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Planning a vacation to Sayulita? You’re in for a seriously good time!
This colorful, laid-back beach town blends relaxation with just the right amount of adventure, which is why we always love coming back. In three days, you can sail to the Marietas Islands, taste incredible tacos, explore jungle viewpoints, and still enjoy slow beach afternoons and sunset evenings.
While three days isn’t a lot of time, we’ve put together a thoughtfully paced itinerary that helps you make the most of it without feeling rushed. It balances can’t-miss experiences with plenty of downtime to shop, wander, or simply relax by the water. Keep reading to see how to make the most of three unforgettable days in Sayulita.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Marietas Islands boat tour. Spotting marine life as we cruised the coast and jumping between swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling made it nonstop fun!
Itinerary Overview
Sayulita is colorful, laid-back, and easy to explore, with beaches, surf culture, cafés, and taco spots all centered around its walkable main plaza. The vibe is casual, and we love the barefoot mornings, afternoons in the ocean, and warm evenings. Once you arrive, everything feels close, simple, and designed for slowing down rather than rushing around. This three-day itinerary is built around that ease and comfort, ensuring you get good vibes and ultimate relaxation.
Getting to Sayulita is straightforward, whether you choose a private transfer or pre-booked shuttle for door-to-door comfort, a taxi (just confirm the price before getting in), or the frequent public bus from Puerto Vallarta, which usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Once in town, most places are best reached on foot, especially near the plaza and beach. The streets can be uneven and a bit hilly, so golf carts and scooters are popular local options if you want to save energy or are staying farther out—keeping everything relaxed and close without the need for constant car rides.
Let’s take a look at how you’ll be spending your three days here with a quick breakdown:
Day 1: Start by exploring Sayulita’s colorful plaza, then spend a good portion of your day lounging at Playa Los Muertos before tasting your way through town on a taco tour in the evening.
Day 2: Go on an epic adventure, sailing to and exploring Marieta Islands National Park, followed by an afternoon of more beachtime and then finding some live music in town.
Day 3: For the final day, you have the option of hiking up Monkey Mountain or soaring through jungle canopies on a zipline before wrapping up the day with a sunset horseback ride and then dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants.
Day 1
Breakfast – Ease into Sayulita with a laid-back morning
For day one, we suggest easing into Sayulita by keeping breakfast close to the center so you can get your bearings and enjoy the quieter streets before the town fully wakes up. Yah Yah Cafe is a great first stop if you want a proper coffee and a solid bagel. I’m also a huge fan of their avocado toast.
If you’re in the mood for a more classic Mexican breakfast, or it’s Tuesday when Ya Yah Cafe is closed, ChocoBanana is the move for huevos rancheros or something on the sweeter side. Either way, bring cash and plan to settle in for a proper sit-down breakfast since day 1 is meant to feel unhurried. There isn’t a scheduled activity until 4:30 pm, so hang out and enjoy Sayulita’s chill vibes.
Morning – Get a feel for Sayulita around the plaza
After breakfast, keep exploring Sayulita Plaza and check out the heart of town. This is where skateboard kids spend their days, local vendors sell a variety of goods, and locals and tourists alike come to mingle. It’s the perfect place to sit for a bit, people-watch, and start getting a feel for Sayulita’s rhythm without needing a plan.
From the plaza, it’s an easy loop to the Sayulita sign for a classic photo, then into the surrounding side streets where some of the best wandering happens. This is also a great moment to swing by the Iguana Tree—if you look up, you’ll usually spot a few iguanas lounging in the branches, one of those quirky Sayulita sights people often miss.
The nearby shops are ideal for casual browsing, with handmade jewelry, beachwear, woven bags, and plenty of pieces in Sayulita’s signature bright color palette. If you wander farther toward the baseball stadium, the artisanal market area is worth a stop to compare prices and hunt for more one-of-a-kind finds before the day gets warm.
Lunch – El Itacate
For lunch, swing by El Itacate for some clean and legendary food. They are especially famous for their cheese burrito, which is a bit of a monster, but oh so good. We usually split this to avoid crashing out too hard after lunch, but after this, we do have some beach time, so it’s the perfect opportunity to take a power nap. Up to you!
After lunch, we suggest making a quick convenience stop before heading to the beach. Grab water, sunscreen, and maybe a couple of cold drinks to stash for later, so you’re set when you head to the beach and not scrambling once the sun is fully out.
Early afternoon – Enjoy a beach reset
You can’t visit Sayulita without spending some time on the beach, and when it comes to beaches, we suggest Playa Los Muertos. It has calm water, fewer vendors, and is a great spot to kick back for a few hours.
