Looking for the perfect surf vacation? Look no further than the small seaside town of Sayulita, just north of the party scene in Puerto Vallarta. With its dozens of surf breaks (some very remote and hidden), Sayulita is an adventurer's dream.
Unlike Cancun or other tourist spots, Sayulita is still pretty affordable, with a plethora of gorgeous places to stay, even on a budget. It’s low season in the summer, so you can score incredible spots for even cheaper.
After two weeks of exploring the region with nothing more than a surfboard, a swimsuit and a beat up SUV, here are my picks for the best two places to stay in Sayulita:
Casa Brava: This house was a vacation unto itself. The gorgeous modern home sits atop one of Sayulita’s highest hills, so it offers unfettered views of the jungle and ocean below. Spend your days surfing and then come back to grill fresh-caught fish on your balcony, or kick back in the hammocks on one of the porches and watch the sun set over the ocean. Every detail at this home was perfectly chosen, from the white modern couches to the custom wooden sliding doors. There are three units available at Casa Brava. You can rent them all for a fun-filled group getaway, or hide out in your own private oasis, sipping margaritas from your infinity pool or hot tub.
In Cancun, a gorgeous house like this would cost $1,000+ a night. But in Sayulita (much better than Cancun, in my book), the units rent for just $85 for the studio, $125 for the guest apartment and just $250 for the main house during the low season, and not much more during the high season. Book your amazing getaway at casabravasayulita.com.
Playa Escondida: This remote jungle spot is eco-living at its finest. To get here, you have to make your way through the jungle on a steep and muddy road. But finally arriving is well worth the adventurous approach. This resort is made up of thatched-roof villas perched just steps from the private beach. Not much surfing right here, but it’s a paddle boarder and sea kayaker’s dream (both available for free for guests). I spent my time divided between paddle boarding and sipping margaritas in the pool and infiniti hot tub! This place is magic. This time of year prices range from $150-$375. Book it at playa-escondida.com.