Experiences and extras
At Casa Leah, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, extras and tours are added after booking, through the guest app (Whistle). The website charges only for your suite and never for extras. Here is what you can add, with starting prices where they exist, and the real seasons for each tour.
How extras work
First, reserve your suite at casaleah.co/book. Afterward, in the Whistle guest app, choose whatever you would like to add: an airport transfer, breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, a pet, or drinks waiting in your fridge. Tours and massages are requested through the guest app or on WhatsApp.
The website does not charge for extras. You book quickly, then shape the rest of your stay at your own pace, once you know your flight times and your plans.
Extras with a price
Prices in Mexican pesos. If the app shows a different price, the app's price applies.
| Extra | Price |
|---|---|
| Airport transfer PXM to or from Casa Leah (one way, up to four guests) | from 800 MXN |
| Leah breakfast package (chilaquiles, entomatadas or enfrijoladas, with egg or tasajo; coffee, agua fresca and fruit) | from 250 MXN per person |
| Six Coronas in your fridge before you arrive | 250 MXN |
| Pet up to 10 kg | 400 MXN per night |
| Early check-in (subject to availability) | 1,000 MXN |
| Late check-out until 2 pm | 500 MXN |
In-suite massage
The concierge can arrange a massage in your suite, on the day you arrive or at the close of a long day by the sea. Request it through the guest app (Whistle) or on WhatsApp, and we will confirm the time.
Baby turtle release
At Playa Bacocho, the Vivemar turtle camp protects nests and releases hatchlings close to sunset. According to the camp, the main nesting season runs roughly from August to March. Releases depend on hatchlings emerging, so there is no fixed calendar.
It is brief, quiet and quite moving, especially for families. The concierge will help you confirm whether a release is likely during your stay and arrive in time.
Whale watching (in season)
Humpback whales pass along the Oaxaca coast each winter. Local operators place the season from December to March, with some starting in November. Boat trips usually last about three hours and leave from Playa Principal or Puerto Angelito; dolphins and turtles are often seen as well.
Sightings are never certain; they depend on the sea and a little luck. The concierge will suggest trusted operators and the best time to go.
Manialtepec Lagoon and bioluminescence
Manialtepec Lagoon, west of Puerto Escondido, is known for its bioluminescence: at night, the water glows wherever it is disturbed. Sources agree that the best time is the rainy season, roughly May to November (some say from April), on moonless nights when the sky is darkest.
Tours usually leave in the evening. Ask the concierge about the moon phase during your dates before you book.
Surfing Zicatela, La Punta and Carrizalillo
Zicatela, 47 steps from Casa Leah, is the Mexican Pipeline: a powerful wave for experienced surfers. According to surf guides, the largest swells arrive roughly from May to October; from November to April the sea is usually gentler.
If you are learning, lessons take place at La Punta, at the southern end of Zicatela, or at Carrizalillo, a more sheltered bay. The concierge can book a lesson or a board rental with a local school.
| Experience | Best time (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Baby turtle release (Playa Bacocho) | August to March |
| Humpback whales | December to March (sometimes from November) |
| Bioluminescence at Manialtepec | May to November, moonless nights |
| Big waves at Zicatela | May to October |
| Surf lessons at La Punta or Carrizalillo | Year-round, depending on the sea |
FAQ
How do I add extras to my booking?
After booking your suite, open the guest app (Whistle) and choose what you would like: an airport transfer, breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, a pet, or drinks in the fridge. The website does not charge for extras. Tours and massages are requested in the same app or on WhatsApp.
How much is the airport transfer?
A private transfer between PXM airport and Casa Leah starts from 800 MXN each way, for up to four guests. The airport is about 15 minutes away. Add it after booking through the guest app, along with your flight number and arrival time.
When is whale watching season in Puerto Escondido?
Local operators place humpback whale season from December to March, with some starting in November. Boat trips last about three hours. Whales keep their own schedule, so it is worth going with an operator who knows these waters well.
When can you see the bioluminescence at Manialtepec?
The best time is the rainy season, roughly May to November, on moonless nights. Sources do not fully agree on the exact months, so ask the concierge how the lagoon is looking during your dates before you book the tour.
When are baby turtles released?
At Playa Bacocho, the Vivemar camp releases hatchlings close to sunset during the nesting season, roughly August to March. Releases depend on hatchlings emerging, so the concierge will help you confirm whether one is likely during your stay.
Can I take a surf lesson if I have never surfed?
Yes, though not at Zicatela, which is a wave for experienced surfers. Beginner lessons take place at La Punta, at the southern end of Zicatela, or at Carrizalillo. The concierge can book a local school and suggest the best time based on the sea.