If the tide is low and you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue on to the small “secret” beach just beyond it. Take your time over the rocks and wear shoes with decent grip, but the extra effort is worth it for a quieter pocket of sand and water where it really feels like you’ve slipped away for a bit.
Late afternoon/dinner – Taste your way through town on a taco tour
Late afternoon is when Sayulita really comes alive, and there’s no better way to lean into that energy than with this guided taco tour through town. Starting at 4:30 pm, this experience is designed to let you taste your way through some of the best local spots while learning a bit about the food culture that defines Sayulita.
Over the course of 2–3 hours, you’ll move between several taquerias, sampling a variety of tacos and specialties that go far beyond what you might stumble into on your own. It’s a fun, social way to explore, and it naturally doubles as dinner without ever feeling rushed.
Because the tour runs into the early evening and typically wraps up by around 7:30 pm at the latest, it fits perfectly after a beachy afternoon reset. Be sure to show up a few minutes early so things can start on time, and bring a small bottle of water to stay hydrated between stops.
Comfort is key—cobblestone streets mean comfy shoes go a long way. By the end of the night, it’s obvious why this tour has so many five-star reviews, with great food, good vibes, and Sayulita buzzing around you.
Skip tourist traps and eat Sayulita’s best tacos by booking this tour!
Evening – Wrap up day one with a gelato and a night stroll
You’ll finish the taco tour right near the plaza, which is exactly where you want to be as evening settles in. After dark, Sayulita takes on a fun, more energetic scene with music drifting through the streets, vendors out, and people lingering without much of an agenda. It feels a bit like a street party you can dip in and out of, no planning required!
From here, you can keep things flexible. Grab a casual cocktail from one of the street carts and do a slow loop around the square, or pop into YamBak Brewery if you’re in the mood for something a little more lively and social—it’s very much an “everyone ends up here eventually” kind of spot.
If a quieter wind-down sounds better, keep it simple with gelato from Wakika Heladeria and an easy stroll back toward your hotel while the town glows with lights and music. Day 1 is about settling in, not overdoing it, especially with a full-day tour coming up tomorrow.
Day 2
Morning/Early afternoon – Set sail for the Marietas Islands
Today you’ll be heading out for this full-day boat tour to the Marietas Islands, one of the most beautiful natural highlights in the area. With a 7:15 am start time, plan on an early wake-up and a quick breakfast or coffee before heading out. Once you’re on the boat, the pace shifts into full adventure mode as you cruise along the coast toward the protected islands, keeping an eye out for marine life (like whales!) along the way.
The tour runs for about 6 hours and is all-inclusive, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics. You’ll spend time on the water exploring the area around the islands, with opportunities to swim, kayak, snorkel, and take in the dramatic rock formations and clear blue water that make this place so special.
For us, the absolute highlight is visiting the famous “hidden beach” (Playa del Amor), tucked inside one of the islands and only accessible through a short swim. This part of the experience requires a limited-entry permit that must be booked in advance, so it’s important to confirm availability ahead of time if this is on your must-do list.
We loved the open bar, and lunch is included with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. You should wrap up in the early to mid-afternoon, leaving you pleasantly tired but still with some flexibility for the rest of the day.
Don’t miss out—book our favorite Sayulita tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Cool off in town and give yourself a breather
Once you’re back in town, head to your hotel to freshen up, rinse off the salt, and reset after a full morning on the water before heading out again for the evening. If you don’t want to spend time at your hotel, take a relaxed walk through town and grab something cold to drink, like a fresh coconut. Find a shady spot, put your feet up, and let the day settle in before dinner plans.
Dinner – Your choice!
After a full day on the water and a laid-back afternoon recharging, dinner is all about keeping things easy and delicious. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic Mexican flavors, or something a little different, Sayulita has plenty of great spots to end the day on a high note.
Here are a few of our favorites to consider:
- Barracuda Sayulita – An excellent choice for fresh seafood with a relaxed, coastal vibe. Our go-to spot for ceviche! Closed Wednesdays, but otherwise open from 2 pm to 10:30 pm, making it easy to fit into your evening plans.
- Mary’s Traditional Mexican Cuisine – Perfect if you’re still craving classic Mexican flavors after the taco tour. It’s very popular for a reason, so expect a bit of a wait; it closes early on Sundays but is otherwise generally open late.
- Santas Iguanas – A go-to for Italian comfort food, especially homemade pasta, with crowd-pleasers like pizza, fresh salads, and a solid drinks list if you’re in the mood for something different.
