Passing through Puerto Escondido International Airport? A layover in Puerto Escondido is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Puerto Escondido, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Mexico vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Puerto Escondido is roughly 30 minutes from PXM via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in MXN. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Spend Your Time in Puerto Escondido
Two recommendations for your time in Puerto Escondido:
Start with Playa Zicatela. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Puerto Escondido. Then, if time allows, make your way to Playa Carrizalillo. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Puerto Escondido.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PXM, check out PXM Airport Waiting Area & Tarmac Views or Airport Souvenir Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Puerto Escondido
From PXM, the Taxi gets you to Puerto Escondido in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Eat
For food in Puerto Escondido, local travelers recommend El Coste Cevicheria & Fish Tacos. If you have time for a second stop, Almoraduz Cocina de Origen is another popular pick.
Back at PXM, PXM Airport Cafeteria is the go-to. Airport Snack & Drink Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Puerto Escondido, budget roughly $28 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $12 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Puerto Escondido.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PXM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Puerto Escondido itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Mexico that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage at PXM
Dedicated luggage storage at PXM may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Puerto Escondido’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Need a Nap? Options at PXM
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PXM has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Puerto Escondido genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.