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Local guide

Explore Sayulita

A surf village on the Nayarit coast: colourful, small and easy to walk. This is what we recommend to our guests.

You can walk across Sayulita in twenty minutes, but it is worth staying longer. These are our recommendations, sorted by the kind of day you want to have.

Beaches

The main beach sits in the middle of the village. The best afternoons are usually a little further out.

  • Playa Sayulita

    The town beach, with the river on one side and the beginner wave on the other. Lively all day.

  • Playa de los Muertos

    A calm cove to the south, ten minutes on foot past the cemetery. Gentler water.

  • Playa Carricitos

    Wilder and far less busy. Reached on foot or by taxi along the dirt road.

  • San Pancho

    The neighbouring village, 15 minutes by car. A wide beach, stronger surf and an even slower pace.

Surf

Sayulita is a good place to learn and a kind place to get back in the water.

  • The town wave

    Soft, consistent waves in front of the main beach. Ideal for beginners and improvers.

  • Schools and board rental

    Several schools work right on the beach. Lessons and boards are rented by the hour.

  • Breaks nearby

    By car or panga you can reach emptier breaks to the north and south.

  • Best timing

    Early, before the wind. That is also when the water is calmest.

Eat and drink

From street seafood to specialty coffee, almost everything is a few blocks away.

  • Simple seafood

    Pescado zarandeado, ceviche and shrimp tacos near the beach.

  • Morning cafés

    Several cafés open early around the plaza. A good place to start the day.

  • Neighbourhood kitchens

    Fondas and taquerías on the side streets, away from the tourist centre.

  • Sunset

    Terraces and bars facing the sea for the golden hour.

Markets and culture

The village has a life of its own beyond the beach.

  • Village market

    A weekly market of growers and makers during the high season.

  • Main plaza

    The heart of town: music, benches and people as the evening falls.

  • Huichol art

    Wixárika art in galleries and stalls in the centre. Ask about the origin of each piece.

  • Fiestas

    Día de Muertos and the patron saint festivals fill the streets with colour.

Day trips

If you want to move, there is plenty nearby.

  • Islas Marietas

    A nature reserve with regulated visits. Book ahead with authorised operators.

  • Punta Mita

    Half an hour south. Calm beaches and good surf points.

  • Monkey Mountain

    A short hike with a view over the coast. Best early, and bring water.

  • Puerto Vallarta

    About an hour away. Malecón, markets and flights.

Getting here and when to come

The practical part, in short.

  • Airport

    Puerto Vallarta (PVR) is the closest airport, about 45–60 minutes by car.

  • Airport to Sayulita

    Taxi, private transfer or bus to Sayulita from the nearby terminal.

  • Getting around

    The village is walkable. For the far beaches, take a taxi or golf cart.

  • Seasons

    The dry season runs from November to April. Summer is greener, more humid and quieter.

Explore Sayulita

Your base for exploring

Stay with us and walk to all of it.

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