my life, spirituality, travels and more
Sayulita 101: your guide to Sayulita
Sayulita 101: your guide to this magical little town and pics from our trip
Sunsets in Sayulita from the North end.
As I am sitting here looking out the window seeing a dark, gray and rainy Helsinki, I can’t help but to miss the vibrance of Sayulita. To ease that longing, I decided to make a little guide on the town as I receive lots of questions on what to do, where to eat and so forth. As many of you might know, I spent nearly 7 years residing in this little beach town, which is probably why I get direct messaged with these questions a lot. I’ve actually already written a few blog posts about Sayulita in the past; one on cute shops, one on where to eat and one on where to stay. However, for the simplicity of it all, I decided to gather everything under one post, that will hopefully serve as a guide from here on (feel free to share with anyone asking the same questions). Another reason I made this post, is because the town has changed a lot in the past few years and I felt the need to update my previous lists a little, so that you can have a more fresh input on things in its current state.
To have your heart in two distinct places is not always the easiest thing, but at the same time, I am extremely grateful to be calling two places home. I love hosting retreats in Sayulita and our recent trip there was absolutely magical. In lack of better words, I simply couldn’t have asked for more. We had such an amazing group of people and there were these new connections made on a way deeper level I couldn’t even have imagined. I also want to extend a special thank you to my friend, colleague, fellow yogi and co-host Jonna, whom it was a pleasure working with. If you’re interested in joining us next year, make sure to shoot me a message as we will soon be publishing our new dates. But in the meantime, if you’re planning a trip to Sayulita or need some inspiration for a trip, read through this simple Q&A formatted guide:
WHERE IS SAYULITA AND WHAT IS IT LIKE?
Sayulita is located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, just an hour north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit. From Finland the travel is easiest either through LA or Mexico city, which after you hop on a short flight to PVR. There used to be a direct flight from Helsinki to PV, but unfortunately they decided to discontinue it. If you’re traveling from the states, lucky you, as there are numerous direct flights to Puerto Vallarta on a daily basis. Sayulita is a relatively small beach town (population about 5000), most known for its surfing, its vibrant colourful boho vibe along with it being a popular wedding destination. In its early days, Sayulita was considered to be a quaint fishing village, however those days are (unfortunately?) long gone, because just like any other popular tourist destination, also Sayulita has grown, a lot. Especially in the past few years. Today Sayulita is still mostly known for its surf, beaches and laid back & relaxed vibe, however there’s also a big growing underbelly of a party town happening as many decide to throw either their bachelor/bachelorette or wedding parties there. Sayulita is also known as a cultural melting pot with lots of expats from all over the world, even though the majority of all expats are still either Americans and Canadians. For some odd reason there’s also lots of Argentinians, Italians and a few Finnish people (known as the Finnish mafia).
IS SAYULITA SAFE?
Many people refer to Sayulita as the safe little bubble of Nayarit as Sayulita is considered to be a cocoon of safety compared to the rest of the state. As Sayulita is a tourist spot, it’s in everyones interest to keep it safe and keep the tourism thriving. That being said, Sayulita is no Helsinki Finland and there’s certainly more crime than in our Scandinavian neck of the woods. If you’re smart and don’t roam around at 4am in the night, you’ll be fine. In a nutshell: be wise about where you move, with whom and at what time. My recommendation is to always use the buddy system and never walk alone at night or at dark. You’ll be fine by using some common sense; don’t leave your things out of sight while swimming etc.
Cotton candy skies.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Mostly sunny and warm throughout the year. There’s basically only two seasons: summer and winter. From June to October, is the period when it’s considered to be rainy season, however this is changing a little bit as in the past few years the rains have started a little later on and continued on for a little past October. The summer is basically just hot as hell and if you’re anything like me, you have to walk around with a cloth and continuously wipe the sweat off your face. Weather wise I personally enjoy Nov-May the most, when the nights are a little cooler and you don’t have to continuously seek shade during the day.
ANY TIPS ON WHERE TO STAY?
