What to Do in Sayulita: 7 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know
Just one hour north of Puerto Vallarta lies Sayulita, a coastal town where creativity coexists with the serenity of the jungle and every corner pulses with its own identity. Located in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, this destination may seem close on the map, but in essence it feels like another world. Here, surfboards rest against hand-painted walls, palm trees sway over cobblestone streets, and color lives not only in the architecture, but in the way of life itself.
Thanks to its easy access, Sayulita is an excellent option for a day trip from Puerto Vallarta, whether by car, public transportation, or as part of a small-group guided experience.
However, the true magic of the town appears in unexpected moments: a fire dancer at sunset, a street artist creating in silence, or a coastal path that leads to a hidden beach. Sayulita rewards those who allow themselves to get lost.
In this guide, you’ll discover seven ways to connect with the authentic essence of Sayulita—uncommon experiences deeply tied to nature, culture, and community. More than simple activities, these are moments that reveal a place where time slows down, stories emerge from the streets, and adventure arises spontaneously. Sayulita is not just a place you visit—it stays with you.
1. Explore Sayulita and San Pancho on a One-Day Cultural Experience
A full-day cultural tour is one of the best ways to understand Sayulita’s vibrant spirit. Departing from Puerto Vallarta, this guided experience takes you through colorful streets, artisan markets, and creative spaces before continuing on to San Pancho, a quieter coastal community known for its strong cultural and artistic identity.
Accompanied by a bilingual guide, you’ll learn about Huichol heritage, visit local galleries, sample traditional snacks, and enjoy a relaxed walk through two of the most emblematic bohemian towns in the Riviera Nayarit.
2. Experience a Temazcal Ceremony in the Jungle
Sayulita’s spiritual dimension is deeply connected to ancient Indigenous traditions, and one of the most meaningful is the temazcal ceremony. Inside a dome-shaped clay structure surrounded by jungle, volcanic stones are heated and infused with water and medicinal herbs, creating a purifying steam.
Accompanied by chants and percussion, this ritual represents a process of physical, emotional, and spiritual cleansing. Usually led by traditional guides or healers near the town, the experience often concludes with a moment of reflection, herbal infusions, or fresh fruit beneath the trees.
3. Discover Living Art in Sayulita’s Murals and Boutiques
Sayulita is, at its core, an open-air gallery. Its streets, stairways, and plazas are filled with vibrant murals that invite you to pause and observe. From contemporary interpretations of Huichol symbols to surf-inspired designs and social messages, art is part of everyday life here.
Local galleries and boutiques offer deeper insight into Indigenous and contemporary art, often allowing visitors to meet the artists themselves. Here, art is not just aesthetic—it is identity, dialogue, and cultural expression.
4. Ride Through Sayulita’s Hills and Jungle on an ATV
For those seeking adventure beyond the beach, the surroundings of Sayulita offer ideal terrain for off-road exploration. Jungle trails and rolling hills become the perfect setting for an ATV experience, navigating steep paths and reaching viewpoints with spectacular coastal views.
The route blends adrenaline and nature and often ends with a more relaxed ride through town, highlighting the contrast between the wild landscape and the artistic atmosphere of its streets.
5. Enjoy Sayulita’s Street Food and Artisanal Snacks
Sayulita’s gastronomy reflects its diverse and welcoming spirit. From tacos al pastor and grilled corn to traditional tamales and wood-fired pizzas, every dish tells a story. You might start your day with a smoothie, enjoy snacks in the main plaza, and end with dinner by the sea.
Along the way, local markets and food stands offer artisanal chocolates, tropical popsicles, and traditional sweets. Eating in Sayulita is not just about food—it’s about connecting with the people and traditions that give the town its flavor.
6. Wander Through Bohemian Markets and Local Collectives
Sayulita’s artisanal soul shines through its markets and independent shops. On weekends, the town square fills with handmade goods: embroidered textiles, beaded jewelry, macramé bags, photography, and natural cosmetics.
Each object has a story, and every purchase becomes a human exchange. More than commercial spaces, these markets are meeting points between creators and visitors.
7. Take a Yoga Class in Jungle-Shrouded Shalas or by the Sea
In Sayulita, yoga is part of the daily rhythm. Shalas are tucked into the vegetation or open directly to the ocean, where the sound of waves and birds accompanies each practice. There are options for all levels, from dynamic sunrise sessions to restorative sunset classes.
More than physical exercise, yoga here is an experience of connection—with nature and with yourself.
Let Sayulita Lead the Way
Sayulita is not just a tourist destination—it is a sensory and emotional experience. A place that invites you to slow down, observe closely, and embrace the unexpected. Among cobblestone streets, golden beaches, and sunsets that feel like intimate celebrations, the town reminds you of the importance of living in the moment.
Whether you’re exploring colorful markets, hiking jungle trails with the ocean breeze, or simply sitting barefoot in the sand as drums sound at dusk, Sayulita leaves its mark. It is a place where authenticity, freedom, and human connection are expressed in every mural, every dish, and every smile.
