse yourself in local life and mingle with the residents.
The downtown area is packed with shops, supermarkets, banks, and restaurants, making it a very safe place, even during the evening.
It’s also the main arrival point for buses coming from different parts of Mexico.
However, it’s a bit far from the beach, and if you don’t have a motorbike, you’ll rely on public transport or taxis, which are becoming more expensive if you want the luxury of a refreshing swim.
Hotels in Centro
Puerto Dreams H ($): This hostel captivates all its guests with its stunning décor. And as the cherry on top, you can enjoy its rooftop! It’s the perfect budget option if you’re looking to stay in shared dorms.
SurfNest Downtown ($): Like the previous one, this hostel is very well located and offers an affordable option for both shared dorms and double rooms. The communal kitchen and terrace provide a great opportunity to meet other travelers.
Posada Girasol ($): Another very affordable hostel option. Its dorms and double rooms stand out for their elegant decoration. The best part is its rooftop with ocean views, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
What to Do in Centro?
- Take a guided tour: Uncover all the secrets of downtown to make the most of it.
- Explore the Benito Juárez market: Find fresh products, local spices, and handmade souvenirs.
- Taste local specialties: Try tlayudas at the small street stalls.
- Go shopping: Buy clothes, hammocks, and handcrafted items in the local stores.
- Experience local life: Watch the locals in their daily routines while enjoying a refreshing agua fresca on Oaxaca Avenue.
2. Bacocho
Much more residential and exclusive, Bacocho is a great choice if you’re looking for some tranquility.
Famous for its wide palm-lined avenues and distance from the city’s hustle and bustle, this neighborhood offers a peaceful experience by the wild yet serene Bacocho beach.
It’s also a perfect option for families or couples seeking peace and relaxation. However, prices here can be a bit higher compared to other neighborhoods in the city.
Hotels in Bacocho
Luxury House 5m walk from the beach ($$$$): This villa is the perfect choice if you’re traveling with a group of friends to enjoy the tranquility of Puerto Escondido. With its garden and private pool, Luxury House features 6 extremely comfortable rooms.
Casa Conicarit ($$$): This hotel, with its unique and stunning decor, is the perfect choice for couples. The accommodation features an outdoor pool, a lounge, a shared kitchen, a terrace, and a bar.
Hotel Suites Villasol ($$$): This exclusive beach club offers the best amenities: an outdoor pool, free private parking, a gym, and a garden. Its rooms, with simple decoration, are very comfortable.
What to Do in Bacocho?
- Relax on Playa Bacocho: Enjoy this wild beach for a moment of tranquility.
- Participate in a turtle release: Experience something unique by helping baby turtles reach the ocean. I did it during my stay in 2017, and it’s definitely one of my best memories!
- Watch the sunset: Playa Bacocho is the perfect spot to enjoy the horizon.
3. Carrizalillo
The Carrizalillo neighborhood is perched on a hill with spectacular ocean views and is known for its cove-shaped beach, which is accessed by a steep staircase of over 150 steps.
If you decide to visit it during the day, I recommend staying well-hydrated, as the climb can be a bit challenging.
This mainly residential area has a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere.
It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a balance between local life and a touristy vibe, with the added bonus of being able to enjoy a refreshing dip in the beach whenever you want.
Hotels in Carrizalillo
Madre Tierra ($$): This hotel also doubles as a coworking space, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. Its spacious and comfortable rooms welcome guests, who can also enjoy the incredible rooftop.
Quinta Carrizalillo ($$): This apartment is perfect for large groups of friends and families who need space and independence. To top it off, Quinta Carrizalillo offers an indoor pool.
Carri Surf Studio ($$): This beautifully decorated studio has everything solo travelers or couples need to enjoy a pleasant stay. It is conveniently located near Carrizalillo, Bacocho, and Puerto Ángelito beaches.
What to Do in Carrizalillo?
- Learn to surf: the gentle waves of Playa Carrizalillo are perfect for beginners to get on the board.
- Go snorkeling: explore the colorful marine life in this peaceful cove.
- Taste seafood: enjoy the small beachside restaurants and try fresh seafood and grilled fish dishes.
- Birdwatching: the neighborhood offers great spots to observe tropical birds.
