Best Places To Stay In Sayulita By Budget 2025

I’ve been coming to Sayulita over 10 years and as the town continues to grow, many new accommodation options have popped up. More now than ever.

There used to be just a few hotels and hostels to choose from. Nowadays, there are accommodations for all budgets and tastes in Sayulita from hostels and beach bungalows to renovated modern apartments, jungle condos with infinity pools and luxury hilltop hotels tucked away for complete privacy.

I’ll give you my curated recommendations below, but to help you make a decision, it’s important to understand how Sayulita is broken down.

Quick Jump Links

1. Sayulita Area Breakdown
2. Walking Distances In Sayulita
3. Is A Hotel Or An Apartment Better In Sayulita? 
4. Best Boutique Hotels In Sayulita
5. Best Beach Front Stays In Sayulita
6. Best Group and Family Accommodation Options In Sayulita
7. Best Apartments and Studios For Remote Workers / Digital Nomads In Sayulita
8. Things To Be Aware Of When Renting An Apartment In Sayulita
9. Best Hostels and Budget Accommodations For Backpackers In Sayulita

If you’re visiting Sayulita for the first time, looking at a map of Sayulita is a little deceiving.

Using the map tool on Booking.com or Expedia and eye-balling the distances is an easy mistake, because things everything seems ‘pretty close together.’

Breaking Down The Different Areas In Sayulita

To get a better understanding of this small town, I’ve broken the map down to different zones. To the far right, you can see the main highway leading to Puerto Vallarta.

Below the zones, you can see the highway split off perpendicularly into the Punta de Mita highway that head towards beaches like La Lancha and the stretch of luxury resorts at Litibu and Punta Mita.

The rest of Sayulita is quite condensed and compact.

Zone A

This smaller area is the main part of Sayulita, where arguably 80% of everything relevant is located. If you don’t leave this area at all during your visit, you’ll be perfectly fine. Stay here if you want to be in the middle of everything and minutes from the beach.

Zone B

The stretch of road along Avenida del Palmar is where some of the nicest houses in Sayulita are located.

Along the beach, and closer to the center, there are a couple of restaurants and cafes, but its mostly residential here.

The area has few nice boutique hotels like Don Bonito and rental apartments in this area with Casa Selva at the end. A walk into the center can be anywhere from 5-20 minutes down a quiet dirt lane.

Zone C

If you don’t want to walk up and down hills or stairs, avoid this area. It’s steep and hilly all the way up to “Gringo Hill.” The trade-offs, if you don’t mind the climb or plan on renting a golf-cart, are the views and the quiet up here.

Zone D

This is a mostly residential area, where more of the locals and ex-pats live. Quite a few hotels and rental apartments have popped up in this area. A walk into the center takes about 5-10 minutes, but it sometimes feels like you’re in another town altogether.

Zone E

I consider the area across the bridge a less touristy center of Sayulita. Like D, it’s about 5-10 minutes to walk into the main center. While it’s not as busy, there are plenty of restaurants, accommodations, and is closer to some of the everyday services like the bank, gym, hospital clinic, etc.

Zone F

The Jungle. On the upper right edge, you’ll find the popular Playa de Los Muertos. At the Northern tip is the exclusive Punta Sayulita complex with its own private beach and member’s area. If you’re looking for luxurious or romantic getaway, consider Topika.

On the bottom left side, you’ll find Playa Carracitos, a relative quiet and open stretch of beach that’s a local favorite. It’s a lovely 30-40 minute hike through an open part of the jungle, but it’s one of the reasons most tourists skip this beach. It’s one of the few places in Sayulita where you can see the sun set below the horizon.

While it’s walkable into town, I recommend having some kind of vehicle or golf cart if you’re planning to stay in this area.

Walking Distances In Sayulita

For context, I like walking and in cities like Tokyo and or Istanbul, I’ll easily put in 20-30k steps a day. But walking anywhere for more than 10 minutes in Sayulita feels long. Maybe it’s because the main part of town is so small, it makes longer distances feel even longer.

I’ll give you some approximate walking distances to help you decide where to stay based on how much back and forth walking you want to do in a day.

I’m using Mary’s, one of my favorite taco restaurants, as the starting point (A) in the dead center of Sayulita.

From point A to B (Saylulita Fit gym), it takes about 12-14 minutes if I’m walking with purpose. It’s paved sidewalks the whole way, but can feel pretty brutal when the it’s hot out.