Sayulita has a broad variety of different accommodation possibilities and it all depends on how much you are willing to spend since you can literally find everything from a low budget hostel to a extravagant villa with jaw dropping views overlooking the entire bay. You can still use this previous post as a guide, but there are a couple new places that I want to add: Don Bonito Hotel and the airbnb listing: Casita with a view. Don Bonito Hotel is a new & hip boutique Hotel located on the North end of town. The Rooms are clean and the pool area is cute and fresh and the location is perfect for those not wanting to listen to the hustle and bustle of town. Casita with a view is located on Gringo Hill and has a stunning view over the ocean along with a super cute rooftop palapa, this spot only sleeps two people and is best fit for either couples or solo travelers.
WHAT TO DO IN SAYULITA?
Obviously surf. Whether you’re a Kelly in practice (just kidding) or a complete beginner, Sayulita has the perfect setting for both. There are three different surf spots in Sayulita; the beginner spot on the far left with a sandy bottom and mellow white waters, the right hand point break in the center and then a left hand point past the river on the North end of the beach. If you’re looking for less crowded beaches, make sure to ask the friendly surf guides at Lunazul to take you to a nearby surf spot, one in particular worth seeing would be La Lancha or el Anclote (when it works).
Beachcombing. In all honesty, the main beach of Sayulita is not my favorite. There’s a shit ton (sorry language) of beach vendors and unless you want to listen to “donuts donuuuuuuts, donuts very good” or “bracelet amiga” all day long, my suggestion is you explore the more tranquil nearby beaches. Make sure to check out: Malpasos or Carricitos along with Playa los Muertos and the colorful cemetery next to it. As Malpasos and Carricitos are a little trickier to find than Playa Los Muertos, my recommendation is to hit up Mexitreks that will take you there. PS. Make sure to also ask them about Monkey Mountain, which is an amazing hike overlooking the entire bay, but a little outside of Sayulita. Definitely worth the sweat.
Turtle releases. Yes, yes and yes! Check in with the local organization Campamento Tortuguero Sayulita and go watch these little fellas crawl out to sea. Make sure to donate to support this non profit organization so that they can continue their valuable work!
Farmers market or Mercado del Pueblo. You don’t want to miss out on this one. Farmers market happens every Friday during high season from 11am until 2pm. Sayulita’s Farmer’s market brings together local farmers, artisans, jewelers and artists offering their fresh produce, craftsmanship, consumable goods, art and so much more in this colourful happening on the North end of town. My personal favorite is the older gentleman selling his essential oils just by the entrance.
Colorful everywhere you turn.
Salsa night. I mean, you’re in Mexico, so you might as well get your groove on and move your bootie to some latin rhythms. Make sure to check out the most legendary and iconic salsa night happening every Monday night at Don Pedro’s restaurant. This is not for the shy tho and don’t think that you can hide and just watch the show as the odds are you will be asked to dance.
Marietas Islands. The Marietas Islands is probably still one of the most sought after tourist attractions in the Banderas Bay area. These uninhabited group of islands are breathtakingly beautiful and located about 24 km outside of Sayulita. This popular spot is famous for its colourful marine life and its “secret beach”, however depending on the time of the year, there might be lots of other tourists seeking the same experience.
Yoga. The Rose Room Yoga at Hotelito de Los Suenos is your spot baby. Look no further. These gorgeous open air palapas are not only the most beautiful studios in town, but they also have the best teachers. Say hi from me.
Go out and about. Well, it is Sayulita after all and you might as well try out them margs. The best spot for delicious mouth watering drinks in town is hands down Le Zoave De Hafa and Eder’s margaritas. Make sure to check out the trendy, semi-new and cool place El Conejo while you’re out as the ambiance there is pretty cool as well.
WHERE TO EAT IN SAYULITA?
My old list is still pretty accurate and my absolute favorite still remains Itacate, but I would like to add a few more newcomers and an old one I forgot to include in my last post:
Organik: smoothies and acai bowls along with their poke bowls. Yum.
Miscelanea: try their matcha, chilaquiles or avocado toast.
Mary’s tacos: this is an old place I simply forgot to include in my previous list. Try their Sayulita Taco or Olea.
Zatar: Mediterranean cuisine that is simply clean and delicious.
Barracuda. Try their tuna tostada.
In general the food is delicious and pretty cheap in most of the places in town. That being said, even tho I listed Leda in my previous post and I still think the food is yummy there, I would like to emphasize that it’s probably one of the most expensive restaurants in Sayulita. Make sure to especially check out the prize for their wine bottles (just a friendly suggestion).
