The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in Sayulita, Mexico [Budget + Safety Tips]

When I did my first solo female travel in Sayulita Mexico, I thought I’d only stay a month but I ended up living there for 2 years! These were the best years of my life and in this post, you will get everything you need to travel to Sayulita solo.

Hi Trisha, I found your blog while searching for Mexico. I am Frances from Oklahoma and I am preparing to travel outside the USA to expand my horizon. Mexico seems to be the closest place for that. However, I am still scared about what I hear on the news. Here in the US, Mexico solo female travel gets a lot of bad press and my dad is worried about my decision to come to Sayulita. Is solo female travel in Sayulita safe? How is Mexico in general? Thanks a lot for your help and thank you for encouraging young girls like me to go out of their comfort zone. Your blog is a gem!
– Frances Johnson, USA

Dear Frances,

I totally understand your dad’s concern. While there are many Americans here, its safety is still a question for many. During my first Sayulita solo female travel adventure, I hoped to stay for a few weeks but I ended up living there for 2 years!

In this solo female travel in Sayulita Mexico guide, I will only tell you about my personal experiences. Before I begin, I need you to not worry about it because Sayulita is the safest place I visited in Mexico.

The town is very small so you’ll know everyone in an instant. We protect and care for each other here – you’ll really love the community! Here’s everything you need to know about solo female travel in Sayulita. Good luck and I hope you make it!

Xx,
Trisha

Solo Female Travel in Sayulita Mexico: Quick Info

• Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Cash is king, but cards work in most places.
• Power Plug: Type A & B, same as the U.S. Voltage is 127V.
• Visa: No visa needed for U.S. citizens for stays under 180 days.
• Language: Spanish is the main language, but English is widely understood.
• Culture: Laid-back surf town vibes! Friendly locals, colorful streets, and a strong respect for nature.

Is solo female travel in Sayulita safe?

Yes, ABSOLUTELY. I lived here for a while and it was not my original plan. One of the reasons that drove me to move here is because of safety.

Sayulita Mexico is a very family-oriented town so you can see a lot of families on the beach and a huge amount of kids running around town every weekend. It has been a destination for family travelers, including Mexican families. Sayulita is only a 4-hour drive from the city of Guadalajara so it serves as the closest vacation spot to Mexicans.

Police are patrolling around town every night to keep the Sayulita environment safe. There aren’t a lot of crimes in town so they are more focused on enforcing laws regarding drug possession.

There is also a big community of ex-pats in Sayulita Mexico. As I wrote at the beginning of this article, most foreigners who reside here are from the United States and Canada. They hold a lot of community events like yoga, dinner parties, and rooftop bbq.

If you stay here longer, I am sure you will come across them. Most of the foreigners I know have lived here for at least 6 years. They love it, they have the experience, they’re still here – I guess that’s enough reason to believe Sayulita is safe.

The whole town is illuminated with lamp posts so it’s okay to walk after midnight. I remember being super drunk and walked by myself to the hostel at 3:30 am. Nothing happened to me. People didn’t even talk to me! The only people I saw were the ones who were about to open their food trucks for breakfast. They did not pay attention to me and carried on to their daily business.

I am a bit worried about where I moved. I stopped the hostel living in Sayulita and moved to an apartment. My street doesn’t have lamp posts and is very dark. I am very uncomfortable walking in the dark by myself so more often, I always walk with friends who live on my street.

I’ve been told that the only danger I can face when walking in dark streets is dogs. There are a lot of street dogs in Sayulita that bite. Take note. This is important!

Is it safe to walk in Sayulita at night?

ABSOLUTELY! I owned a golf cart when I was still living in Sayulita and I always go with it for long distances. Due to the heavy traffic situation, I rarely bring it on night outs as I can always walk.

My neighbors in Sayulita are also my friends so if I am too drunk to walk home, they would always accompany me. But I have to be honest (and I did not tell my friends about this): I have often walked alone from my too-drunk-french exits.

During those walks, I never was harmed but mind you, I also sometimes bring my dogs to bars and clubs until the wee hours. Mexico is always afraid of dogs and my dogs are pretty protective of me!

