I’ve spent time researching Sayulita, and one thing is clear, this little Mexican town has a lot going on.
From surf-ready beaches to colorful streets and wellness retreats, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the top 35 things to do in Sayulita, so you don’t waste time figuring it out yourself.
I’ve put this list together with real activities, honest tips, and local favorites. You’ll find everything from beach days to day trips, food spots, and places to stay.
Why Sayulita is a Must-Visit Destination
Sayulita is a small surf town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta. It’s known for its colorful buildings, laid-back vibe, and strong local culture.
The beaches are great for surfing and swimming. The food scene is solid. And the town itself is walkable and easy to get around.
It draws everyone from solo travelers to families, and it’s easy to see why people keep coming back.
Top 35 Things to Do in Sayulita
Here are the best things to do in Sayulita, from the beach to the jungle and everything in between.
1. Surf at Sayulita Beach
Sayulita Beach is one of the best spots for surfing on this coast. Beginners can take lessons here, and experienced surfers will enjoy the consistent waves.
2. Relax at Playa de Los Muertos
This beach is quieter and great for swimming. If you want a calm, crowd-free beach day, Playa de Los Muertos is a solid pick.
3. Visit La Lancha Beach
La Lancha is perfect for longboarding and peaceful afternoons. The waves are gentler here, and the setting feels a little more private than the main beach.
4. Find the Hidden Beaches
Take a hike or hop on a boat to reach the secluded beaches around Sayulita. These spots are less crowded and worth the extra effort to get there.
5. Sample Local Cuisine
Sayulita’s food scene is really good. Try fresh seafood, street tacos, and plenty of vegetarian options. The flavors here are hard to beat.
6. Hit the Juice Bars and Smoothie Cafés
Health-focused cafés are popular here among locals and visitors alike. Fresh juices and smoothies make for a great start to any morning in Sayulita.
7. Shop for Huichol Art
Huichol art is what Sayulita is known for in the craft world. The beaded pieces are colorful, handmade, and deeply rooted in indigenous tradition.
8. Visit Pachamama
Pachamama is one of the most iconic shops in town. It carries soulful Mexican art, spiritual items, and crafts that you won’t find in a regular tourist shop.
9. Browse Artefakto Boutique
This boutique is all about handmade goods, blankets, bags, and textiles made by local artisans. Great for gifts or something special to take home.
10. Check Out Evoke the Spirit Shop
Evoke the Spirit mixes Huichol tradition with modern design. It’s a good stop if you want something that feels both cultural and contemporary.
11. Attend a Wellness Retreat
Haramara Retreat is a top spot for wellness in the area. It’s the kind of place you go to rest, reset, and slow down for a few days.
12. Join a Beach Yoga Class
Sunrise or sunset yoga on the sand is a real thing in Sayulita. Classes run regularly, and the setting makes it hard to skip even if you’re not a regular yogi.
13. Catch the Sunset at Sayulita Beach
The sunsets here are genuinely worth stopping for. Grab a spot on the beach, take a few photos, and just take it in.
14. Hike to Playa Carricitos at Sunset
This short hike leads to a viewpoint with spectacular sunset views. It’s not a tough trail, but the payoff is big.
15. Take a Day Trip to San Pancho
San Pancho, also called San Francisco, is a quiet town just a few minutes away. It has a strong arts community and a relaxed, unhurried feel.
16. Head to Puerto Vallarta for a Day
Puerto Vallarta is about an hour away and worth a full day trip. You get beaches, art galleries, historic streets, and great restaurants all in one place.
17. Tour Las Islas Marietas
The Marietas Islands are a protected natural area not far from Sayulita. The hidden beach inside the crater is one of the most photographed spots in all of Mexico.
18. Go Diving at the Marietas Islands
If you’re a certified diver, the Marietas Islands offer impressive underwater life. Rays, fish, and coral make this a memorable dive.
19. Go Ziplining at Vista Paraíso
Vista Paraíso offers ziplining with views of both the jungle and the ocean. It’s a high-energy activity that’s well-organized and easy to book.
20. Try Singletrack Mountain Biking
Guided mountain biking tours take you through jungle trails around Sayulita. It’s a great way to see the landscape from a different angle.