Evening – Go on the hunt for live music
Sayulita really shines at night when it comes to live music. It tends to pop up organically, with bars and small venues clustered around town rather than sticking to a strict schedule, so the best approach is simply to follow your ears. Taking a stroll around the plaza or along the beachside streets usually turns up something good, whether it’s a laid-back acoustic set or a livelier band drawing a crowd.
Two reliable spots to check first are YamBak and Don Pato, both known for hosting live music and attracting a fun mix of locals and travelers. From there, see how you feel! This is one of those evenings where wandering beats planning, and stumbling onto a great set is part of the charm.
Related Read: Looking for more ideas to mix and match into your three days? Our guide to epic things to do in Sayulita dives deeper into the must-see spots, beach time, and local experiences worth adding to your itinerary.
Day 3
Morning – Option A: Hike Monkey Mountain
If your day three falls on a Saturday, this guided hike of Monkey Mountain is perfect for active travelers looking for big views and a true sense of adventure. The outing runs for about five hours (7:30 am—12:30 pm) on Saturdays and is thoughtfully organized, with transportation included, so you can focus on the experience rather than the logistics. It’s an energizing way to spend the morning, blending movement, nature, and a bit of local flavor.
The hike itself is the highlight, with a steady climb that rewards you with sweeping views from the top—one of the best vantage points in the area. The total length is 8 kilometers (5 miles) round trip, so it’s not too short, but not a total butt kicker either. While you probably won’t see any monkeys on Monkey Mountain, you’re almost guaranteed to see the cute coati that roam the area and plenty of birds.
What makes this experience especially memorable is how well supported it is along the way. Snacks, bottled water, fresh coconut (courtesy of the hilarious Don Pedro), and Mexican food are included, turning the hike into a full, immersive experience rather than just a physical challenge.
By the time you’re back in town early in the afternoon, you’ll feel accomplished, happily tired, and very ready for a shower, a big lunch, and a slower-paced rest of the day.
Block this one in early—this Saturday hike fills up fast!
Morning – Option B: Fly through the jungle on a canopy zipline
If you’d rather trade hiking boots for a burst of adrenaline, this canopy zipline experience is a fantastic alternative. It’s a high-energy but very approachable adventure that lets you soar through the jungle canopy, taking in sweeping views and lush scenery from above—and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a few critters along the way. It strikes a great balance between excitement and accessibility, making it fun without feeling intimidating.
The tour runs for about two hours (go for the 9 am to 11 am option for the sake of this itinerary) and includes pickup from most hotels, Airbnbs, and villas in Sayulita, which makes it especially easy to fit into your morning without extra planning.
We loved how well organized the experience felt from start to finish, with clear instructions, friendly guides, and a steady flow that keeps things moving without ever feeling rushed. The full course includes 13 ziplines and four suspension bridges, adding up to nonstop fun.
This option is a great fit for families with older kids, mixed-activity groups, or anyone who wants a memorable taste of adventure without committing to a full day. You’ll finish energized, smiling, and with plenty of time left to enjoy the rest of Sayulita at your own pace.
Add some adrenaline to your stay and book this zipline tour here!
Lunch – ORGANI-K Sayulita
After either adventure, this is the perfect time to slow things down with a proper sit-down lunch and a bit of well-earned downtime. Organi-K Sayulita is a great pick if you’re craving something fresh, light, and nourishing after a hot, active morning. The poke bowls and açaí bowls are especially tasty, and it’s an easy place to linger, cool off, and recharge before the rest of the day.
Afternoon – Book a beach massage and keep it low-key
After a full morning and a satisfying lunch, the afternoon is all about relaxation. Beach massages in Sayulita are easy and wonderfully low-effort, usually set up right on the main beach in small tent or chair setups just steps from the water. You can simply wander down, take a look around, and choose a spot that feels calm and professional rather than booking far in advance.
Look for a setup that seems established—proper massage table, clean linens, a bit of shade—and be sure to agree on the price and length of the massage before getting started. Prices can vary slightly depending on the style of massage, but on average, you can expect to pay around 400–500 MXN (roughly $20–25 USD) for an hour.
With the sound of the waves in the background and nowhere else to be, it’s an ideal way to fully lean into Sayulita’s relaxed pace and keep the rest of the afternoon low-key.
Evening – Wrap up your trip with a sunset horseback ride
If you’re looking to end your trip on a true highlight, this sunset horseback ride is a memorable and fitting finale. It’s not for everyone, but for those who enjoy being outdoors and want something special to mark the last evening, it’s hard to beat. The sunset option runs from about 5 pm to 7 pm, perfectly timed to catch the golden light as the day winds down.
