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How to get to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport: taxis, busses, Sayulita airport transfers, and more!

By: Author Trisha Velarmino

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Categories Mexico Transportation Guide

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There are many ways to get to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport and transportation options around the magical Riviera Nayarit. In this post, we will explain that to you in detail, so start browsing your transportation options.

I lived in Sayulita for 2 years, and this is the most common question I receive from friends and family: how do I get to Sayulita from the airport? It does seem complicated, but in this post, I will share with you everything you need to know about Sayulita airport transfers.

how to get to sayulita

There will also be tips here on where to get a taxi when you are already in Sayulita. Spoiler alert: Uber does not work in Sayulita, which is also discussed in detail in this post.

You can also check our guide on getting around Sayulita, which will explain the Sayulita layout and transportation options like buses, white taxis, and golf carts.

🚖 Book Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita transfer

Cheapest airport transfers guaranteed (from $89 USD). Our drivers will take you not only to Sayulita but all parts of Riviera Nayarit and Vallarta.

BOOK TRANSFER

🙋 How to get to Sayulita from the airport?

Like most airports in Mexico, Ubers are not allowed to enter Puerto Vallarta International Airport. You can get an Uber but you have to go out of the airport and wait for them at the footbridge.

Puerto Vallarta Airport

The footbridge is about a 3-minute walk from the departure gate. Once you are at the footbridge, you can order the Uber there and it costs about $20 – $40 USD depending on what time you’re calling it.

If you have a lot of things and don’t want to walk far, below are some alternatives on how to get to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport.

🚗💨 Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport via local taxi driver

Mexico Insider’s Support Local project helps locals in the Riviera Nayarit area promote their businesses. Right now, we have about 3-4 drivers in the area who can get you at the airport for a lower price.

how to get to sayulita

Their English is not perfect but this is a good chance for you to practice your Spanish! These taxi drivers can also take you from Puerto Vallarta downtown to Sayulita, San Pancho, or Punta de Mita.

Book local taxi driver

🛎️ Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport via VIP service

Most airport vans and taxis parked by the arrivals gate are companies with permits to operate inside the airport. This permit is not cheap so not everyone has it.

how to get to sayulita

And those who do, charge standard pricing of $125 USD and up to go to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta Airport. These taxi drivers will wait for you at the arrivals gate holding a sign with your name.

Check prices for VIP transfers

🚌 How to get to Sayulita by bus ($4 USD)

A bus ride to Sayulita costs US$4 and it will take you all the way to the Sayulita bus station. This ride can take up to 1.5 hours since the bus stops a lot in different small towns on the way to Sayulita.

how to get to sayulita from puerto vallarta airport

Note that the way to Sayulita is on the other side of the airport so you have to cross the footbridge. At the bottom of this footbridge, you will find busses with ‘Sayulita’ signs. They come every 30-45 minutes and you can even take them to San Pancho.

🚗 Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita car rental

I don’t really recommend bringing a car to Sayulita because parking is horrible in town but if you have an Airbnb in Sayulita that has a parking space, then you better rent a car.

It will allow you to move around Sayulita and visit nearby towns. This is also advisable for those who are going on surf trips in Sayulita.

renting a car in mexico

💨 Rent a car in Puerto Vallarta

Get a rental car at PVR Airport for as low as $25 USD per day. Check out 👉🏽 Discover Cars Puerto Vallarta for the best deals!

how to get to sayulita

There are no rental car companies in Sayulita so you can only do this at Puerto Vallarta International Airport. The smarter choice is to book it in advance instead of getting it upon arrival as this airport is really busy.

Rent a car in Puerto Vallarta

⁉️ FAQs: How to get to Sayulita, Mexico

Sayulita is about an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta Airport. There is only one highway that goes from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita (called KM 300) so these days, traffic is becoming heavier.

I’d usually just go to the airport an hour before departure, but now, I am always making sure I leave Sayulita 2.5 hours before the flight.

The price of a taxi from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita varies. Remember that all over Mexico, there are certified and licensed taxi operators in airports. Not all transportation services can enter airports in Mexico.

In the case of Puerto Vallarta Airport, the taxi to Sayulita starts at $125 USD (if booking with an authorized taxi service).

The Uber from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Sayulita costs $40 USD (est) but you have to take them outside of Puerto Vallarta Airport. There are two meeting points for Uber at PVR Airport but the driver will tell you the exact meeting point.

If you decide to take the Uber (since it’s cheaper), the walk from the arrivals gate to the meeting point is about 5-7 minutes. Be mindful with walking with your suitcases as this is a federal highway. You don’t need to cross but it is still a very busy area for all types of vehicles.

Sayulita is in the state of Nayarit and it’s one of the most beautiful beach destinations on the Pacific Coast. I want to call our home the Nayarit best-seller but I do have high respect for our neighbors like Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, Punta de Mita, and San Pancho.

When you visit Sayulita, you will definitely get to know these small towns as well. Many first-time visitors don’t really consider visiting us but there are many reasons to visit Sayulita – you don’t need to look further!

The airport that serves Sayulita is Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR).

There are many US flights that go straight to Puerto Vallarta. Some popular US cities that fly straight to Puerto Vallarta include Austin, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

Within the town of Sayulita, Uber is a hit and miss. Or let’s say almost non-existent. If you want to go to neighboring towns like San Pancho and Punta Mita, your best bet is to take the white taxis parked at the Sayulita plaza.

These guys are easy to deal with and you can always haggle. But expect them to charge you ridiculous prices (i.e. $30 USD for a 5-minute drive to San Pancho). Better polish your Spanish before your trip so you can haggle with the taxi drivers easily.

🇲🇽 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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