Romance in Riviera Nayarit Part Two– Not-So-Secret Sayulita
In the past ten years, the once-sleepy fishing village of Sayulita, with its cobblestone streets that lead to a halcyon beach, has burst into a colorful and animated town known for its inclusive bohemian vibe, so much so that the Mexican government has given it the official title of Pueblo Magico (Magical Village). Sayulita is a must-see destination on your Riviera Nayarit visit, either as a day trip or to host your wedding reception.
Located about 40 minutes from the Grand Velas, arrive early to enjoy the home-baked breakfast and friendly views at the environmentally conscious and historical Choco Banana, (Delfin, 14 main plaza) where everything is straw-, Styrofoam- and plastic-free. (In fact, you will notice a huge environmental conscience in this entire region). Of course, be sure to also try what the restaurant is famous for: the chocolate-dipped bananas. Then walk through the town to enjoy the arts, handicrafts, souvenirs and jewelry offerings. Though street food is abundant in this town, a stop at a flavored water cart will delight your taste buds with filtered water blended with ingredients like hibiscus, mint, spinach, ginger, tamarind and more. It’s a refreshing treat and can be considered for a traditional Mexican option during your cocktail hour. End your Sayulita visit with an elegant meal at Don Pedro’s. Housed beach-side under a giant palapa (thatched roof), Don Pedro’s serves noteworthy seaside fare with a unique wine menu, including wines from Casa Madero, a vineyard officially in existence since 1597. Don Pedro’s also hosts weddings at a private space in the restaurant or at its sister properties, the private beach bungalow Casa Playa or the premier wedding spot, Brisa Mar Palapa, a stunning open-air venue with panoramic views of the beach below.
San Francisco, San Pancho
Next to Sayulita is the remote town of San Francisco (aka San Pancho), where you will find a more cultural and artistic vibe. The beaches here are quiet and family-friendly, with a community of local and expat inhabitants. Entre Amigos, is a cultural center dedicated to preserving the culture and environment of San Francisco through a series of programs and classes, including creating art from recycled products. In fact, Entre Amigos is known for providing environmentally aware and cultural decoration for weddings, including handmade gifts such as glassware, handicrafts and toys.
Although San Francisco is small, you will find delicious local food, including coco frios, young
coconuts where you first drink the water out of the shell and then enjoy the flesh mixed with chili, lime and salt. Delicious tacos can be had at Arbollitos, while Maria’s offers authentic Mexican and international food. Tuesdays are market days, when rows of booths pop up in the main plaza selling everything from organic produce, clothing, jewelry and more at local prices. And if you are looking for the most amazing warm and fuzzy feeling, during the summer and fall months, you can join the Grupo Ecologico de la Costa Verde’s marine turtle preservation project to watch the first hatchlings of turtles make their way down the beach to the ocean.
Match of KingsAnother spot to visit while in Nayarit – particularly on Saturday evenings – is the La Patrona Polo and Equestrian Club. First of all, beyond the beautiful horses and exciting polo matches, the grounds themselves are an architectural wonder of award-winning buildings designed around sustainability, including green roofs (with plant life), locally sourced materials that ration the club’s energy use and a built-in rainwater-capture system. On Saturdays, the club hosts polo matches that can be enjoyed from the open-air restaurant overlooking the field. The food is elegant and the entire facility can be rented out for weddings.
Although the list is plentiful, another place to see when visiting Riviera Nayarit is the spectacular Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach), also known as Playa del Amor, as it is tucked inside the Islas Marietas and is only accessible when the tide is low. The surrounding area, however, is an ecologically protected enclave and a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as humpback whale-watching in the water and bird-watching on the islands.
The Riviera Nayarit is also known for its many golf courses, including the Punta Mita Pacifico and the Punta Mita Bahia, both designed by Jack Nicklaus. And if you prefer something more exhilarating, surfers will be challenged by the powerful waves in San Blas. In the Riviera Nayarit, all of your guests will find activities to their liking and you will certainly enjoy a most beautiful wedding framed by pink- and purple-streaked sunsets. And best of all, since the area is only 10-years developed, you and your guests will share the excitement of exploring a new destination that is abundant in offerings yet still maintains its culture and history.
Photos by author and courtesy of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Tourism Bureau.