However, if you are staying outside the centro, you will have to take a taxi as it will be too dark to walk at night! I’ve also walked from the jungles in the evening with no issues but it may be uncomfortable for you or you may get lost if you walk at night.

Is Sayulita safer than Tulum?

Yes, Sayulita is safer than Tulum. Sayulita Mexico is a way smaller town and everyone knows everyone. There are lots of violent crimes in Tulum and one that contributes to that is the increase in tourism. They’re also not petty crimes – shootings, police brutality towards tourists, etc. Although you can still visit Tulum if you can. I really can’t stop you from doing so. But if you do, please take extra precautions.

The small community of Sayulita makes everything feel safe. In just a week of being there, you will know everyone. We leave our belongings on the beach when we take a dip – nobody will touch anything. A lot of lost items were returned to the owners because words go out so fast. Once you post on the Facebook group, everyone will help find your lost item for you.

Is the ocean safe in Sayulita?

YES and NO. Most of the time, the beaches of Sayulita are swimmable but it depends on the season. During surf season, don’t swim in surf beaches (Carricitos or Patzcuarito Beaches) since the current is super strong.

Just last week, I faced a very terrifying experience when one of the girls I went to Carricitos Beach with almost drowned. We were watching her from the shore and couldn’t do anything about it.

The waves were pretty strong and none of us couldn’t get to her. Good thing a lad from Seattle bravely (and greatly) swam the strong waters to get to her. It was terrifying!

The beaches around Sayulita Mexico are swimmable but there are times when waves get out of control (remember, this is a surf town). We don’t really know when that’s coming so only swim if you have the skills. Before going in, always observe the sea.

Planning your solo female travel to Sayulita

Here’s a structured timeline to plan your solo female trip to Sayulita:

3 months before the trip

• Research Sayulita’s best seasons and book flights early for better deals.
• Secure accommodations—hostels, boutique hotels, or Airbnb.
• Check visa requirements and ensure your passport is valid.
• Start budgeting for activities, food, and transportation.

2 months before the trip

• Plan your itinerary—beaches, surfing, yoga, and local markets.
• Research safety tips and solo travel advice for Sayulita.
• Look into travel insurance for health and trip protection.
• Begin learning basic Spanish phrases for smoother interactions.

1 month before the trip

• Book airport transfers or research safe transport options.
• Pack essentials: lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a secure bag.
• Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
• Connect with solo travel communities for local insights.

1 week before the trip

• Confirm reservations and double-check travel documents.
• Exchange some currency for small purchases upon arrival.
• Download offline maps and save emergency contacts.

Best time to visit Sayulita

Before deciding when to visit Sayulita, please note that we have two seasons: high season and low season:

High season in Sayulita (October 27 – May 5): This is the high season in Sayulita when Canadians and Americans escape the harsh winter in their countries. High season starts during the week of dia de los muertos (Day of the Dead), a big holiday in Mexico. The weather starts to be cool (18 degrees celsius) with occasional rains. But the sun is always up! Everything is open and the town is busier.

Low season in Sayulita (May 5 – October 27): Very very very hot. I’m not kidding. Last year, I stayed here in Sayulita all summer and suffered from the heat and humidity! This is a time when restaurants close for renovations and people who live in Sayulita travel.

I don’t recommend you travel to Sayulita during this period because it will be very hard to find accommodations and restaurants with air conditioning. AC is still not very common in Sayulita. If you are easily irritated by heat, go another time!

Sayulita weather RIGHT NOW

SAYULITA WEATHER

Sayulita Mexico SIM card or Mexico E-SIM

A Mexican SIM card is one of the top needs for Sayulita solo female travel. You want to be always connected in case of emergencies. Your options are:

• Buy a SIM card when you arrive Puerto Vallarta Airport. It’s a little bit more challenging if you don’t speak Spanish but it will work! You can also ask your taxi driver to help translate.
• Pre-order your Mexico SIM card at home through Amazon. It will take about a week to arrive and it’s already pre-loaded. No need to speak Spanish to anyone.
• Get a Mexico E-SIM that also works in any country in the world. There is no physical chip/sim so no issues on installations.