Please let me know if you think I’m missing out on something else you think is key for me to add onto this list and keep in mind these are only my opinions and takes on Sayulita.
xx,
Eva
Why did I move back to Finland?
Why did I move back to Finland?
Yes, why!? I guess it’s a fair question and a question I have received a lot. I mean, why would someone trade the tropical breeze, warm weather and an easy lazy lifestyle for slush, darkness and the 9- 5 grind? Why oh why would one leave a life of sipping margaritas on the beach and dem delish tacos for a society where the norm is not to say hi to their neighbors.. And lemme tell ya, dem tacos sooo good. So yes, I get it, it’s a legitimate question to ask and I understand that it might seem odd, and rightly so. But before spearheading into the why’s, I just want to acknowledge that it’s kind of impossible to write this post without spilling the beans on some sensitive and personal stuff. I will do my best to not dive into the details of things, partially to protect the people I have crossed paths with and also to protect myself as I don’t see it necessary to vomit my private life all over the interwebs. That being said, my aim has always been to be honest and to express my truth, so there obviously will be some personal sharing along the way. I also want to emphasize that life isn’t always what it looks like and this needs to be addressed more and more and more. The images we see on social media or in blog posts are merely little, snippets of framed perfect moments, so next time you see a chick posing with a coconut on the beach, don’t be fooled, she might actually be lost.
I mean, look at that beauty. By Jess Leigh.
Perhaps the first step towards answering this question is revealing why I originally moved to Mexico. Well, I moved there right after having graduated to help run my exe’s (important notice, he obviously was not my ex back then) family businesses in a small little beach town, called Sayulita, on the Pacific coast of Mexico. I had been to Sayulita twice before moving there and I had also spent one semester in Bali, Indonesia, so living in a tropical climate was not new to me. Even so, moving somewhere with the possibility of never returning can be a little intimidating. And that it was indeed. Initially, I felt a little anxious, ungrounded and lonely without my tight group of friends and my only support at that time was my partner. I’m a Capricorn and my people are my everything (you might know this if you’re into astrology, however if you think it’s complete woo-woo, well, let’s just say my friends and fam mean a lot to me), so the start was not just smooth sailing. I was surrounded by a new culture and a language that I did’t speak nor understand. I sometimes felt like a sore thumb as I stood out with my light blonde hair, even though Sayulita has a fair share of blonde expats and even more so nowadays. So, what I’m trying to say is, I was faced with some challenges in the beginning. But slowly, just like with anything else in life, I started settling in and making friends and gradually I learned to understand Spanish and then finally later to speak it. Life became easier, things started flowing and all of a sudden I was living the dream in a beautiful, vibrant, boho beach town of Sayulandia (a nickname for Sayulita). My life felt good and things were looking up.
My days consisted of co-leading my exes family businesses (hotels, surf school and shops), practicing yoga, surfing and watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, not too bad, huh? So it’s only fair to say that I had a few truly magical years. I was also running my co-owned yoga & surf company, hosting retreats and working for a handful of interesting businesses in a completely new environment. Boy, did I learn a lot and this time definitely shaped me. But as some of us might already have learned in life, life is not always a walk in the park, nor is it always a bed of roses and sometimes it can throw you curve balls. And as you might have guessed, a curve ball was thrown at me. Hard. Eventually it led to me and my ex parting ways.
