Sayulita

• Print
• E-mail
• Add to My Trips

Back to Puerto VallartaSayulita, Mexico

Sayulita is only 40km (25 miles) northwest of Puerto Vallarta, on Highway 200 to Tepic, yet it feels like worlds away. It captures the simplicity and tranquillity of beach life that has long since left Vallarta -- but hurry, because it seems this place is on the verge of exploding in popularity. For years, Sayulita has been principally a surfers' destination -- the main beach in town is known for its consistent break and long, rideable waves. Recently, visitors and locals who find Vallarta becoming too cosmopolitan have started to flock to here.

An easygoing attitude seems to permeate the air in this beach town. Yet despite its simplicity, niceties are popping up all over among the basic accommodations, inexpensive Mexican food stands, and handmade, hippie-style baubles. It's quickly becoming gentrified with new restaurants, cafes, and elegant villas for rent.

Sayulita is a popular stage for surfing tournaments; on any given weekend you might encounter perfect-swell-seeking surfers -- or a Huichol Indian family that has come down to sell their wares. This eclectic mix of the cool, the unusual, and the authentic Mexican makes Sayulita such a special place.

To get to Sayulita, you can rent a car, or take a taxi from the airport or downtown Vallarta. The rate is about $50 to get to the town plaza. You can also take a taxi back to Vallarta. The stand is on the main square, or you can call for pickup at your hotel. The trip from the airport to Sayulita costs $55. Guides also lead tours to Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita, and other surrounding areas, including a Huichol Indian community.

Where to Stay -- Sayulita offers several private homes for rent. Your best option is to contact Upi Viteri (upiviteri@prodigy.net.mx), who has access to some of the nicest rental properties.

Where to Dine -- If you are in Sayulita, chances are you heard about it because of Don Pedro's, the most popular restaurant in town, in the heart of the main beach.