Best Areas for Sayulita Solo Female Travel: Where To Stay

Sayulita Mexico is known for boutique hotels and beautiful accommodations with pools. But since you are traveling solo, I am going to give you a quick background on the Sayulita neighborhoods. From here, you’ll get an idea of what to expect in each area.

• Northside: quieter side and more of a family area. This is where the big houses/villas are located. The beach is pretty quiet here, too. (Where to stay: Villa Dorado A.)
• Southside: the Mexican neighborhood where the locals live. The Punta de Mita highway towards Sayulita is a local neighborhood. There are a few hotels here but not as popular with tourists. (Where to stay: Avela Boutique Hotel)
• Jungle: if you’re staying here, you need a golf cart. It is quite a walk to and from town. This is where the fancy vacation villas in Sayulita are but they are away from the center.
• Center: This is where the action is and it can be loud if you stay in the plaza. Consider Niños Heroes Street – it is near the plaza but is still quieter than the center.

Here are the different accommodation types that you can choose from in Sayulita Mexico:

Hostels for Sayulita Solo Female Travel

Choose hostels if you want a fun, social vibe and an affordable stay. Sayulita has great hostels with female-only dorms, shared kitchens, and lively common areas—perfect for meeting fellow travelers and swapping adventure stories. Here are my top recommendations for hostels in Sayulita:

Boutique hotels for Sayulita solo female travel

Choose a boutique hotel if you love stylish, cozy spaces with a personal touch. These hotels offer charming decor, comfy rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere—ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. Some even have rooftop terraces or pools! Here are the best boutique hotels under $100:

The thing with Sayulita hotels, Airbnbs or Vrbos, you won’t really know what the exact location’s like unless you’ve been to Sayulita. Note that this is a hilly and jungly town – some pretty accommodations are way deep in the jungle or have very bad road conditions.

Let’s say you already found an accommodation you like: my advice is to put the address on Google Maps and then see how far it is from Sayulita plaza. The plaza is the center of town and it’s probably the place you’ll frequent so it’s a great point of reference.

I usually do consult calls with clients who are not sure which area of Sayulita to book. For example, my client last week has back problems and his wife booked a deep in the jungles where road conditions are not that good (for his back).

They did not know that it was going to be a big deal since the host did not say anything but for his condition, they needed to cancel and book another one.

Other things you might want to consider are if it’s accessible to families with children, wheelchairs, etc. If you want to be 100% sure about this, we can get on a consult call before you book – just contact me for a trip-planning service.

Use this map to find the best accommodations in Sayulita, for as low as $75 per day! The location is set in Sayulita main beach but you can choose the area on the map to find the best deals!

🗺️ VIEW MAP

How to get to Sayulita Mexico

The airport that serves Sayulita is Puerto Vallarta International Airport. You can combine both destinations for a 10-day trip. There are a lot of direct flights from the USA and Canada to Puerto Vallarta. Otherwise, you can fly through Mexico City and take a local flight to PV.

Puerto Vallarta Airport also serves San Pancho, Punta Mita, and all destinations in Riviera Nayarit.

How to get to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport

The easiest way to get to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport is to pre-book a taxi service. Sedans start from $79 while bigger vehicles like Chevy Suburban or a van can cost up to $300. The transfer costs are not dependent of the number of passengers but the vehicle type.

✅ CHECK PRICES FOR PV AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Other ways to get from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita include:

• Bus Shuttle: When you leave the airport, head to the official bus stop where shared shuttles depart every 20 minutes. The ride to Sayulita takes around 27 minutes. Ticket prices range from $30 to $65.
• Regular Taxi: Taxis offer a door-to-door ride straight from the terminal. Follow the signs to the official taxi stand, and expect a 30–35 minute trip. Typical fares are between $100-$127. Make sure to confirm the fare before you start or ask that the meter be used.
• Public Bus: To take the public bus from PV AIrport to Sayulita, you have to cross the foot bridge to the other side. Busses stop every 30 minutes and you will see a sign on the bus that says Sayulita. This is around $2-$4 but there isn’t enough space for suitcases. This is ideal for those who travel light.