Okay dokay, so there I was all alone on the other side of the world in a small Mexican beach town. Life hack: do not live in a small town with your ex. Ha, no, but seriously, you can imagine it might just be a little challenging. Also, rumours travel very quickly in small communities and I with all do respect, there’s definitely some cultural differences in how men view women and wether or not it is appropriate to move on (or even be seen out) after a break up (stay tuned for our next podcast on Machismo!!). In the grand scheme of things, I was was alone in Mexico living on the other side of the world far away from my fam going thru a break up in a place that felt like the Big Brother house and everyone was watching the show. As I had worked with my ex (we had a company together) and also with his family biz, it didn’t feel appropriate to continue working with them, so besides to dealing with a break up, I also had to figure out what to do business-wise. Luckily, I quickly found myself on my feet, working with new projects and clients and running my own mini one person company. I also started working within wedding production and for a big luxury hotel along with my private yoga clients. Life was okay…ish, but in all honesty my heart was broken and I felt lost. Fortunately I had a group of amazing friends to share my days with and the distraction of living in a party town. In lack of better phrasing, I had a semi-good time for a while, but as I didn’t fully have a direction in life and was kind of floating in this in-between state of not knowing what to do, I eventually started drifting just a little too much. Unless you have the discipline of a true christian, Sayulita will suck you into the mañana mañana lifestyle. Even tho the easy tropical party paradise lifestyle can sound like all fun and games, it kinda gets old after a while. Not to mention the non existing dating scene in Sayulita that is, well, extremely limited. Slim pickings y’all. Another coping mechanism I had was traveling, which I did to distract myself from the reality of things, and the truth was that I was completely lost. Being lost and ungrounded led me to a couple of very interesting picks on the dating scene (🙈). But they did serve a purpose as they also pushed me towards the direction I needed to go. Which was, back home.
Easy living in Mex. By Jess Leigh.
Slowly but surely I started playing more with the idea of moving back home to the motherland. I even flew to Finland in January just “to see” if I could cope with the darkness and cold weather after having lived in the tropics for so long. My conclusion and field research prove me that it was doable, however not ideal, so I needed to think some more, I reasoned. After my trip to Finland in the winter, I returned back to Mex to now in hindsight, seal the deal and confirm my exit. Another few negative challenges took place of which I can name these few; my house was broken into, my safety emptied (yes they use a lot of cash in Mex and the nearest bank was a 35 min drive away) and I got stung by a venomous scorpion. The latter one was pretty gnarly and almost felt like I was being kicked out of Sayulita. Or as my friends like to put it, I graduated from Sayulita. So being the intuitive spiritual tree hugger that I am, I finally listened to that little whisper inside of me that actually at this point was more like a scream than a whisper, saying “buy a one way ticket to Finland” and so I did. And after that, things just aligned.
Okay, if you spent any time in Finland last summer you probs know that last summer was pretty darn stellar. Some people might call it false marketing, but it surely lured me in. People were happy and smiling, the sun was shining and the weather was almost well, tropical….. but most importantly, it felt right. When you are aligned with your direction, things have a tendency of falling into the right places and sure enough I met an amazing person that summer as well. He might have helped with the whole marketing campaign of Finland being pretty cool 🤩.
So here I am, now 7 months later after having relocated back to Finland (I had to go back to Mex after the summer in Finland), feeling grounded for the first time in a very long time. And, yes, of course the winter sucked, and yes of course I miss Mexico and yes of course I miss my friends and yes Mexico holds a place in my heart forever, but YES, this is where I am supposed to be right now. And it feels freaking fantastic to FINALLY feel like you’re where you’re supposed to be. Because I haven’t felt that in a very long time. And at the end of the day, Finland is such a great place to live in (and we also just won the world championships in ice hockey!!), regardless of the grumpy, non saluting neighbours. And luckily I am privileged enough to be able to travel (yes, I know climate change, but there’s a blog post about this) and visit Mex, which I am planning to do in November (the suckiest month in Finland, come with?).
So if there’s only one thing you take away from reading this whole long story, it’s listen to your gut. Because it knows. Sometimes it’s hard to hear, but the whisper is always there. So pay attention.
Con amor,
Evita
Get to know the girl behind the screen // 15 random facts you (probably) didn't know about me
15 facts you (probably) didn’t know about me
and didn’t care about in the first place…
Or maybe you do or did. Either way, I recently saw a post on my insta feed of my good friend and talented photographer, Jessica, where she posted a list of funny things about herself as an introduction. This inspired me to do the same, so without further ado, I decided to give it a whirl.
Proof of me juggling, well kind of. Pic: Jess Leigh
I’m Finnish Swedish
I am from Helsinki, Finland and a part of the 6 % minority of Swedish speaking Finns – I speak Swedish with my dad, Finnish with my mom. In addition to these two native tongues, as I lived in Sayulita, Mexico for nearly 7 years; I learned Spanish, I also understand French semi-fluently and well, English is a given. Another randomness for good measure: I lived in Bali, Indonesia, during my studies and during that time I could understand Bahasa Indonesia pretty decently (today, not so much, I only remember Terimakasahi).
