Sayulita is located 25 miles up the coast from Puerto Vallarta. This small surf town ranks as one of Mexico’s most charming destinations. The relaxed coastal gem in Nayarit state welcomes travelers with more than 100 dining choices and maintains a youthful, peaceful atmosphere.
Puerto Vallarta’s busy international airport makes Sayulita easy to reach, even though the town doesn’t have its own airport. The trip from the airport takes about 50 minutes. Travelers can choose between budget-friendly public buses at $4 or convenient private shuttles. The best time to visit falls between November and May. The temperature stays pleasant at 62 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit – perfect weather to enjoy this coastal paradise. The town’s safety record makes it a standout among Mexican destinations. Its small-town feel helps visitors quickly learn their way around.
This detailed guide helps you plan your 2025 trip to Sayulita. You’ll find everything you need to know about transportation options and arrival planning to make your Mexican vacation stress-free.
What to Know Before You Travel to Sayulita
Want to hit Sayulita’s sunny beaches? A few essential details will make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this Pacific coast gem, from exact locations to the best times to visit.
Where is Sayulita located?
This beautiful beach town sits on Mexico’s Pacific coastline in Nayarit state, right in the heart of Riviera Nayarit. You’ll find Sayulita at latitude 20.868889 and longitude –105.440833. The town nestles between the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Here’s exactly where you’ll find Sayulita:
- 25-30 miles (36-48 km) north of Puerto Vallarta
- 7 km south of San Pancho (also called San Francisco)
- At the southern end of Nayarit state, just north of Banderas Bay
The town shares Mountain Standard Time (MST) with several western U.S. states like Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. About 5,000 people call Sayulita home year-round. The town keeps its small-town charm while drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Is there a Sayulita airport?
Sayulita doesn’t have its own airport, but getting there is easy. Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) serves as the main gateway, located:
- 29.1 km away according to Rome2Rio
- 28 miles north according to WildMex
- 17.82 miles according to Kayak
The drive from Puerto Vallarta’s airport takes 40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Many major U.S. cities offer direct flights to Puerto Vallarta, making it easy to reach for international travelers.
Best time to visit Sayulita, Mexico
The weather in Sayulita splits into two distinct seasons that shape your experience:
Dry Season (November-May):
- Days stay comfortable at 25-29°C (78-85°F)
- Nights cool down to 13-18°C (55-65°F), especially in winter
- Humidity stays low with little rain
- Tourists flock here during Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter (Semana Santa)
Rainy Season (June-October):
- Temperature climbs into the 90s°F with high humidity
- August and September bring tropical rains
- Daily rainfall reaches 13-35 centimeters (5-14 inches) during peak season
- The jungle turns lush and green
Most visitors prefer November through April for the best weather. Budget travelers might like May or early June when prices drop before heavy rains start. Surfers should know that December through April brings North swells – perfect for all skill levels.
The sun shines more than 320 days each year. Even during rainy season, showers rarely last more than an hour before the sun comes back out.
Getting from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita
The journey from Puerto Vallarta International Airport to Sayulita comes with several transportation choices. Each option balances cost, convenience, and time differently.
Option 1: Public bus (Compostela line)
The Compostela bus line stands out as the cheapest way to reach Sayulita. Travelers need to cross the pedestrian footbridge outside the airport terminal to find the bus stop on Highway 200’s other side. Look for green and white buses with “Sayulita” on their windshields. Not all Compostela buses head to Sayulita.
Key details:
- Cost: 46-55 pesos (approximately $2.40-$3.00 USD) per person
- Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm
- Travel time: 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic and stops
- Seating: 31-seat minibuses with no dedicated luggage storage
Budget travelers with light bags will find this option ideal. The buses usually run full with standing passengers. They don’t have air conditioning, though windows provide fresh air.
Option 2: Uber or rideshare apps
Uber works in Puerto Vallarta with some airport limitations. Passengers must walk out of the airport and cross the pedestrian bridge over Highway 200. They can then request their ride through the app.
- Cost: 600-1,000 pesos ($27-$52 USD) depending on time of day
- Availability: Generally reliable but varies by time
- Travel time: Approximately 45-60 minutes without stops
Uber shows fixed prices upfront, unlike traditional taxis. Getting back from Sayulita might be tricky since rideshare apps can’t operate within the town.
Option 3: Airport taxi or street taxi
Airport taxis offer quick service at higher rates. Street taxis waiting across the footbridge charge less.
- Airport taxi cost: 700-1,200 pesos ($60-$70 USD)
- Street taxi cost: Generally cheaper than airport taxis
- Operating hours: 24/7 availability
- Payment: Cash preferred (pesos), ATMs available at airport
Late-night arrivals should stick to taxis. They’re more reliable than buses or Ubers during overnight hours.
Option 4: Private driver or shuttle
A pre-arranged private ride gives you the smoothest arrival experience. Drivers wait at the arrival gate with name signs, so you won’t get lost.
