The Rhythm of the Tropical Pacific
Sayulita’s climate is defined by a distinct sub-tropical divide: a dry, moderate winter and a hot, humid summer. Protected by the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, the town enjoys a unique microclimate that is often slightly milder and less humid than Puerto Vallarta, just 25 miles south.
Seasonal Trends and Transitions
The Dry Season (November – May)
This is the region’s peak season, characterized by near-constant sunshine and low humidity. During these months, the town experiences approximately 345 days of sunshine per year.
- Temperature: Daytime highs range from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 85°F).
- The Feel: The air is crisp and comfortable. Because the humidity drops significantly, the heat never feels oppressive.
- Nights: Evenings can be surprisingly cool, specifically in January and February, when temperatures can dip to 16°C (61°F). Locals often describe this as "perfect sleeping weather."
The Rainy (Green) Season (June – October)
As June approaches, the winds shift. The humidity climbs rapidly, and the landscape transforms into a vibrant, emerald-green jungle.
- Rainfall Patterns: Rain typically does not fall all day. Instead, Sayulita follows a predictable daily cycle: bright, sunny mornings followed by building clouds and dramatic late-afternoon or nighttime thunderstorms.
- Humidity: Levels often exceed 80%, making the 32°C (90°F) temperatures feel much hotter. The air feels heavy and "thick," a sensation locals expect as part of the summer vitality.
- Peak Wetness: August and September are the wettest months. September alone averages 18 days of rain, providing a natural spectacle of massive lightning shows over the ocean.
Daily Meteorological Cycle
In Sayulita, the time of day matters more than the forecast.
- Morning (7 AM – 11 AM): Known for calm winds and soft light. This is the clearest part of the day, even in the rainy season.
- Midday (12 PM – 4 PM): The sun is intense. In summer, this is when locals take a siesta—retreating to the shade or indoor air conditioning to avoid the peak heat and humidity.
- Evening (5 PM – Sunset): Onshore breezes usually kick in, providing relief. During the summer, this is often when the first lightning bolts appear on the horizon.
Ocean Temperatures and Surf Conditions
The Pacific waters here are consistently warm but vary enough to change the "vibe" of a swim.
- Winter Water: From February to March, the water is at its coolest, around 23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F). It is refreshing but comfortable for swimming.
- Summer Water: By August, the ocean reaches bathtub-like temperatures of 30°C (86°F). This warm water combined with south/southwest swells makes it a favorite for year-round surfing.
Regional Weather Variations
Sayulita is hemmed in by jungle-covered hills, which creates a slight microclimate compared to the more open coastline of nearby San Pancho or Litibú. The hills trap a bit more moisture, often leading to localized afternoon mists in the surrounding jungle while the beach remains sunny. Additionally, being situated outside the main curve of the Banderas Bay, Sayulita frequently catches a stronger offshore breeze that can make it feel a few degrees cooler than more sheltered bay locations.
Historical Context and Phenomena
While Sayulita is technically in a hurricane-prone region (hurricane season is June to November), direct hits are historically rare. The topography of the bay and the surrounding mountains acts as a natural buffer, often deflecting major storms further out to sea or toward the coastline to the north. However, tropical depressions are common, bringing several days of heavy, continuous rain that replenishes the region’s groundwater and keeps the jungle lush through the upcoming dry months.