👉🏼 See also: The complete guide to Puerto Vallarta Airport Transfers

Getting around Sayulita Mexico

Sayulita is a small town so everything is walkable, as long as you booked an accommodation that is near the center. If you are a little bit farther, your options are:

• Renting a golf cart: Daily rental starts at $50 USD and can go up to $100 USD, depending on the size and capacity of the cart you are going to rent. This will not take you to nearby places like San Pancho, Punta Mita, etc. You can only use this within the town. I got a golf cart because it is really helpful, especially if you live here long-term!
• White taxis at the plaza: You can go to the plaza to take a taxi to your accommodation or nearby places like San Pancho. You must deal with the driver directly regarding pricing.
• Motorbikes are not a thing because there’s just too much liability attached to them. The motorbikes you see in Sayulita are not from rentals. They are modes of transportation by the locals. There is no particular company renting motorbikes in Sayulita but when you arrive and meet people, you can easily ask them which local can rent you a bike for the day.
• Rental Cars: This, you have to do at Puerto Vallarta Airport. There used to be a Budget Rental Car in Sayulita there but it is already closed. A rental car in PV Airport starts at $55

✅ CHECK PRICES FOR RENTAL CARS IN PUERTO VALLARTA AIRPORT HERE

If not, I have a trusted driver who takes my Airbnb guests around Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. He will be your private driver wherever you want to go and he is just a text away! I can also give you a discount code since he is already my trusted driver. You can contact him here.

Best things to do in Sayulita Mexico

Since I lived in Sayulita for quite some time, I can recommend A LOT of things to do that I have personally tried. Here are some of my favorites:

🎊 Bonus: Use the code PSIMONMYWAY10 to get a 10% discount on all Sayulita experiences below.

Below are 100‑word descriptions for each fun experience in Sayulita:

Get a Massage at Your Accommodation

Getting a massage at your accommodation is a wonderful treat to begin your Sayulita solo female travel adventure. I do this in my home almost every week and it’s affordable and convenient since the therapist will go to your house. It took me many therapists to get the right one and she is really the best!

✅ SEE AVAILABILITY FOR SAYULITA MASSAGES HERE

Hike Monkey Mountain (High Season Only)

Hiking Monkey Mountain in Sayulita is an exciting outdoor adventure that offers stunning views and a fresh jungle experience. The trail takes you up scenic paths where you can spot playful wildlife and enjoy cool forest breezes. This hike is ideal for solo travelers who love nature and a bit of exercise. It is a safe activity with local guides available to show you unique spots and hidden beauties. Do not do this without a local guide!

✅ HIRE A LOCAL GUIDE FOR MONKEY MOUNTAIN

Take a Surfing Class (Must-Do for Solo Female Travelers!)

Taking a surfing class in Sayulita is a must-do experience that combines fun, learning, and adventure. Local instructors guide you through easy steps, making it perfect for beginners and solo travelers eager to try something new. You get hands-on instruction on riding waves, boosting your confidence and making your holiday even more exciting! Plus, you also get to meet other solo travelers!

✅ BOOK A SURFING CLASS IN SAYULITA

Sayulita ATV and Zipline Experience

Experiencing an ATV and zipline adventure in Sayulita is an exhilarating way to see the region. You hop on an ATV to explore rugged trails, scenic paths, and local spots that are off the beaten track. Then, fly through the air on a zipline that offers a rush of adrenaline and stunning views of the jungle and ocean. This guided tour is safe, well-organized, and fun!

✅ CHECK PRICES FOR SAYULITA ATV ADVENTURE
✅ SEE ZIPLINE EXPERIENCE AVAILABILITY

Whale Watching Experience (Seasonal)

Going whale watching in Sayulita is a seasonal adventure that is only available from November to March. Boarding a comfortable local boat, you sail into open waters where playful whales breach and spout in a natural display. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share fun facts and safety tips along the way. It is a perfect experience for solo travelers who love nature and unique encounters!

Note that this is only a boat experience and swimming with the whales is not allowed.

