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Mexico🇲🇽 | villagesSayulitasurf breaks, street art, open-air markets | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Sayulita
🌟 Highlightvillage ranked #2
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 9, 2026

The surprise with Sayulita is that for all the Instagram talk of a “sleepy surf town,” it’s actually one of the more developed, busy beach villages on Mexico’s Pacific coast, especially in high season. You’ll find it on the Riviera Nayarit, just north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit, wrapped around a small bay with jungle-covered hills behind it. Backpackers land here because it’s an easy, low-friction stop: cheap buses from Vallarta, walkable streets, surfboard rentals right on the sand, and plenty of hostels where you can meet people over sandy beers and taco runs. Evenings are warm and noisy, with music from bars bleeding into the plaza, fire dancers on the beach, and late dinners rather than early nights. Compared with quieter spots like San Pancho or Lo de Marcos, Sayulita is busier, more social, less “authentic village” and more “backpacker-surf bubble” plugged into the wider Mexico route.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #2 village in MexicoWhat makes it a must-see village

Sayulita draws backpackers for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. This village, with its colorful streets and friendly locals, offers a refreshing pause between the busier tourist spots like Puerto Vallarta. The warm ocean breeze carries the scent of fresh tacos and the sound of waves crashing, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Backpackers often find themselves lingering here, soaking in the slow pace that invites you to unwind. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking calm or a couple looking for romance, Sayulita caters to all. The proximity to stunning beaches and hiking trails makes it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. You can surf, swim, or trek through lush jungles, all while enjoying the vibrant local culture.

While some may stop for just a night, many choose to stay … read more 👉
Sayulita draws backpackers for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. This village, with its colorful streets and friendly locals, offers a refreshing pause between the busier tourist spots like Puerto Vallarta. The warm ocean breeze carries the scent of fresh tacos and the sound of waves crashing, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Backpackers often find themselves lingering here, soaking in the slow pace that invites you to unwind. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking calm or a couple looking for romance, Sayulita caters to all. The proximity to stunning beaches and hiking trails makes it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. You can surf, swim, or trek through lush jungles, all while enjoying the vibrant local culture.

While some may stop for just a night, many choose to stay longer, drawn in by the community vibe and the chance to connect with fellow travelers. It’s a place where you can recharge before heading to your next adventure, making it a worthwhile stop on your backpacking route. If you appreciate a blend of relaxation and exploration, Sayulita might just be your perfect pit stop.
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💡 HighlightsDon't-miss highlights and experiences

  • Playa Sayulita (Main Beach) — The town’s heartbeat: a long sandy beach for beginner surf lessons, people-watching, sunset ritual, and cheap palapa lunches; go early for calm water and fewer vendors.
  • La Punta — The rocky point at the east end of town where surfers drop in, fishermen land their boats and the little trail across the rocks opens to tide pools and quieter coves; great for watching surf culture up close.
  • Town Plaza & Church — The small plaza where locals gather, kids play, and you can grab coffee or street food while watching everyday Sayulita life; lots of impromptu music and occasional community events.
  • Mercado del Pueblo (Farmers & Artisan Market) — A lively Saturday market with local produce, prepared food, and handcrafted goods; excellent for tasting regional snacks and
… read more 👉
  • Playa Sayulita (Main Beach) — The town’s heartbeat: a long sandy beach for beginner surf lessons, people-watching, sunset ritual, and cheap palapa lunches; go early for calm water and fewer vendors.
  • La Punta — The rocky point at the east end of town where surfers drop in, fishermen land their boats and the little trail across the rocks opens to tide pools and quieter coves; great for watching surf culture up close.
  • Town Plaza & Church — The small plaza where locals gather, kids play, and you can grab coffee or street food while watching everyday Sayulita life; lots of impromptu music and occasional community events.
  • Mercado del Pueblo (Farmers & Artisan Market) — A lively Saturday market with local produce, prepared food, and handcrafted goods; excellent for tasting regional snacks and buying authentic souvenirs from makers who live here.
  • Street Art Trail — Sayulita’s alleys and main streets are covered in colorful murals and small gallery fronts; wandering this open-air gallery is a cheap, local way to meet artists and feel the town’s creative vibe.
  • Playa de los Muertos — A small, sheltered cove you can reach by walking around La Punta; fewer people, clearer water for snorkeling, and a more peaceful beach vibe than the main strip.
  • The Mirador (Hill Viewpoint) — A short uphill walk gives you a panorama of the bay, the point, and jungle—best at golden hour and worth the little sweat for a quieter perspective of the town.
  • Casa de la Cultura / Community Arts Space — Local workshops, occasional exhibits and classes—good for catching a community event, learning a folk craft, or seeing what Sayulita’s artists are working on now.
  • El Estero (the Estuary) & Mangrove Walks — A narrow mangrove/river edge on the village’s perimeter where you can bird-watch, spot small wildlife and see a different, quieter ecosystem just steps from the beach.
  • Local Artisan Shops and Huichol Galleries — Small storefronts and stalls in centro run by local makers selling beadwork, textiles and woodcarving; better than tourist trinkets if you look for shops that explain who made the piece.
A few excellent day trips nearby: Punta de Mita for fancy reefs and long breaks, the Marietas Islands for the famous wildlife (boat required), and San Pancho (San Francisco) for a quieter, more authentic village — San Pancho is my personal favorite.
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Things to do around Sayulita

