While most travelers flock to the surfer haven of Zicatela or the bohemian vibe of La Punta, those seeking tranquility discover Bacocho—Puerto Escondido’s upscale yet understated neighborhood. This family-friendly enclave offers pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and proximity to all major attractions without the crowds. Whether you’re planning an extended family vacation, a romantic escape, or a peaceful digital nomad retreat, Bacocho delivers the perfect blend of serenity and accessibility that makes Puerto Escondido special.
Why Choose Bacocho for Your Puerto Escondido Stay
Bacocho stands as Puerto Escondido’s oldest planned subdivision, developed in the 1970s when the federal government designated the area for international tourism. Today, this established neighborhood maintains well-paved streets, reliable utilities, and a residential atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the bustling beach zones elsewhere in town. Located just 4 kilometers west of downtown and 10 minutes from Puerto Escondido International Airport, Bacocho occupies prime real estate along one of the coast’s most beautiful stretches.
The neighborhood attracts discerning travelers who appreciate peace without isolation. Unlike properties in Centro or Zicatela where street noise and party culture dominate, Bacocho offers quiet evenings, spacious properties with private pools, and a genuine residential feel. Many lots still feature lush gardens where birds fill the morning air with song—a rarity in increasingly developed beach towns. According to KAYAK’s vacation rental data, properties in Bacocho command premium rates averaging $422 per night, reflecting the area’s desirability and upscale amenities.
Perfect for Families and Groups
Bacocho excels as a family destination. The neighborhood’s calm streets allow children to play safely, while nearby private schools serve both local and expatriate families. Properties here typically offer more square footage than comparable rentals in Zicatela or La Punta, with full kitchens that help families save significantly on dining costs. Beach clubs provide safe swimming pools for young children—a crucial amenity since Playa Bacocho’s powerful surf makes ocean swimming dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.
| Buurt |
Beste voor |
Sfeer |
Gemiddeld nachttarief |
| Bacocho |
Families, luxury seekers, peace |
Quiet, residential, upscale |
$350-$500+ |
| Zicatela |
Surfers, party scene |
Lively, beach culture |
$80-$200 |
| La Punta |
Digital nomads, bohemian vibe |
Laid-back, creative |
$100-$250 |
| Rinconada |
Easy access, modern amenities |
Central, convenient |
$150-$350 |
Playa Bacocho: Beauty Without the Crowds
Playa Bacocho stretches for kilometers along the coast, creating one of Puerto Escondido’s longest and most photogenic beaches. White sand meets turquoise waters beneath towering palms, with virtually no development marring the natural beauty. The beach remains remarkably uncrowded even during high season—you can walk for 20 minutes in either direction and encounter only a handful of other beachgoers.
The powerful Pacific surf that crashes here attracts advanced surfers seeking less crowded waves than the famous Mexican Pipeline at Zicatela, though the shore break makes it challenging even for experienced riders. Most visitors come for long romantic walks, spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks, and the daily baby turtle releases that have become one of Puerto Escondido’s signature experiences.
The Vive Mar Turtle Conservation Program
Every evening at 5:00 PM, Vive Mar Sanctuary conducts turtle releases on Playa Bacocho. This nonprofit conservation initiative collects endangered sea turtle eggs from along the coast, incubates them safely, and releases hatchlings when they’re ready for their ocean journey. For 150 pesos (approximately $8 USD), visitors receive a baby turtle in a coconut shell, carry it to the shoreline, and watch as it makes its first swim into the Pacific.
Staff explain the threats these turtles face and the sanctuary’s vital conservation work. The experience creates an emotional connection with marine conservation while supporting crucial environmental efforts. Arrive by 4:00 PM to secure your spot, as the sanctuary releases whatever turtles hatched that day—sometimes there aren’t enough for all interested participants.
Beach Clubs: Resort Amenities Without Resort Prices
Bacocho hosts two excellent beach clubs that provide resort-style amenities at reasonable day-pass rates. Both offer pools, restaurants, bars, and beach access—perfect solutions since swimming in Bacocho’s powerful surf proves dangerous for most visitors.
Club Bacocho (formerly Villa Sol)
This recently expanded beach club features two large swimming pools including a family-friendly shallow area, a swim-up bar, tennis and padel courts, and sprawling landscaped gardens with towering palms. The facility operates from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. As of late 2025, day passes cost 1,600 pesos per person with 700 pesos applicable toward food and beverages at the beachfront restaurant Pez Gallo, which serves excellent breakfast and fresh seafood.