21. Go Horseback Riding to the Beach
Horseback riding here takes you through jungle paths and along the coastline. It’s a classic Sayulita activity that works for all experience levels.
22. Book an ATV Off-Road Tour
ATV tours cover hills and rugged terrain around Sayulita. It’s a fun way to get out of town and see more of the surrounding area.
23. Join a Hike and Yoga Tour
This combo tour mixes light hiking with yoga and sunset views. It’s a popular option for those who want activity and relaxation in one outing.
24. Take a Cooking Class
Learn to make authentic Mexican dishes in a hands-on class. These sessions are fun, informal, and you get to eat what you make.
25. Spend Time at Sayulita Plaza
The town plaza is where local life happens. It’s a good spot for people-watching, grabbing a snack, and soaking in the daily rhythm of Sayulita.
26. Attend a Local Festival
Sayulita has a strong festival culture, music, dance, and food come together throughout the year. Attending one gives you a real feel for local life here.
27. Try Paddleboarding
The calmer beaches near Sayulita are great for paddleboarding. It’s beginner-friendly and a relaxing way to spend a morning on the water.
28. Book a Fishing Excursion
Deep-sea and coastal fishing tours are easy to arrange locally. It’s a good option for those who want something a little different from beach time.
29. Go Snorkeling
Snorkeling trips take you to secluded beaches and clear waters where you can see marine life up close. Gear is usually provided as part of the tour.
30. Take a Photography Tour
A guided photography tour covers the colorful streets, murals, and landscapes of Sayulita. It’s great for anyone who wants to come home with more than just phone snaps.
31. Try Surf Skating
Local skate spots let you practice surf-style skating on land. It’s a fun off-water activity that’s popular with the surf crowd in town.
32. Walk Through the Jungle
Guided hikes through the jungle around Sayulita reveal local plants and wildlife. It’s a slower-paced activity, but it’s genuinely interesting.
33. Stay at Hotel 7 Lunas
Hotel 7 Lunas offers beachfront comfort with a natural, earthy feel. It’s a top choice if you want to stay close to the water without giving up comfort.
34. Stay at Hotel Vogue
Hotel Vogue is a small boutique hotel in the center of town. It has great artistic décor and is well-placed for walking to everything Sayulita offers.
35. Rent a Villa or Home
Renting a private villa or house is ideal for families or anyone planning a longer stay. It gives you more space, a kitchen, and a more local feel overall.
Travel Tips for Sayulita
A few things worth knowing before you go.
- Book activities in advance, popular tours like the Marietas Islands fill up fast, especially in high season.
- Bring cash, many local shops and food stalls don’t accept cards.
- High season runs from December to April, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen, it’s required in protected areas like the Marietas Islands.
- Get around on foot or by golf cart, the town is small and walkable, but golf cart rentals are easy to find for getting to nearby beaches.
Conclusion
Sayulita is one of those places that surprises you. I didn’t expect to find a town so full of good food, real culture, and things to actually do, all packed into one small coastal spot.
If you’re planning a trip, I hope this list makes things a little easier to plan. Start with what excites you most and go from there.
Have you been to Sayulita? Got a favorite spot I didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments, I’d love to know.
And if this helped, share it with someone who’s planning their next trip to Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sayulita best known for?
Sayulita is best known for its surf beaches, Huichol art, and colorful town center. It’s a laid-back spot that blends outdoor activities with strong local culture.
Is Sayulita good for beginners who want to surf?
Yes, Sayulita Beach is one of the most beginner-friendly surf spots in Mexico. Surf schools are easy to find, and lessons are available for all skill levels.
How far is Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta?
Sayulita is about 40 kilometers north of Puerto Vallarta, which works out to roughly a 45-minute to one-hour drive depending on traffic.
What is the best time of year to visit Sayulita?
December through April is the most popular time to visit, with dry weather and calm seas. If you want a quieter trip, the months just outside this window work well too.
Is Sayulita safe for solo travelers?
Sayulita is generally considered safe for solo travelers, including solo women. Like any destination, basic awareness of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas at night is always a good idea.
