Top 5 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Puerto Escondido

A beautiful seaside view of a secluded cove in Puerto Escondido, Mexico with clear blue waters and lush greenery.
Julio Maciel, Pexels

Puerto Escondido's bar and drinking scene is vibrant, primarily centered around the relaxed, pre-party atmosphere of La Punta and the late-night, energetic hub of Zicatela. Visitors can find a range of venues from sunset cocktail spots to lively dance clubs, catering to diverse preferences.

Entertainment and Music:

The music and entertainment scene in Puerto Escondido transitions from relaxed, live music evenings in La Punta to energetic, late-night parties and diverse music genres in Zicatela.

For live music, La Punta offers venues like Punta Vida, known for its Sunday gatherings with DJs, and Punta Origen, which hosts open mic nights. In Zicatela, the scene is more geared towards lively nights, with spots such as Mar & Wana and Barracuda Beach Bar regularly featuring live bands and DJs.

1. Punta Vida

Type: Beachfront Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

Perched on the beachfront in La Punta, this venue offers stunning sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for starting an evening. The focus is on high-quality cocktails, and it often hosts a popular Sunday BBQ party. The ambiance remains lively until around midnight.

Getting There: Located directly on La Punta beach. Easily walkable from accommodations within La Punta.

2. Juana Mezcala

Type: Mezcal & Cocktail Bar

Situated on a main corner in La Punta, Juana Mezcala is a prime spot for exploring Mexico's signature spirit. The bar has a great atmosphere and offers a wide variety of mezcals, alongside other cocktails. It is known for its consistent good vibes most nights of the week.

Getting There: Located in the heart of La Punta. Easily walkable from accommodations within La Punta.

3. Bruja Bar

Type: Late-Night Dive Bar

Found on the Zicatela strip, Bruja Bar is a legendary spot with a distinctive red-lit interior, adorned with animal skulls, and a 'no reggaeton' sign. It offers an intimate, energetic atmosphere, often featuring live music, and is a favored choice for late-night drinks and dancing. The staff are welcoming and enhance the experience.

Getting There: Located on the Zicatela strip. Easily walkable from accommodations within Zicatela. From La Punta, a taxi is recommended (approximately 10-15 minutes, affordable fare).

4. Cactus Bar

Type: Nightclub / Beach Club

One of Zicatela's most popular nightlife destinations, Cactus Bar comes alive after midnight. It features electronic and dance music, attracting a mix of locals and visitors eager to party until the early morning. Monday nights are particularly vibrant, often including fire twirlers and dancers.

Getting There: Located in Zicatela. Easily walkable from accommodations within Zicatela. From La Punta, a taxi is recommended (approximately 10-15 minutes, affordable fare).

5. Play Pong

Type: Casual Bar with Activities

Located upstairs on the Zicatela strip, Play Pong offers a fun and active environment with multiple ping-pong tables. It is a popular spot for both remote workers and travelers to socialize and enjoy affordable drinks. Wednesday nights often feature salsa lessons and dancing.

Getting There: Located on the Zicatela strip. Easily walkable from accommodations within Zicatela. From La Punta, a taxi is recommended (approximately 10-15 minutes, affordable fare).