Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
02/08/2025
Archie McNicol, Pexels
Sayulita, Mexico, is a vibrant coastal town on the Pacific coast, offering a unique blend of bohemian charm, surf culture, and diverse activities. It attracts a mix of surfers, backpackers, vacationers, and expats drawn to its colorful streets, lively atmosphere, and natural beauty. Visitors can find a balance between adventurous pursuits and moments of relaxation amidst the town's energetic pulse.
The town's central plaza serves as a lively hub for socializing, featuring bars, live music, and street food. Nightlife thrives with venues like YamBak, Bar Le Zouave, and Barrilito, where parties often extend into the streets until the early morning. Additionally, hostels such as Viajero and Casa Pepe provide social environments and budget-friendly options for meeting other travelers.
Top 6 Things to do in Sayulita
Sayulita offers a vibrant mix of water-based adventures, jungle explorations, wellness pursuits, and opportunities to immerse oneself in the town's distinctive bohemian culture.
1. Learn to Surf on Sayulita's Main Beach
Experience the joy of riding waves on Sayulita's main beach, known for its gentle and consistent breaks, making it ideal for beginners. Many surf schools are available directly on the beach, offering instruction and equipment. Even advanced surfers can find enjoyment here. It's a fundamental part of the town's culture and a great way to interact with locals.
Cost: Group surf lessons typically range from $55-$75 USD per person for 1.5 to 2 hours, with some options around $65 USD. Private lessons are available from $85-$1500 MXN (approximately $85-$75 USD). Surfboard rentals can be found for about $20-$30 USD per day.
Transport: The main beach is centrally located and easily accessible by foot from most accommodations in Sayulita.
2. Explore Hidden Beaches
Venture beyond the bustling main beach to discover quieter, picturesque coves. Playa Los Muertos, accessible by walking through a charming cemetery, offers calm waters for swimming and snorkeling. Playa Carricitos is renowned for stunning sunsets. For a more secluded experience, hike to Playa Malpaso, a pristine beach with a cave, accessible via a scenic walk north of Sayulita Beach.
Cost: Free to explore. Renting a beach umbrella can cost around 300-350 MXN (approximately $15-$20 USD) per day.
Transport: Playa Los Muertos and Playa Carricitos are typically within a 20-minute walk from town. Playa Malpaso requires a longer walk from the north end of Sayulita Beach. Golf carts are a popular way to get around town and to nearby beaches, with daily rentals starting from $65 USD.
3. Hike Monkey Mountain for Panoramic Views
Embark on a rewarding jungle hike up Monkey Mountain (Cerro del Mono) to reach a summit offering impressive 360-degree panoramic views of the Pacific coastline, Punta Mita, and the surrounding mountains. The best time to hike is in the afternoon to catch the sunset from the top. While demanding, it provides a deep connection with nature and stunning photo opportunities.
Cost: Guided tours typically range from $62-$98 USD per person, with some private tours starting at $85 USD or more. It's also possible to hike independently.
Transport: Monkey Mountain is located in Higuera Blanca, a short drive from Sayulita. Taxis cost around 300 MXN (approximately $17 USD). Public buses (Compostela bus towards Punta Mita) are a more budget-friendly option, costing around 30-95 MXN (approximately $2-$5 USD) one-way to Higuera Blanca, from where you walk to the trailhead.
4. Take a Marietas Islands Tour to the Hidden Beach
Embark on a boat tour to the Marietas Islands National Park, a protected sanctuary teeming with marine life. The highlight for many is the elusive 'Hidden Beach' (Playa del Amor), a unique secluded cove accessible by swimming through a cave. Tours often include snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, such as dolphins and humpback whales during migration season (December to March). Note that access to the Hidden Beach is highly regulated to protect its delicate ecosystem.
Cost: Boat tours to Marietas Islands range from $50-$100 USD per person for half-day tours, and up to $300 USD for full-day or private charters. Tours specifically to the Hidden Beach are more expensive due to access limits, ranging from $200-$215 CAD (approximately $150-$160 USD) for group tours and higher for private tours (e.g., $245-$355 USD per person for 2-3 passengers).
Transport: Tours typically depart from Sayulita's main beach or a nearby marina, with transportation to the departure point often included or a short walk from Sayulita Plaza.
5. Participate in a Yoga Class
Sayulita's tranquil atmosphere and wellness-focused community make it an ideal place to engage in yoga. Numerous studios and retreats offer drop-in classes for all levels, including beachside sessions. It's a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate amidst the tropical surroundings.
Cost: Drop-in yoga classes typically cost around 200 MXN (approximately $10-$12 USD) per session. Combination hike and yoga experiences are also available from about $30 USD.
Transport: Many yoga studios are located within walking distance of the town center. Some special experiences might include transportation for off-site locations.
6. Discover Sayulita's Culinary Scene on a Food Tour
Explore the vibrant flavors of Sayulita by embarking on a street food tour. This allows you to sample authentic local dishes, especially the renowned tacos and fresh seafood, from various eateries and hidden gems. It's an excellent way to learn about the town's culinary heritage, support local businesses, and interact with the community.
Cost: Street food tours range from $49-$69 USD for adults. Some longer food and drink tours, including tequila tastings, can cost around $95-$98 USD.
Transport: Food tours typically begin in the main square and involve walking to various food stalls and restaurants throughout the town center.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