✅ RESERVE YOUR SLOT FOR THE WHALE WATCHING EXPERIENCE

Cruise Through the Marietas Islands

Cruising through the Marietas Islands offers an unforgettable day trip from Sayulita. On a comfortable boat, you tour crystal-clear waters and hidden beaches while learning about the islands’ unique ecosystem. Enjoy stop-offs for snorkeling, spotting colorful fish, and exploring secret coves carved by nature. This tour is highly recommended for solo travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Note that this Marietas Islands tour departs from Sayulita. You don’t have to go to Punta Mita or Puerto Vallarta to get on the boat.

✅ BOOK MARIETAS ISLANDS TOUR

Street Food Tour with a Local in Sayulita

A food tour with a local guide in Sayulita is a delicious adventure through the town’s vibrant culinary scene. You visit bustling markets, traditional eateries, and hidden food spots while sampling tasty local dishes. The guide shares personal stories and fun history about each dish, making the experience engaging. This tour is perfect for solo travelers who want an authentic taste of Sayulita and to meet friendly locals.

👉🏼 You might also like: 40+ things to do in Sayulita Mexico

Free things to do in Sayulita

If you are on a budget, here are the best free things to do in Sayulita:

Sunset at Carricitos Beach: If you’re up for a little adventure, Carricitos Beach is worth the trek. It’s a quiet, wild stretch of sand, perfect for catching a sunset without the crowds. Pack a drink, sit back, and watch the sky turn crazy shades of orange and pink. Since it’s a bit off the beaten path, bring a flashlight for the walk back—it gets dark fast!

📍 Carricitos Beach Location

Local experience at Los Muertos Beach: Los Muertos Beach is about local life. Families gather, kids splash in the waves, and there’s usually a laid-back energy. It’s named after the cemetery nearby, but don’t let that throw you—it’s actually one of the most charming beaches in Sayulita. Bring snacks, chat with locals, and enjoy some time away from the tourist-heavy main beach!

📍 Los Muertos Beach Location

Hike to Mal Paso Beach: This one is for those who love a little adventure. The hike to Mal Paso Beach takes you through jungle trails, past rocky cliffs, and straight to one of Sayulita’s most untouched beaches. It’s wild, remote, and feels like something out of a travel documentary. You won’t find vendors or crowds here—just sand, waves, and a whole lot of peace. Bring water and sunscreen, and make sure you have shoes with good grip for the trail.

📍Mal Paso Beach Location

Walk to Patzcuarito Beach: If you’re into long walks on the beach, Patzcuarito is perfect. It’s more of a hidden gem, away from the hustle of Sayulita’s main stretch. You won’t find restaurants or shops—just a quiet, untouched coastline. It’s a great spot for reflecting, reading, or just enjoying the sound of waves. It’s also a popular spot for yoga lovers, so don’t be surprised if you see someone doing sun salutations by the water.

📍Patzcuarito Beach Location

Visit Sayulita’s Friday Market: Sayulita’s Friday Market is a great way to experience the town’s creativity in full force. Handmade crafts, fresh produce, local snacks—it’s all here. Even if you don’t plan on spending money, just browsing is an experience in itself. The energy is lively, the colors are vibrant, and the food smells incredible. Chat with vendors, learn about local products, and maybe even find a souvenir that’s actually meaningful.

📍 Sayulita Friday Market Location

Hang out at Sayulita Plaza: The heart of Sayulita, the plaza is where everything happens. Whether it’s live music, people-watching, or just grabbing a bench and soaking in the atmosphere, you can’t go wrong here. There’s always something going on—kids running around, locals catching up, visitors getting their bearings. It’s the perfect spot to take a break, grab a snack from a nearby stand, and just enjoy the laid-back pace of Sayulita.

📍 Sayulita Plaza Location

Handling Money in Sayulita Mexico

Currency exchange in Sayulita: Money exchange in Sayulita is very low. If you google USD to MXN, the conversion rate is $1 USD = between $18 – $19 MXN. However, if you exchange US dollars or Canadian dollars in Sayulita, they do it for only $16 MXN per USD or $14 MXN per CAD.

