How to Choose the Perfect Vacation Rental in Puerto Escondido

Choosing the right place to stay can deeply shape your travel experience. Puerto Escondido offers a wide range of vacation rental properties, but not all of them match the same needs, travel styles, or rhythms. From families looking for peace and security to travelers interested in surfing, food, or

nightlife, each neighborhood offers something different.

Understanding the neighborhoods, their rhythms, and how they interact with the local community allows visitors to enjoy the destination respectfully and authentically. So before booking any of the hibiscus rentals, it helps to know what each area is like and what it offers.

This guide highlights the best rental properties by travel style:

Bacocho: tranquility, safety & nature

If you’re looking for a peaceful, safe, and quiet environment, Bacocho is one of the most recommended areas. It’s ideal for travelers seeking rest, relaxation, and a slower pace, making it perfect for families, remote workers, or anyone wanting to disconnect from city noise. The main local beach, Playa Bacocho, is known for its spacious shoreline where you can go for a walk to enjoy stunning sunsets.

Another advantage is its proximity to the aeropuerto and main city services. Even though Bacocho feels secluded, it’s only a short drive from supermarkets, the center of town, and Rinconada.

Bacocho offers convenient access to daily comforts without losing its residential charm. You’ll find small cafés, bakeries, and restaurants that prioritize fresh ingredients and local producers.

Rinconada & Carrizalillo: convenience, food & accessible beaches

Rinconada connects directly with Carrizalillo and offers a calm, walkable atmosphere with easy access to pharmacies, mini-markets, and a curated selection of coffee shops and restaurants. From here, you can walk to the famous Carrizalillo Bay one of Puerto Escondido’s most scenic beaches, ideal for swimming and beginner surfing. After the beach, it’s common to enjoy a fresh coconut, local seafood, or a brunch in a coffee within minutes.

Beyond beach access, Rinconada stands out for being one of the most practical neighborhoods for day-to-day living. It has a functional layout, paved streets, and a balanced mix of residential homes and small businesses, making it convenient for longer stays. The pedestrian-friendly environment encourages slower mornings, walks to get coffee, and casual dinners without transportation needs.

For travelers prioritizing comfort, safety, and access to amenities, Rinconada is considered one of the best rental properties zones

La Punta: surf culture & creative energy

La Punta has become one of the most talked-about areas of Puerto Escondido. Originally a local residential zone, it grew quickly during the pandemic and now offers a mix of surfing, boutique shops, cafés, markets, and authentic restaurants.

It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy walking, meeting new people, and exploring creative spaces. If you’re seeking total silence, it may not be the best fit, especially at night. Restaurants and cafés typically close around 11 pm, which makes for enjoyable, relaxed evenings.

Zicatela: world-class waves & nightlife

Zicatela is internationally known for its powerful waves, some reaching up to 15 meters, attracting professional surfers from around the world.

Beyond surfing, the beachfront strip is lined with bars, cafés, and restaurants, especially lively during high season. If nightlife is part of your travel plan, this area can be a great match. If not, consider the potential noise before booking in the neighborhood.

El Faro: local essence, ocean views & strategic access

El Faro is a peaceful residential area that maintains much of Puerto Escondido’s original essence, as many local families still live here. This gives the neighborhood an authentic atmosphere, less touristic and more aligned with the true coastal pace.

Located on a small hill overlooking the Pacific, El Faro offers privileged ocean views especially at sunset. Beyond its quiet and safe environment, one of its greatest advantages is its strategic location, sitting just minutes away from the town center, Rinconada, and Zicatela. This makes it easy to access cafés, beaches, restaurants, markets, and services without sacrificing privacy.

Outside Puerto Escondido: adventure, nature & slow travel

Another interesting lodging option is staying in the surrounding areas outside Puerto Escondido. Some examples include La Barra, Manialtepec, El Jícaro, among others. These places belong to different municipalities and are located in different directions from town, so it’s important to research the area you’re interested in and what amenities it offers.

These zones are ideal for travelers seeking more adventurous experiences or deeper connection with nature, as they are surrounded by vegetation, wildlife, and peaceful landscapes. Depending on where you stay, your experience will vary: in Manialtepec you can take a horseback expedition to the hot springs; from La Barra you can explore the river and nearby beaches or visit Zipolite and Mazunte; and from El Jícaro you can visit quieter beaches and explore the Manialtepec Lagoon.

Before booking in these areas, keep in mind that they are farther from town and not all services are fully developed, since many remain local, agricultural, or environmentally protected zones. Still, the community often provides authentic lodging, food, and activities always respecting local rules and the natural environment.

Many rentals today operate under professional property management, offering smooth check-ins, maintenance, and guest support. Still, conscious choices favor accommodations that respect the environment, collaborate with the local community, and maintain the natural harmony of the destination.

Puerto Escondido is unforgettable, especially when experienced with sensitivity and awareness.