Hotel Suites Villasol guests enjoy complimentary access, while day visitors find the fee worthwhile for full-day beach experiences. Every Wednesday from December through April, the club hosts free open-air cinema nights on the beach at 7:00 PM—combine this with the 5:00 PM turtle release for an unforgettable evening.
Coco’s Club de Playa
Adjacent to Posada Real, Puerto Escondido’s only all-inclusive resort, Coco’s operates as an all-inclusive day pass facility. For 1,600 pesos per person (1,100 for children 6 and up), guests receive unlimited food, drinks, and snacks plus full access to pools, beach facilities, and even a lazy river. The club opens from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it ideal for families who want predictable costs and unlimited refreshments throughout the day.
Where to Eat and What to Do
While Bacocho itself maintains a primarily residential character, nearby Rinconada Street (Boulevard Benito Juárez) offers diverse dining and shopping just 15 minutes’ walk away. The neighborhood’s proximity to all of Puerto Escondido’s attractions means you’re never far from excellent restaurants, vibrant markets, or adventure activities.
Nearby Dining
La Julia, located at the intersection of Tehuantepec, Pochutla, and Tlaxiaco in Bacocho proper, serves traditional Oaxacan breakfast and lunch from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM (closed Tuesdays). For upscale dining, el Rincón de Los Almendros at the curve of Boulevard Benito Juárez toward Bacocho specializes in perfectly grilled steaks and an impressive parrillada featuring beef, chicken, quail, pork ribs, and chistorra sausage with all the traditional accompaniments.
Easy Access to All Beaches
Bacocho’s central west-side location provides convenient access to Puerto Escondido’s diverse beaches. Playa Coral lies just 5 minutes’ walk south over some large boulders—this protected cove offers calmer waters suitable for swimming. Carrizalillo Beach, with its stunning cliff-surrounded bay and crystal-clear snorkeling, sits just 5 minutes away by car or 15 minutes on foot. The famous surf breaks of Zicatela require only a 10-minute drive, while family-friendly Puerto Angelito and Playa Principal downtown are equally accessible.
Vacation Rental Options in Bacocho
Bacocho’s vacation rental inventory skews toward spacious homes and upscale villas rather than budget hostels or basic apartments. Properties typically feature private pools, multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and outdoor living areas—perfect for families or groups splitting costs. Many rentals offer ocean or mountain views from elevated positions along the hillside.
What to Expect
- Property Types: Custom homes, condos, beachfront villas, and residential houses with 2-5 bedrooms
- Price Range: $150-$600+ per night depending on size, amenities, and proximity to beach
- Standard Amenities: Private pools, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, full kitchens, multiple bathrooms
- Luxury Features: Infinity pools, rooftop terraces, ocean views, chef services, concierge assistance
The spacious beachfront property featured in our ocean view rentals guide exemplifies Bacocho’s upscale offerings—just 8 minutes’ walk from the beach with a fully equipped kitchen that helps families save up to $200 daily on restaurant meals.
Practical Information for Staying in Bacocho
Getting There and Around
Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) sits just 10 minutes from Bacocho by taxi (approximately 100-150 pesos). From Zicatela or La Punta, expect 10-15 minute taxi rides costing 50-80 pesos. While the neighborhood itself rewards exploration on foot, you’ll want transportation for beach-hopping and dining in other areas. Options include:
- Taxis: Abundant and affordable; always agree on price before departure (typical rides 30-80 pesos within Puerto Escondido)
- Colectivos: Shared vans running along main routes for 10-15 pesos per person
- Car or Scooter Rental: Provides maximum flexibility for exploring Bacocho and surrounding beaches ($25-50 USD per day)
Beste tijd voor een bezoek
Puerto Escondido enjoys warm temperatures year-round, but seasonal patterns affect your Bacocho experience:
| Seizoen |
Maanden |
Weer |
Voordelen |
Nadelen |
| Dry Season |
November-May |
Sunny, minimal rain |
Perfect beach weather, turtle season (July-December overlaps) |
Higher prices, more tourists |
| Wet Season |
June-October |
Afternoon storms, humid |
Lower prices, fewer crowds, lush landscapes |
Hurricane risk (rare), some businesses close |
Wat in te pakken
- Reef-safe sunscreen (150+ SPF recommended for tropical sun)
- Beach umbrella or shade tent (minimal natural shade on Playa Bacocho)
- Light, breathable clothing and sun protection
- Water shoes for rocky beach access points
- Reusable water bottles (beach clubs and rentals provide filtered water)
- Camera for spectacular sunsets and turtle releases
Booking Your Bacocho Vacation Rental
When searching for accommodations, focus on verified platforms with direct owner contact. Our Puerto Escondido vacation rental platform specializes in the local market with verified listings, transparent pricing, and local expertise. Look for properties with recent reviews, clear cancellation policies, and responsive hosts who can answer questions about amenities and neighborhood specifics.
