Is Puerto Escondido worth visiting for gay travelers? Absolutely. For gay travelers looking for a place that feels authentic, laid-back, and open to diversity, Puerto Escondido is a wonderful option. This charming beach town on Mexico’s Oaxacan coast is known for its surfing, natural beauty, and warm, welcoming vibe. Unlike more commercialized gay destinations, Puerto Escondido is still relatively under the radar, offering a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds and a genuine feel.
I’ve spent years traveling extensively throughout Mexico and even live here, so I know Puerto Escondido very well. From hidden beaches to the best gay-friendly spots, I bring firsthand knowledge and insider tips that make for a truly authentic guide.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why Puerto Escondido is worth visiting for gay travelers and what to see, where to stay, and the best activities to make the most of your time there.
Puerto Escondido offers a wealth of activities for gay travelers, from adventurous outdoor excursions to cultural experiences. Here are some top things to do.
➡️ Surfing Lessons at Playa Zicatela
As the “Mexican Pipeline,” Playa Zicatela is world-famous for its massive waves and is a hotspot for surfers. If you’re new to surfing, there are many surf schools where you can take beginner lessons, often in more gentle waves around Playa Carrizalillo or La Punta. Surfing is not only a thrilling activity but also a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals.
Best time: Early morning for smoother waves
Tip: Look for gay-friendly surf schools, which are common in Zicatela and La Punta
➡️ Bioluminescent Lagoon Tour at Manialtepec Lagoon
The bioluminescent waters of Manialtepec Lagoon are a magical sight. Under the right conditions, the water lights up with a neon-blue glow, created by microscopic organisms that emit light when disturbed. Many gay-friendly tour operators offer guided evening tours to the lagoon, providing an unforgettable experience.
Best time: During new moon or when the sky is dark
Tip: Wear swimwear and bring a change of clothes, as you’ll have the chance to swim in the glowing water
➡️ Explore Mazunte and Zipolite
Mazunte and Zipolite are nearby beach towns popular with gay travelers. Zipolite is particularly famous for being Mexico’s only official clothing-optional beach and is known for its open-minded, laid-back atmosphere. Spend the day exploring the beaches, grabbing some local food, or even checking out a sunset yoga session in Mazunte.
Distance: 1.5 hours by car from Puerto Escondido
Tip: Plan to stay overnight if you want to fully enjoy both towns
➡️ Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours
From November to March, you can join a dolphin and whale-watching tour off the coast of Puerto Escondido. These tours provide an opportunity to see humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine animals in their natural habitat. Many of these tours are run by gay-friendly operators and are eco-conscious, focusing on protecting marine life.
Best time: November to March
Tip: Morning tours are usually the best for sightings
➡️ Coffee Farm Tour in Pluma Hidalgo
Pluma Hidalgo, a mountain town near Puerto Escondido, is famous for its high-quality coffee. You can take a day trip to visit a local coffee farm, learn about coffee production, and, of course, taste some of the best coffee in Mexico. Many gay- friendly tour companies can arrange visits to coffee farms, allowing for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Distance: 1-hour drive from Puerto Escondido
Tip: Combine this trip with a visit to a nearby waterfall for a full day of exploration
➡️ Yoga and Wellness Retreats
Puerto Escondido is home to a growing wellness community, with yoga studios and retreat centers offering everything from daily classes to full wellness programs. If you’re interested in yoga, meditation, or simply unwinding in a peaceful setting, you’ll find plenty of gay-friendly options here.
Popular spots: Casa Losodeli offers yoga classes, while Selina often hosts wellness events
Tip: Book classes in advance during high season, as spaces can fill up
➡️ Releasing Baby Turtles
If you’re visiting between September and November, you can participate in a sea turtle release. Puerto Escondido is home to several conservation projects focused on protecting endangered sea turtles. You’ll have the chance to help release baby turtles into the ocean, an unforgettable experience that also supports an important environmental cause.