From A to C (Don Bonito’s), it takes a similar 13-15 minutes one way. The street is lit every so often by lamps, but it’s pretty quiet and dark along Avenida del Palmar.

From A to D (Casa Selva), it takes about 20-25 minutes. Sometimes this feels like a really long walk, especially if I’m doing it in the heat or alone at night in the dark. I’ve stayed here a couple of times without needing a golf cart, but I would recommend renting an electric golf cart if you’re staying this far out.

The distance from A to E up “Gringo Hill” looks short and Google Maps will tell you it’s only a 5-10 minute walk, but your heart will be pumping and the sweat will make it feel much longer by the time you reach the top. Another area I’d recommend having a golf cart.

A to F (Playa de Los Muertos), takes about 10-15 minutes depending on if you’re walking along the beach or on the road.

In general, staying in the center is a good idea, especially if you’re visiting during the extra warm months.

Is A Hotel Or An Apartment Better In Sayulita?

Being constantly on the road, I generally prefer to have an apartment over a hotel room. The extra space is nice and have a kitchen is really important for me.

If you are staying for over a week in Sayulita, traveling as a family or with a larger group, I definitely would find a house or apartment rental.

For shorter stays, there are some really nice hotels, many with pools, an outdoor terrace, and even small kitchenettes that make a room more like a studio apartment.

For 2-3 day trips, I prefer the amenities and offerings at some of the hotels, as well as the option to keep your stuff somewhere after check-out if you have a later departure.

Best Boutique Hotels For Couples In Sayulita

There have been quite a few boutique hotels that I really like, each with its own vibe. Whether you’re looking for a tropical jungle escape, a modern minimalist vibe, or want to stay in a shipping container, here are my recommendations.

* denotes a high recommendation.

1. Don Bonito*

If you want one of the most photogenic hotel in Sayulita, stay at Don Bonito in Zone B. The upscale boutique hotel is tucked away from the crowds, but still close enough to all the action, if you don’t mind a 10-12 minute walk.

The pool is small, but it’s nice for a dip and local photographers love this spot.

If you book early, the rates are quite good, and unsurprisingly, they’re often booked well in advance.

2. Casa Selva*

I love the well-designed bungalows at Casa Selva at the end of Zone B and staying here is like a luxury tropical escape. This jungle complex is just a few minutes walk away from a quiet beach and a 20 minute walk into town.

If you’re interested in this place, read my full staycation review here and you can often find discounted rates here if you choose the option to pay in advance.

3. Distrito 88

Another stylish boutique hotel I really like is Distrito 88 in Zone D. It’s adults only, so you don’t have to worry about kids at that property. Rooms are open and airy. There’s a pool and sunbathing lounge area and you can see the ocean from many of the rooms.

The location is great because you’re in a quiet spot but only a few minutes walk from the town. You’re also only a few minutes walk from both Playa Sayulita and Playa Los Muertos. The price-value ratio is good for this place.

4. AzulPitaya Beach Hotel & Resort

AzulPitaya Hotel is right on the beach and in the heart of Sayulita at edge of Zone A, and yet is it surprisingly quiet at night. That’s a very rare combination. It has the largest pool in Sayulita, free breakfast, and every room comes with a king sized bed, kitchenette and balcony.

There’s also a second smaller pool with hammocks and swings that overlook the beach – a great spot to grab a drink and watch the sunset.

You can read my AzulPitaya review for a more in-depth look at their hotel.

5. Avela Boutique Hotel

Located just off the Punta de Mita highway, but only a 15 minute walk from the center, Avila at the bottom of Zone D is one of Sayulita’s most beautiful and spacious hotels.

If you are planning to visit other areas with a car, this is the perfect spot to be to avoid having to park and drive around the small streets in town. Some rooms have kitchen and there’s free parking.

6. Amaia

Right dab smack across the main square, but easily missed is the centrally located boutique Amaia in Zone A. Judging from the nondescript entrance, you wouldn’t expect to find such a nice little garden and pool here.

The rooms are cute but a bit on the smaller side, except for the Classic Suite, which is upstairs and really nice.

One thing to be aware of is that some guests have complained about the noise on some nights from the nearby bars. I didn’t really notice it. A good choice for couples or friends who plan on going out and want to be close by to all the bars.

