The best time to visit Sayulita (weather, prices, and seasons)

Planning a trip to Riviera Nayarit and wondering when to visit Sayulita? Here’s our insider tip, including what to know during hurricane season in Sayulita.

Many visitors are wondering when is the best time to visit Sayulita or if Sayulita is an all-year-round destination. Well…. that’s a yes and a no.

YES, because there are many foreigners who visit Sayulita who don’t care about our dead season which is the hot humid weather. They still come because prices are low and the town is almost close to empty.

best time to visit sayulita

NO, because we do have a super dead season where half the bars and restaurants close. Though we are not saying that you won’t be able to enjoy town this way, it’s just slower than it actually is.

To understand better, we will give you a timeline and a month-by-month account of the best time to visit Sayulita. If you ask us, we’ll pick it all year round but it’s good to know what to expect if you book your trip in these months.

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☀️ When is the best time to visit Sayulita?

The best time to visit Sayulita Mexico is from October to March. At this time of the year, the weather is great but also expect it to be expensive.

best time to visit sayulita
We lived in Sayulita for 2 years but we were just there this June 2022 and we visit our local office there yearly.

These months are popular for big American holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, Valentine’s, and Spring Break. As there are many direct flights from the US, expect Sayulita to be full of tourists during these months.

🛰️ Sayulita weather forecast: month-by-month

A quick overview of Sayulita weather forecast by month. ⬇️ is the coldest/lowest temperature while ⬆️ is the hottest.

  • January: ⬆️ 27°C (80°F) | ⬇️ 16°C (61°F)
  • February: ⬆️ 27°C (80°F) | ⬇️ 17°C (61°F)
  • March: ⬆️ 27°C (80°F) | ⬇️ 13°C (55°F)
  • April: ⬆️ 28°C (82°F) | ⬇️ 17°C (61°F)
  • May: ⬆️ 29°C (84°F) | ⬇️ 20°C (68°F)
  • June: ⬆️ 31°C (87°F) | ⬇️ 25°C (77°F)
  • July: ⬆️ 33°C (91°F) | ⬇️ 24°C (75°F)
  • August: ⬆️ 33°C (91°F) | ⬇️ 24°C (75°F)
  • September: ⬆️ 34°C (93°F) | ⬇️ 21°C (70°F)
  • October: ⬆️ 35°C (95°F) | ⬇️ 19°C (66°F)
  • November: ⬆️ 31°C (86°F) | ⬇️ 14°C (57°F)
  • December: ⬆️ 30°C (86°F) | ⬇️ 21°C (70°F)

🌤️ Best time to visit Sayulita by season

Low season in Sayulita: June-August

We experience unforgiving humidity from June to August so visitors don’t really prefer to go during this season. Most accommodations in Sayulita have air conditioning so some foreigners don’t worry about the extreme heat.

It’s only crazy when you are out but you also don’t want to spend your Sayulita vacation in your accommodation all the time.

sayulita weather forecast

Or maybe you want to? If this is the case, it is highly encouraged to book accommodation with a pool to cool down. We feel like this is the best time to visit Sayulita with friends as you can always just lounge in your amazing accommodations and have summer parties.

Accommodations are also cheaper at this time. Some bars and restaurants are open. Sayulita locals start to leave town slowly to go to other places like San Miguel de Allende, their homes in the USA/Canada, or anywhere cooler, actually.

As for the rain, well, it starts to rain but not too heavy yet. You will get about 5-10 minutes of rain every day (mostly in the evenings) but not hurricane levels yet. Wait for it….

Super low season in Sayulita: August and September

We’ve observed how tourists can still endure the June to mid-August weather but when it comes to late August and all of September, the town is totally empty.

This is when Sayulita experiences heavy rains, power outages, and extreme humidity all at the same time.

Many locals love the rainy season because we don’t get rain often. It’s the best time for us to enjoy “cold” weather. At this time, locals have totally left Sayulita to go to their second homes. 70% of bars and restaurants are closed.

best time to visit sayulita
In these months, you will also find yourself sweating like crazy even if you are just sitting down. Not exaggerating – it’s that harsh.

