Set in Oaxaca, the town of Puerto Escondido is a through and through beach destination. Think palm-lined sand, beach bars, a lot of pretty buzzing nightlife, and you get the picture. If you’re thinking of getting a tan, or partying hard, in Mexico, then a trip to Puerto Escondido is in order.
It’s not just the beach and parties that attract people to this place though. It’s also known by surfers the world over for the Mexican Pipeline, a famed surf break just off Zicatela Beach, as well as some other prime surf spots.
However, it’s not that easy to find a good hostel in Puerto Escondido. First of all, it depends SO much on what you want to do, and long you want to be there – THEN comes to long task of actually trawling through different sites trying to find the answer.
Stay put though, because I have created this insider’s guide to the very best hostels in Puerto Escondido to help you find the perfect hostel for your travel plans as well as your budget.
Now all that’s left to do is scroll down and let my guide do the hard work for you!
Photo: @audyscala
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Puerto Escondido
- Best Overall Hostel in Puerto Escondido – Vivo Escondido Hostel
- Best Hostel in Puerto Escondido for Solo Travellers – Tower Bridge Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Puerto Escondido – Pipeline Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Puerto Escondido – La Escondida Hostel
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Puerto Escondido – Selina Puerto Escondido
The 5 Best Hostels in Puerto Escondido
If you find yourself staying in Oaxaca, you’ll probably end up in Puerto Escondido as well. And if you do, you’ll be in for a real treat! From relaxing on Zicatela Beach to meeting fellow travellers and partying all night, there are endless options for a great trip in the little town. To make sure you’re well-recharged for the next day, check out the best hostels in Puerto Escondido below.
1. Vivo Escondido Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Puerto Escondido
- Dorm (mixed): From $14
- Address: Calle Barriletes 2 Esq. Mantarraya, Rinconada, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Whether you’re looking to party, catch some waves, or chill out Vivo Escondido Hostel has something for you. Located right on the beach (hello, surfers) start your day by riding some waves, plus there’s a fun party atmosphere at this budget hostel in Puerto Escondido; the staff want to get everybody involved and having fun.
If you want to meet other travellers whilst backpacking Mexico and make incredible memories, this is the place to be. There’s an immense outdoor pool and bar ideal for a few drinks and chilling during the day. To help the hangover the next day there are hammocks to rock you gently in the sea breeze (as well as a free breakfast, too). A perfect mix of chill and social vibes.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super fun and social atmosphere
- Walking distance from the beach
- Outdoor pool and bar
The mixed dorm rooms are air-conditioned which is a lifesaver in the peak summer heat and each bed comes with a privacy curtain, and reading light, plus they have private rooms available if you’re feeling fancy and need some space. I’d even go as far as it’s one of the best hostels in Mexico, with prices that make us budget backpackers do a little dance, check yourself in and thank me later.
2. Tower Bridge Hostel – Best Hostel in Puerto Escondido for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $10
- Private Room: From $30
- Address: Oceano Antartico No. 01, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
There’s a truly awesome social feel to this hostel which is why it’s EASILY my top pick for the best hostel in Puerto Escondido for solo travellers. It has everything you need for a relaxing stay in Puerto Escondido at an unbeatable price. There’s an outdoor pool to hang out around (complete with a net for pool volleyball), events going on all the time, trips to waterfalls, oh and a spot of beer pong to seal the deal.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Outdoor pool with volleyball net
- Daily social events
- Fun, social atmosphere
When you’re by yourself in a new place it’s not JUST about the atmosphere though. Sometimes getting from A to B can be a total drag, so the free shuttle the hostel puts on to beaches on the daily is very, very much appreciated. If you’re solo travelling Mexico you don’t want to miss out on this one.
3. Pipeline Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Puerto Escondido
- Dorm (mixed): From $10
- Private Room: From $23
- Address: El morro 3, Esquina de las Olas, Puerto Escondido, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
The best thing about this hostel? The views. Honestly: the rooftop here has some INSANE views of the sea and is, like, THE spot to be if you want to soak up a stunner of a sunset. A very, very chill place to hang out.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super cheap prices
- Rooftop with insane views
- Chilled vibe
There’s some great value for money going on here. The sunset alone is worth the nightly rate, but the location – literally right next to the sea – is also amazing. It’s easily the best cheap hostel in Puerto Escondido; don’t go expecting the Ritz, but the staff are nice, it’s decent enough, and you’ll save more money for tours, drinks and surf lessons!
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View on Osprey View on REI4. La Escondida Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Puerto Escondido
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Private Room: From $27
- Address: Jacarandas 2164, Sector Juarez, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Even though this town is known for partying, you can always take that up a notch by staying in the overall BEST party hostel that Puerto Escondido has to offer. Seriously this place has an incredible atmosphere: the sort of hostel that feels more like hanging out with a new bunch of best mates than a load of randoms in some communal space.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super fun and social atmosphere
- Heaps of daily activities
- Friendly and welcoming staff
That’s partly down to the TON of activities going on every day – you can thank the social, welcoming staff for those – but also partly down to the super fun terrace where everyone tends to congregate. You might book for one night, but trust us: you’ll want to extend your stay!
