What to Do in Sayulita

Your Ultimate Guide

Sayulita, a vibrant pueblo mágico on Mexico’s Pacific coast, offers a captivating blend of bohemian charm, surf culture, and authentic Mexican experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life, this guide will help you make the most of your Sayulita getaway.

Where to Eat in Sayulita

Sayulita’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, ranging from street food delights to upscale dining.

• Casual & Local:
  • Tacos el Ivan: A must-try for authentic al pastor tacos, especially in the evenings.
  • Mary’s Tacos: Famous for their fish and shrimp tacos – perfect after a surf session.
  • Chocobanana: A Sayulita institution, known for its chocolate-covered frozen bananas and great breakfast options.
  • Anchor Cafe: Excellent for breakfast and lunch with healthy options and good coffee.
• Mid-Range & International:
  • Don Pedro’s Restaurant & Bar: Offers a beautiful beachfront setting with a diverse menu, often featuring fresh seafood and live music.
  • Sayulita Cafe: A long-standing favorite for traditional Mexican dishes and a lively atmosphere.
  • La Rustica: Popular for delicious wood-fired pizzas and a great selection of drinks.
  • Si Señor: Enjoy fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine with a lovely view of the main plaza.
• Upscale & Special Occasions:
  • Terrenal (Hotelito Los Suenos): Known for its farm-to-table concept and delicious, innovative dishes in a beautiful setting.

Where to Do Shopping in Sayulita

Sayulita is a shopper’s paradise, with a plethora of boutiques, art galleries, and street vendors offering unique finds.

• Main Plaza Area: This is the heart of shopping, with numerous shops selling everything from bohemian clothing and jewelry to artisan crafts and souvenirs.
• Calle Marlin: Lined with many independent boutiques and galleries.
• Mercado del Pueblo (Farmer’s Market): (Typically Fridays, check local listings for current schedule) Find organic produce, local honey, homemade goods, and artisanal crafts.
• Evoke the Spirit: Beautifully curated home decor, textiles, and fashion.
• Revolution de Amor: Known for its stylish clothing and accessories.
• Gypsy Market: Offers a wide array of unique clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Where to Get Groceries in Sayulita

For self-catering or stocking up on snacks and drinks, Sayulita has several options.

• Ley Express: The largest supermarket in town, offering a good selection of produce, meats, dairy, and pantry staples. Located on the main road into Sayulita.
• Mini Super del Sol: A smaller, centrally located grocery store with basic necessities and some organic options.
• Fruteria y Verdureria (Fruit and Vegetable Stands): Several small local stands offer fresh, seasonal produce. Look for them on the streets leading off the main plaza.
• Panaderia (Bakeries): Numerous local bakeries provide fresh bread, pastries, and sweet treats daily.

Where to Get Tours, Lessons, and Rentals (ATV, Surf, etc.)

Sayulita is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with plenty of opportunities for adventure.

• Surf Lessons & Rentals:
  • Sayulita Surf School: Reputable school offering lessons for all levels and board rentals.
  • Lunazul Surf School: Another popular choice for lessons and rentals on the main beach.
  • Numerous small shops along the main beach also offer board rentals by the hour or day.
• ATV & Golf Cart Rentals:
  • Sayulita ATV & Golf Cart Rentals: Located near the town entrance, offering various vehicles for exploring.
  • Several other independent rental shops are scattered throughout town. Note: Golf carts are a popular way to get around Sayulita, especially if your rental is on a hill.
• Tours:
  • Ally Cat Sailing Adventures: Popular for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and whale watching (in season).
  • Sayulita Tours: Offers a variety of excursions including hidden beach tours, jungle hikes, and fishing trips.
  • Local Tour Operators: Many small stands and offices in the main plaza area offer tours to Islas Marietas (hidden beach), San Pancho, horseback riding, and more.
• Yoga & Wellness:
  • Hotelito Los Suenos: Offers daily yoga classes in a beautiful open-air studio.
  • Sayulita Wellness: A hub for various wellness activities, including yoga, massage, and workshops.

Where to See Live Music and Enjoy the Nightlife

Sayulita comes alive after dark with a vibrant nightlife scene.

• Don Pedro’s Restaurant & Bar: Often features live bands playing a mix of reggae, Latin, and rock music, especially on weekends.
• Bar La Isla: A popular spot for dancing and live music, often with a DJ later in the night.
• Sayulita Public House: Craft beers and often has live music or open mic nights.
• Escondido Bar: A hidden gem with a relaxed atmosphere, great cocktails, and sometimes live acoustic music.
• Yambak: Known for its lively atmosphere, good cocktails, and often features DJs playing a mix of genres.
• Street Performers: Especially in the main plaza, you’ll often find talented musicians and performers adding to the evening ambiance.
• Local Bars around the Plaza: Many smaller bars around the main plaza offer a relaxed setting for drinks and conversation, some with impromptu music.

What to Avoid Doing in Sayulita

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Don’t drink tap water: Stick to bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues.
• Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach: Petty theft can occur.
• Don’t disrespect local customs: Be mindful of noise levels, especially late at night, and dress respectfully when away from the beach.
• Don’t litter: Help keep Sayulita beautiful by properly disposing of your trash.
• Don’t engage in illegal activities: This includes drug use.
• Don’t feed stray animals: While tempting, it can create dependency and contribute to overpopulation.
• Don’t rely solely on credit cards: While many places accept cards, smaller vendors and some restaurants are cash-only. Have pesos on hand.
• Don’t forget bug spray: Especially during the rainy season, mosquitoes can be prevalent.
• Don’t assume everyone speaks English: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way.
• Don’t overcrowd the main beach during peak season: Explore other smaller beaches like Playa de los Muertos or Malpaso for a more tranquil experience.