- Cost range: 1,400-2,500 pesos ($75-$125 USD) one-way
- Round-trip options: 3,500-4,000 pesos ($175-$200 USD) for 1-7 passengers
- VIP services: Air-conditioned vehicles, direct transport to accommodations
- Additional benefits: Some services include grocery stops at Mega store
Several companies can handle larger groups or wheelchair access needs. Their vehicles fit up to 16 passengers.
Option 5: Rental car from Puerto Vallarta
A rental car lets you explore Sayulita and nearby areas freely. Sayulita’s narrow streets make parking tough.
- Daily rates: Starting around $25 USD per day
- Insurance: Additional $10 USD daily recommended
- Requirements: Valid driver’s license and credit card for deposit
- Security deposits: Approximately $450 USD for a 7-day rental
Rental cars work best for groups or people planning trips to nearby spots like Jorullo Bridge, Chacala, or botanical gardens. Most people take taxis to Sayulita’s Zona Romantica because parking is limited.
Your arrival time, luggage amount, budget, and vacation plans should guide your choice. Each option brings its own mix of convenience, cost, and flexibility to reach this beach paradise.
How to Choose the Best Option for You
Your choice of transport from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita depends on a few key things. The right option will match your travel needs and priorities.
Budget vs. convenience
The cost to get to Sayulita changes a lot based on how comfortable you want to be:
- Economy options: The Compostela bus costs just $1-4 USD. This works best if you’re watching your budget.
- Mid-range options: Uber rides cost between $35-50 USD. You get a good mix of value and ease.
- Premium choices: Private transfers start at $75 one-way and about $150 round-trip. Luxury options will cost more than $160.
You’ll need to decide if saving $30-70 is worth dealing with things like walking across the pedestrian bridge with your bags or making extra stops.
Traveling solo vs. in a group
The size of your group changes everything about which transport makes sense:
Solo travelers will find the bus the cheapest way to go at about $2.70 USD. But private shuttles become a better deal as your group gets bigger. Groups with 7 or more people can get vehicles that fit up to 14 passengers.
Rental cars ($25/day plus $10/day insurance) make sense if your group plans to explore beyond Sayulita.
Luggage and accessibility considerations
Your transport needs will change based on:
- Luggage volume: Buses don’t have much storage space, so they don’t work well if you have lots of bags.
- Mobility requirements: Some companies provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles with hydraulic lifts and special ramp systems. These vehicles usually fit one wheelchair user and 5-6 other people.
Note that accessibility services are private and not shared, which gives individual-specific assistance to travelers who need extra help.
Travel time and traffic patterns
The trip takes different amounts of time:
- Fastest option: Direct buses take about 38 minutes in good conditions.
- Average timeframes: Most ways to get there take 45-60 minutes.
- Extended journeys: Public buses that make many stops can take up to 1.5 hours.
Traffic affects all types of transport the same way, so comfort often matters more than small time differences. Then your choice ends up depending on what matters most to you—whether saving vacation time is worth paying more for direct transport.
If you’re staying in the hilly parts of Sayulita or traveling with kids or older family members, you might want to arrange transport right to where you’re staying instead of just the town center.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Sayulita
The final steps to reach Sayulita will give a stress-free arrival once you’ve picked your way to get there. These practical tips will help you transition from tourist to temporary local and dodge the usual tourist traps while finding your way around.
Avoiding common scams at the airport
Puerto Vallarta airport has what locals call the “shark tank” – a space between customs and the exit where pushy timeshare salespeople work. These folks often try to stop visitors with promises of “free transportation” or “discounted activities”. You’ll spot them in casual clothes without any official ID, and they might even try to block your path.
Here’s how to handle these scams: Just keep walking and avoid eye contact A firm “no, gracias” works best Note that real transportation services stay outside the glass doors Don’t believe anyone who says “it’s a legal requirement” to verify your transportation
If someone’s picking you up, look for your name on a sign after you walk out of the building.
Where to exchange money or withdraw pesos
Pesos will get you better deals than US dollars in most Sayulita spots. To get local cash:
Sayulita’s main bank, Intercam Bank on Calle Revolucion, has ATMs and currency exchange services. When you’re at the ATM: Hit “decline” if asked about conversion rates Bank ATMs are safer than standalone machines Take out more money at once to cut down on fees US dollars are a great way to get good rates at “Casas de Cambio” (near the plaza across from El Espresso coffee shop)
The airport’s exchange rates are nowhere near as good as what you’ll find in Sayulita.
What to expect when arriving in Sayulita
Sayulita sits on hills that spread out from the central plaza. The sort of thing I love about those “ocean view” rentals is that they’re often up high – which means you might need to think over the climb.
