Where Is Sayulita Located? (READ THIS Before You Travel)

Sayulita, a fantastic beach town, is located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, just north of Puerto Vallarta.

It’s a popular hippy-chic destination known as a haven for surfers, thanks to its consistently good waves, but there’s plenty for non-surfers to enjoy as well.

The town has a laid-back vibe and a strong artistic presence, with colorful murals decorating the streets and local boutiques selling handmade crafts and clothing. And let’s not forget about the beautiful beaches!

Whether you want to spend your days lounging in the sun or exploring Sayulita’s many restaurants and shops, this little town offers a delightful escape from everyday life.

But where exactly is Sayulita? and how do you get to this Mexican paradise? If you’re thinking about traveling to Sayulita, here’s everything you need to know about its location, how to get there, and what to expect when you’re there.

Top 3 Things To Do In Sayulita

Sayulita Guide – Location, Getting There, What’s Nearby, and What to Expect

From location and directions to accommodation and things to do, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Sayulita.

Where Is Sayulita Located?

Sayulita is located in the Riviera Nayarit region on the West Coast of Mexico.

The closest airport is Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which is around a 45-minute drive away.

Geographically, it is 40km away from downtown Puerto Vallarta, which will also take you around 50 minutes to drive.

You can see where Sayulita is on a map here:

How To Get To Sayulita?

There are a few different ways to get to Sayulita.

The best way to get to Sayulita is by flying into Puerto Vallarta airport (PVR) and then taking a bus or taxi from there.

From the airport, you can catch an Airport Express bus to downtown Puerto Vallarta, where buses to Sayulita leave regularly. The ride takes about an hour, and the cost is less than $5 USD. You can see the bus timetable here.

Some of these buses will only stop at the top of the road into Sayulita, so make sure to tell the driver where you want to get off. You can then either take a short walk into town or hail a local taxi.

Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi from the airport directly to Sayulita, which will cost around $50-$60 USD but will cut your travel time in half. Either way, it’s recommended to make sure you have pesos on hand for bus fare or taxi payments.

Another convenient option might be to rent a car and drive yourself to Sayulita. The drive is very straightforward and will take you around 45 minutes if you drive directly from Puerto Vallarta.

How to Get Around Sayulita?

Once you’re in Sayulita, the best way to get around is by foot.

It’s such a quaint beach town that you will even often see people walking around barefoot. Perfect if you’re looking for that laid-back surfer vibe.

This way also allows you to bask in the beauty of Sayulita’s colorful streets, beaches, and jungle-lined paths.

Sayulita is such a small town that it can easily be traversed on foot or by bicycle, but if you do need to venture a little further out, there are also local buses that are cheap and reliable.

Or, for those seeking a bit more adventure, renting an ATV or golf cart is always an option.

What’s Near to Sayulita? 

If you’re itching to explore outside of Sayulita, consider heading to the surrounding towns of San Pancho and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

San Pancho, also known as “Little Hawaii,” boasts beautiful beaches with waves ideal for surfing. It’s also home to the famous annual Jazz and Blues Festival in January, attracting talented artists from around the world.

La Cruz, on the other hand, offers a more upscale atmosphere with a luxury marina and top-rated restaurants serving up fresh seafood.

Both towns offer a nice escape from Sayulita while still being within a short drive or bus ride away.

For a truly unique adventure, take a boat tour to Marietas Islands National Park, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel through hidden caves and possibly catch a glimpse of humpback whales during migration season.

Check out the Marietas Island Tour here

No matter which routes you choose, Sayulita’s neighboring towns provide plenty of options for fun day trips.

Where to Stay in Sayulita?

When it comes to where to stay in Sayulita, there are options for every budget and preference.

It’s a very affordable part of Mexico, so you don’t need to break the bank to find quality accommodation.

Budget Accommodation in Sayulita

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Sayulita, consider staying in the downtown area near the main plaza.

Here, you’ll find plenty of affordable hotels and Airbnb options within walking distance of all the shops, restaurants, and bars.

Luxury Accommodation in Sayulita

For luxury accommodations, consider staying in Punta Mita or the north end of Sayulita, where you’ll find pristine beaches and exclusive resorts.

Keep in mind that these areas may be a bit further from Sayulita’s bustling center but offer stunning views and high-end amenities.

What Can I Expect From Sayulita? 

Sayulita is undoubtedly a stunning beach haven that you need to visit to truly understand.

The small town offers a relaxed, yet vibrant atmosphere with pristine beaches, delicious cuisine, and charming local shops. It’s no surprise that many travelers come for a weekend and end up extending their stay; it’s simply difficult to say goodbye to the charm of Sayulita. 

Sayulita may not be as well-known as some other Mexican destinations, but those who have been lucky enough to visit know just how special this town truly is.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation or just some much needed relaxation on the beach, Sayulita has something for everyone – no wonder so many people decide to extend their trip.

Trust us, you won’t want to leave either.

Check out my friend Jonny’s full guide to Sayulita

Where is Sayulita? (and Why Should You Visit?)

If you’re looking for a laid-back beach town with a unique charm, Sayulita should be on your travel radar.

Located in the state of Nayarit, Mexico, Sayulita offers beautiful beaches and clear water for surfing and swimming.

But beyond the stunning natural scenery, Sayulita also boasts a vibrant downtown filled with colorful art galleries, delicious restaurants, and fun bars and clubs for a lively nightlife.

With its laid-back vibes and a strong sense of community, it’s not uncommon for visitors to fall in love with Sayulita and decide to stay longer (and sometimes settle here).

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Sayulita offers something for every kind of traveler. So if you have the chance to visit, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this eclectic and charming beach town.

Any questions about Sayulita? Please ask in the comments below.

Or if you’re looking for an equally beautiful beach town on the other side of Mexico, have a look at our guide to Tulum.