But this is the time when we have the firefly and the crabs season plus the bioluminescence. It’s a pity that not all people are able to see these very beautiful natural phenomena because of the lack of tourism during these months.

In these months, you will also find yourself sweating like crazy even if you are just sitting down. Not exaggerating – it’s that harsh.

Super-high season in Sayulita: October to January

As it is around the world, October to January (ish) are the high season months in Sayulita. Dia de Muertos starts at the end of October, followed by Christmas in December, then New Year in January.

We particularly love October because it’s kind of the turning point in the weather: after suffering from extreme September heat, we slowly change our wardrobes to jackets and cardigans toward the end of October.

best time to visit Sayulita
We visited in June 2022 and the streets are already empty because of the beginning of the summer heat.

If you don’t live in Sayulita, well, this won’t be too cold for you but for us who are here, this is the best time to take out those boots, jeans, and jackets (well, not wool) for a change of instagrammable outfits!

Although Americans, Canadians, and Europeans don’t find this “cold,” we still advise them to bring sweaters as the nights can get very cold.

High season in Sayulita: October – April

It won’t be as busy as the holiday season but these are good months in Sayulita because the weather is fantastic! Let’s say, it’s sort of Spring in Paris – not too hot, not too cold.

Some locals still find January and February as jacket weather but foreigners are madly in love with this weather because they can be in Sayulita without sweating like crazy.

things to do in sayulita

The town is super vibrant and you will see lots of tourists who are escaping harsh winters in their countries. 100% of the bars and restaurants are open.

The sun is not that strong although for us locals, having shorter days has a little disadvantage because we still get cold without the sun (LOL).

A little rain in January but it’s not bad rain. It’s actually what we call the New Year rain. It’s not that strong For some reason, it always rains on the first day of the year!

Shoulder season: May

Most countries have 2-3 month shoulder seasons but in Sayulita, we have May. May is when the time change (daylight savings). During this month, we experience sunsets at 9:00 pm.

People are more productive because the days are longer and we actually have more time to go to the beach after work!

Sunrise is around 8:30 am. It’s still completely dark by 8 which makes us get up (and start working) really late. We finish work at 7:30 PM and still have time for sunset until 9:00 pm. May is a win-win!

In terms of heat, well, May will slightly show signs of humidity but not extreme weather yet. But if you are American and Canadian, you will definitely start using the AC by May.

📅 When to visit Sayulita (by month)

January in Sayulita

January is one of the most popular months to visit Sayulita because it is the driest and sunniest month of the year.

In January, Sayulita experiences the winter season, which typically runs from December to February. However, the winter season in Sayulita is mild compared to many other parts of the world, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F) during the day and dropping to around 18°C (64°F) at night.

sayulita mexico

The temperature during the day is warm enough to enjoy the beach, while the cooler evenings are perfect for outdoor activities like dining or strolling along the beach.

The weather in Sayulita in January is generally dry and sunny, with very little rainfall. The skies are mostly clear, and visitors can expect to enjoy an average of 11 hours of sunshine per day.

The humidity levels are also lower in January, making it a more comfortable time to visit than some of the other months of the year.

February in Sayulita

February falls during the dry season, which runs from November to April.

During this time, temperatures in Sayulita are warm and comfortable, with an average high of 83°F (28°C) and an average low of 64°F (18°C). The weather is mostly sunny, with occasional clouds and a low chance of rain.

sayulita airport transfer

Visitors to Sayulita in February can expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures suitable for beach activities such as swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The sea temperature is also warm, averaging around 78°F (26°C), making it perfect for water activities.

While the dry season is an excellent time to visit Sayulita, it is also a peak tourist season, and visitors may find higher prices and larger crowds. Despite this, the beautiful weather and lively atmosphere make it a popular destination for those seeking a tropical escape.

March in Sayulita

March is a great time to visit Sayulita as it is part of the dry season, which runs from November to May, and the weather is typically warm and sunny.

