Sayulita: 5 Ways this Hippie Beach Town Will Steal your Heart
Sayulita
My first introduction to this hippie, beach town was so phenomenal, yet short-lived, I knew I had to make a second trip to spend more time and to really explore.
My first trip was a day trip from Puerto Vallarta (PV), and we explored some areas of PV, along with San Pancho, San Francisco, and several other beach towns including Sayulita.
It had a special place upon introduction and has a special place now.
My second trip was in February 2023, in my opinion, the perfect time to visit. The weather was amazing, the sun was beautiful, the nights were warm, and I didn’t see a single mosquito. The people were friendly and inviting, and the beach was amazing. The sand was soft, squishable, and I could have easily stayed longer plus the vibe…was different.
Sayulita - Popular Beach Town
Sayulita, Mexico, is a charming beach town known for its vibrant beach vibe and laid-back hippie culture. Popular among expats, Sayulita offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for those seeking a tranquil yet lively environment. The town boasts stunning beaches ideal for surfing, colorful streets filled with artisan shops and cafes, and a bustling nightlife. Its welcoming community, frequent local festivals, and beautiful natural surroundings, including lush jungles and scenic coastal trails, make Sayulita a top destination for those looking to experience a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
The Beach Can Be Packed
The beach is beautiful, and during the peak tourist season is typically packed. You can rent a beach chair by the hour or for the whole day, have drinks and food brought to you throughout the day, buy Mexican artifacts, get a tan, take a surf lesson, and take a rest day or two, to allow your stress to fall into the sand.
The beach will also be filled with no only tourists, but locals selling items will walk the beach selling local artifacts, t-shirts, craft items and more. If you want to find a beach that is more quiet, and away from tourists and willing to travel a bit north, visit Lo De Marcos.
Where to Stay for Budget Travelers
If you are traveling as a solo traveler, two hostels we stayed and enjoyed while in Sayulita are:
- Viajero Hostel in Sayulita
- My Sister’s House
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Hotel Guide
If you love to travel via hotels, there is a number of hotels in Sayulita, though they tend to book up during the peak tourist season. The prices are typically higher than during peak tourist season, so make sure you book your accommodations early. There is a wide range of hotel prices.
Peak tourist season in Mexico includes the snowbird season which can be from October through to March or April of the following year.
Location and Population
Sayulita is situated about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast and has a population of about 2,300 inhabitants.
The “busy” season, is typically the winter months, or the high season when tourists travel to Sayulita. It has also become a popular digital nomad location in recent years.
Hippie Beach Vibe
One draw to the area is not only the beach, weather and waves, but it’s the relaxed vibe to the area. This is a pueblo magico where you can be yourself, embrace your creative, relaxed self, and feel comfortable in your own skin.
Things to Do
There are so many things to do and to explore in this hippie beach community, that things you may have thought about doing once or twice in your life, yet were placed on the back burner for whatever reason, start to surface again.
You may want to take a breathwork class, or start doing yoga if you never have done it before, try ear candling, get a massage on the beach, get a tattoo, a henna tattoo, or a piercing, braid your hair, dye your hair pink, or take surfing lessons.
Of course, you can walk the streets to explore the area, eat street tacos, visit a coffee shop, or take an excursion.
Transporation
Getting to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta is straightforward and offers a few convenient options. You can take a taxi or an Uber for a comfortable ride that lasts around an hour. Public buses are also available for a more budget-friendly option, departing frequently from the Puerto Vallarta bus station.
Once in Sayulita, the town is easily navigable on foot, allowing you to explore the vibrant streets, shops, and beaches. Local taxis are also readily available for short trips within the town or to nearby attractions.
CoWorking Spots
There are several coworking places to sit and bring your laptop and have a coffee and stay for lunch in the area.
- Sayulita Cowork: Located in the heart of Sayulita, this spot offers high-speed internet, air conditioning, and a comfortable work environment.
- Casa Vecino Guesthouse: A guesthouse with a dedicated coworking space that includes strong Wi-Fi and quiet working areas.
- Revolución del Sueño: A creative space with vibrant decor and good internet connectivity.
- Selina Sayulita: A hostel that provides coworking spaces, perfect for digital nomads looking for a lively environment.
- Sayulita Central: Centrally located, offering a mix of workspaces and social areas.
Coworking Spots in Sayulita
| Spot | Description |
|---|---|
| Sayulita Cowork | Located in the heart of Sayulita, offering high-speed internet, air conditioning, and a comfortable work environment. |
| Casa Vecino Guesthouse | A guesthouse with a dedicated coworking space that includes strong Wi-Fi and quiet working areas. |
| Revolución del Sueño | A creative space with vibrant decor and good internet connectivity. |
| Selina Sayulita | A hostel that provides coworking spaces, perfect for digital nomads looking for a lively environment. |
| Sayulita Central | Centrally located, offering a mix of workspaces and social areas. |
Top Restaurants in Sayulita
ChocoBanana: A popular spot located in the heart of Sayulita. It’s known for its long lines, so grab a ChocoBanana as you walk by. This restaurant is a stalwart and has been a fixture in the community for a long time.
Don Pedro’s: Offers beachfront dining with a mix of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine. A great spot for enjoying sunsets.
La Rustica: Famous for its wood-fired pizzas and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a casual dinner.
Mary’s Traditional Cuisine: Known for its authentic Mexican dishes and friendly service. A must-visit for traditional flavors.
Sayulita Café: A charming café offering a variety of coffee, pastries, and light meals. Ideal for a relaxed breakfast or lunch.
Street Food: Sayulita is where I discovered my love for street tacos. As a solo traveler, street tacos are a quick, delicious, and affordable meal on the go. They are convenient and offer a deeper cultural experience.
RV Park
I found a great RV Park and went in and spoke with the manager for a bit. They were completely booked. Here’s what makes it interesting, they have no website, just a phone number.
People will typically park their RV there for the whole year (especially snowbirds) and they will travel and spend 6 months of the year there and 6 months out of the country.
Sayulita is an ideal destination for expats looking to experience a blend of beach vibes, hippie culture, and a relaxed atmosphere. With its vibrant expat community, stunning beaches, and easy access from Puerto Vallarta, it’s a perfect spot for both short-term visits and longer stays. The town offers an array of activities, from surfing to exploring local markets, and has a variety of co-working spaces for digital nomads. Its unique charm and friendly locals make Sayulita a memorable place to live and explore.
Have you been to Sayulita? What was your experience? Drop a comment and let us know!
About the Author: Samantha
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