This onetime fishing village (pop. around 5,000) on the Costa Nayarit (the Pacific coast of Nayarit state), an hour north of Puerto Vallarta, today is known as one of the best surfing destinations in the world as well as a favorite of backpackers looking for adventure on a budget. On top of that, Sayulita is known for good eating and vibrant nightlife, and the offerings on its colorful streets are rounded out by a yoga scene and bohemian boutiques while navigating the colorful streets.
Best Things to Do
Go Surfing!
Surf culture is integral to Sayulita’s identity. And while experienced surfers can find challenging waves, it´s especially good for newbies and learners, with the main beach break producing slow, forgiving swells over a sandy bottom. And of course there are more than 15 surf schools (one even run by Finns!), with up to 50 instructors on the beach every morning. Other local beaches include La Lancha (for intermediates and advanced), Playa Norte (advanced), and San Pancho (also beginner-friendly, but much less crowded).
Go Beaching
Shallow-water Playa Sayulita is the main, central strand, lined with plenty of beach bars and restaurants, and offering other activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. But it can get a bit crowded at times (come midweek for a more chill experience), so other more laid back options include Playa Norte (great for sunsets, and you can also witness baby sea turtles being released into the sea here between late October and early December), Playa las Cuevas (small, and also a bit rough for swimming), larger, mile-long Playa Malpaso (a bit more isolated, and great for peace and quiet), Playa de los Muertos (Beach of the Dead, named for a nearby cemetery, and best for calm swimming), Playa Carricitos (also a winner for sunsets), and wide, half-mile Playa Patzcuarito (great for families and horseback riding). And by the way, one thing you won´t find at any of these are motorized sports like jetskiing.
Yoga
Yoga, Pilates, and wellness flourish here amid a blend of jungle and sea, with top choices including Blue Sayulita and Haramara Retreat. You can also take a yoga class on the beach.
Adventure Sports
There are hiking trails exposing you to beautiful views of the ocean. Or you can even go for zip-lining, mountain biking, and ATV tours.
Whale Watching
The Pacific waters off the coast and Bay of Banderas are known on the annual migration route for humpback whales, from December to April. One great local whale-watching outfit is La Orca de Sayulita, with three-hour, biologist-led tours.
Sunset Watching
As I mentioned before, you´ll find some spectacular ones here, especially between April and October, and the best beaches to catch them are Patzcuarito and Carricitos.
Where to Stay
There are dozens of lodging options, from charming guesthouses and bare-bones hostels to full-amenity resorts. Here are three standouts:
Playa Escondida
Just a short stroll from the center of town, this boutique eco-friendly resort has 30 rooms on a beach shrouded by jungle and is known for its outdoor activities, wellness activities, and stylish, delicious food (with excellent options for vegetarians and even vegans).
El Pueblito Sayulita
Located in a prime spot near Playa Sayulita, it consists of 27 suites arranged around a pool courtard, with comfortable kitchens and living rooms. There´s also a good on-premises restaurant serving Mexican and Italian dishes.
Villa Amor
A six-story collection of 30 one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas with spectalar views over the bay and amenities include a yoga studio, an on-site restaurant, and a swimming pool.
Eat and Drink
A quaint, funky spot open for lunch with excellent coffee, smoothies, smoothie bowls, and vegetarian options (do try the sourdough avocado toast!).
A well known bar ideal great for people watching while downing delicious margaritas (try the mango and passionfruit) and listening to live music..
A modern café serving healthy breakfasts and lunches along with some of the best coffee in town.
A local favorite is a great bar for drinking delicious cocktails while playing board or card games.
El Itacate
It´s known for its shrimp and fish tacos, but the house special is the eponymous itacate, arrachera steak wrapped in a delicious crust of fried cheese.
Mary’s
Head here for enjoying seafood tacos with unique sauces and toppings. You will have to wait in a queue, but to have delicious tacos, it is worth it.
More info: Sayulita.com.
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