Head South for the Winter With This Travel Itinerary
Mexico is a long-standing favorite vacation destination for west- and east-coasters alike. Its year-round warm weather makes it desirable no matter the season, and new hot spots are popping up on our Instagram pages left and right. There’s tried-and-true Cancun and Cabo, relative newcomer and food milieu Mexico City, trendy Tulum, sleeper pick San Miguel de Allende—not to mention all the budding Baja properties flooding your feeds. But there’s one stretch of sand, located within the Bahia de Banderas, that has stolen hearts with its bright and bold aesthetic. Located just outside of Punta de Mita is a pair of seaside cities, Sayulita and San Pancho. These two towns are well worth the trek for adventure-loving travelers ready to explore, experience and enjoy.
SAVOR
The culinary scene in and around Sayulita and San Pancho includes everything from street eats and beach bites to fine dining. Some of our favorites range from the unassuming to the over-the-top, but the flavors of this Mexican melting pot are downright delicioso. Tacos Junior is a locally loved spot that serves up some of the best al pastor tacos in town. Spice Market at the W Hotel is a hot spot highlighting Southeast Asian cuisine with fan favorites like ginger fried rice, drunken noodles and coconut cake—and don’t forget the ginger margarita! Relative newcomer Suenos is an ultra-curated culinary experience that pays homage to the best local proteins and produce to make diners’ dreams come true. The menu is a revolving door of options based on seasonal ingredients and provisioning, but anything they serve pairs well with the Tropical Thunder or Green Velvet cocktails.
SIP
Let’s talk tequila—you are in Mexico, after all! There are so many good spots to stop and sip like Punto Las Olas Mercado Gastronómico (say that five times fast), a food court concept that serves up some killer cocktails like a mezcal margarita de Jamaica: a hibiscus margarita that is smoky and citrusy with the perfect amount of sweet. Sayulita is home to the famous passion fruit margarita best served at El Break Cafe, which is mere steps from the sand. Other wow-factor watering holes include Wild Iris Bar, Escondido Bar and the Chevycheria Truck at the W Hotel, where you can pair their take on a piña colada with some of the freshest ceviche around. We highly recommend the Yucatan or the matcha ceviche to savor while you sip.
SURF
While the beaches of Sayulita can get a little crowded (think Waikiki vibes, minus the high rises), San Pancho offers a more relaxed surf break with extra breathing room. Fresh coconuts? Always on hand, thanks to the locals shucking them beachside. And for a post-surf snack, ORGANI-K—a small, healthy eatery right on the sand—hits the spot. Feeling adventurous? There’s also a secret surf spot that’s worth the journey. A “Jurassic Park”-style trek through the jungle leads to Playa La Lancha. After a quick 10-minute traipse, you’ll be rewarded with white sands and crystal-clear cerulean waters. Pure paradise. This secluded sanctuary is a surfer’s dream with consistent waves year-round that are suitable for all skill levels.
STAY
With plenty of hotels to choose from—ranging from boutique to boujee—one that stands out by blending in is the W Hotel Punta de Mita. This swanky spot just wrapped up a multi-million dollar renovation, and the results are pure magic. From Huichol-inspired accents scattered throughout the property to breathtaking beach views, it’s easy to say adios to everyday life and hello to paradise. You won’t even need to leave the hotel. There’s a spa, two pools, and three on-site restaurants offering multiple culinary experiences. Think Jose Cuervo Reserva tastings with course pairings, ceviche-making classes, cacao ceremonies, and mixology workshops. For something truly unforgettable, book Mesa1—an ultra-exclusive, one-seating-a-day restaurant set on an island in the middle of a spring-fed lake.
SHOP
Sayulita and San Pancho are great spots for everything from knick knacks to street steals and beyond. A fan favorite is Revolución del Sueño, which is located minutes from the plaza. This place oozes cool, blending modern-day takes on Frida Kahlo and Emiliano Zapata with locally made goods that celebrate Mexican culture. And honestly, who can resist a fun lucha libre tchotchke? If you’re on the hunt for unique goodies to bring home for friends and family, head to Tiendita Hola. Located just off the main square, this gem exclusively showcases local designers and artists. It’s the perfect spot to score something special and authentically Sayulita. You won’t be able to walk away without at least one accessory.
STROLL
The streets of Sayulita burst with color, lined with the iconic flags that have become a signature of the city. Adorably uneven and charmingly dusty, the center square serves as home base for street vendors and handmade treasures. Getting lost here is part of the charm, especially since most roads eventually lead to the beach. Start in the plaza and wander outward—you won’t regret it. Don’t forget to grab a chocolate-covered banana from ChocoBanana. Then snap a photo under the sea of vibrant colors on Calle Delfines. It is also worth exploring the Hippie Market and getting lost in Pom-Pom Alley.
SPA
After one too many margaritas, you might need to take your talents to the spa at the W Hotel. Here you can ease away your hangover pains. Tucked down a tree-lined, winding road, the spa at the W feels like a tropical oasis. It offers state-of-the-art services and amenities designed for pure serenity. Every detail invites you to unwind and escape. Upon entry, spa-goers are treated to a complimentary chlorophyll water to begin restoration from the inside out. The locker rooms host wet and dry saunas as well as an organic aesthetic that immediately puts you at ease. The co-ed area offers a little slice of paradise, featuring a roaming warmed pool, hot tub, cold plunge, and sun deck. Surrounded by lush, jungle-like flora and fauna, it creates the perfect illusion of total seclusion. Their signature Blue Agave massage is an absolute must!
