Sayulita is a village of 5,000 that has managed to create a genuine scene — surf culture, good restaurants, colorful streetscapes — without entirely losing its Mexican soul. The surf at the main beach is reliable and beginner-friendly. Surf lessons cost $40-60 USD including board and instructor. San Pancho (5km north) is the more chill alternative with a better swimming beach. The taco stands near the main beach serve the best dorado (mahi-mahi) tacos on the coast.
Sayulita
Plan Your Sayulita Trip →Scroll
↓
↓
Region
pacific-coast
Best Time
November, December, January +2 more
Daily Budget
$45–$250 USD
Getting There
40km north of Puerto Vallarta (PVR). Combi/bus from PVR bus station (MXN 60, 45 min) or taxi from PV (MXN 400).
🎒 Gear We Recommend for Sayulita
Reef-Safe Mineral Sunscreen
Cenote rangers will turn you away with chemical sunscreen. This is not optional — cenotes are closed ecosystems and the rules are enforced.
Packable Wide-Brim Sun Hat
Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Monte Alban — all open-sky sites with brutal midday sun. A wide brim is the difference between an enjoyable morning and a miserable afternoon.
DEET 30% Insect Repellent
Dengue is present in coastal Mexico. Evenings in Tulum, Cancun, and Puerto Vallarta require protection. Natural alternatives fail in tropical humidity.
Filtered Water Bottle (LifeStraw)
Never drink tap water in Mexico. A filtered bottle eliminates plastic waste at ruins and in smaller towns where bottled water may not be cold.
40L Carry-On Backpack
Mexico City to Oaxaca to Yucatan by ADO bus — you want carry-on only. ADO allows overhead bags. A 40L bag handles 12 days with mid-trip laundry in Oaxaca.
Before You Go: Travel Insurance
A medical evacuation from a remote area of Mexico can cost $10,000+. We use SafetyWing for every trip — it's affordable, covers medical and evacuation, and you can sign up even after you've left home.
"We've thankfully never had to file a claim, but having it is peace of mind every time we board that plane." — Scott
Check SafetyWing Rates →Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — the main beach break is gentle and consistent, ideal for learning. Multiple surf schools operate on the beach, around $40-60 USD for a 2-hour lesson with board and instructor.
Sayulita's main beach has had periodic water quality issues. Playa de los Muertos (15-minute walk north) and Playa Los Toros (south) consistently have cleaner water.