On a Nuevo Vallarta vacation, you could easily spend every day lounging by the pool and strolling on the beach in front of your resort, but getting out and exploring the local nearby towns gives you a richer taste of the local culture. Here in Mexico, some of these small towns have received the official title of Pueblo Magico, Magical Town. These towns retain their classic charm through their architecture, culture, and daily life. To make your vacation an enriching experience, schedule a day trip to Sayulita, one of the small towns near Nuevo Vallarta that’s also one of the Magic Towns in Mexico.
While there are some towns near Nuevo Vallarta that you can walk to, Sayulita is about 30 km down the road, but with public transportation, you can easily take a quick day trip to Sayulita during your Nuevo Vallarta vacation. The quickest way to get here is by taxi or Uber, but the cheapest option is the public bus. You can order a taxi or Uber directly from your resort suite, and you can catch the local green bus along the main highway. Taxis and Ubers will return to Nuevo Vallarta all night long, but if you’re taking the bus, be sure to ask your driver when the last bus leaves Sayulita on its return trip. Because of its popularity, Sayulita is one of the easiest places to go near Nuevo Vallarta, and you’ll likely see other tourists on the bus with you.
Sayulita is one of the most popular places to go near Nuevo Vallarta, and you can easily spend a whole day exploring its cobblestone streets. Here, you can try several of the top things to do in Nuevo Vallarta:
Sayulita is perhaps best known for being a surfing village, and on the city’s main beach, there’s several local surf schools. If you already know how to surf, you can rent a board, but if you’re just learning how to hang ten, the local instructors will help you catch the waves for an unforgettable Nuevo Vallarta vacation.
Depending on how smooth the water is, paddleboarding is often easier than surfing. If you can hold your balance, paddleboarding is a relaxing way to explore the sea.
One of the best things to do in Nuevo Vallarta to explore the local culture is visiting local boutiques and galleries. Sayulita is an artistic town, and you’ll find everything from artisan jewelry to hand-blown glass. Pop in and out of shops, and you’ll find the perfect treasure to take back home.
Lounging on the beach is one of the best things to do in Nuevo Vallarta, but if the main beach in Sayulita is too crowded for your tastes, head south along the coast to Los Muertos Beach. Along the way, you’ll pass by the local cemetery where vibrant art and peaceful candles preserve the memories of local families.
The towns near Nuevo Vallarta are known for their fresh seafood, and while you can find cuisines from all over the world here, grilled fish and fresh ceviche are always a good choice. The local food scene in Sayulita ranges from streetside taco stands to more formal sit-down restaurants, making it one of the best places to go near Nuevo Vallarta for foodies.
On Calle Delfines, between the plaza and the beach, The Real Fish Tacos serves up some of the best seafood in town. Choose from fried fish, smoked marlin, and shrimp, and cool down with a cold beer. While this taco stand may seem unassuming, you don’t want to miss it.
For a sweet and refreshing treat, stop by the plaza to cool off with a frozen banana dipped in chocolate, and top it off with granola or sprinkles.
Barracuda is one of the many delicious restaurants in Sayulita with unique options like tuna sashimi and fresh oysters. Excellent service and a trendy design make Barracuda a classic Sayulita favorite.
Taking a day trip to one of the Magic Towns in Mexico exposes you to the traditions and diversity that fill the country with rich cultures. Sayulita is a popular stop near Nuevo Vallarta and showcases a different side of Riviera Nayarit. Whether you spend your day surfing, shopping, or trying a little of both, visiting one of the Magic Towns in Mexico adds a touch of wonder and adventure to your vacation.
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