7. Sayulinda

Built as a part of a retail/hotel complex, Sayulinda is one of the newer resorts in Sayulita right in the middle of the central Zone A. The rooms are nice and reasonably priced, the location is as central as it can get and there’s an awesome infinity rooftop bar and pool.

Best Beach Front Hotels In Sayulita

1. La Esquina*

If you want to be on the beach and want more a home than just a hotel room, check out La Esquina in Zone A. The condos all have kitchens, dining area, AC and every unit has a beautiful balcony overlooking the ocean.

There’s a nice swimming pool here too and this is one of my top go to recommendation for Sayulita.

There are options for up to 4 people in a condo, so it’s a great option and value if you’re traveling with friends.

2. Hotel Vista Oceana Sayulita

Location-To-Price Ratio, Hotel Vista Oceana on the beach in Zone A is hard to beat with its balcony and sea view rooms. If being right on the beach in the center is your priority and you don’t want to spend a lot on accommodation, this is my recommendation.

The downside to being in the middle of the action is the noise and loud music from the beach bars. Decide whether it’s worth the trade-off.

I recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance because last minute prices are much higher.

3. Topika at Punta Sayulita

For the most luxurious and private experience in Sayulita, check out Topika at the northern tip of Zone F. Tucked away in Punta Sayulita, you have access to two pools and a private sandy beach away from the crowds. And every room comes with a small kitchen and a spacious balcony overlooking the bay.

What’s special about this Topika is the access to Punta Sayulita area, which was previously the exclusive domain of privately own condos and homes.

The location is about a 30 minute walk away from the main part of town, and better accessed with a vehicle or golf cart rental.

4. Villa Amor

For the longest time, Villa Amor was the only high-end hotel in Sayulita. It’s just off the beach going out of Zone A, so it’s still very centrally located. The resort offers small villa style rooms with large balconies overlooking the ocean. It has a great beach front location away from the crowds with its own restaurant, gym, and one of the nicest pools in Sayulita.

I’ve stayed here a couple of times and visitors return to Sayulita and go back to Villa Amor.

Cool and Stylish Houses For Groups and Families In Sayulita

If you are staying longer in Sayulita, an apartment with a kitchen and more space is the way to go.

1. La 55*

La 55is a stylish apartment and one of the favorite recommendations in Sayulita right in the center of Zone A. It’s not right on the beach, but you can see the water from the balcony and it’s only about a minute walk to touch sand. This place requires a minimum 3 night booking and is often booked out in advance.

2. Haramara Gardens

The luxurious apartment at Haramara Gardens in central Zone A is an amazing option for up to 4 people. It’s a full apartment with 2 separate bedrooms and a swimming pool on the property. Great for families or a group of friends.

It’s located at the end of Avenida Revolución before exit town and only a 10 minute walk to the center of Sayulita. For 4 people, the price point is hard to beat.

3. Casa Che Che

The tropical loft at Casa Che Che in the middle of Zone D is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s located outside of town on the map, but in reality, it’s only a 19 minute walk to get to the center of Sayulita and there’s a golf cart included in the rental.

The place sleeps 4 with two queen beds and there’s a private jacuzzi.

4. Casa Palmar

For a large group or wedding party, there’s this gorgeous 3 bedroom beach front condo at Casa Palmar that accommodates up to 8 people. It has the best beach front spot, right at the edge of Zone A, in the nicest condominium complex in Sayulita. Homes here are usually only available for long term rental.

If Casa Palmar is not available, there’s also Anclara Apartments, which accommodates up to 7 people.

Apartments and Studios For Remote Working Travelers

1. Downtown Studio*

For slightly longer stays, this studio apartment is perfect for couples or someone who is working while staying in Sayulita. It’s centrally located right in town (Zone A) and only about a 5 minute walk from the beach.

The room is simple and clean with a queen sized bed, but the amenities make this place stand out. There’s a co-working space, 2 pools, 2 jacuzzis, and a gym.  You also get a parking spot if you’re renting a car to get to some of the other surf spots.

The nightly rate is very cheap, but there’s a service fee and a fixed host fee. So you’ll get a better value for longer stays.

2. Selina Sayulita

Selina is an international brand built for digital nomads and the more discerning backpacker. Their hotel centrally located in Zone A combines the social aspect of hostels with amenities and conveniences for those traveling longer who prioritize access to a dedicated workspace and quieter sleeping arrangements.

