Puerto Escondido

Where to stay

Zicatela is where most hostels cluster, along Calle del Morro within walking distance of the surf break known as the Mexican Pipeline. La Punta, at the quieter southern end of the same beach, draws travelers who are staying for weeks rather than days and want a slower pace.

Getting around

• Zicatela's shore break is powerful and has caused drownings. For safe swimming, take a colectivo to Playa Carrizalillo, a sheltered cove about ten minutes from the center, instead of getting in the water at your hostel's doorstep.
• Colectivos running between Zicatela and El Adoquín, the pedestrian strip near Playa Principal, cost a few pesos and are how locals get around. A taxi for the same trip will be quoted at several times that price.
• Restaurants directly on El Adoquín are priced for tourists on a short visit. Walk a block or two inland toward the market area and you will find comedores serving fish, mole, and tlayudas at roughly half the price.

When to go

Hostels are cheapest June through September during the rainy season, and fill up fast November through March when the surf is at its best and visitors from the north arrive in volume.