Where: Playa Bacocho has regular turtle release events
Tip: Check with local conservation groups or ask at your hotel for schedules
Horseback Riding at Sunset
For a romantic or unique experience, consider taking a horseback ride along the beach at sunset. Many local tour operators offer guided horseback riding excursions that allow you to explore secluded beaches and scenic viewpoints around Puerto Escondido.
Where: Playa Zicatela and Playa Bacocho are popular starting points
Tip: Bring your camera to capture the stunning Pacific sunset views
➡️ Cooking Classes in Oaxacan Cuisine
Oaxaca is known for its rich culinary heritage, and Puerto Escondido has plenty of opportunities to dive into the region’s flavors. Several cooking schools in town offer classes where you can learn to make traditional dishes like mole, tlayudas, and mezcal-based cocktails. This is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and take a taste of Puerto Escondido home with you.
Where: Puerto Escondido Cooking School and Chiles&Chocolate are popular options
Tip: Most classes include a trip to the local market to buy fresh ingredients
➡️ Exploring Puerto Escondido’s Street Art
Puerto Escondido has a growing street art scene, with colorful murals that reflect the culture, wildlife, and people of Oaxaca. Take a self-guided tour around neighborhoods like Rinconada and Zicatela, where you’ll find stunning murals by local and international artists.
Where: Start around the main streets of Rinconada and La Punta
Tip: Many murals are located near popular cafes and shops, so you can combine it with a relaxed afternoon outing
➡️ Visit Chacahua National Park
For a real adventure, take a day trip to Lagunas de Chacahua National Park. This remote paradise is known for its beautiful lagoons, mangroves, and sandy beaches. Chacahua is a peaceful spot that’s perfect for nature lovers, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and swimming.
Distance: About 2 hours by car and boat from Puerto Escondido
Tip: Book a tour if you’re unfamiliar with the area, as getting to Chacahua can be a bit tricky
➡️ Shopping for Local Handicrafts
Puerto Escondido has a number of small shops and markets where you can buy handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Look for traditional Oaxacan textiles, pottery, and mezcal to take home a piece of Mexico’s vibrant culture. Shopping locally also supports artisans and small businesses.
Where: Mercado Benito Juárez and shops in Rinconada
Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the sellers about the origin of the crafts; many are happy to share stories behind their creations
GAY-FRIENDLY HOTELS IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO
PRICE RANGE:
$ < $100 per night
$$ $100 – 200 per night
$$$ $200 – $350 per night
$$$$ >$350 per night
Located directly on Zicatela Beach, Hotel Santa Fe is a gorgeous, laid-back property known for its authentic Mexican decor and gay-friendly atmosphere. The rooms are spacious, and the hotel features two pools, tropical gardens, and an onsite restaurant serving delicious Oaxacan dishes. The staff is welcoming and attentive, making it an ideal spot for gay travelers looking to relax in style.
- Location: Zicatela Beach
- Amenities: Pools, beachfront access, on-site restaurant
- Vibe: Quiet, relaxing, perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking tranquility
- Price Range: $$
Selina properties are popular among digital nomads and gay travelers, and the Puerto Escondido location is no exception. The hotel is located close to Playa Principal and offers a lively environment with shared dorms, private rooms, and suites. Selina also has a co-working space, making it a great choice for remote workers, and frequently hosts social events like open mic nights and yoga classes.
- Location: Near Playa Principal
- Amenities: Pool, co-working space, wellness area, social events
- Vibe: Social, perfect for solo travelers and digital nomads
- Price Range: $–$$
Located a bit further out from town, Hotel Escondido is an adults-only boutique resortthat provides a luxurious, private experience. Each bungalow has its own plunge pool, and the property includes an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. This secluded, gay-friendly property is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway or solo travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Location: 30 minutes outside Puerto Escondido
- Amenities: Private bungalows, beachfront access, infinity pool, spa services
- Vibe: Luxurious, secluded, romantic
- Price Range: $$$–$$$$
Casa Sforza is a luxury boutique hotel that combines minimalist design with traditional Mexican aesthetics, making it one of the most stylish accommodations in Puerto Escondido. This gay-friendly hotel offers a tranquil and exclusive environment with only a handful of rooms, ensuring personalized service. Casa Sforza is an ideal choice for travelers seeking luxury and serenity, as it’s designed to feel like a secluded oasis.
