Sayulita, Nayarit's surf town
Papel picado over the streets, boards leaning on every corner and a bay with gentle waves where plenty of people stand up for the very first time.
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Where to stay in Sayulita
Village posadas, hillside casitas and beachfront hotels, with rates that refresh automatically.
Sayulita beaches and corners
Everything is close: the plaza, the main beach and two neighboring towns for half-day escapes.
- Nov–AprBest time to visit
- ≈ 45 minFrom Puerto Vallarta airport
- 2015Pueblo Mágico since
- Dec–MarHumpback whales offshore
An ordinary day in Sayulita
Sunset strolls, colorful letters in the plaza and pangas waiting for the next trip out.
- Sunset stroll · Peon In Politics (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- The Sayulita sign · গীতাশ্ৰী গগৈ আপ্তে (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Pangas and lifeguards · Luisalvaz (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Sayulita Beach · Luisalvaz (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Playa de los Muertos · Luisalvaz (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- San Pancho beach · Luisalvaz (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Sayulita travel FAQ
What first-time visitors to Sayulita usually ask.
When is the best time to visit Sayulita?
November through April brings clear skies and low humidity, with humpback whales in the area from December to March. Holy Week, Christmas and New Year are the busiest dates. June to October brings near-daily afternoon rain, humid heat and the Pacific hurricane season.
How do I get there from the airport?
The closest airport is Puerto Vallarta (PVR), about 40 km away. By car or taxi the drive takes 45 minutes to an hour on Federal Highway 200. Regional buses also run from near the airport and stop at the entrance to town.
Can I learn to surf in Sayulita?
Yes, it is one of the best places in Mexico to start. Long, gentle waves break right in front of town, and beach surf schools rent boards and give lessons by the hour. Mornings tend to be less windy, and winter swells bring bigger waves for experienced surfers.
Which beach is best for swimming?
Playa de los Muertos, a cove to the south reached on foot past the town cemetery, usually has calmer water and is the family favorite. The main beach is more about surfing. After heavy rain, water quality in front of town can drop, so follow local advisories.
How many days should I stay?
A long weekend of 3 or 4 nights covers surf lessons, an afternoon in San Pancho, a boat trip to the Marietas Islands and dinners around the plaza. Many visitors who want to slow down or work remotely stay a week or longer.
Which part of town should I stay in?
Downtown puts you steps from the beach, plaza and restaurants, though weekend music runs late. The south side, toward Playa de los Muertos, is more residential and quiet. The northern hills have homes and hotels with bay views, but expect stairs or steep streets.
Can I visit the Marietas Islands from Sayulita?
Yes. Operators leave from Sayulita or from Punta de Mita, about 30 minutes away. The islands are a national park, and access to the famous Hidden Beach is tightly limited: only licensed tours, a small daily quota, and you swim the last stretch in a life jacket. Book well ahead.
What should I eat in Sayulita?
Fish and shrimp tacos, aguachile, wood-grilled pescado zarandeado and seafood tostadas from stands around the plaza and beach. Town also has cafés, bakeries and plenty of vegan options. Before you leave, look for Wixárika beadwork in the shops downtown.
Do I need a car in Sayulita?
Not within town: everything is walkable, and downtown streets are narrow with little parking. For San Pancho, Punta de Mita or Puerto Vallarta there are taxis and buses, and rental golf carts are popular for short hops.
What documents do I need?
US citizens and other international visitors need a valid passport and must complete Mexico's entry process at the airport. Travelers flying from elsewhere in Mexico only need an official ID to fly into Puerto Vallarta.
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