I don’t really recommend that you exchange money here in Sayulita because you will lose a lot but in case of an emergency, most stores (mini tiendas) give you better rates. There is a money exchange house near the plaza but as I said, their rates are very low.

If you will arrive at Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta, it is better to exchange money in Vallarta. It’s a big city with malls and lots of money exchange houses (casa de cambio) so you’ll get better rates there.

Banks and ATMs in Sayulita: There are lots of ATM machines all over town but depending on your bank, these machines charge from $5 – $7 USD withdrawal fees. There is a big bank near the Sayulita town entrance that only charges $3 USD per withdrawal but it’s quite a walk from town (about 15 minutes from the plaza).

This bank is right next to Saint Luke’s Medical Center and Sayulita Fit in Avenida Revolucion. Don Pedro’s Restaurant also has a 2 ATM machines (MXN and USD).

Credit/debit cards: Sayulita is still a little backward in terms of the use of credit/debit cards so make sure you have cash when you come. Most restaurants and convenience stores accept credit/debit cards, however, small shops and restaurants still operate in cash. Some will even charge you 3% for paying with a credit card!

Tipping: Tipping is mandatory in Sayulita but it is very much encouraged. Mexican salary is very low so most workers are dependent on tips. Imagine, some servers only earn $200 MXN ($10 USD) for 8 hours of work! 10% is the most decent tip but if you liked the service, feel free to give more.

Cultural Etiquette in Sayulita Mexico

Sayulita might be a laid-back town but there are also some cultural etiquette to follow. Here are some:

• Respect the Slow Pace: Sayulita runs on “mañana” time, meaning things happen when they happen. If you’re waiting for service or expecting things to move quickly, take a deep breath and embrace the laid-back vibe. Getting impatient or demanding won’t get you anywhere—it’s better to go with the flow and enjoy the relaxed pace.
• Greet People, Even Strangers: A simple “buenos días” or “buenas tardes” goes a long way. Locals appreciate friendly greetings, and it helps you blend in rather than stand out as a tourist. If you’re walking into a shop or passing someone on a quiet street, a quick smile and hello make interactions smoother.
• Beach Vendors Are Part of the Experience: You’ll see plenty of vendors selling everything from jewelry to snacks on the beach. If you’re not interested, a polite “no, gracias” is enough—no need to ignore them or be dismissive. They’re just trying to make a living, and a little kindness goes a long way.
• Dress for the Setting: Sayulita is super casual, but if you’re heading into town, it’s good to throw on a cover-up or a sundress instead of just a bikini. Locals don’t walk around shirtless unless they’re at the beach, so following suit helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
• Be Mindful of Noise at Night: Sayulita has a lively nightlife, but if you’re staying in a quieter area, keep in mind that locals live here too. If you’re walking home late, try to keep your voice down—especially in residential areas. It’s a small town, and being respectful of noise levels makes a difference.
• Solo Doesn’t Mean Alone: Sayulita is a social place, and locals are generally welcoming. If you’re open to conversation, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect—whether it’s chatting with a vendor, joining a yoga class, or striking up a conversation at a café. Just trust your instincts and engage when it feels right!

👉🏼 Related: Sayulita nightlife guide – tips on where the cool kids hang out

Sayulita Packing List for Solo Female Travelers

Lightweight Dresses & Cover-Ups: Sayulita is all about easygoing beach vibes, and you’ll want something light and breathable to throw on after swimming or exploring. A flowy dress works for both casual walks and dinner, so you don’t have to overpack. Cover-ups are great for transitioning from beach to town without feeling too exposed.

Stick to fabrics that dry quickly and don’t wrinkle easily—you’ll appreciate it when you’re living out of a suitcase. Here are some samples that will fit and they’re actually my favorite products!

Swimsuits (at least two): You’ll be in the water a lot, whether it’s swimming, surfing, or just lounging by the shore. Having at least two swimsuits means you’re not stuck putting on a damp one the next day. Plus, Sayulita has strong sun, so rotating between suits helps avoid weird tan lines. If you plan on surfing, consider a sporty swimsuit that stays put—nothing worse than adjusting straps mid-wave.