In addition to yoga… I also like the gym, cute surfable waves, swimming, short runs (not marathons), long walks on the beach and berry picking (does that count as a sport?).
My favorite TV shows include…
Game of Thrones (duh) and The Office. Actually, if you’re in a dark place in your life or need any anti depressant, try watching a couple seasons of The Office and I can assure you, you’ll be in a better place.
I am highly sensitive and perceptive and have razor sharp intuition. I usually get a pretty good feel on wether people and situations can be trusted. That being said, there’s definitely also been some misjudgment and I’ve been burnt a handful of times.
I know how to juggle.
Only with three balls tho. Still pretty cool if I may say so myself.
I love to paint and draw!
I usually paint naked women and eyes. Why? Go figure.
I have a Master’s degree in Science (Economics)
Yup, I graduated from the Swedish School of Economics (Hanken) in Helsinki and I studied Marketing as my major, my minor was Spanish and Business Mgmt & Organization. I wrote my thesis about wellness tourism (no surprise there).
I’m currently working on or working with…
Event production (day job), various collaboration projects including the podcast I co-host, a yoga retreat in Mexico, corporate yoga classes, revamping our summer cabin by the sea and a secret super cool project that will be launched later this year (stay tuned, will ya).
I’m not allergic to anything (as far as I know)….
And my plan is to keep it this way. I’ve never been tested tho (well I don’t remember at least).
A lion once wanted to eat me as a snack.
True story. We were in Zimbabwe on a safari, luckily my mom’s friend pulled my down a cliff and there was a feeble fence in between.
I’ve been stung by a scorpion
And it hurt like a mother*** Seriously, worst pain I’ve ever felt. Imagine neuro toxin running through your body in waves and not being able to breath simultaneously. Ouch.
I am a cat and a dog person and my cat got eaten by a python.
And yes, you can be both a cat and a dog person. And yes, my cat got eaten by a python in Mexico. I know. It’s pretty dark.
My favorite color is…
purple, lavender, lilac, magneta, violet, plum. You get it.
My favorite flower is…
THE SUNFLOWER. GIMME. I love the Spanish name “Girasol” the one who turns towards the sun.
I love warm water.
The ocean or a hot tub, I’m there.
Warm water, yes please. Pic: Jenn Farmer
K, that’s all for now.
Love,
Evita
My first poem online
Making peace with the past - a poem by me (my very first online poem).
.
There is so much, yet somehow nothing to say.
.
It all took me where I am today.
.
The tears. The loss. The pain.
.
I know, it was never in vain.
.
Forever within me it will stay.
.
And in all honesty I don’t even want it to go away.
.
Because even if I broke,
.
and wanted to choke.
.
I somehow found my way home.
.
To my safe little dome.
.
The space that is within me.
.
I learned to to see.
.
The power that I hold.
.
It made me bold.
.
Now I am strong,
.
and I know I’ve also done things wrong.
.
This is not to blame.
.
This is not to shame.
.
And it sure the hell is not a game.
.
I needed you, the past.
.
You helped me cast,
.
The path that I am on now.
.
So let me just say wow and
.
Thank you.
Picture by Vuokko Salo in Sayulita, Mexico
Where to stay in Sayulita
Greetings all,
my apologies for the silence, I escaped Semana Santa and did an amazing trip to Mexico City and ever since I returned I've been pretty slammed with yoga privates & other work.
I've been wanting to write this blog post already for a long while, since this is THE QUESTION I get the most. And as most of you already know, Sayulita is growing very very fast and there are also lots of amazing places to be found on Airbnb or Vrbo. This list is just a selection of my fave places I've hand picked for you to explore as your options for your next trip to Sayulandia.
In no particular order:
Hotelito Los Sueños
Hotelito Los Sueños (the little hotel of dreams) is located on the north end of town in a more quiet neighborhood. It has recently been remodeled with the addition of a second gorgeous HUGE yoga studio (can fit more than 40 people), a second swimming pool and x number of new rooms. The hotel almost feels like a beautiful garden as they've the walls are beautifully covered with wall climbing vines. They also have a smoothie bar and surfboards and bikes for their guests to use. All rooms have AC. Room rates vary from their Premium room (91 USD/night) to their Villa (178 USD/night).