Marietas Islands National Park: Full Day ALL INCLUSIVE Tour

Marietas Islands National Park: Full Day ALL INCLUSIVE Tour

4.8(749) 6h
✓ Free cancellation
From €114
per personViator
Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure

4.8(544) 6h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €107
per personViator
Horseback Riding in Sayulita Through Jungle Trails to the Beach

Horseback Riding in Sayulita Through Jungle Trails to the Beach

4.9(213) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €70
per personViator
Hike and Yoga Jungle Experience in Mexico

Hike and Yoga Jungle Experience in Mexico

5.0(173) 2h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €27
per personViator
Sayulita Taco Tour

Sayulita Taco Tour

5.0(159)
✓ Free cancellation
From €48
per personViator
Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour

Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour

5.0(119)
✓ Free cancellation
From €88
per personViator
Marietas Islands National Park Excursion for Certified Divers

Marietas Islands National Park Excursion for Certified Divers

4.9(128) 5h
From €142
per personViator
EcoHike to private beach, Jungle Walk to see plants & animals

EcoHike to private beach, Jungle Walk to see plants & animals

5.0(122) 3h
✓ Free cancellation
From €29
per personViator
Scuba Diving Marietas Islands

Scuba Diving Marietas Islands

4.7(113) 4h
✓ Free cancellation
From €168
per personViator
Sayulita ATV Jungle & Beach Adventure, Tequila Tasting

Sayulita ATV Jungle & Beach Adventure, Tequila Tasting

4.8(98) 2h 5m
✓ Free cancellation
From €97
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

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🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience


  • Topic: Weather and Temperature — Sayulita basks in tropical warmth year-round, but from November to April, expect dry, sunny days with highs around 28–32°C (82–90°F). The rainy season, June to October, brings heavy afternoon showers and humidity that can push temps to 34°C (93°F), making hiking and beach time sticky and less pleasant.

  • Topic: Daylight Hours — The dry season offers roughly 11 to 12 hours of daylight, perfect for early morning surf sessions and late afternoon strolls. Rainy months see slightly shorter days, but the real difference is in the cloud cover, which dims the light and shortens your outdoor window.

  • Topic: Crowds — Peak season (December to March) draws a mix of surfers, digital nomads, and holidaymakers, swelling the village vibe but also bumping up noise and prices.
… read more 👉

  • Topic: Weather and Temperature — Sayulita basks in tropical warmth year-round, but from November to April, expect dry, sunny days with highs around 28–32°C (82–90°F). The rainy season, June to October, brings heavy afternoon showers and humidity that can push temps to 34°C (93°F), making hiking and beach time sticky and less pleasant.

  • Topic: Daylight Hours — The dry season offers roughly 11 to 12 hours of daylight, perfect for early morning surf sessions and late afternoon strolls. Rainy months see slightly shorter days, but the real difference is in the cloud cover, which dims the light and shortens your outdoor window.

  • Topic: Crowds — Peak season (December to March) draws a mix of surfers, digital nomads, and holidaymakers, swelling the village vibe but also bumping up noise and prices. Shoulder months like May and November offer a quieter, more authentic rhythm without sacrificing decent weather.

  • Topic: Seasonal Activities — Surfing peaks in the dry season with consistent swells, while the rainy months bring lush jungle hikes and fewer tourists. Festivals like the Sayulita Festival of the Arts in February add cultural spice but also crowd the streets.

  • Topic: Price Fluctuations — Accommodation and flights spike during the dry season, especially around Christmas and spring break. Booking in shoulder seasons can save you 20–40%, letting you stretch your budget without sacrificing the experience.


Pro-tip: Aim for late April or early November—when the weather is still kind, crowds thin, and prices dip—so you get the best of Sayulita’s charm without the usual hustle or humidity.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: highly recommended for travelingFEBFebruary: highly recommended for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: highly recommended for travelingJUNJune: fair for travelingJULJuly: fair for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: fair for travelingOCTOctober: fair for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: highly recommended for traveling
mexico-city-sayulita
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🛏️ Where to stay?Choosing the right base

Sayulita’s charm hits you first in the salty breeze and the lazy rhythm of waves crashing just blocks from town. For backpackers, the best places to stay aren’t just about price—they’re about plugging into that vibe without losing your sanity or your budget.