The experience takes you along jungle trails that eventually open up to the beach, creating a beautiful contrast between lush greenery and wide-open coastline. Riding at a relaxed pace makes it accessible even for beginners, and the guides do a great job of matching horses to riders so everyone feels comfortable. What really makes this experience stand out is the photographer who gets amazing photos that are honestly good enough to frame!
Complimentary transportation from Sayulita is included, which is especially appreciated after a full day and makes the logistics easy. If you choose to meet on your own, the ranch is located on the road to Higuera Blanca, and they ask that you arrive about 20 minutes early.
Either way, it’s a peaceful, scenic way to wrap up the trip. If you’re on the fence, take a quick look at the five-star reviews here that say it all!
Book this sunset ride here and end your trip on a perfect note!
Dinner – Don Pedro’s Restaurant & Bar
For your final dinner, Don Pedro’s Restaurant & Bar is an ideal choice. Set right on the beach, it naturally delivers that “last night in town” feeling, with tables overlooking the water and front-row seat views of the ocean. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to arrive a little before sunset, order a cocktail, and linger without feeling rushed.
The menu is broad and crowd-pleasing, making it an easy win for groups with different cravings. You’ll find plenty of fresh seafood alongside wood-fired pizza, pasta, and even sushi, so everyone can order what sounds best without compromise. With its relaxed but polished vibe, it feels special without being overly formal—perfect for wrapping up the trip on a high note. Just note that the restaurant closes at 10 pm, so plan accordingly if you want to stretch the evening out a bit.
Related Read: If you’re looking for more great places to eat during your stay, check out our absolute best restaurants in Sayulita here for even more local favorites.
Where to Stay in Sayulita
Now that you’ve got your Sayulita plans dialed in, choosing the right place to stay can really shape the experience. The hotels below are all well-located and make it easy to enjoy the beach, town, and laid-back vibe Sayulita is known for. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront splurge, a comfortable mid-range stay, or a budget-friendly option with personality, these are a few solid picks to consider.
Hotel Ysuri Sayulita – $$$
Hotel Ysuri is a beachfront luxury stay that manages to feel both peaceful and perfectly located. Wake up to ocean views, relax on your private balcony, and enjoy thoughtful touches like in-room kitchens in select suites. The infinity pool overlooks the beach, and on-site massages make it easy to fully unwind. Despite the tranquil vibe, you’re just a short walk from downtown and steps from the sand.
Rooms typically range from $140 to $320 USD per night, with breakfast included. See pricing and availability for this luxury stay here.
Maramara Centro – $$
Maramara Centro is a great option if you want a little more space and a calmer, apartment-style stay. The rooftop pool with views is a standout, and having a fitness center and kitchenette makes it especially convenient for longer stays. Rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable, with thoughtful touches like coffee machines and seating areas.
Studios typically range from around $80 to $150 USD per night, with larger suites ranging from about $180–$360 USD. Check availability for your travel dates here.
Casa Pepe – $
Casa Pepe strikes a great balance between style and fun, just a short walk from the beach. The rooftop pool and bar are a big win for post-beach hangs, while the rooms are modern, comfy, and air-conditioned. There are also dorm options if you’re traveling on a tighter budget. It’s an easy choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a social vibe without giving up comfort.
Private rooms and suites typically range from around $90 to $230 USD per night, and dorm beds go for about $18 to $40 USD—check Booking.com for the best rates.
Looking for more options? Here’s where to find all accommodations in Sayulita, from budget-friendly stays to more upscale picks.
Related Read: Not sure which part of town is right for you? Our full guide to the best areas to stay in Sayulita breaks down the neighborhoods so you can match your hotel to the vibe you want.
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
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Three days in Sayulita go by fast, but it’s plenty of time to soak up the town’s laid-back charm, great food, and easy mix of adventure and downtime. From Marietas Islands excursions and taco-filled evenings to slow beach afternoons and golden sunsets, everything here feels unhurried and simple. Treat this itinerary as a framework, stay flexible, and let Sayulita set the pace!
If Sayulita is just one stop on your trip, we’ve got you covered. Browse all of our Mexico travel blogs here for more itineraries, tips, and recommendations. Or check out a few related posts below to keep the planning going. Cheers!
How to Get from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita – 7 BEST Ways
6 BEST Sayulita Tours from Puerto Vallarta
How to Spend THREE DAYS in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: 3-Day Itinerary