Playa Malpaso, Mexico: Your Tropical Paradise Awaits
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Looking for a secluded beach that’s not totally isolated? Find out why Playa Malpaso, near Sayulita, Mexico, is the answer to your dreams.
Are you planning to take a beach vacation in Mexico? Then Playa Malpaso near Sayulita could be just what you are looking for.
It’s not a beach you would accidentally stumble across, but that is what makes it so special.
Instead, you’ll have to hike to this secluded location. But don’t stress. Everything you need to know about getting there and what to expect is all spelled out for you below.
Where is Playa Malpaso in Mexico?
This remote and stunning beach is located in Sayulita, a small coastal village in the state of Nayarit, Mexico.
Doesn’t ring a bell?
How about Puerto Vallarta?
That popular tourist destination is only 40 km (25 miles) from Playa Malpaso, Sayulita. And it’s where you’ll fly into when booking your travel. But more on that below.
How to Find Playa Malpaso
If you are wondering how to get to Playa Malpaso from Sayulita, it does require a hike through the jungle.
So who is up for an adventure?
The good news is that the Playa Malpaso hike is only 1.3 km (0.8 miles) long. From the center of Sayulita, walk to the end of Avenida del Palmar, where you will come across a dirt track with bollards in front of it.
Follow this track until you reach a private residence. Make a right turn. Continue walking until you see a horse trail on your left. This path eventually leads you to Playa Malpaso, Sayulita.
Don’t stress, as the hike is relatively easy. Still, depending on the time of the year, you may be required to cross Malpaso Creek Beach and navigate some rocky terrain.
Otherwise, if all else fails, you can drive to Playa Malpaso, but having a four-wheel drive is best.
All the Details About Malpaso Beach
What makes this beach special is the lack of development nearby. You won’t find any resorts, bars or even houses, which is great for those who enjoy the sound of crashing waves and trees swaying in the wind.
With incredible golden sand and sparkling blue water, have your camera ready to capture this spot.
There is no lifeguard, so swim with caution, as there can be a strong undertow when the waves are big. It’s only recommended for advanced swimmers.
Walking there with a beach umbrella may be challenging, so find some shade underneath the dense tree line. There are certainly no loungers to rent at this virgin beach location.
Pro tip: If you are a confident snorkeler, head around the south headland.
What to do in Sayulita, Mexico
It’s always hard to convince a friend, partner or family to travel to one specific beach unless they know what else there is to do in the area.
While the town may be small and laidback, you are not short of choices.
Learn to Surf at Playa Sayulita
Sayulita initially gained popularity due to the sublime surfing conditions at Playa Sayulita.
The far south end of the beach is best for beginners as the waves are calm, whereas the middle break and north end are for intermediate surfers.
If you know how to surf already, hiring a board is easy. But booking a surf lesson with an experienced instructor is best if you’re just starting out.
Pro Tip: If surfing isn’t for you, rent an umbrella and relax in the sun. You’ll be able to admire the surfers from afar.
Check Out Sayulita Plaza
When spending a few days in the area, you will come across Sayulita Plaza, where you can find a collection of bars, restaurants, food stalls and street vendors.
Grab a bite to eat and some drinks and perch yourself underneath one of the shady trees. It’s the perfect way to end a day in Sayulita.
Hike Monkey Mountain
Still keen to get some exercise in while traveling?
Monkey Mountain is the best hike in the area, but it’s certainly no walk in the park. It will take you approximately four hours return.
Thankfully, a lot of the trail is covered by trees.
What’s the reward? As you reach the top, you will have incredible views over the entire peninsula of Punta Mita.
Pro tip: If you are visiting during whale season, keep your eyes peeled, as you may get lucky to spot a few.
Take a Day Trip to the Marietas Islands
If you love snorkeling, you won’t want to miss out on a day trip to the Marietas Islands, which are protected as part of Islas Marietas National Park.
Only 30 minutes from the mainland by boat, you’ll have the opportunity to visit three different islands. The day will consist of snorkeling, relaxing in the sun and a special visit to Hidden Beach, a secret cove entered through a cave.
Weather in Playa Malpaso
There are two distinct seasons in Playa Malpaso—the dry and rainy seasons.
The dry season lasts from November to May, with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F) during the day and 21°C (70°F) in the evening.
It’s a popular time to visit as the skies are clear and sunny with low humidity.
Then there is the rainy season.
From June to October, expect heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. But since these storms only last a couple of hours at a time, don’t let it deter you. Additionally, the average temperature during the day is even higher at 29°C (84°F), making it hot and humid.
If you don’t like humidity, pick a different time of year.
Packing List Essentials for Playa Malpaso
Packing for a beach holiday is the best. Your light layers, swimwear and sandals don’t take up much space in your suitcase, so you have room for other essential items and shopping.
Below are a few things that you may wish to bring:
- Portable charger: You’ll likely be taking a lot of photos as well as using maps, so keep one of these on you in case your phone battery dies.
- Snorkel gear: There are some great snorkeling opportunities, so bring your equipment if you have it.
- Reusable water bottle: With warm temperatures year-round, staying hydrated is essential. You will also be helping to reduce plastic waste.
- First aid kit: There is no need to bring everything, but having a few bandages, antiseptic wipes and pain relievers is always a good idea, particularly if you plan to hike.
Map of Playa Malpaso
Now that you are ready to go to Mexico, how about a map to show you where these places are located?
How to get to Playa Malpaso
If you are arriving by air, you will want to book a flight that lands at Puerto Vallarta International Airport.
It’s 1.5 hours in a minivan from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita. Follow the directions above on how to hike to Playa Malpaso from the coastal village.
You may find yourself in Mexico City before heading to the beach area around Playa Malpaso. From Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta, you have two options. You can either book a flight or travel by bus, which takes 12 hours and 30 minutes.
Last Piece of Advice…
No trip to Playa Malpaso is complete without bringing a few good books. With sand under your toes and the sound of the waves crashing, it is the perfect setting to relax.
If you have more time, stay in Puerto Vallarta for a few days. It’s a beautiful beach city with loads to do.
If you’re unsure where to go next, check out all the places Bookaway goes in Mexico and start planning.
FAQ
Puerto Vallarta International Airport is only about 40 km (25 miles) away.
If you are walking to Playa Malpaso, you will want to start in Sayulita.
There are no lifeguards at Playa Malpaso, so always be cautious when swimming there. Only confident swimmers are advised to come here, as there can be strong undertow and big waves.
