5 Fantastic Tours & Things To Do In Puerto Escondido

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The 5 Best Tours & Things To Do in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido isn’t just about catching waves or lounging on the beach—though you’ll find plenty of both. This lively coastal town in Oaxaca offers a variety of tours and activities that reveal its local flavor, wildlife, and natural beauty. Whether you’re keen on learning about mezcal, spotting dolphins, or tasting authentic Oaxacan cuisine, there’s something here for every traveler.

Our favorite? The Guided tour of an ancestral mezcal distillery, which combines cultural insight with tasting and a traditional Oaxacan lunch—highly recommended for those who love spirits and stories.

If marine life is your thing, the Dolphin Watching in Puerto Escondido is a must, with expert guides helping you see dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural environment. And for adventurous souls, a 2-hour surf lesson can have you riding your first waves in no time. Whatever your interests, this list covers the best ways to get out and explore in Puerto Escondido.

Quick Overview of Tours & Things To Do

In this guide, we highlight experiences that range from cultural tours to wildlife encounters and active adventures. For example, you can visit a traditional mezcal distillery with this guided tour, perfect for spirits lovers.

Marine adventures like dolphin and whale watching are plentiful, with options that include these boat trips or this dolphin-watching cruise. Foodies will enjoy the made-in-Oaxaca food tour, which takes you to local markets and hidden eateries.

And for those eager to learn to surf, options range from quick lessons to full classes, like this 2-hour beginner lesson.

Below, we break down each experience—what’s included, what makes it unique, and why it’s worth your time.

1. Guided tour of an ancestral Mezcal distillery with transport

Fittingly, Oaxaca is famous for mezcal, and this tour is a genuine introduction to its traditional roots. Join a small group and head just outside Puerto Escondido to a family-run distillery. Here, you’ll see traditional mezcal distillation processes firsthand—learn how the smoky spirit is made from agave, and what gives each batch its unique flavor.

The guide shares stories of the distillery’s history, often passed down through generations, making this more than just a tasting.

After exploring the facility, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of several mezcals, plus the opportunity to buy some directly from the producers. The tour also includes a traditional Oaxacan lunch at a local spot, which complements the spirits perfectly. With hassle-free transportation included and small group sizes, this experience offers authentic insight into Oaxaca’s proud mezcal tradition.

Reviewers praise the personal attention and the depth of knowledge shared—“I have a new love for mezcal after this tour,” sums it up.

Bottom Line: Ideal for spirits enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, this tour offers a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s iconic drink.

2. Dolphin Watching in Puerto Escondido

For marine life lovers, the Dolphin Watching in Puerto Escondido promises a memorable adventure. The tour is approximately 3 hours long, with a focus on finding dolphins in their natural habitat. Guides are passionate about marine ecology and use their local knowledge to take you to areas where dolphins are most likely to be seen, away from the crowds.

People rave about the number of dolphins they see—some reports mention swimming with dolphins, and even spotting manta rays and turtles. The boat is comfortable, and the crew is friendly and informative. The experience is especially good if you’re interested in wildlife photography or just want to enjoy the Pacific’s ocean scenery.

Be prepared for some choppy waters, but the thrill of witnessing dolphins breach and play is worth it. Many reviewers say it’s “better than expected,” and the guide’s enthusiasm makes the trip even better.

Bottom Line: For a lively, wildlife-focused experience, this tour delivers plenty of chances to connect with marine life.

3. Puerto Escondido: Boat Tour to see Dolphins and Marine Life

Set sail from Puerto Angelito Beach on a small group boat tour, which lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours. This trip combines dolphin watching, snorkeling, and marine animal spotting—all in one.

You’ll have the chance to swim with dolphins and sea turtles, take photos of whales, and relax with your own music on the boat. The guide provides insights into the different species you’ll encounter, making it educational as well as fun.

The tour’s highlights include snorkeling in coral reefs and enjoying unobstructed views of secluded beaches. If you visit during winter (November-March), whale watching becomes part of the experience.

Many find this tour excellent value for the price, especially considering the variety of wildlife and relaxed atmosphere. Travelers appreciate the flexibility of the itinerary and the chance to capture memorable videos.

Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation at a reasonable price.

4. 2-Hour Surf Lesson in the Waves of Puerto Escondido

No visit to Puerto Escondido is complete without trying to surf. This 2-hour surf lesson is tailored for beginners and intermediate surfers, with groups limited to eight people for personalized coaching. Your instructor will adapt the lesson to your skill level, whether you’re just standing up for the first time or refining your technique.

The lesson takes place at popular beaches like Playa Carrizalillo or La Punta, known for their gentle, manageable waves. Some reviewers mention that the waves are “super smooth,” making it a great environment for learning. Upgrade options include GoPro footage of your surf session, making it easier to relive your first ride. The instructors are praised for their patience and enthusiasm.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for first-timers and those wanting a quick, fun introduction to surfing in a supportive setting.

5. Dolphin Watching Tour

This 3-hour tour is a popular choice for those eager to see multiple dolphin species along with whales, turtles, and rays. Departing early in the morning, the guide’s local expertise greatly improves your chances of wildlife sightings. The boat is well-equipped, and the crew aims to make sure everyone has a good view and lots of opportunities to take photos.

Reviewers mention seeing hundreds of dolphins, whales, and even experiencing swimming with dolphins. The tour is family-friendly and offers a sense of adventure in the open ocean. Keep in mind some reviews highlight safety equipment issues, so be cautious if that’s a concern. Overall, it balances wildlife sighting with the thrill of being on the water.

Bottom Line: For a full day of marine life, this tour balances quantity and quality of sightings.

(The remaining tours continue in similar detail, covering marine trips, food experiences, cultural activities, and outdoor adventures. Due to space, the full text continues in the full article.)

How to Choose the Right Tour in Puerto Escondido

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and specific interests. Want to explore Oaxaca’s spiritual and culinary culture? The Made in Oaxaca Food Tour offers a taste of authentic cuisine and local markets (see details).

If marine wildlife is your focus, options like dolphin watching or whale encounters will satisfy your curiosity, with these trips providing a good mix of adventure and education.

For active travelers wanting to learn to surf, the 2-hour surf lesson is perfect, especially if you prefer small groups and personalized coaching (more info). Budget-conscious visitors might prefer the marine life boat trip at a lower price (see here). Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, as popular tours fill up fast.

Final Thoughts

Puerto Escondido offers a broad array of tours and activities—whether you’re into cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, or surfing adventures. For a taste of tradition, the mezcal distillery tour is unmatched; for family fun or wildlife lovers, dolphin and whale trips are top picks. Food lovers should not miss the opportunity to explore local flavors with the Oaxaca food tour.

Whatever you choose, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Puerto Escondido’s diverse offerings let you enjoy its natural beauty, lively culture, and friendly spirit—all in one trip.