Sayulita is indeed a beach town that has been gaining popularity rapidly over the years. This picturesque destination has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a bustling hotspot for travelers from around the world. Despite its growing popularity, Sayulita has managed to retain its chill, charming, and hip atmosphere, which keeps visitors coming back time and again.

How to Get to Sayulita

By Car (Best Option)

• From Puerto Vallarta: Sayulita is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive north via Highway 200. Renting a car at Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) is the most convenient way to explore both destinations. RENT A CAR HERE
• From Guadalajara: It’s about a 4-5 hour drive to Sayulita.

By Bus (Budget-Friendly)

• Take a Compostela bus from the Puerto Vallarta bus station (near the airport). Look for a green-and-white bus labeled “Sayulita.” The ride takes about 1.5 hours and costs around 50 MXN ($3 USD).
• Buses run every 20-30 minutes during the day.

By Taxi or Uber (Faster, But More Expensive)

• A taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita costs around 800-1,500 MXN ($45-$80 USD).
• Uber is usually cheaper, but availability can vary.

Private Shuttle (Most Comfortable)

• Private transfers from the airport or hotel in Puerto Vallarta range from $80-$150 USD one way, depending on the service and group size.

Every time we visit Sayulita, we make a stop in Puerto Vallarta too—I like to call it The Ultimate Coastal Duo. Puerto Vallarta brings the vibrant nightlife, rich culture, luxury resorts, and great shopping and dining. Sayulita, on the other hand, has a laid-back vibe, filled with local crafts, small shops, and a real sense of community. It’s a surfer’s and wellness lover’s paradise.

The best part? They’re less than an hour apart, making it super easy to experience both! We always rent a car at the Puerto Vallarta airport, spend 3–4 days soaking up the city energy, and then unwind in Sayulita for another 3–4 days. It’s the perfect balance, and I can’t recommend it enough! RENT A CAR HERE

Things to Do in Sayulita

Explore the charming town

Start your adventure in the lively main square, where those classic Mexican letters set the scene for a fiesta you won’t forget.

But the real magic happens on Calle Delfines. This Instagram darling is a riot of color, thanks to its famous papel picado fluttering in the breeze. Get your cameras ready because every corner of this street is a photo op waiting to happen!

Looking for a quieter escape? Take a stroll down El Palmar Avenue until you reach Playa Norte—a serene slice of paradise where you can unwind without the crowds.

And don’t forget to admire Sayulita’s artistic side. The town’s walls are adorned with stunning murals that add to its vibrant personality and cultural richness.

Ride the waves!

Surfing is a must-do activity in Sayulita, and for good reason—it’s one of Mexico’s top surfing spots, catering to all levels and board types, whether you’re into longboarding, shortboarding, or paddleboarding.

For the ultimate surf experience, plan your visit between December and April when the waves roll in consistently from the north. With ideal conditions during these months, you’re guaranteed to catch some epic waves and make the most of your time on the water!

Marietas Islands Hidden Beach

The Marietas Islands Hidden Beach, also known as Playa del Amor or Lover’s Beach, is a stunning and unique beach located within the Marietas Islands National Park off the coast of Nayarit, Mexico.

Before you book, I recommend calling your booking company (we booked with Vallarta Adventures) to check on which days you can actually access the Hidden Beach (Playa Escondida). The Marietas Islands and Secret Beach are part of a National Park, and there is no access on Mondays or Tuesdays. Additionally, access depends on the weather. On the morning of our tour, we were informed that we couldn’t access the Hidden Beach due to weather conditions, so we were taken on a different tour instead. It was informative, interesting, and fun, but not what we had signed up for.

Explore the beautiful beaches of Sayulita

Sayulita Main Beach: This long, pristine stretch is perfect for families. With its array of amenities including bars, restaurants, lounge chairs, and surfboard rentals, everything you need is within reach. For families with kids, it’s an ideal spot as everything is conveniently close by. Accessible from Calle Marlin, Calle Delfines, or Calle Gaviota, it’s easy to find. If you’re seeking a quieter escape, take a stroll to Playa Norte, just a stone’s throw away to the right.

Los Muertos Beach: To reach Los Muertos, enjoy a scenic walk down Pescadores Street from downtown Sayulita, passing by the colorful cemetery—hence its name “Playa de los Muertos”. Remember to pack essentials (no amenities here) like water, snacks, and your towel for a day of tranquility on this beautiful, secluded beach!

Zipline tour

Get ready for an epic ziplining adventure at Rancho Mi Chaparrita! If you’re a thrill-seeker like me, you’ll love the rush of ziplining here. It’s not your average ride—imagine soaring through the air like Superman or even flipping upside down for an extra adrenaline kick! Rancho Mi Chaparrita is the only spot I heard of where you can experience these crazy twists and turns. So hold on tight, and get ready to zip through the treetops like never before!

All About Money

Where to Stay in Sayulita

For a Relaxing, Nature-Filled Stay

• Playa Escondida – A secluded jungle-meets-beach resort, perfect for a peaceful retreat. BOOK HERE
• Amor Boutique Hotel – Oceanfront villas with dreamy views and a tranquil vibe. BOOK HERE

For Surf & Adventure Lovers

• Selina Sayulita – A fun spot for digital nomads and surfers, with a coworking space. BOOK HERE
• Aurinko Bungalows – Simple, colorful, and just steps from the beach. BOOK HERE

For Luxury & Comfort

• Hotel Ysuri – Beachfront with an infinity pool and stylish suites. BOOK HERE
• Distrito 88 – Adults-only boutique hotel with a chic design and personalized service. BOOK HERE

For Budget Travelers

• La Redonda Sayulita – A lively hostel with a social vibe, great for solo travelers. BOOK HERE
• Lush Hostel – A mix of dorms and private rooms with jungle views. BOOK HERE

For a Homey, Local Feel

• Casa Nawalli – A small, adults-only boutique stay with a lush garden. BOOK HERE
• Airbnb & Vacation Rentals – Sayulita has tons of stylish casitas and beachfront bungalows for families or groups.

Vegan-Friendly Mexican Delights

Where to Eat in Sayulita

Sayulita offers a variety of dining options for vegans, ensuring you can enjoy delicious plant-based meals during your stay. Here are some vegan-friendly restaurants to check out:

The Real Fish Taco: Despite its name, this popular eatery offers vegan options, including tasty vegan tacos and burritos filled with fresh veggies and flavorful plant-based proteins.

ChocoBanana: Known for its healthy and organic fare, ChocoBanana serves up a range of vegan dishes, from smoothie bowls and salads to vegan burgers and wraps. Don’t miss their delicious vegan desserts, including dairy-free ice cream and cakes.

El Itacate: This cozy spot offers a selection of vegan-friendly Mexican dishes, such as tacos, tamales, and enchiladas, made with plant-based ingredients and flavorful spices.

Naty’s Cocina: Naty’s Cocina specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine with vegan options available. Enjoy dishes like vegan chilaquiles, tacos, and quesadillas, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Organik: A health-conscious cafe offering a range of vegan and vegetarian options, including salads, wraps, smoothies, and juices made with organic ingredients. They also have gluten-free options available.

WHEN YOU PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS, YOU SUPPORT US AT NO EXTRA COST – THANK YOU SO MUCH!