In March, the average temperature in Sayulita ranges from around 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29 degrees Celsius). The weather is typically sunny and dry, with low humidity and cool ocean breezes.

marietas islands mexico

It is important to note that while the weather in Sayulita is generally warm, it can get quite hot during the day, especially in the sun, so it is important to bring sunscreen, hats, and other protective gear.

March is also part of the high season in Sayulita, which means that there will be plenty of tourists and visitors to the area.

While this can mean higher prices for accommodations and activities, it also means that there will be plenty of things to do and see in and around Sayulita.

April in Sayulita

April falls in the dry season in Sayulita, which means you can look forward to plenty of sunshine, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. The average temperature in Sayulita during April ranges between 23°C (73°F) to 32°C (90°F), with warm days and comfortable nights.

It’s important to note that temperatures can sometimes exceed 32°C (90°F) during the day, so it’s essential to pack plenty of sunscreens, hats, and lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool.

sayulita apartments

The dry season in Sayulita lasts from November to April, and April marks the end of the high season. While there may still be some crowds, it’s generally less busy in April than in the previous months.

The sea temperature is around 26°C (79°F), making it ideal for swimming, surfing, and other water sports.

May in Sayulita

May marks the end of the dry season in Sayulita and the beginning of the rainy season. The weather is warm and humid, with occasional afternoon showers and thunderstorms.

The average temperature in Sayulita during May ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F), with warm days and mild nights.

getting around sayulita

The sea temperature in May is around 26°C (79°F), making it ideal for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. However, it’s important to note that the ocean currents can be stronger during this time of year due to the change in weather patterns.

May is considered a shoulder season in Sayulita, which means that it’s less crowded than the peak season, and you can often find better deals on accommodations and activities. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some businesses and restaurants may close during this time.

June in Sayulita

Sayulita, situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere. If you plan to visit Sayulita in June, here’s what you can expect regarding weather, seasons, and temperatures.

June begins the rainy season in Sayulita, which lasts until October. You can expect hot and humid weather, with daily rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The average temperature in Sayulita during June ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F), with warm days and mild nights.

sayulita mexico

The sea temperature in June is around 28°C (82°F), making it perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water activities. However, it’s important to note that the ocean currents can be strong and the waves can be rougher during this time of year due to the rainy season.

June is considered a low season in Sayulita, which means that there are fewer tourists, and accommodations and activities can be more affordable. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some businesses and restaurants may close or have limited hours during this time.

July in Sayulita

July falls within Sayulita’s rainy season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the area experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity.

It is also the hottest time of the year, with average temperatures ranging from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 32 degrees Celsius). The humidity can make the temperatures feel even hotter, so it is important to stay hydrated and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

sayulita restaurants

Despite the rainy season, July can still be a great time to visit Sayulita, as the rain usually comes in short bursts and does not last all day.

The lush vegetation and vibrant colors of the jungle are at their peak during this time, and the crowds are generally smaller than during the peak tourist season from November to April.

August in Sayulita

August is part of Sayulita’s rainy season, which lasts from May to October, and is characterized by high humidity and heavy rainfall.

During August, temperatures in Sayulita typically range from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 32 degrees Celsius), which can feel even hotter due to the high humidity. The rain is usually sporadic and intense, with quick bursts that can last a few hours or less.

Sayulita Nayarit

Despite the rain, August can be a great time to visit Sayulita because the crowds are usually smaller than during peak tourist season from November to April. The lush vegetation and vibrant colors of the jungle are also at their peak during this time, and the town has a more relaxed and laid-back vibe.

While the weather in Sayulita in August can be unpredictable due to the rainy season, it’s still a great time to visit and experience the charm and beauty of this Mexican beach town.

September in Sayulita

September is still part of Sayulita’s rainy season, which lasts from May to October, but the rainfall tends to decrease as the month progresses.

During September, temperatures in Sayulita typically range from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 32 degrees Celsius), which can feel even hotter due to the high humidity.

mexico destinations

However, as the month progresses, the humidity tends to decrease, making it more comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities.

While September is still considered part of the rainy season, the rainfall tends to be less frequent and intense compared to earlier months.

