Besides its obvious allure to beach lovers, the region pulls in the pros for the world-renowned annual surf contest, the Puerto Escondido Cup, held at Zicatela Beach. With a stunning shoreline, surf camps, paddle boarding, bikini contests and an array of ocean-centric activities, Puerto Escondido should be the aspiration of any sea-loving traveler. Surf shops set in tiny bungalows line the dusty roads along the sand and visitors and natives seem to know each other well. Pedestrians, as well as the shop-owners relaxing outdoors on beach chairs, seem to be both friendly and free-spirited.