- Location: Near Playa Zicatela
- Amenities: Ocean-view suites, private terraces, personalized service, and an on-site restaurant that features local ingredients and Oaxacan flavors
- Vibe: Elegant, exclusive, and luxurious; perfect for couples and travelers looking for an upscale, peaceful stay
- Price Range: $$$–$$$$
Casa de Olas is a charming, gay-friendly boutique hotel located near La Punta Zicatela. Known for its welcoming staff and stylish decor, Casa de Olas has a mix of rooms and suites that are designed with a blend of rustic and modern elements. The property features a pool with ocean views and a rooftop terrace where you can catch incredible sunsets.
- Location: La Punta Zicatela
- Amenities: Pool, rooftop terrace, ocean views, yoga classes
- Vibe: Cozy, artistic, great for solo travelers and couple
- Price Range: $$
GAY-FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT FOR EVERY OCCASION
Looking for gay-friendly dining spots in Puerto Escondido? Here’s a quick guide to some welcoming eateries and bars that offer everything from breakfast to fine dining.
Breakfast & Brunch
Start your day at Café Ole in Rinconada, a cozy, gay-friendly café known for its delicious breakfast plates and freshly brewed coffee. Their chilaquiles and smoothies are crowd-pleasers, and the laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to kick off your day.
El Cafecito is a classic breakfast spot popular with both locals and travelers, and it’s known for its inclusive, friendly atmosphere. Located on Zicatela Beach, this restaurant offers everything from huevos rancheros to fluffy pancakes, perfect for fueling up before hitting the waves.
Street Food
➡️ La Punta Street Tacos
Head over to La Punta for some of the best street tacos in town. These open-air taco stands serve up fresh, flavorful tacos, often with vegan and vegetarian options. The vibe in La Punta is very inclusive, and you’re likely to meet a diverse crowd of travelers here.
Benito Juárez Market
For an authentic Oaxacan street food experience, stop by the Benito Juárez Market. You’ll find everything from tlayudas (Oaxacan pizzas) to fresh fruit and juices. The market is vibrant and welcoming, with friendly locals happy to introduce you to the flavors of Puerto Escondido.
Casual Dining
Lychee Thai Food in La Punta has a reputation for being gay-friendly and draws a diverse, eclectic crowd. Known for its flavorful Thai dishes like pad thai and green curry, this spot also serves great cocktails, making it perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends.
This popular rooftop bar and restaurant in La Punta offers a chill, inclusive atmosphere with stunning ocean views. Sativa Terraza serves up casual bites like seafood ceviche and pizzas, along with delicious cocktails, all while you enjoy the sunset and meet other travelers.
Fine Dining
For a memorable fine dining experience, Casa Oaxaca (located at Casa Wabi) offers a taste of contemporary Oaxacan cuisine in a beautifully designed setting. The restaurant focuses on local ingredients and traditional flavors with a modern twist. The staff is welcoming, and the atmosphere is intimate, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner.
La Boveda combines elegance with authenticity, serving refined Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients. This luxury dining spot offers an upscale, gay-friendly experience that’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a memorable meal in Puerto Escondido.
GAY-FRIENDLY NIGHTLIFE IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO
Puerto Escondido may not have a large gay club scene, but it has plenty of welcoming nightlife options where gay travelers can feel comfortable and included. Here are a few places to check out after the sun goes down.
➡️ Lychee Thai Food & Bar: Known for its relaxed vibe and excellent Thai food, Lychee is a popular spot among gay locals and travelers. The welcoming crowd and friendly staff make it easy to strike up conversations and meet new friends.
➡️ Bar Fly: This casual bar has a laid-back vibe and attracts a diverse crowd. It’s not exclusively gay, but it’s known for its open-minded atmosphere, making it a safe spot for gay travelers to enjoy drinks and good company.