October in Sayulita

October is in the middle of Sayulita’s dry season, which runs from November to May. During this time, visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rain, and warm temperatures. The average high temperature in Sayulita in October is around 88°F (31°C), while the average low temperature is around 73°F (23°C).

The weather in Sayulita in October is generally quite pleasant, with low humidity levels and a refreshing ocean breeze. The water temperature is also warm, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.

sayulita airport transfer

It’s worth noting that while October is a great time to visit Sayulita in terms of weather, it’s also a popular time for tourists. As such, visitors can expect higher prices and larger crowds than during the quieter months of the year.

Overall, traveling to Sayulita in October is a great choice for those looking to experience the town’s beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant culture. Just be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance because this is the start of the high season!

November in Sayulita

November marks the beginning of Sayulita’s dry season, which lasts until May. During this time, visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and warm temperatures. The average high temperature in Sayulita in November is around 85°F (29°C), while the average low temperature is around 70°F (21°C).

The weather in Sayulita in November is typically quite pleasant, with comfortable humidity levels and a refreshing ocean breeze. The water temperature remains warm, making it perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water activities.

sayulita mexico
The plaza in Sayulita is designed differently, depending on the season. | Photo taken during Day of The Dead 2019

While November is a great time to visit Sayulita in terms of weather, it is also a popular time for tourists. As such, visitors can expect higher prices and larger crowds than during the quieter months of the year.

November is also a great time to enjoy some of the town’s cultural events. Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is celebrated in early November and is a vibrant and colorful celebration of life and death.

December in Sayulita

December marks the middle of Sayulita’s dry season, which lasts from November to May. During this time, visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and warm temperatures.

The average high temperature in Sayulita in December is around 83°F (28°C), while the average low temperature is around 67°F (19°C).

The weather in Sayulita in December is typically pleasant, with comfortable humidity levels and a refreshing ocean breeze. The water temperature remains warm, making it perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water activities.

sayulita airport transfer

December is also a festive time in Sayulita, with many events and celebrations taking place throughout the month. The town’s annual Christmas Market is a popular attraction, where visitors can browse local crafts and enjoy traditional Mexican food and drinks.

One thing to keep in mind is that December is a popular time for tourists, and as such, visitors can expect higher prices and larger crowds than during the quieter months of the year.

⛈️ Hurricane season in Sayulita

August and September are the wettest months in Sayulita. It is also Sayulita’s summer so expect it to be humid even if it’s raining.

Major typhoons in Mexico hit different areas in September so please check the weather in your destination before planning a trip. It is better to check the weather at least a month before booking your ticket as they are more accurate this way.

⁉️ Best time to visit Sayulita FAQ

To give you a more clear idea, by June 15th, locals are already planning to leave Sayulita because of the heat. At this time, restaurants and businesses close up until the typhoon season in the first week of October.

Locals prefer to go inland where the weather is cooler like Mexico City or San Miguel de Allende. While foreigners go to Los Cabos because it also has different weather than Sayulita.

August and September are rainy seasons but September is the worst and rain can extend up to the second week of October. On New Year’s day (January 1st), we also experience strong rain but for us locals, we make it a joke that it’s like a blessing for the town. Everyone sleeps in on January 1st anyway!

The high season in Sayulita falls during the season of American holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and Spring Break.

It is safe to say that November to March is high seasons in Sayulita when foreigners are avoiding very cold winters in their countries. The weather during these months is the perfect time to visit Sayulita!

Note that the high season in Sayulita also means that prices are higher than usual. Make sure to reserve your accommodations 6 months in advance if you plan to travel to Sayulita on these months.

Whale watching in Sayulita begins in November when you can see a few whales making their way up north (to Baja California Sur).

You don’t even need to take a tour to see the whales. Just sit on the shore of the beaches in Sayulita and you will see them jumping!

The last batch of the whales are visible until March but after this, they all go to northern Mexico and then complete their trip to Alaska.

