Riviera Nayarit, Nayarit
Sayulita & San Pancho
Surf towns with a creative, laid-back spirit
Sayulita and San Pancho (San Francisco) are surf towns on the Pacific coast of Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit, about 45 to 60 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta airport. Sayulita is lively and designated a Pueblo Mágico; San Pancho is quieter. Both offer jungle-view homes, boutique condos and land.
Market snapshot
- Active listings
- 267
- Median list price
- $680K
- Price range
- $60K – $14M
- Lots & land
- 89
Live figures from the local MLS, updated November 12, 2026. List prices in USD.
Sayulita grew from a fishing village into one of Mexico’s best-known surf towns, with a colorful plaza, cafés, boutiques and an international community. Its Pueblo Mágico designation recognizes its culture and charm.
A few minutes north, San Pancho keeps a slower pace with a wide beach, an arts scene and community projects. Properties in both towns range from village homes and hillside villas with ocean views to building lots surrounded by jungle.
Kevin’s take
Sayulita has a completely different soul and an incredible vibe; people bring a distinct energy to town. Think of it as a more rustic, bohemian version of Puerto Vallarta. San Pancho is the more elevated, newer and slightly more modern version of Sayulita, with great restaurants, and it’s developing very nicely.
Who it’s for
Ideal for surfers, creatives, families seeking a small-town lifestyle and investors in boutique vacation rentals. Sayulita can be busy in high season; buyers wanting calm often choose San Pancho.
Latest listings — Sayulita & San Pancho
See all properties$599,000
45 Honduras, Casa Mosaico — Riviera Nayarit
2 bd 2 baResidential
$445,000
60 Vista Mar 2, Casa Neruda — Riviera Nayarit
2 bd 2 baResidential
$450,000
8 Calle Ajolote, Lote 8 Colina La Iguana — Riviera Nayarit
Land
$2,200,000
48 Higueras, Villas Catalina — Riviera Nayarit
5 bd 6 baResidential
$1,300,000
9 Calle China Esq. Asia 1, CASA YAWI — Riviera Nayarit
4 bd 5 baResidential
$1,600,000
9 Calle China Esq. Asia 3, CASA XALLI — Riviera Nayarit
3 bd 3.5 baResidential
$1,550,000
9 Calle China Esq. Asia 2, CASA KIERI — Riviera Nayarit
3 bd 4 baResidential
$649,000
132 Ave del Palmar 18, Casa Mohinora — Riviera Nayarit
2 bd 2 baResidential
$368,000
56 Pakistan-Fr-2-Subdiv L14-Mz-C, LOTE GARCIA — Riviera Nayarit
Land
Frequently asked questions
Is Sayulita a Pueblo Mágico?
Yes. Sayulita has Mexico’s Pueblo Mágico designation, which recognizes towns with special cultural and historic value.
What is the difference between Sayulita and San Pancho?
Sayulita is livelier, with more restaurants, shops and nightlife. San Pancho (San Francisco) is quieter and more residential, with a strong arts community.
How far is Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta?
About 45 to 60 minutes by car from Puerto Vallarta airport, depending on traffic.
Can foreigners buy property here?
Yes. Because this area is within 50 km of the coast, foreigners buy residential property through a fideicomiso (a bank trust) or, for some purposes, a Mexican corporation. The buyer has full use and control of the property and can sell, rent or pass it on. See our buyer’s guide for the step-by-step process.
How much are closing costs?
Buyers usually budget a percentage of the purchase price for acquisition tax, notary fees, appraisal, the fideicomiso setup and registration. The exact amount depends on the price and the municipality (Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit); we provide an estimate for each property.
Thinking about buying here?
Tell us what you are looking for and we will send you matching properties, including off-market options, with an honest view of the area.