➡️ Caña Brava: A favorite for sunset drinks, this beachside bar is located near Playa Zicatela and offers a mix of locals, expats, and travelers. The vibe is relaxed, with live music and bonfire nights adding to the ambiance.
➡️ Selina Puerto Escondido: Selina frequently hosts events, including themed parties and movie nights, which draw a diverse crowd. This is a great place to meet people, whether you’re traveling solo or with friends.
FAQS
How Do I Get to Puerto Escondido?
- By Air: Fly directly into Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM), with daily flights from Mexico City and seasonal flights from other major cities.
- By Bus: You can also reach Puerto Escondido by bus from nearby cities, such as Oaxaca City. The bus ride takes about 6 hours, as it winds through the mountains, but the scenery along the way is beautiful.
- By Car: Renting a car is another option if you’re comfortable driving on winding roads. The trip from Oaxaca City is around 6–7 hours. Having a car also gives you more flexibility to explore nearby towns like Mazunte and Zipolite.
How Do I Get Around Puerto Escondido?
- Taxis: Taxis are affordable and easy to find in Puerto Escondido. Most taxi drivers are friendly, and fares are generally reasonable, especially for short trips within the town.
- Colectivos: For budget-conscious travelers, colectivos (shared vans) are a great option. They operate on popular routes between the beaches and are an economical way to get around.
- Scooter Rentals: Renting a scooter is a fun and convenient way to explore Puerto Escondido, especially if you plan to visit the different beaches or head to nearby areas. Just be cautious, as some roads can be narrow and winding.
- Bicycles: Some hotels and hostels offer bicycle rentals, which can be a great eco-friendly option for getting around if you’re comfortable riding in traffic.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido?
- High Season (November to April): This is the most popular time to visit, with dry, sunny weather and little rain. During this period, the town is lively, and all businesses are open, offering a variety of activities and events.
- Low Season (May to October): This is the rainy season, but it’s also when you can find the best deals on accommodations. Afternoon rain showers are common, but you’ll still get plenty of sunny hours, and the town is quieter, which many travelers find appealing.
- Surf Season: If you’re coming for the surf, the best waves are from May to October, when the swells are biggest on Playa Zicatela.
Is Puerto Escondido Safe for Gay Travelers?
Yes, Puerto Escondido is generally safe and welcoming for gay travelers. While Mexico is a traditionally conservative country, Puerto Escondido is relatively open-minded, especially in tourist areas. The locals are used to a diverse crowd, including surfers, expats, and travelers from all backgrounds. That said, it’s always best to be respectful of the local culture and use discretion in more rural or conservative areas.
Final thoughts
Puerto Escondido is absolutely worth visiting for gay travelers who want a mix of natural beauty, relaxed beach vibes, and a welcoming environment. While it’s not as well-developed as some of Mexico’s larger gay destinations, the town’s low-key and inclusive atmosphere make it a perfect escape for travelers looking for something a bit different.
From friendly hotels to inclusive activities and nightlife, Puerto Escondido offers everything you need to feel welcome and safe while having an incredible time. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring cultural sites, or dancing at a local bar, Puerto Escondido is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Mexico’s Pacific coast.
So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure that combines the charm of an authentic Mexican beach town with a blossoming LGBTQ+ community, pack your bags and head to Puerto Escondido. You won’t be disappointed.
About the Author
Tim is a seasoned gay travel writer and the creator of Out in Mexico, a dedicated resource for gay travelers exploring Mexico’s vibrant destinations. After relocating to Guadalajara, he has spent years immersing himself in Mexico’s gay culture, from the iconic beaches of Puerto Vallarta to the nightlife of Mexico City.
With firsthand experience in Mexico’s gay scene, Tim has personally visited the bars, hotels, and events featured in this guide. His insights have helped gay travelers plan unforgettable trips while ensuring they feel safe, welcomed, and informed.
When he’s not writing, you’ll find him sipping a mezcal cocktail at a bar in Colonia Americana or travel to a new exciting destination in Mexico.
📍 Follow his adventures: @i.am.out.in.mexico
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