sayulita: Colorful, Chic, Inspirational
By Dez | My Deztination: Mexicos Trusted Residency + Relocation Expert
Welcome to Sayulita
Discover one of Mexico's most intriguing little towns (Pueblo Magicos) located just 1 hour north of Puerto Vallarta. The village-like town is small, giving it quaint + cozy feels while still offering dozens of shops, restaurants, entertainment ideas and fiestas for everyone.
The Bus Ride
Don't be frightened, its great! Although trying to write an article on the bus is darn near impossible with all the bumps and stops along the way, the experience is a must. Public transportation in Puerto Vallarta is completely safe and Sayulita is just a short ride away, costing around 65 pesos.
Tip: The easiest pick up locations for Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita is at Walmart/Sam's bus stop located next to Gallerias Shopping Mall. Look for the white with ‘COMPOSTELA’ in large green writing across it, it stops in the second bay travelling north, you’ll see the destinations 'Mezcales', 'Bucerias', 'Sayulita' listed in the window. Confirm with the bus driver. The bus stops roughly every 20mins and runs until around 11 pm.
Seniors & children: Sometimes the bus can be bumpy and if full, it may be best to wait for another bus to come along. It's difficult for seniors and children to hold on while standing on a crowded bus.
day trip Packing Tips
For a day trip to Sayulita you don't need to bring much because you can buy almost anything there, however getting cash from the ATM's isn't always as easy.
Here's a few things to make sure to bring with you on your day trip:
Sunscreen
Bug Repellent
Water
Change Purse
Wallet
Hand Sanitizer
Eye Drops
Chargers
Batteries
Tripod
Camera
Light Sweater
Hand Fan
Cell Phone
~4,000 pesos
Wet Wipes
Chapstick
Hair Tie
Bathing Suit
Towel
Headphones
Notebook
Pen
Hat
Sunglasses
Travel Pack
The Festivals
Everyday brings festivals, fiestas and always tons of shopping in this hip little village. Sayulita hosts one of the most incredible parties each year known as Festival Sayulita, providing 5 days of concerts, drinks and artistic entertainment for a low price. Thousands of people come from all over the world to experience this unforgettable festival.
Tip: hotels usually book quickly so book way in advance. For more information on Festival Sayulita or other upcoming events in the area, click here.
The Hippie Market
Some of the best shopping in Sayulita is done at the Hippie Market, found at the beginning of the town just before the bridge. There you can find arts, crafts, street foods and farmers markets packed out with travellers from all over the world.
The Surfing
Sayulita is also known as the best hippie-chic surfer spot in Mexico. Surfers & enthusiasts come from all over the world to spend days, weeks or months in Sayulita, living the beach life during the day and the bar scene at night.
Tip: Expect crowded beaches! Best to get there early.
The Shopping
Each adorable little shop offers hundreds of unique items from hand-made art to home-stitched clothing, most authentically made right here in Mexico. As this small town continues to grow, other artists flock from around the world to display their talents & pieces to all to come to experience Sayulita.
Tip: Bring at least 4,000 pesos with you so you can relax, do some shopping and grab a snack or cold beer without worrying about expensive ATMs! Negotiations are possible but keep in mind this is how these people make a living, and they work very hard on their crafts, so don't be shy to give them what they are worth.
The Food
There are many restaurants offering different cuisines in Sayulita. Experience a rustic style beach front atmosphere, chic air-conditioned bar, hipster vegan or smoothie bar on just about every corner.
Tip: Some restaurants and bars only accept cash, so be sure to bring enough pesos. The myth about the bacteria in the ice is just that… a myth. Have fun!
Let loose & make sure to try some shrimp ceviche!
More photos to inspire you
#DiscoverSayulita
Thank you for reading!
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