Sayulita

History

The pre-Columbian indigenous inhabitants of the area were most likely small bands of the semi-nomadic Cuyuteco. In 1530, Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán's account of his battle with the Cuyutecos at Valle gave name to the Bay of Banderas, as the natives carried colorful banners. Civic sites identified in the region include Ixtapa, Valle, and Ixtlan del Rio. These sites were most likely tributary outposts of the Aztatlan kingdom centered in northern present-day Nayarit. Like most of the greater Banderas Bay area, the sheer remoteness and thick jungle prevented permanent European colonization until the late 19th century. The ejido of Sayulita was not established until 1941 when the first families arrived from the mountains of Jalisco.

Today

Known for its consistent river mouth surf break, Sayulita was "discovered" by roving surfers in the late 1960s with the construction of Mexican Highway 200. Today, Sayulita is a prosperous growing village of approximately 6,000 residents. Hailed as a popular off-the-beaten-path travel destination, Sayulita offers a variety of activities such as horseback riding, hiking, jungle canopy tours, snorkeling and fishing. Still a mecca for beginner surfers of all ages, Sayulita attracts tourists with its numerous art galleries and restaurants as well. Sayulita is frequented by native Cora and Huichol peoples, traveling craftsmen as well as international tourists. Sayulita is a part of the newly designated "Riviera Nayarit", the coastal corridor from Litibu to San Blas. Its natural beauty and easy access to Puerto Vallarta have made Sayulita real estate some of the most sought after in all of Mexico. Growing ecological awareness and stricter zoning enforcement have caused development to be regulated in order to help safeguard the environment and quality of life. Sayulita has a medical office with an English-speaking doctor and pharmacist, a number of internet cafes and a wide variety of open-air eateries—some right on the sand beach.