Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido
Your complete guide to choosing the perfect time for your Puerto Escondido adventure, from surf seasons to weather patterns and everything in between.
Puerto Escondido, Mexico's premier surf destination on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, offers year-round appeal with distinct seasons that cater to different types of travelers. Understanding the best time to visit Puerto Escondido depends on your priorities: world-class surfing, budget travel, fewer crowds, or perfect weather conditions.
Puerto Escondido's Two Main Seasons
Dry Season (November - April)
The most popular time to visit Puerto Escondido, featuring minimal rainfall, consistent sunshine, and comfortable temperatures. Perfect for families and first-time visitors.
- Minimal rainfall (less than 2 inches per month)
- Consistent sunshine and blue skies
- Comfortable temperatures (75-85°F)
- Smaller, more manageable surf
- Higher prices and more crowds
- Perfect for swimming and beach activities
Wet Season (May - October)
The surf season that attracts wave riders from around the world, featuring powerful swells, afternoon thunderstorms, and lush green landscapes.
- Consistent large swells and offshore winds
- Afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms
- Higher humidity and temperatures (80-90°F)
- World-class surfing conditions
- Lower prices and fewer crowds
- Lush, tropical vegetation
Month-by-Month Guide to Puerto Escondido
December - February: Peak Dry Season
Best for: First-time visitors, families, beach lovers, budget-conscious travelers seeking deals
The coolest and driest months with perfect beach weather. Expect the highest prices and largest crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year. Surf is smaller but perfect for beginners. Book accommodations well in advance.
March - April: Late Dry Season
Best for: Perfect weather seekers, photographers, outdoor activities
Arguably the best time to visit Puerto Escondido for overall conditions. Warm, sunny days with minimal rain, moderate crowds, and reasonable prices. Excellent visibility for photography and videography. Surf begins to pick up slightly.
May - June: Early Wet Season
Best for: Intermediate surfers, budget travelers, fewer crowds
Transition period with increasing surf size and occasional afternoon showers. Great value for money with lower accommodation prices. Perfect for those wanting to experience both good weather and improving surf conditions.
July - September: Peak Surf Season
Best for: Advanced surfers, surf photographers, authentic local experience
The legendary Puerto Escondido surf season with massive swells and perfect offshore winds. Daily afternoon thunderstorms provide dramatic skies and cooler temperatures. Lowest prices and smallest crowds, but weather can be unpredictable.
October - November: Late Wet Season
Best for: Shoulder season travelers, good surf with improving weather
Excellent compromise between surf conditions and weather. Surf remains good while rainfall decreases. Great time for those wanting to experience both aspects of Puerto Escondido without extreme conditions.
Choosing Based on Your Priorities
For World-Class Surfing
Best months: May through September
Experience Puerto Escondido's legendary waves during peak surf season. Consistent large swells, offshore winds, and the chance to witness some of the most powerful waves in the world.
For Perfect Weather
Best months: December through April
Enjoy consistent sunshine, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures perfect for all beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.
For Budget Travel
Best months: May through October
Take advantage of significantly lower accommodation prices, restaurant deals, and fewer crowds during the wet season while still enjoying incredible experiences.
For Fewer Crowds
Best months: May through November
Experience a more authentic, local Puerto Escondido with fewer tourists, easier restaurant reservations, and more intimate beach experiences.
Special Events and Considerations
Puerto Escondido Cup (August)
The world's premier big wave surfing competition brings international attention and crowds. Book accommodations months in advance if visiting during this time.
Turtle Season (June - December)
Witness sea turtle nesting and releases during the wet season. A magical experience that adds extra value to visiting during the rainy months.
Day of the Dead (November 1-2)
Experience authentic Mexican culture during this important celebration. A unique time to visit for cultural immersion and photography opportunities.
Professional Videography Considerations
Capturing Your Puerto Escondido Experience
Each season in Puerto Escondido offers unique videography opportunities. Whether you're documenting epic surf sessions during the wet season or capturing perfect beach moments during the dry season, professional videography services can help preserve your memories.
Dry Season Videography
- Perfect lighting conditions
- Consistent weather for planning
- Crystal clear water visibility
- Ideal for family and travel videos
Wet Season Videography
- Dramatic surf footage
- Spectacular storm clouds and sunsets
- Lush, tropical landscapes
- Authentic local culture documentation
Final Recommendations
The Verdict: When to Visit Puerto Escondido
For most travelers: March through April offers the best balance of weather, reasonable prices, and moderate crowds.
For surfers: May through September provides world-class waves and authentic surf culture experiences.
For budget travelers: June through October offers the best value with lower prices and unique wet season experiences.