Flip-Flops & Comfy Sandals: Sayulita’s streets are a mix of cobblestone and sand, so you’ll want shoes that can handle both. Flip-flops are perfect for the beach, but a pair of comfy sandals with good support will save your feet when walking around town. If you plan on doing any hikes or jungle walks, make sure your sandals have a sturdy sole—some paths can be rocky.

Hiking Sandals or Sneakers: If you’re heading to hidden beaches like Mal Paso or Patzcuarito, you’ll need shoes with grip. The trails can be uneven, and regular flip-flops won’t cut it. Hiking sandals are great because they handle both water and dirt, but if you prefer sneakers, just make sure they’re lightweight and breathable. You don’t need heavy-duty hiking boots—just something that won’t leave you slipping on rocks.

Sun Hat & Sunglasses: The sun in Sayulita is strong, and you’ll be outside a lot. A wide-brim hat keeps your face shaded, especially if you’re walking around midday.

Sunglasses are a must—not just for style, but to protect your eyes from glare off the ocean. If you’re planning on surfing, consider polarized lenses—they help cut down on the reflection from the water.

Light Sweater or Jacket: Even though Sayulita is warm, nights can get breezy, especially in winter months. A light sweater is perfect for evenings when the temperature drops slightly. It’s also useful for bus rides or flights, where air conditioning can be freezing. You don’t need anything bulky—just something cozy enough to throw on when needed.

How to meet people in Sayulita

Join tours by locals of Sayulita: There are many individuals living in Sayulita who do their own tours and do not necessarily own a travel company. They’re just people who are passionate about Sayulita and have opened their own small tours.

For the last year that I was in Sayulita, I filmed over 50 individuals and small business owners that will take you to local tours to Monkey Mountain, Marietas Islands, and even remote surf beaches in Riviera Nayarit. Help me help the local community by booking tours with them!

✅ SEE ALL EXPERIENCES IN SAYULITA

Go to Yambak 2 for 1 Tuesdays: Yambak is situated in front of the plaza so you’ll often see big groups of foreigners sitting outside, drinking their beers. Tuesdays are usually packed because of the 2 for 1 beer promo on national beers.

You can always sit at the bar in Yambak but it’s packed with people all the time. This is where I met so many people, sometimes you won’t even keep track of how many people you’ve talked to!

Smile and say hello: Everyone in Sayulita is super friendly so if you just start with a “hola,” you’ll find yourself chatting with that person for hours! There is a very strong sense of familiarity in Sayulita so everyone treats everyone as their friends.

If you are a shy traveler, this could be a great chance to practice your social skills. Nobody knows you anyway and no one will judge. Go ahead and try this Please let me know how it worked for you!

Join yoga classes: Daily yoga sessions are also a thing in Sayulita and are always composed of women. Partying all the time in Sayulita can be tiring so if you want to put a healthy activity to the mix, then go to yoga classes. I can’t really recommend a specific one but this will be on your radar on your first week. Again, words go out fast in Sayulita!

Talk to bartenders and waiters: People in service in Sayulita are usually people who left their life in comfortable cities. I’ve made a lot of friends by chatting about how I ended up in Sayulita Mexico but other people’s stories are more amusing!

Bars that have super cool bartenders include Don Pato (Gaby and David), Cava Mezcaleria (Miguel), and Public House. All the bartenders in these bars are expats who have been living in Sayulita for years.

Join Facebook groups in Sayulita: The Original Sayulita People (2.5k members) may seem very elite but this group is really helpful! Here, you can find jobs, see the latest events, and network with like-minded individuals. Members are both locals and foreigners who live in Sayulita. Sayulita People is also an active group with more than 15,000 members.

Bumble or Tinder in Sayulita: As it is a small town, everyone you will see on the streets will also be on Bumble or Tinder. You don’t really need the app but it could be a tool if you’re not the type who just comes up to people and say hello.

In my experience, there were a lot of travelers in Sayulita who are on the dating apps but are not going out to party. My girlfriends and I also match the same guys. The town is so small that even dating in real life, many people had conflict in dating the same person.