For extended stays, many Bacocho properties offer discounted monthly rates—ask about long-term rental options if you’re planning to stay more than two weeks. Digital nomads particularly appreciate Bacocho’s reliable internet infrastructure and peaceful work environment.
Questions to Ask Property Owners
- Is high-speed internet (minimum 10 Mbps) available and reliable?
- Are beach towels, umbrellas, and coolers provided?
- What’s the walking distance to the nearest beach access point?
- Is there dedicated workspace if I need to work remotely?
- Are taxis easily available, or should I rent a vehicle?
- What security measures protect the property?
Making the Most of Your Bacocho Experience
Bacocho rewards travelers who appreciate quality over quantity—those who’d rather sip cocktails by a private pool than navigate crowded beach bars, who value spacious accommodations over proximity to nightlife, and who seek authentic residential neighborhoods instead of tourist zones. The area works beautifully as a home base for exploring all of Puerto Escondido while returning each evening to tranquility.
Plan your days around the neighborhood’s natural rhythm. Mornings bring cool breezes perfect for beach walks before temperatures climb. Afternoons suit pool time at your rental or beach club visits. Time your beach visits for the 5:00 PM turtle release, then stay for the spectacular sunset. Return to Bacocho for peaceful evenings under the stars, perhaps grilling dinner at your rental or enjoying the open-air cinema at Villa Sol on Wednesdays.
Safety and Practical Considerations
Bacocho ranks among Puerto Escondido’s safest neighborhoods, with well-lit streets, residential security, and an established community feel. Standard travel precautions apply: avoid displaying expensive jewelry, don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, and use registered taxis or ride-sharing services for evening transportation.
The beach’s powerful surf and undertow make swimming dangerous—stick to beach club pools or visit calmer beaches like Carrizalillo for ocean swimming. Lifeguards work certain beach sections during daylight hours, but always exercise caution near the water. Check our comprehensive vacation rental safety guide for additional property-specific security tips.
Why Bacocho Captures Puerto Escondido’s Best
This quiet paradise offers something increasingly rare in popular beach destinations: space to breathe. While other Puerto Escondido neighborhoods cater to specific niches—surfers in Zicatela, party-seekers in Centro, budget travelers in La Punta—Bacocho provides a balanced experience. You’re close enough to enjoy everything Puerto Escondido offers yet removed enough to escape when crowds overwhelm.
The neighborhood’s established infrastructure means reliable utilities, paved roads, and professional property management—crucial factors often overlooked until internet fails or water pressure disappears. Families appreciate the safety and space, couples love the romantic sunsets and upscale amenities, and anyone seeking peaceful luxury finds Bacocho delivers without the pretension or price tags of resort areas.
As Puerto Escondido continues growing as a premier Mexican beach destination—the area experienced a 700% increase in vacation rental reservations between 2022 and 2024 according to Oaxaca Tourism data—Bacocho maintains its character as the quiet alternative. Book your stay in this coastal paradise and discover why travelers return year after year, drawn by pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and the peaceful rhythm of life in Puerto Escondido’s most tranquil neighborhood.
Ready to Experience Bacocho’s Tranquility?
Browse our curated selection of verified vacation rentals in Bacocho and throughout Puerto Escondido. From beachfront villas to family-friendly homes with private pools, we help you find the perfect property for your peaceful paradise escape. Our local expertise ensures you book with confidence, enjoying transparent pricing and direct owner communication.
Contact our team for personalized recommendations based on your travel dates, group size, and preferences. Let us help you plan the quiet Puerto Escondido vacation you’ve been dreaming about.
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