If you're looking for a relaxed beach destination in Mexico with stunning surf, charming culture, and natural beauty, Puerto Escondido should be at the top of your list. Situated on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, this vibrant town has long been a hidden gem for surfers and off-the-beaten-path travelers. As interest continues to grow, more travelers are searching for the best Puerto Escondido flights to experience the magic for themselves.
While Puerto Escondido is more remote than major tourist cities like Cancun or Mexico City, it’s accessible and well worth the effort. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Puerto Escondido flights, including airport information, flight routes, airlines, booking tips, and what to expect upon arrival.
Why Puerto Escondido Is Worth the Trip
Puerto Escondido offers a refreshing contrast to Mexico’s larger resort towns. It's known for its dramatic coastline, consistent surf breaks, and laid-back lifestyle. Zicatela Beach, often called the "Mexican Pipeline," attracts world-class surfers, while quieter spots like Playa Carrizalillo and Playa Bacocho are perfect for swimming and sunset views.
Beyond the beach, Puerto Escondido boasts street markets, authentic Oaxacan food, eco-tourism opportunities, and a welcoming community. Whether you're backpacking across Mexico or planning a digital detox, getting your Puerto Escondido flights sorted is the first step to paradise.
Airport Overview: Where Your Flight Will Land
All Puerto Escondido flights land at Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM). It’s a small but functional airport located just a few kilometers from the town center. Despite its "international" status, the airport currently handles mostly domestic flights, with occasional seasonal or chartered international arrivals.
The airport features basic amenities, including baggage claim, rental car booths, and taxis right outside the terminal. Most travelers find it quick and easy to navigate, especially compared to larger airports.
Most Common Routes for Puerto Escondido Flights
1. Mexico City to Puerto Escondido
This is the most common and convenient route for both domestic and international travelers. Multiple daily Puerto Escondido flights operate from Mexico City (MEX), with a flight time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes. This route allows for smooth connections from international hubs and is often the most affordable option.
2. Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido
If you’re already exploring the cultural city of Oaxaca, catching a short flight to Puerto Escondido is a great way to extend your trip. This route avoids the long, winding mountain drive and gives you more time on the beach. Flights between these cities are less frequent, so booking early is recommended.
3. Other Cities in Mexico
During high travel seasons, you may find Puerto Escondido flights from cities like Guadalajara, Tijuana, or Monterrey. While these routes aren’t always available, it’s worth checking if you're departing from other regions within Mexico.
Airlines Offering Puerto Escondido Flights
Several Mexican carriers offer regular service to Puerto Escondido:
Viva Aerobus – Known for its budget pricing and no-frills service, Viva Aerobus often runs several flights a day from Mexico City.
Volaris – Another low-cost airline, Volaris is a popular choice for travelers looking for competitive pricing and straightforward service.
Aeroméxico – As Mexico’s flagship airline, Aeroméxico may offer more flexibility and additional flight options, especially if you're connecting from international routes.
Each of these airlines has different policies on checked bags, carry-on limits, and name changes, so it’s a good idea to review their terms before finalizing your Puerto Escondido flights.
When to Book Puerto Escondido Flights
High Season (November to April)
This period marks the dry season and the peak travel time for Puerto Escondido. With clear skies and ideal beach conditions, this is when demand for Puerto Escondido flights is at its highest. Book early to secure your spot and lock in better prices.
Low Season (May to October)
This is considered the rainy season, but the showers are typically short-lived and often come in the late afternoon or evening. Travelers willing to trade a bit of rain for fewer crowds can benefit from lower prices on both flights and accommodations.
Tips for Booking the Best Puerto Escondido Flights
Book in Advance – Especially during holidays like Christmas and Semana Santa, flights fill up quickly. Booking several weeks or even months in advance can help you find better fares.
Fly Midweek – Traveling on Tuesdays or Wednesdays usually offers lower fares than weekends.
Use Flexible Dates – If your travel plans are flexible, you can compare days around your target date to find the most affordable flights.
Travel Light – Budget airlines often charge for extras like checked baggage and seat selection. Pack smart to avoid surprise fees.
Consider Alternate Airports – If you can’t find ideal Puerto Escondido flights, look into flying into Huatulco and taking ground transport. It's a scenic drive and may save money.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Once you land in Puerto Escondido, you’ll find transportation options are simple and accessible. The airport is small, so baggage claim is quick, and you’ll find taxis waiting outside. Most hotels, hostels, and Airbnb locations are a short drive away—usually 10 to 20 minutes depending on your destination in town.
Car rentals are also available if you plan to explore nearby beach towns like Mazunte, Zipolite, or San Agustinillo.
Getting Around Puerto Escondido
After arriving via one of the many Puerto Escondido flights, you’ll find getting around town is easy. Many areas, like Rinconada, Zicatela, and La Punta, are walkable. For longer distances, taxis and colectivos (shared vans) are affordable and widely used. Renting a scooter or bike is also a popular option for independent travelers who want to explore the area freely.