AC ✓ Swimming pool ✓ Yoga Studio ✓ @hotelito_los_suenos
Casa Love
Located next to the surf break, Casa Love this gypset styled boutique hotel is your go to if wanting to stay both close to the beach and town centre. The hotel is upstairs from the famous Pachamama Gallery and has a super cute roof deck to check out the surf. This spot has gotten loads of coverage on social media and rightfully so. There are six rooms to choose from, all uniquely decorated with big mandalas and hearts. There's a big living space with a kitchen and colorful hammocks to lounge in. Room rates vary from 90 USD per night to 190 USD per night.
Petit Hotel Hafa
Petit Hotel Hafa is a bohemian Moroccan styled boutique hotel located in town centre just above the famous "Wine Bar" (Le Zoave) and about two blocks from the beach. This family owned hotel has a beautiful roof deck overlooking the town colorfully decorated with vibrant pillows and cactus plants. With 6 different rooms to choose from ranging from 50 USD per night to 85 USD per night, this is the spot if you want to stay in the heart of Sayulita.
AC ✓ @hotelhafasayulita
Amor Boutique Hotel
Amor Boutique Hotel is a luxury hotel located on the south end of the main beach in Sayulita, yet perfectly secluded from the towns hustle and bustle. They offer complimentary daily yoga classes, free use of surf boards and SUP's as well as push bikes. Service on point, great location and stunning oceanfront views with 21 unique villas to choose from. All the villas were built honoring nature leaving big trees growing into some of them (Villa La Paz and Arboles). Room rates starting at 195 USD, if money is not an issue Villa Arboles (850 USD/night) and Villa Romance (850 USD/night) are to die for. Room rates starting at 195 USD/night. All rooms have AC. Definitely the most romantic pick.
AC ✓ Swimming pool ✓ Yoga studio ✓ @amorboutiquehotel
Aurinko Bungalows
Aurinko Bungalows is located in the heart of Sayulita, just next to the town plaza. This charming boutique hotel is colorfully decorated with art from local artist and is a family owned business. Last year a wooden yoga studio along with a salt water swimming pool was added to their facilities. This hotel is your green choice as all the water runs through a filter so even the shower water is drinkable! They recently put in a solar panel for them to earn another feather in their cap. Nearly all rooms have AC. Room rates from 90 USD (one bedroom) to 150 USD (two bedroom units). This would be the greenest choice.
AC ✓ Swimming pool ✓ Yoga studio ✓
Casa Ilusion
Situated on the north end of town, Casa Ilusion is a premier beachfront house with four bedrooms. The house features its own private beach with high palm trees situated atop a high seawall giving you privacy from the public beach, however if you were to want to frolick by the waters edge, you can easily walk down to the public beach. Another option would be to nap in on of the big hammocks in between the high palm trees. The house went through a huge remodeling just a few years ago, so the house has a very modern feel to it with its new kitchen and bathrooms. High season rental price 1,357 USD/night and Holiday season (Christmas) 2500 USD/night. Not for the budget traveler ;) but a vacay here will definitely we one to remember.
AC ✓ Swimming pool ✓ @casailusionsayulita
Villa Pelicanos
Villa Pelicanos is a luxury oceanview property located just next to Los Muertos Beach. The main house of the property is located on the top of the hill providing a breathtaking scenery overlooking Sayulita and the ocean. There is a huge infinity pool along with a beautifully decorated palapa livingroom. This property is best enjoyed with a large group of friends or family that want to spend quality time together but also some privacy in their own casitas. The house can guest up to 14 people with its 7 bedrooms. There are four separate casitas on the property and each one has its own bathroom. There's also a separate casita for the kitchen and dining area. High season price at 1,900 USD per night.
AC ✓ Swimming pool ✓ @villapelicanossayulita
Casa Santander
Casa Santander is a beautiful property in downtown Sayulita, just one block away from the beach and town centre. With four different units to choose from, this choice is perfect for the surfer as it's so close to the main surf spot in Sayulita. The property also has a swimming pool overlooking the beach and town. The four units can also be rented in its entirety which makes it a good pick for friends looking to stay together, yet having their own privacy. All rooms have their own kitchens and AC installed. Rates vary from 65 USD a night to 250 USD night depending on size & location.
AC ✓ Swimming pool ✓
Enjoy!
Saludos desde el paraiso,
Eva