When it comes to beaches, you’re looking for the “Playa.” The two most popular beaches include the main beach and Playa de los Muertos. But Sayulita is home to much more than that. Off the beaten path, you’ll find secret beaches where you can get away from the crowds.
Here are Sayulita’s best 5 secret beaches:
Playa Patzcuaro
About a 25 minute walk south, through stunning jungle and winding dirt roads, you’ll find Patzcuaro Beach. If you’re going for sunset, we recommend taking a golf cart so you can find your way home easily – as it can get pretty dark to head back to Sayulita! Patzcuaro also has a beach break that works sometimes.
Playa Patzcuarito
Another gem, Patzcuarito Beach, is just past Patzcuaro and is longer, and more secluded. This small, serene cove is embraced by lush greenery and natural rock formations. What sets Patzcuarito Beach apart is its suitability for snorkeling, picnicking, and simply unwinding in a peaceful setting, far from the tourist crowds.
Playa Carricitos
Carricitos is known for the best sunset south of Sayulita. Hike through the jungle and then down a steep path before stumbling out onto white sand beaches. Because it’s a bit of a hike to make it down, a lot of people either don’t know about it or don’t want to deal with the hike back out. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, or want a romantic, secluded spot to take your special someone, Carricitos is for you.
Mal Paso
Mal Paso, nestled between Sayulita and San Pancho, remains a well-kept secret accessible via a rugged trail. What makes this beach special is its wild, natural allure and awe-inspiring vistas. Here, you can enjoy beachcombing and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the coastline. We recommend keeping your visit to daytime, as at night it can be really hard to see where you’re going. Be conscious of your surroundings as it is very secluded.
Playa Norte (North Beach)
Although not a hidden secret, North Beach is far less crowded than the beach directly off the main part of town. To reach North Beach, just walk northward from the town center. You’ll find musicians, artists, yogis, and meditators soaking up the sunset in the late afternoon.
As you set out to explore these hidden gems in Sayulita, remember to respect the environment and local regulations. Some of these secluded spots might have limited facilities, so be sure to pack essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen. Revel in the natural beauty and tranquility that these secret spots offer, and savor the feeling of escaping into a world of pristine serenity.