Puerto Escondido City Guide

Fresh seafood, tlayudas, and mole are local favorites. Tourist areas have good international options. Vegetarian and vegan food is growing. Late-night food is common by Zicatela.

Nightlife is lively, concentrated around Zicatela Beach with many bars and clubs.

The coffee scene is growing with specialty shops using high-quality local beans.

Tipping is customary. 10-15% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, small tips for other services.

SIM cards sell at official stores and OXXO. Main providers are Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar. Passport needed for registration. eSIM depends on provider.

Cleanliness varies by area; tourist spots are cleaner. Waste collection is regular, limited recycling.

Limited 24/7 services mainly at OXXO stores. Some late-night food near tourist areas.

Supermarkets stock some international goods; local markets have fresh produce. Chedraui and Super Che are main supermarkets. Markets allow bargaining; supermarkets do not.

Cards work at hotels and some restaurants, but you need cash for markets, taxis, and smaller places.

ATMs are in tourist areas like Zicatela and La Punta, plus the town center. Withdrawal fees can be high, so take out larger amounts less often.

Local schools mostly teach in Spanish. Limited info on international schools.

A growing digital nomad community with meetups and nomad-friendly cafes.

Green spaces come mainly from beaches and some parks.

Good running routes along Zicatela Beach (at low tide) and main roads. Safe during the day but take care at night.

Several gyms offer weights and cardio equipment.

Limited court availability, some private clubs may have courts.

No padel courts reported.

Several yoga studios and wellness centers with English-speaking instructors.

Some dojos offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and boxing classes.

No skiing in the area.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing tours are popular, especially in calm bays.

World-class surfing at Zicatela Beach for experts and gentler waves at Playa Carrizalillo and La Punta for beginners. Surf schools and rentals are easy to find.

Diving and snorkeling sites offer good visibility and marine life. Certification centers and rentals available.

Private clinics like Hospital Angel del Mar have some English-speaking staff. Public healthcare is basic but private options are better. Pharmacies are common for medicines.

Tap water isn't safe to drink. Bottled water is easy to find and recommended.

Playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and baby supplies are available. Calmer beaches like Playa Carrizalillo and boat tours suit families.

Generally welcoming and tolerant, especially in tourist zones.

Many accommodations and some restaurants allow pets. Vet services are available.