Sayulita Solo Female Travel Scams

Here are some travel scams that have been reported in Sayulita, along with tips on how to avoid them:

Fake Taxi Overcharges: Some unofficial taxis in Sayulita don’t have meters, and drivers might quote you a price that’s way higher than normal. If you don’t know the standard fare, you could end up paying double or more.

How to avoid it: Always ask for the price before getting in, and if it seems off, walk away. Use official taxis or rideshare apps when possible. If you’re unsure, ask a local or your hotel what a fair price should be.

ATM Skimming: Some ATMs, especially the ones in tourist-heavy areas, have been tampered with to steal card details. You won’t notice anything until weird charges start showing up on your account.

How to avoid it: Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit, busy areas. Before inserting your card, tug on the card reader—if it feels loose, don’t use it. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN, and check your bank statements regularly.

Rental Deposit Scam: Some rental owners ask for a deposit upfront, but when you arrive, the place doesn’t exist or is already occupied. Getting your money back is nearly impossible.

How to avoid it: Book through well-known platforms with verified reviews. If renting directly, ask for a video tour or proof of legitimacy before sending money. Always use payment methods that offer buyer protection.

Overpriced Beach Vendors: Some vendors target tourists with inflated prices, especially for things like drinks, snacks, or souvenirs. If you don’t know the local rates, you might end up paying way more than necessary.

How to avoid it: Before buying, ask a local what a fair price should be. If something seems overpriced, politely decline and check other vendors. Bargaining is normal, but do it respectfully.

Sayulita is generally safe, but staying aware of these scams helps you avoid unnecessary stress.

Helpful Spanish Phrases for Solo Female Travel in Sayulita

Here’s a handy table of Spanish phrases that can be useful for solo female travelers in Sayulita:

These phrases should help you navigate Sayulita with confidence! Let me know if you want more tailored ones.

Solo Female Travel in Sayulita Safety Tips

Tip #1: Don’t leave your bags unattended

Girls, this is a protocol everywhere and I usually put it in all of my solo travel articles. But honestly, in Sayulita, I am not hyper-vigilant with my things because I know everyone already. And you probably will after a week of being out and about.

One time, an American girl contacted me and asked if I can help her with her bag that she left at the Sayulita main beach. I passed the word to town (groups of friends) and within the day, this girl got her bag back!

Even though Sayulita is super safe, you still shouldn’t leave your stuff anywhere especially if you have valuables that are costly. I do tell you that no one will steal your things in Sayulita Mexico because, in small towns like that, thieves are super easy to locate. In 2019, a group of guys stole a safe from a bar. They got caught and the whole town beat them up in public. I couldn’t believe I saw that!

Although I do not agree with hitting people (especially if it’s 100 versus 1), that event made me feel safer. It’s like sending a message: this is what happens to you if you steal in Sayulita. For now, we have a great community but as Sayulita grows, this can all change. I believe that the Sayulita safety of the community depends on its members. Sayulita Mexico has that.

Tip #2: Calle Gaviota (where the Kiosko is) is one of the sketchiest streets in Sayulita

Personally, I never avoided this street because the locals here already know me. I can also handle myself well when it comes to the people living here as I am fluent in Spanish. However, I passed with some girls here one time and they did not feel comfortable with the guys standing in the dark, offering drugs.

Tip #3: Wear anything you want!

I’d walk in Sayulita during the day with a bikini (no shirt and shorts) and people don’t look at me like crazy. You also know that I am a braless ambassador since I was 20 – I am never bothered by the stares in Sayulita.

This small pueblo is really Western when it comes to women’s clothing!

There are also a lot of places to shop here but take note shopping in Sayulita is more expensive than in Mexico City or Guadalajara. Better do your shopping in big cities before coming here!

Tip #5: Por favor, get travel insurance!

I’ve had enough of people comfortably traveling without insurance. I know it’s another expenditure in your travels but more than anything else, it is important!

I’ve had enough medical emergencies where I found myself without travel insurance. It’s really painfully expensive!

I use SafetyWing and I only pay $40 USD per month. I am under digital nomad insurance and it’s covers flight delays/cancellations, lost luggage, emergency assistance.