Start with hostels near the plaza. These spots put you in the thick of it: street musicians, taco stands firing up at dusk, and the scent of fresh ceviche mixing with ocean air. Hostels like Sayulita Central Hostel or La Taka offer dorms that are clean and social, but more importantly, they’re a launchpad for early morning surf sessions or … read more 👉
Sayulita’s charm hits you first in the salty breeze and the lazy rhythm of waves crashing just blocks from town. For backpackers, the best places to stay aren’t just about price—they’re about plugging into that vibe without losing your sanity or your budget.

Start with hostels near the plaza. These spots put you in the thick of it: street musicians, taco stands firing up at dusk, and the scent of fresh ceviche mixing with ocean air. Hostels like Sayulita Central Hostel or La Taka offer dorms that are clean and social, but more importantly, they’re a launchpad for early morning surf sessions or sunset hikes up Monkey Mountain. Staying here means you’re not just a visitor—you’re part of the pulse.

If you want a quieter night but still crave that local feel, look for guesthouses on the outskirts. They’re a short bike ride from the center, surrounded by jungle sounds and the occasional rooster. Places like Casa Love give you a hammock and a porch where you can soak in the humid, earthy scent after a rain—perfect for recharging before another day of exploring.

Avoid the big resorts. They’re sterile and cut you off from the real Sayulita. Instead, choose spots where you can hear the ocean at night and wake up to the smell of fresh coffee and salty air. That’s the real luxury here.
Best hostels in Mexico


Best quality hotels in Mexico

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

Sayulita is not just a beach town; it’s a launchpad for unforgettable adventures. With its laid-back vibe and vibrant culture, it’s easy to explore the surrounding treasures. Here are some day trips that will elevate your experience.

San Pancho
Just a quick 15-minute drive or a scenic bike ride from Sayulita, San Pancho offers a quieter beach experience. The golden sands are perfect for lounging, but the real draw is the local art scene. Wander through galleries showcasing local talent and grab a bite at a beachside café. Expect to spend around $10 on transport and food. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the sun shines bright and the waves are gentle. A common mistake is to overlook the local markets; they’re a treasure trove of handmade crafts … read more 👉
Sayulita is not just a beach town; it’s a launchpad for unforgettable adventures. With its laid-back vibe and vibrant culture, it’s easy to explore the surrounding treasures. Here are some day trips that will elevate your experience.

San Pancho
Just a quick 15-minute drive or a scenic bike ride from Sayulita, San Pancho offers a quieter beach experience. The golden sands are perfect for lounging, but the real draw is the local art scene. Wander through galleries showcasing local talent and grab a bite at a beachside café. Expect to spend around $10 on transport and food. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the sun shines bright and the waves are gentle. A common mistake is to overlook the local markets; they’re a treasure trove of handmade crafts and delicious snacks. 👉 Explore Sayulita

Marietas Islands
A boat trip to the Marietas Islands is a must. These uninhabited islands are about an hour away and boast stunning snorkeling spots. You’ll see vibrant fish and maybe even a sea turtle or two. Tours typically cost around $50, including gear and lunch. The best time to go is early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the calm waters. Many first-timers forget to bring reef-safe sunscreen, which is crucial for protecting marine life. 👉 Explore Sayulita

Sayulita to Punta Mita
A 30-minute bus ride will take you to Punta Mita, where luxury meets nature. The beaches here are pristine, and you can try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding. Rentals are about $20 for a couple of hours. The best time to visit is during the morning when the waves are manageable for beginners. A common rookie mistake is to stick to the main beach; venture a bit further to find secluded spots that feel like your own slice of paradise. 👉 Explore Sayulita

Las Huertas
For a taste of local life, head to Las Huertas, a charming village just 20 minutes away. Here, you can hike through lush coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process. Tours are often around $15, including tastings. The rainy season, from June to October, brings vibrant greenery, but be prepared for occasional downpours. Many first-timers miss out on the chance to chat with local farmers; their stories add depth to the experience. 👉 Explore Sayulita
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Other Mexican villages near Sayulita

Explore more nearby:

  • Real de Catorce—desert mountains, cobblestone alleys, pilgrimage site| 564 km away
  • Tapijulapa—whitewashed houses, river crossings, lush hills| 1382 km away
  • Holbox—island life, sandy streets, bioluminescent waters| 1882 km away

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We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways before you go

Sayulita is a vibrant blend of surf culture and laid-back charm, where the salty breeze carries the scent of tacos al pastor sizzling on street corners. You’ll find a community that feels alive, welcoming you to join in the rhythm of life. But be ready for the crowds, especially during peak season; it can feel a bit like a party you didn’t RSVP for. Embrace the chaos, and you’ll discover the heart of this coastal paradise.

✈️ When did I visit Mexico?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Mexico in February and March 2016. Had to hurry a bit as I didn’t want to miss the free performance of the Rolling Stones in Cuba.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Mexico, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

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