5. Selina Puerto Escondido – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Puerto Escondido
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Private Room: From $80
- Address: Calle del Morro s/n Colonia Marinero, Playa Zicatela, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
This is definitely the best hostel for digital nomads in Puerto Escondido. Not only is there a SOLID internet connection (which is very, very helpful), but there are actually dedicated workstations set up so that you can sit with your laptop and get whatever work needs doing, DONE.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Awesome co-working space
- FAST and reliable WIFI
- Outdoor pool
And when that work is done? This top Puerto Escondido hostel comes complete with a pool to refresh in, and its very own bar, which is obviously the place to be for nocturnal activities. Digital nomads should definitely consider booking themselves into this awesome spot.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Puerto Escondido Hostels
If you thought five wasn’t enough, never fear! I’ve got more epic hostels coming your way! Keep scrolling for more 🙂
6. Nomad Hostel & Beach Club – Best Hostel for Couples in Puerto Escondido
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Private Room: From $30
- Address: Calle la Lagunita Andador Alfonso Perez Gasga, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
First things first: location. This Puerto Escondido hostel is blessed with a very decent location. It’s just a short walk to Zicatela Beach and – of course – all the beach bars located here. The hostel even has its own bank of sun loungers at the beach which you can use FOR FREE. Which I love.
The staff are nice, the rooms are clean and spacious, and some of the private rooms even come with their very own balconies. If you’re here with your other half, booking the best hostel for couples in Puerto Escondido is pretty much a no-brainer. That’s this place, by the way!
7. Casa Losodeli
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Private Room: From $46
- Address: Prol. 2a Norte s/n, esq., Carretera Costera Col. Centro, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
The perfect place to relax in by the sea, Casa Losodeli is in easy reach of beaches for swimming and is also just a short walk from the bus station, too. It’s this convenient location which is just one of the reasons that make this one of the best hostels in Puerto Escondido.
But it’s not all about relaxing. The staff here are on hand to help organise events, activities and tours – as well as onward travel – to make sure you have a full schedule and never get bored. On the other hand, if you just want to chill, you can easily do that at this Puerto Escondido hostel, too.
Just grab a place by the pool and space out. It’s also a surfers paradise close to some of the best surf beaches in Puerto Escondido.
8. Hostel Akumal La Punta
- Dorm (mixed): From $15
- Private Room: From $38
- Address: Justo Salvador 2 Casi esquina A Cardenas, Colonia Brisas de Zicatela, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
A laid back beach hostel, this place has a bunch of chill-out spaces where you can kick back and while away the hours basically doing nothing. At the same time, there’s a decent social atmosphere here and great staff who make everyone feel welcome.
Here it’s all about the rooftop: UNREAL views (and sunsets), nice music, good company, and reasonable drinks really help to make this place one of the best hostels in Puerto Escondido for solo travellers. Obviously don’t expect crazy party vibes, but a homely place where you can maybe make a few new mates. A great all-rounder.
9. Che Puerto Escondido Hostel & Bar
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $133
- Address: Calle Hidalgo S/N Santa Maria Colotepec, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
With its super friendly atmosphere, this hostel is a very fun place to stay. But it isn’t just about the atmosphere of this top hostel in Puerto Escondido that makes it what it is: the location is also awesome.
It’s located near some pretty cool bars, cafes and restaurants, but it’s also very near to a couple of beaches – take your pick! The hostel itself has a super fun social atmosphere and a pool to chill out in (or around) after a busy day exploring. If you’re looking for a fun hostel with sexy facilities and cheap prices, this is one of the best hostels in Puerto Escondido. No doubt.
10. Viajero Puerto Escondido Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Private Room: From $45
- Address: Justo Salvador Maldonado (Sin numero exterior) con, Puerto Escondido, Mexico
This hostel is setting the bar high, start your day with a surf lesson, yoga on the beach or chilling by the pool. Viajero Puerto Escondido Hostel has created a fun and social atmosphere to bring travellers together and create amazing memories.
And aside from being a cheap hostel, the rooms are super comfy and they have some swanky private rooms available. The staff are super friendly making you feel welcome, creating a relaxed vibe without the pressure to party.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Puerto Escondido
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Puerto Escondido.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Puerto Escondido
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Puerto Escondido.
What to Pack for your Puerto Escondido Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Puerto Escondido?
It all depends on whether you prefer a private room with an ensuite bathroom, or a bed in a shared dorm. the average price starts at USD$14 for a bed in a shared dorm room, heading up to USD$20+ for a private room.
What are the best hostels in Puerto Escondido for couples?
Just a short walk to the beach and some private rooms even come with balconies, staying in Nomad Hostel & Beach Club with your other half is pretty much a no-brainer.
What are the best hostels near the Puerto Escondido International Airport?
Casa Del Alma is just 1.6km from Puerto Escondido International Airport.
Final Thoughts on Puerto Escondido’s Hostels
There you have it people – the very best hostels in Puerto Escondido. You will be spoiled for choice with all these great hostels. But whatever you are on the lookout for, I reckon you will find something to suit you in this handy guide. From the best party hostel to the cheapest place to crash, there was something in here for everyone!
If you still can’t decide – don’t worry! My top pick for the best overall hostel in Puerto Escondido is Vivo Escondido Hostel and it’s an absolute winner every time.
Wherever you end up staying, I hope you have an incredible time in Puerto Esconidio 🙂
Photo: Ana Pereira
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Mexico for a wealth of info!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Puerto Escondido if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Puerto Escondido before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Mexico to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America backpacking guide.
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