PUERTO ESCONDIDO

Puerto Escondido, a heavenly beach destination, lies on the coast of the state of Oaxaca, 249 km (154 mi) south of the state capital. The climate is semi-humid, with rainfall in the summer and an average temperature of 28º C (82º F).

Among its many attractions, this destination offers a notable group of beaches surrounded by lush vegetation. The blue-green waters are ideal for doing a wide variety of aquatic sports. One of the beaches, Zicatela, hosts an international surfing competition, while in November a sportfishing tournament takes place at Playa Principal. In the environs you?ll find nature areas like the Lagunas de Chacahua National Park, which consists of a group of lagoons and mangroves where you can spy a wide variety of indigenous wildlife, such as crocodiles, iguanas, exotic bird species and songbirds.

At Mazunte Beach you can visit the Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga, a turtle sanctuary dedicated to the research and conservation of various turtle species. Another strong draw is Puerto Escondido?s delicious fish and seafood dishes, as well as its regional Oaxacan fare, such as mole and quesillo (a stringy cheese). Here you also can partake in an interesting celebration in honor of the Virgen de Juquila (Virgin of Juquila). In addition, you?ll find beautiful crafts made of seashells and black coral. At night, you can party until the break of dawn at the restaurants, bars and nightclubs along the beach.