Before you book a place: Check where the street is on Google Maps Ask about getting to the property See how far you’ll need to walk to the plaza
How to get to your hotel or Airbnb
If you’re staying in the hilly parts or traveling with kids or older folks, you’ve got options:
- Local taxis cost about 70+ pesos to get around town
- Golf cart rentals are a great way to explore steep streets, and several good companies rent them
- Walking makes sense if you’re staying close to the center
Learning exactly where your place is located helps avoid surprises when you arrive. On top of that, it helps drivers when you know your property’s name (usually starting with “Casa”).
Getting Around Once You’re in Sayulita
You’ll find several ways to get around Sayulita based on your needs and what you want to see. A good grasp of local transport options will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful beach town.
Is Sayulita walkable?
Sayulita’s downtown area is very compact. You can walk to most restaurants, shops, and the main beach in just 10 minutes from the central plaza. Walking is the go-to choice for most visitors who stay downtown. You’ll need good shoes though – many sidewalks are uneven and narrow.
Golf cart rentals and when to use them
Golf carts are perfect if you’re staying up in the hills or have trouble walking. Daily rates run between $50-80 USD, and you can often get better deals for weekly rentals. Make sure to book your cart ahead of time during peak season (December-April) when they’re hard to find.
Taxis and local transport options
Yellow cabs gather near the plaza and charge about 70-100 pesos for rides within town. These taxis don’t use meters, so it’s best to agree on the price before you hop in.
How to reach nearby beaches and towns
To explore outside Sayulita:
- San Pancho (7km north): Take a local bus (15 pesos) or grab a taxi (200 pesos)
- Punta Mita (12km south): Catch a taxi (300-400 pesos) or book through tour companies
- Hidden beaches: You’ll need to hike a short distance from town to reach secluded spots like Playa Los Muertos
Sayulita without doubt gives travelers the perfect mix of authentic Mexican charm and modern comforts. You can reach it from Puerto Vallarta Airport in several ways that fit any budget – from cheap public buses at $2-4 to convenient private shuttles at $75-125. The weather between November and April provides the most pleasant time to visit, which helps you plan the perfect trip.
You should pick your accommodation location wisely before arriving. Many properties offer stunning ocean views but sit on steep hills, so you’ll need to plan how to move around town daily. Golf carts work great for hillside stays, while walking is easy if you’re staying in the center.
Sayulita stands among Mexico’s safest spots, so safety shouldn’t worry you too much. Just use basic travel smarts, watch out for airport scams, and be careful with ATMs. Local currency exchange spots will give you better rates than the airport.
Your choice of transport will substantially affect your Sayulita stay. Families with young kids might prefer door-to-door shuttles, while budget travelers can easily use the public bus system. Whatever transport you pick, good planning makes the difference between a stressful arrival and a smooth start to your vacation.
Taking time to research your options makes Sayulita easy to reach, even without its own airport. This charming beach town rewards you with an authentic Mexican coastal experience that’s worth the short trip from Puerto Vallarta. Now you have the local knowledge for a stress-free 2025 Sayulita adventure.
Here are some FAQs about getting to Sayulita:
What airport do you fly into to go to Sayulita?
The primary airport for traveling to Sayulita is the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta. There is no sayulita airport, so all visitors must fly into PVR and then arrange for ground transportation north to the town.
How much is an Uber ride from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita?
An Uber ride from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita typically costs between $30 to $50 USD, though prices can vary based on demand and time of day. This is a convenient option for getting from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita, offering a door-to-door service.
How do you get to Sayulita?
The process of getting to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta most commonly involves taking a taxi, Uber, or a public bus from the airport or downtown. The bus is a very economical option, while private transfers offer more comfort and direct service for getting from puerto vallarta airport to sayulita.
Is Sayulita better than Puerto Vallarta?
Whether Sayulita is better than Puerto Vallarta depends on personal preference; Sayulita offers a more bohemian, relaxed village vibe, while Puerto Vallarta is a larger city with more extensive amenities and nightlife. Many visitors enjoy experiencing both during their trip.
How much is a cab from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita?
A official taxi from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita typically costs between $60 to $80 USD, which is a fixed rate set by the airport taxi union. This is a straightforward, though more expensive, method for getting from Puerto Vallarta airport to Sayulita compared to other options.
Is Sayulita worth visiting?
Sayulita is absolutely worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, excellent surfing, vibrant art scene, and delicious food. It provides an authentic Mexican pueblo experience that is different from larger resort towns, making the journey of getting to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta very rewarding.
What is the best way to get from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita?
The best way to get from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita depends on your budget and preference; renting a car offers flexibility, the public bus is very affordable, and a private taxi provides direct comfort. For those arriving by air, organizing a transfer is key to getting from Puerto Vallarta airport to Sayulita efficiently.
Are taxis cheaper than Uber in Puerto Vallarta?
Taxis are not typically cheaper than Uber in Puerto Vallarta; Uber fares are often lower for the same route due to different pricing structures. However, airport taxis are a fixed rate and can be more convenient immediately upon arrival for trips like getting to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta.
