A vibrant and captivating destination, that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures is what makes the colorful fishing town of Sayulita, Mexico. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, an adventurous soul, a culture aficionado, or simply someone looking to unwind and indulge in the laid-back atmosphere, Sayulita has something for everyone.
Nestled along the Pacific Coastline of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is highly accessible. Whether you are arriving from the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Latin America, Sayulita is about an hour’s taxi ride from the airport or average 90 mins bus ride. Sayulita is a haven for travelers seeking an extraordinary getaway, so if you’re interested in heading to this town for its chill, artistic vibes with a hint of magic, here are 10 fun things to do:
Sayulita Mexico – 10 Fun Things to Do on Your Next Visit
1. Learn to Surf
You cannot talk about Sayulita without acknowledging surfing as surfing is the very essence that brought this destination into limelight. Surfing in Sayulita, Mexico offers a fantastic addition to any vacation to the village. The waves are perfect for all skill levels. With a surfboard, you can easily dive into the crystal clear waters of Sayulita Bay. There are also a number of surfing schools that offer surf lessons. Sayulita boasts a variety of beaches suitable for surfers of all skill levels. For beginners, Plata Sayulita is the go-to spot where most lessons take place while advanced surfers favor North Beach, which offers a thrilling experience with its challenging waves.
2. Go Whale-Watching
Whale-watching stands out as one of the most incredible experiences to partake in while visiting Sayulita, Mexico. Every year, about 18,000 whales grace the waters near Sayulita during their migration, creating a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. This happens during winter, from December to April. To embark on a memorable whale-watching adventure, you can easily find specialized tours and excursions available in Sayulita such as La Orca De Sayulita. Asides watching these magnificent creatures up close, whale-watching offers deeper appreciation for the marine ecosystem, and helps you connect with nature.
3. Relax at the Beach
Sayulita is well known for its Pacific Coast Beaches. From the lively Plata Sayulita (Sayulita’s main beach), bustling with activity and surfers catching waves, to the more serene Carricitos Beach, where you can find tranquility amidst nature’s beauty, each beach in Sayulita has its own unique charm. To get more active, you can engage in beachside activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding and scuba diving. Sayulita’s beaches offer the perfect setting for fun, relaxation, and creating lasting memories with family and friends.
4. Explore the surrounding Islands and Jungles.
Exploring the magnificent jungles, mountains, and coastline that envelop Sayulita is undeniably one of the most fun aspects of visiting this enchanting destination. An example is Isla Marietas, situated approximately 14 miles southwest of Sayulita, often hailed as the “Galapagos of Mexico” due to its awe-inspiring biodiversity. With a staggering 115 fish species and 92 bird species, including the renowned blue-footed booby, the island serves as a testament to the richness of Mexico’s natural wonders. The pioneering efforts of Jacque Costeau and other scientists led to the island’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national park.
5. Take a Day’s Trip to San Pancho
San Pancho is the neighboring town of Sayulita and is where all the locals go to relax and unwind. There are small shopping places, community-based events and really nice beaches there. Located just ten to fifteen minutes north of Sayulita, San Pancho has become a tourist boom. The true old school Mexican fishing village, surfer town, and yogi escape, all exists in San Pancho. A day trip to San Pancho is definitely a fun thing to do in Sayulita.
6. Go Hiking on Monkey Mountain
Monkey mountain is considered to be the best viewing point of Sayulita. You’ll be offered stunning 360-degree views where you can basically see all the way from Punta de Mita, Punta Mita to Sayulita and San Pancho. Monkey mountain is a very jungle path steep hike. This trail is not for the faint-hearted so it’s necessary to come prepared with lots of water, a hat for sun protection, and sturdy hiking shoes.
7. Take a Yoga Class
The vibrant town of Sayulita is renowned for its thriving yoga community and offers a myriad of options for practitioners of all levels. The soothing sound of the ocean waves and the refreshing sea breeze create an idyllic backdrop for your practice, allowing you to connect deeply with your body, mind, and spirit. From gentle Hatha flows to dynamic Vinyasa sequences, all led by experienced instructors, endeavor to engage in a variety of yoga styles. The soothing sound of the ocean waves and the refreshing sea breeze create an idyllic backdrop for your practice, allowing you to connect deeply with your body, mind, and spirit.
8. Go Shopping at Sayulita Hippie Market
In Sayulita, this is just something you have to do while visiting. This vibrant open-air Hippie market is located in the heart of downtown, along the river’s edge adjacent to the baseball stadium. You will encounter a lot of small business owners calling for artifacts and souvenirs you can bring home. The Sayulita Hippie Market is the best place to shop in Sayulita for arts and crafts, purses, garments, jewelry, souvenirs and all sorts. Wandering and shopping through the market which opens everyday is another fun thing to do in Sayulita, Mexico.