In Sayulita, Selina takes over where the old Kupuri hotel used to be. There’s a pool in the courtyard and direct access to “The Garden,” a restaurant, bar and co-working space that offers live music most nights and salsa lessons on Wednesdays.

3. Casa De Ballena

The beautifully landscaped Casa de la Ballena is tucked away just off Calle Ninos Heroes in Zone D and right by one of my favorite breakfast and lunch spots, Yah-Yah’s. The hotel offers apartment style rooms with a kitchen and there’s a pool and terrace on the property.

It’s just far enough away the center that it’s quiet, but only a few minutes walk to be right in the middle of everything.

4. Casa Fenix

Casa Fenix is a bit up the hill on Calle Pelicanos, in Zone C, if you want a bright and airy apartment with and a mountain view. There’s a shared garden area that’s really nice too. A good spot if you want some quiet away from the town.

Things To Be Aware Of When Renting Apartments In Sayulita

If you are staying longer in Sayulita, an apartment with a kitchen and more space is the way to go.

Personally, for first-timers and visitors staying less for just 2-3 days,  I recommend staying right in center of town or within a 5 minute walk. While there are a few apartments for rent in the center, most are in the more residential area.

1. Be Aware Of Hills

Behind Calle José Mariscal is the beginning of “Gringo Hill” and quite a steep walk if you’re without a vehicle. There are many options and they look so close to the center on the map.

If you don’t mind the hills, there are some beautiful places up here with a nice view and peace and quiet. Just a golf cart.

2. Check The Bathrooms

I only mention this because there are a surprising number of apartments where the bathrooms are not fully private.

Sometimes, the walls don’t extend all the way up to the ceiling. Sometimes, there’s just a curtain instead of a door. And sometimes, it’s just a big piece of glass. I’m not exaggerating.

3. Parking

You don’t need a vehicle to visit Sayulita, but it’s nice to have if you want to surf or visit some of the other nearby beaches. If  you have a vehicle, consider looking for a place that has a parking spot and avoid Zone A. It’s not easy to park or drive around in the center.

Cheap Accommodation and Best Hostels For Backpackers

For backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few hostels in Sayulita. My go to recommendation for a hostel is La Redonda Hostel*, which has the best location in town and takes a minute to walk to the beach.

If you want something with a pool, there’s the newly opened Viajero Hostel.

And for those who want the social aspect of a hostel, but with a bit more comfort and privacy, there are both dorm and private rooms at Selina and Casa Pepe.

If you’re looking for a female only hostel, there’s My Sisters House.

1. La Redonda Hostel

La Redonda Hostel is a rotunda shaped building that used to be the childhood home for Anabell and Lucero, the two girls who own and run this popular hostel.

There are dorm rooms on the top floor and an open-plan hang out space and bar on the ground floor. There are also a couple of private palapas rooms for those who want the social vibe of a hostel, but with a bit of privacy.

It opens into a garden with tables, hammocks, and an outdoor kitchen. There’s also an outdoor shower to wash off the sand after a surf session. They rent surfboards and can set you up with anything you need to do in Sayulita.

This is my favorite hostel in Sayulita and it has the absolute best location in town amongst the hostels – just 100 meters from the beach.

2. Selina Sayulita

I’ve already written about Selina above as an option for digital nomads and remote workers, but they also have normal dorm rooms. With its central location, pool, and restaurant, it’s a good hostel choice.

It’s social here, but not a party hostel. There are private room options here too.

3. Viajero Sayulita Hostel

Viajero is a new hostel in town with a pool. Location wise, it’s not as central as La Redonda or Selina, but sometimes being away from the center can be a good thing if you’re looking for some quiet.

The hostel is quite social with a big pool that’s better than the one at Selina’s. They organize social activities here daily. There are also very affordable private room options for 2-3 people and family rooms for 6-8 people.

4. My Sisters House

My Sisters House is a female only hostel. It’s walkable to the center and they offer donation based yoga classes on their rooftop. Like Viajero, if you want to get a bit away from the craziness of the center, this is a good option.

Last Thoughts On Accommodations In Sayulita

If you have any further questions about any of these places or Sayulita, shoot me an email and I’ll do my best to answer them.

Updated on August 31, 2025