🇲🇽 Sayulita Travel Guide

  • Sayulita is a renowned destination for surfing lessons. Its warm, turquoise waters boast consistent, beginner-friendly waves, making it a top surfing spot in Nayarit.
  • Tequila tasting is a unique, sensory journey makes and a must-do while visiting Sayulita. Learn to appreciate quality tequila beyond the popularized shots, and engage with local traditions and artisans!
  • ATV tours and expeditions allow for exploring secluded beaches and hidden jungles. This is a great activity for groups and families with kids and an exhilarating way to experience the lesser-known side of Sayulita.
  • Embark on an exciting journey from Sayulita to the UNESCO-protected Marietas Islands. Discover hidden beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life, and witness majestic dolphins and humpback whales.
  • Experience the captivating beauty of Sayulita’s hinterland with our Monkey Mountain tours. Trek through lush jungles, witness vibrant flora and fauna, and ascend to stunning panoramic vistas at the peak.
  • From the lively, surf-friendly main beach to tranquil, secluded coves, discover the diverse beaches of Sayulita.
  • Encounter colorful local artisans, explore eclectic shops, and savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Sayulita Plaza.
  • Villa Amor has panoramic ocean views, elegant accommodations, and personalized services nestled amidst tropical jungles.
  • Residencia Tropical Don Bonito has spacious, beautifully-appointed accommodations, modern amenities, and close proximity to the town’s attractions.
  • Hotel Boutique Siete Luna is an intimate, serene retreat with panoramic ocean views, luxurious accommodations, and top-tier services.
  • Mexico has a shortage of housing for locals. The community will appreciate it if you book with local-owned hotels and accommodations.
  • Go to Cava Mezcaleria for a mezcal cocktail and/or authentic mezcal sourced from local communities all over Mexico. The watermelon mezcal is our favorite!
  • Lucid Bar is where the local kids hang out, any time of the day. If you make it here, try to cross next door and have drinks at Aloha Bar, too!
  • You won’t miss Yambak as everyone flocks here by the end of the night. 2 for 1 on ll drinks (except the artisanal beers) every Tuesday! Cross the street to El Barrilito if you just want to people-watch.
  • Savor the authentic flavors of Thailand at Achara. This restaurant serves meticulously crafted Thai dishes, bursting with exotic flavors, in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
  • Sayulita Public House offers an array of local craft beers, expertly mixed cocktails, and delicious American bites.
  • Enjoy exceptional service, a charming atmosphere, and a Mexican food adventure that mirrors the vibrant spirit of Sayulita at Aaleyah’s.
  • Experience authentic flavors, friendly service, and the real taste of Mexican tacos at Tacos Ivan. It’s open til late!
  • Pizza Venezia has handcrafted, wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh, local ingredients, served in a cozy, family-friendly setting. Vegan dough, available upon request! The best part? BYOB!
  • Discover the vibrant colors, tastes, and sounds of Sayulita’s Friday Market. Browse through a bounty of local produce, unique crafts, and delectable street food.
  • Experience the unique charm of Sayulita’s Hippie Market. Discover a treasure trove of handcrafted jewelry, vibrant textiles, artisanal goods, and bohemian fashion.
  • Sayulita is a walkable town with narrow cobblestone streets. You don’t need any mode of transportation while there. You must take an airport taxi service from Puerto Vallarta (under $100 USD) to get there.
  • If you plan to drive around Nayarit area or to nearby towns, a rental car is highly recommended when visiting Sayulita.
  • You need travel insurance to Mexico! Ekta Traveling is the recommended insurance (for travelers ages 2 months to 100 years old).

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3 Comments

  1. Thanks for this. We have been coming to Sayulita for twenty years and love it. We have been a bit turned off by the huge numbers of tourists in recent years. I’m wondering if you know if it is busier the week before and during Christmas or the week before and during New Years. We are talking about North American tourists. I’m trying to decide which of the two weeks to come as we only have one week this year. We know it’s holiday season for Mexican families and love seeing and meeting all of them on the beaches. Also do you know how the water treatment plant/sewage in the ocean situation is these days? Thanks!

  2. Thank you so much for all this amazing information about Sayulita. Does the low season start exactly on June 1st? I arrive on May 30th to June 3rd, so just curious on what to expect… thanks again 🙂

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