I’ve seen a fair few sunsets in my lifetime, but nothing compares to those I witnessed in Puerto Escondido. The 30 minutes after the sun goes down is insanely beautiful – reds, yellows, oranges, pinks, holy moly!  After two months living in Puerto, I sussed out the best sunset spots to watch that glorious sun go down on the Oaxacan coast. 

So let’s do it – here are the best sunset spots in Puerto Escondido, starting with my favourite.

las tortugas viewpoint full with people at sunset in puerto escondido, mexico
Everyday at sunset, people gather with blankets and music at Las Tortugas.

Located near Rinconada in between Playa Carazillio and Playa Coral, Mirador Las Tortugas is the dreamiest sunset spot and cannot be missed.

Head down there early to get a spot, armed with a blanket, speaker and some beers.  There is such a beautiful communal atmosphere around sunset time, and if you’re observant (and lucky) you might see a humpback whale swimming close to the shore.  I definitely had a few ‘fuck how is this my life’ moments at the Mirador.

Be sure to stay until at least 30 minutes after the sun has gone down because the sky is the most dreamy and colourful. Then, walk approximately five minutes to Oaxaca Grill, ready to eat the best burger of your life. Oaxaca Grill features on my list of the Best Cheap Eats in Puerto Escondido; check it out later.

sunset at playa bacocho in puerto escondido with palm tree and lots of people watching sunset on sand

Playa Bacocho is a wild, unspoilt beach in Puerto Escondido and an incredible spot to watch the sunset.  And I won’t have anyone tell me otherwise! For sure, it’s a little bit further out of town but if you tie it in with the turtle release or Wednesday outdoor cinema night at Villa Sol Beach Club, it’s worth the trip.

Read later: 11 Best Things to Do in Puerto Escondido

It’s such a huge beach that it never feels busy. I’ve spent many dreamy evenings there, listening to the thunder-like crashing of the waves and the multicoloured sky. As it’s so wild, there are no shops or bars selling beer, so bring your own, along with snacks.

lots of people watching outdoor cinema at Villa de Sol, sand of playa bacocho beach, puerto escondido
Wednesdays at Villa de Sol, Playa Bacocho, Puerto Escondido.
a silhouette of people playing volleyball at la punta in puerto escondido at sunset
Playing sunset volleyball on Playa La Punta, Puerto Escondido.

La Punta is a laid-back, hippy backpacker beach town, and there’s a reason why it’s so popular among travellers – sunsets on La Punta Beach are unreal!

Head there 30 minutes before sunset with a blanket and some beers to soak in the atmosphere. I’m talking live music, fire performers, volleyball, and entrepreneur backpackers selling baked goods. It’s a vibe. 

Zicatela stretches 4km and has epic sunset views. The best thing about watching the sunset at Playa Zicatela is the bars and unlimited cold 7/11 beers. My favourite bar to watch the sunset is Palpita Bar, which offers cheap pina coladas and free volleyball! Be careful, though; Playa Zicatela isn’t the safest place to swim because of the huge waves. Save for later: Is Puerto Escondido Safe? (2024)

Mirador Punta Colorada is a real local hang out, and you definitely need a motorbike or car to get there.

You just need to turn off on a dirt road opposite the airport. There’s nothing here apart from a glorious sunset view, so definitely bring a blanket, drinks, snacks, speakers, etc.

So there we are—my speedy round-up of the best sunset spots in Puerto Escondido. I’ll catch you there!

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