Things to Do in Sayulita

Sayulita is a small surf town in Nayarit state, 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. It became popular from the early 2000s as a quieter alternative to the hotel strip of Vallarta — a consistent beginner-intermediate surf break, cheap accommodation in the village, and an established yoga and wellness scene. It’s now significantly more developed and crowded than it once was, particularly December through March, but retains its beach-village character compared to resort Mexico.

Surfing

The main beach has a reliable point break on the north side — best at medium tide, works on most swells. It’s appropriate for beginners and intermediate surfers (long, forgiving wave). Several surf schools operate from the beach: lessons ~USD 40–60 for 90 minutes including board hire. Experienced surfers can hire boards from ~USD 15–20 per day.

More advanced surfers should look at Playa de los Muertos (a beach break south of town accessible by a 20-minute walk), or go south toward Punta de Mita (better hollow waves, 30 minutes by taxi).

Yoga and wellness

Sayulita has a high density of yoga studios and retreat centres, particularly active November through April. Haramara Retreat (upscale, cliff-top setting, week-long programs) and Xinalani (south of town, beach location) are the long-established options. Drop-in classes at studios in town run ~USD 15–20 per session.

Snorkelling at Playa del Muerto

The “Beach of the Dead” (named for a local legend, not for any macabre reason) has rocky reef edges with snorkelling — parrotfish, small reef fish, and occasional rays. Accessible by the cliff path south of town or by water taxi from the main beach.

Whale watching (December–March)

Humpback whales spend winter in the Banderas Bay area to give birth. Boat tours from Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta operate December through March (~USD 55–75 per person, 3 hours). Dolphins are present year-round.

San Pancho (San Francisco)

The next village north, 5 km by road. Quieter than Sayulita, with a better beach for swimming (fewer surfers), good restaurants, and a small arts community. A 10-minute taxi ride or colectivo makes it a natural afternoon excursion.

Practicalities

• From Puerto Vallarta airport: 50 minutes by car or taxi (~USD 45). Colectivos (shared vans) run from the central bus station in Puerto Vallarta for ~MXN 50.
• High season (Dec–Mar): book accommodation at least 2 weeks in advance. The town fills with American and Canadian visitors during this period.
• Water quality: the town’s coastal water has had periodic advisories due to the river mouth near the beach — check current status before swimming.