Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido (Weather, Events, & More)

Planning your next beach getaway and wondering about the best time to visit Puerto Escondido? This vibrant coastal town in Oaxaca, Mexico, is a paradise for surfers, sun-seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to catch the perfect wave or soak in the local flavors, timing your trip can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll explore the ideal seasons to visit Puerto Escondido, ensuring your vacation is as memorable as the stunning sunsets over the Pacific.

Best Overall Time to Visit Puerto Escondido

If you're pondering the best time to visit Puerto Escondido, aim for the months between November and April. During this period, the weather is simply fantastic – warm, but not too hot, and with minimal rainfall, making it perfect for beach activities and surfing. Plus, this is the prime time for catching some world-class waves, particularly at the famous Zicatela Beach.

Visiting Puerto Escondido during the low season, which runs from May to October, has its pros and cons. On the upside, you'll benefit from fewer crowds and lower prices in accommodations and activities. However, the cons include the higher likelihood of rain and intense heat, particularly in the peak of summer. Additionally, while the waves are less perfect for professional surfing, beginners might find this a great time to learn, given the milder ocean conditions.

Monthly Overview of Puerto Escondido

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Puerto Escondido in each month of the year:

Puerto Escondido in January

Visiting Puerto Escondido in January is a delight for those looking to escape colder climates. The weather is warm and mostly dry, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring the town. January is part of the dry season, so you'll enjoy plenty of sunny days. It's a popular time for tourists, so the vibe is lively, but it's still before the peak tourist months, offering a nice balance of fun and relaxation.

• Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, beach parties, whale watching

Puerto Escondido in February

Visiting Puerto Escondido in February is a delight for those looking to escape colder climates. The weather is warm and mostly dry, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring. The town is less crowded than in peak season, giving you a more relaxed experience.

• Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Watching the release of baby turtles, surfing, and enjoying local food festivals

Puerto Escondido in March

Visiting Puerto Escondido in March is a delightful experience as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is warm and mostly dry, perfect for beach activities and exploring the town. The evenings can be cooler, so it's a great time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a peaceful sunset on the beach.

• Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, beach parties, turtle release programs

Puerto Escondido in April

Visiting Puerto Escondido in April is a delightful experience as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is warm and mostly dry, perfect for beach activities and exploring the town. The evenings can be cooler, so it's a great time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a peaceful sunset on the beach.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 3 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, beach parties, turtle release programs

Puerto Escondido in May

Visiting Puerto Escondido in May offers a unique blend of warm weather and the onset of the wet season. The town begins to quiet down as the high season winds down, making it a great time to enjoy its beaches and natural beauty with fewer crowds. While you might experience some rain, it typically doesn't last all day, allowing plenty of time for sunbathing and surfing.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5 days
• Season: Transition from dry to wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, turtle release programs, bioluminescence tours

Puerto Escondido in June

Visiting Puerto Escondido in June means you're catching the early vibes of the wet season. While the town begins to see more frequent showers, the rain typically falls in the late afternoon or evening, allowing you plenty of sunny hours to enjoy the beach or explore local markets. The atmosphere is vibrant as the landscape bursts into lush greenery, and the temperatures are pleasantly warm.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Beginning of wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, turtle release programs, evening beach walks

Puerto Escondido in July

Visiting Puerto Escondido in July means embracing the vibrant heart of the wet season. While the town buzzes with life, frequent showers are part of the daily rhythm, typically occurring in the late afternoon. This pattern leaves ample time to enjoy the warm mornings and evenings by the beach or exploring local markets.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, turtle release programs, tropical fruit tasting events

Puerto Escondido in August

Visiting Puerto Escondido in August is a vibrant experience, despite being smack in the middle of the wet season. The town is alive with lush vegetation and frequent, yet brief, tropical showers. These showers are typically short-lived, clearing up quickly and making way for sunshine, perfect for beach outings or evening strolls along the vibrant streets.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, turtle release programs, eco-tours

Puerto Escondido in September

Visiting Puerto Escondido in September offers a unique blend of vibrant town life and nature's unpredictability. It's the tail end of the rainy season, so while you might encounter some showers, they're often quick and leave behind cooler, refreshed air. This is a great time to enjoy fewer crowds and lush landscapes, making it perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and intimate experience.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Turtle release programs, surfing, late-night seafood dining

Puerto Escondido in October

Visiting Puerto Escondido in October is a unique blend of vibrant local culture and natural beauty, despite being part of the rainy season. The weather is warm and the town less crowded, offering a more relaxed vibe. While occasional showers are common, they often clear up quickly, making way for sunshine and perfect surf conditions.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, turtle release programs, local food festivals

Puerto Escondido in November

Visiting Puerto Escondido in November is a delightful experience as you catch the tail end of the rainy season transitioning into drier days. The weather is warm and inviting, perfect for beach activities and exploring the town. While occasional showers might appear, they are usually brief and refreshing, making it an ideal time for both relaxation and adventure.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, sea turtle releases, beach parties

Puerto Escondido in December

Visiting Puerto Escondido in December is a delightful experience as you catch the town in its dry season. The weather is warm and mostly dry, perfect for beach activities and exploring the outdoors. The festive atmosphere, with Christmas and New Year celebrations, adds a unique charm to the place, making it a vibrant time to visit.

• Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Surfing competitions, releasing baby turtles, Christmas parades, New Year's Eve beach parties

Special Events in Puerto Escondido to Look Out For

Carnaval Puerto Escondido

• Date: Late February to early March
• Description: A vibrant celebration with parades, music, and dancing in the streets, similar to other Carnival festivities but with a unique coastal twist.

Puerto Escondido International Surfing Tournament

• Date: Late June
• Description: Surfers from around the globe gather to compete at the famous Zicatela Beach, known for its massive waves and strong currents.

Fiesta de la Pesca

• Date: July
• Description: This festival celebrates the local fishing community with competitions, seafood tastings, and cultural events, highlighting the importance of fishing to the area's economy.

Release of the Sea Turtles

• Date: August to February
• Description: An eco-friendly event where visitors can participate in releasing baby turtles back into the ocean, promoting awareness and conservation of marine life.

Festival Costeño de la Danza

• Date: September
• Description: A cultural festival showcasing traditional dances from the coastal regions of Oaxaca, featuring performances by local and regional dance troupes.

Puerto Escondido Challenge

• Date: November
• Description: Part of the Big Wave Tour, this event attracts elite surfers to compete on the colossal waves of Zicatela Beach during the peak big wave season.

Día de los Muertos

• Date: November 1st and 2nd
• Description: A deeply cultural event where locals honor deceased loved ones with altars, offerings, and traditional music, reflecting the rich Mexican heritage.

Christmas in Puerto Escondido

• Date: December 25th
• Description: Celebrate Christmas with a tropical twist, featuring beach parties, local food, and festive decorations throughout the town.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Puerto Escondido

• Cash Over Cards: Many small businesses and vendors in Puerto Escondido prefer cash. It’s wise to always have some pesos on hand, especially in less touristy areas.

• Tipping Etiquette: In Puerto Escondido, tipping is customary. Aim to leave around 10-15% at restaurants, and don’t forget your bartenders and hotel staff.

• Drink Safely: Stick to bottled or purified water. Avoid ice and tap water to dodge any stomach troubles during your trip.

• Public Transportation Tips: Colectivos (shared taxis) are a common and affordable way to get around. They're great for short trips along the coast or into town.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local traditions and communities. When visiting beaches or natural sites, make sure to leave no trace to preserve the area's natural beauty.

• Savor Local Cuisine: Don’t leave without trying tlayudas, ceviche, and freshly caught seafood. Local markets are perfect spots to sample these delights.

• Surf’s Up: If you're into surfing, Puerto Escondido is your spot. Beginners should stick to beaches like La Punta, while experienced surfers may head to Zicatela.

• Sun Protection: The sun can be fierce, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming.

• Language Basics: While many locals speak English, learning basic Spanish phrases will enrich your interactions and might even fetch you friendlier prices.

• Respect Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance from marine life and other animals. Don’t touch or feed them, especially during turtle releases or when dolphins are spotted near the coast.

Puerto Escondido Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Puerto Escondido?
Visa requirements for Puerto Escondido are the same as for any destination in Mexico. Many tourists, including those from the US, Canada, and the EU, do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days. It's a good idea to check the latest visa requirements from the Mexican embassy or consulate before your trip.

What currency is used in Puerto Escondido?
The currency used in Puerto Escondido is the Mexican Peso (MXN). While some places may accept US dollars, it's usually more economical to pay in pesos. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.

What should I pack for a trip to Puerto Escondido?
Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, including swimwear, a hat, and sunglasses for the beach. Don't forget sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. If you plan on visiting during the rainy season (June to October), bring a waterproof jacket. Also, include comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town.

Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Puerto Escondido?
While it's not necessary to be fluent in Spanish, knowing some basic phrases can enhance your experience. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels, but less so in smaller shops and restaurants.

Is Puerto Escondido safe for tourists?
Puerto Escondido is generally considered safe for tourists. Common sense precautions should be taken, such as not leaving belongings unattended on the beach and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Always listen to local advice regarding ocean conditions, as some beaches have strong currents.

Is Puerto Escondido accessible for those with disabilities?
Accessibility in Puerto Escondido can be challenging due to uneven sidewalks and limited access to some buildings and public transport. However, more accommodations and venues are making efforts to improve accessibility. It's recommended to check with specific venues and accommodations regarding their facilities before booking.

What type of outlet is used in Puerto Escondido?
In Puerto Escondido, the standard voltage is 127 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. The power sockets are type A and B, which are the same as those used in the United States and Canada. If you're coming from a country with different standards, you might need a power adapter or converter.