9. Visit La Cruz Market
The La Cruz Market is a vibrant and bustling hub of local culture and flavors. A visit to this lively market is both a great way to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Sayulita and an enjoyable and fun-filled experience for both locals and tourists alike. La Cruz located at Marina Cruz de Huanacaxtle is just 30 minutes drive from town and as you approach the market, you’ll be captivated by the energetic buzz, rich scents of freshly cooked food, tropical fruits, handmade crafts and vibrant textiles. The major highlight of visiting La Cruz Market is undoubtedly the delectable street food. The enticing aroma of sizzling tacos, freshly grilled seafood. Locals and visitors come to buy fresh fish and seafood, bringing the phrase ‘from sea to your table’ to life.
10. Watch the Sunset at Carricitos Beach
Carricitos Beach is a short distance from Sayulita, accessible by a scenic walk or a quick taxi ride. As you approach this secluded beach, the rhythmic sound of crashing waves and the gentle ocean breeze will greet you, setting the stage for an enchanting sunset experience. As the sun begins its descent, painting the sky with an array of vibrant colors, you’ll feel a sense of awe and wonder wash over you. The combination of the clear blue waters, the dramatic cliffs surrounding the beach, and the fiery hues of the setting sun creates a truly breathtaking panorama. It’s a sight that will leave you mesmerized and feeling at one with the beauty of nature.
How to get to Sayulita, Mexico
Getting to this vibrant town is quite convenient. Simply fly into Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR), and from there, it’s a short 45-minute drive to Sayulita.
Choosing the mode of transportation—whether public transport, private transfer, or renting a car—depends on the duration of your stay and the extent of your planned exploration outside of Sayulita.
Getting around the town itself is easily accomplished on foot. However, if you wish to venture further, having a vehicle is necessary, and the best option is to rent a car at the airport upon arrival.
Alternatively, you can opt for a hassle-free private transfer from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita. With this option, a driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your accommodation in the Sayulita area.
Another possibility is taking a taxi from the airport, which costs around $50 USD.
Lastly, you can consider taking the public bus from Puerto Vallarta Airport. Look for a bus with a windshield sign displaying ‘Sayulita’ or ‘Compostela.’ The cost for this option is approximately $5USD.
Ultimately, the choice of transportation depends on your preferences, convenience, and budget. Whether you decide on a private transfer, taxi, or public bus, reaching Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport is relatively straightforward, ensuring a smooth start to your Sayulita adventure.
When to Visit Sayulita, Mexico
December to April is considered the best time of year to visit Sayulita, taking into account essential factors such as travel costs, weather conditions, peak travel seasons, and more. During this period, you can expect optimal conditions for your trip. The hottest temperatures in Sayulita reach approximately 31℃ (88℉) during the peak of summer. Conversely, in winter, temperatures can drop as low as 9℃ (48℉) at night.
If you’re looking to maximize your daytime activities, May offers the longest daylight hours in Sayulita. This allows for more time to enjoy various outdoor pursuits and explore the town. On the other hand, June tends to have the highest average number of rainy days, making it the wettest month of the year. However, it’s worth noting that even during the wet season, rain showers are often brief and can occur during specific times of the day or evening, with the majority of the day offering fine weather. Therefore, there’s no need to be deterred by the rainy season.
Considering all these factors, planning your visit to Sayulita between December and April ensures favorable travel conditions, including pleasant weather, minimal rainfall, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Is Sayulita safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Regardless of whether you’re exploring the town during the day or at night, there is no significant cause for concern, even if you’re a solo female traveler.
First and foremost, the presence of numerous other tourists ensures that you will seldom find yourself alone. The bustling atmosphere and the constant flow of visitors provide an additional layer of safety.
Moreover, it is advisable to adhere to the basic safety precautions mentioned earlier to ensure your well-being at all times.
In conclusion, Sayulita is generally safe for female travelers. However, it is always wise to exercise a certain level of caution, as is the case when traveling to any destination in Mexico or elsewhere. By remaining aware and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy your time in Sayulita with peace of mind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sayulita, Mexico offers a delightful array of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, Sayulita has it all. From surfing the vibrant waves to exploring the colorful streets, indulging in delicious street food, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, Sayulita leaves no stone unturned when it comes to fun-filled activities. So pack your bags, embrace the hippie-chic charm, and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with joy, adventure, and the vibrant spirit of Sayulita, Mexico.
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