4. Zicatela
If your main goal is to enjoy the waves, this is the perfect spot, as its beach is known as “the Surf Mecca” which gives you an idea of how significant the place is.
You’ll find a wide range of hotels for all budgets, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants.
Personally, I think it’s a neighborhood to avoid if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the authentic Mexican lifestyle.
In reality, it’s a place almost entirely focused on tourism.
However, it’s also the perfect destination if you want to enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
Hotels in Zicatela
Casa Areka ($$): For a complete immersion in nature, this is the perfect accommodation. The minimalist decor is simply sublime, and the crown jewel is its pool—perfect for your Instagram photos!
Surf Olas Altas ($$): In addition to being very close to the sea, this hotel features a pool that will delight both couples and families. The rooms, with simple decor, provide all the necessary comfort.
Casa Karma ($): This accommodation is the budget-friendly option in Zicatela. The rooms feature a sitting area and kitchen, as well as views of the garden and courtyard. The decor is simple yet functional.
What to Do in Zicatela?
- Attend a surf competition: watch the pros tame the waves of the Mexican Pipeline during the frequent competitions held here.
- Take a paddleboarding tour: for a more relaxing activity, explore the calm waters around Zicatela.
- Grab a cocktail by the beach: the numerous bars along the beach offer happy hours with ocean views. A perfect opportunity to sip on a cocktail!
- Dance until dawn: immerse yourself in the lively nightlife with parties and live concerts held in the area.
5. La Punta
It’s the most popular neighborhood among digital nomads and sunset lovers.
For me, however, it’s the least authentic, as there are more tourists than locals per square meter.
That said, if you enjoy being surrounded by fellow travelers and having access to all the tourist amenities, this neighborhood will definitely appeal to you.
Hotels in La Punta
Ennea Hotel – Adults Only ($$$): This hotel may be the most beautiful in La Punta. Its setting, nestled in the heart of nature, combined with its meticulous decor, makes it the perfect choice for couples seeking relaxation and a peaceful atmosphere.
Kasa Koh ($$): The one that concludes my article on where to stay in Puerto Escondido has recently started welcoming guests in its tastefully decorated and bright rooms. Its location, just steps from the beach, is undoubtedly its biggest draw.
What to Do in La Punta?
- Take a surf lesson: with its ideal waves, it’s the perfect spot for intermediate surfers and longboarders.
- Stroll through the dirt streets and discover bohemian boutiques and artisan workshops.
- Enjoy a sunset: La Punta Beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets.
- Taste international dishes: many restaurants offer cuisines from different countries, especially vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, which can be hard to find in Puerto.
Choosing your accommodation wisely without harming the locals.
Puerto Escondido is attracting an increasing number of travelers, which, although positive for tourism, is having consequences on the lives of the residents: rising rents, gentrification, and pressure on local resources.
As tourists, we have the responsibility to make conscious and responsible choices to minimize our impact on the destination.
Here are 5 practical tips for choosing accommodations that respect the local community in Puerto Escondido.
1. Choose accommodations managed by locals
My top recommendation is to opt for accommodations run by local people. This way, you’ll directly support the local economy instead of contributing to the growth of large chains or foreign investors that drive up rental prices.
2. Avoid Airbnb properties in residential areas
For short stays, it’s best to avoid Airbnb, as we know the platform contributes to gentrification by removing homes from the local market. So, take advantage of my list of hotels in Puerto Escondido 😉
If you’re staying for several weeks or months, you might need to consider Airbnb. In that case, choose apartments where only one room is rented, and the owner also lives on the premises. This ensures the money goes directly to the local person.
3. Do your research on accommodations
Opt for establishments committed to sustainable and responsible practices, such as hiring local staff or using eco-friendly materials.
4. Respect local resources
Access to water in Mexico is increasingly limited. Therefore, it’s important to reduce your water consumption during your stay. You can easily do this by picking accommodations with eco-friendly systems like dry toilets.
5. Stay longer
If possible, choose longer stays. This reduces the impact on local resources and allows for a deeper immersion in daily life. Staying longer also contributes more steadily to the local economy, as you’ll likely spend your money in local markets, small shops, and family-run restaurants.
I hope this article on where to stay in Puerto Escondido helps you find the perfect accommodation and neighborhood for your next visit to the city.
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