Sayulita, Mexico: A Family Friendly Surf and Beach Adventure

Surf

If you are learning to surf, the beach in Sayulita is perfect. You can find places to rent surfboards all up and down the beach, and the water is warm and inviting, especially in the summer months. If you are looking for a little more adventure, there are fun waves to be had in the Punta de Mita area. You can drive there yourself if you rent a car, but I highly recommend doing a trip with the folks at Wildmex Surf & Adventure. They will shuttle you to the beautiful beach at La Lancha, outfit you with everything you need and even send you away with photos or videos of the experience.

Beaches

Just outside of town, there are a few really nice beaches where you can get away from the crowds in town. Playa de los Muertos is a short walk or golf cart ride out of town, and is great for swimming and relaxing. You won’t be alone here, but there are beach vendors selling food and drink and the water is sheltered from swells, so it is great for swimming and a good place for kids to get in the water. Playa Carricitos is another 20-minute walk from Playa de los Muertos. Carricitios is not as good for swimming, but it is much more secluded and you may even have it alone. On the other side of town is the beautiful Playa Malpaso. This beach requires a little adventure to get to — you walk north from town along a jungle path. It is well worth it, as we have been all alone every time we have visited this beach. Be careful swimming here, as the waves can be powerful if there is a swell.

Marietas Islands

Located about five miles off the coast of Punta de Mita is the Islas Marietas National Park. You can explore the islands with a catamaran trip that includes snorkeling, food, drinks and swimming in the clear waters off the coast. This is a really great way to spend a half or full day and see a really pristine part of Mexico.

Punta de Mita

Punta de Mita is another really cool beach town about 30 minutes away from Sayulita. This area is known for its luxury resorts and long stretches of sandy beaches. The town itself has some nice shops and great ocean-front restaurants. It is also one of the best areas to surf, and you will find places to rent equipment as well as boat operators who can shuttle you out to some of the more remote surfing spots.

Rent a Golf Cart

Sayulita is a small town, so you can easily get around by walking. If you are looking for an easier way to get around, or just to have some fun, I recommend renting a golf cart. Golf carts are an easier way to get around than a full-size car, since traffic can get congested and many of the side streets are quite narrow. A golf cart is also a good way to get to some of the beaches just outside of town.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a much larger town, located about one hour south of Sayulita. Puerto Vallarta is a great place to take a day trip if you are looking for more shopping and tourist attractions. There are some nice beaches in the area, and the old town is a great place to check out some great restaurants and boutique hotels.

The Plaza

The plaza in Sayulita, like many towns, is a center of activity both day and night. During the day, you will find vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. At night, the town can be quite lively, often with live music and plenty of places for food and shopping open late.

Day trip

San Pancho: San Pancho is the next town north of Sayulita. It is about 20 minutes drive there, or you can take a jungle hike if you are up for the adventure. I’ve heard people who have traveled to the area for years describe San Pancho as how Sayulita used to be before it started to grow. It is a great place to stay or visit on a day trip. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, as well as a really beautiful white sand beach. Keep in mind the coast is more exposed here, so the waves can be a bit rough.

Mary’s: Mary’s is our favorite place for a casual meal in Sayulita - we go there at least a few times every trip. It is right in the middle of town and always busy - expect to wait for a table especially outside. The food is authentic Mexican and always delicious. The fish tacos are extraordinary, as are the mixed fajitas.

Don Juan’s: Located a little bit out of town, it is well worth the walk or golf cart ride to get here. The outdoor seating has a really nice ambience, and the food is really good. This is a good place to go for a special occasion dinner.

El Itacate: Many people say El Itacate has the best tacos in town. Their specialty is a taco with a fried cheese shell - all I can say is you have to try it.

Don Pedro’s: A lively beachfront restaurant with good food and a great happy hour! There is a great outdoor seating area right in front of the beach - a great place for a festive family or group dinner.

El Jakal Seafood: Specializing in seafood, El Jakal has great portions for reasonable prices. You can also find a large variety of traditional Mexican food here.

Tacos El Tal: A low key taco cart serving the best El Pastor tacos I have had anywhere.

ChocoBanana: One of our favorite breakfast spots in town, they have a huge selection of both traditional Mexican and American options. I am always partial to the Huevos Rancheros, and they make a great version of it here. Of course, you can’t walk by without getting one of their signature chocolate and nut covered frozen bananas.

Wakika Heladeria: One of my favorite spots in Sayulita. They serve homemade ice cream and popsicles in a huge variety of flavors. We go there at least once a day while we are in Sayulita, just to sample as many flavors as possible. A great place for a refreshing snack after a day on the beach or for dessert during an after dinner stroll in town.