San Pancho: not a travel guide, an experience guide

A small town between the Pacific and the Sierra Madre, 7 minutes north of Sayulita in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico.

Where is San Pancho?

Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre mountains, San Pancho (officially San Francisco) is a hidden gem just 7 minutes north of Sayulita. Surrounded by dense jungle and the sparkling blue sea, this small town effortlessly steals the hearts of travelers.

How to get to San Pancho

From Puerto Vallarta airport (PVR)

Distance: About 1 hour
Taxi or Uber: About 900 MXN
Bus: Every 20 min, 1.5 hours, about 80 MXN

From Guadalajara

Route: Scenic four-lane toll highway
Drive time: About 2 hours 45 min
Tolls: About 1,000 MXN

What to do in San Pancho

Though small (population ~1,000), San Pancho is bursting with unique experiences.

Visit EntreAmigos

A community center for education, sustainability, and togetherness. @entreamigos_sanpancho

Artisanal market

Tuesdays at Plaza del Sol: local crafts, produce, and the people who make them.

Explore the town

Wander the streets to find local restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Take a yoga class

Try El Estar Studio, or SUNYATA Yoga & Surf Retreat at Palapa.

Volunteer at the Turtle Center

Help patrol, protect nests, and release hatchlings.

Go hiking

El Camino del Buddha is a peaceful trail with a serene statue. The jungle hike to Sayulita has coastal and forest views.

Surf the Pacific

Great for beginners and pros. Rent a board, take a lesson, or join a yoga and surf retreat.

Watch the sunset

End the day at the beach, a 12-minute walk from Palapa, as the sun drops into the Pacific.

El Circo de los Niños

A circus school founded with Cirque du Soleil's help. Don't miss the annual show.

Stay at Palapa

PALAPA combines traditional Mexican design with Wabi-Sabi and modern comfort: four pet-friendly boutique casitas, a pool and deck, full kitchens, and a 12-minute walk to the beach.

Explore the casitas Yoga and surf retreat

Did you know?

Street names honor countries, part of a dream for a global university.
Over 400 species of birds live here.
It's one of Mexico's most eco-conscious beach towns.

San Pancho isn't just a destination. It's a slower, more present way of being.

We hope to see you soon. Contact us