The pre-Columbian indigenous inhabitants of the area were most likely small bands of the semi-nomadic Cuyuteco. In 1530, Nu�o Beltr�n de Guzm�n's account of his battle with the Cuyutecos at Valle gave name to the Bay of Banderas, as the natives carried colorful banners. Given the lack of interest in Occidental Mexican archaeology, only a small number of substantial civic sites have been identified in the region, namely at Ixtapa, Valle, and Ixtlan del Rio. These sites were most likely tributary outposts of the Aztatlan kingdom centered in northern present-day Nayarit. Like most of the greater Banderas Bay area, the sheer remoteness and thick jungle prevented permanent European colonization until the late 19th century. The ejido of Sayulita was not established until 1941 when the first families arrived from the mountains of Jalisco.
Today
Known for its consistent river mouth surf break, roving surfers "discovered" Sayulita in the late 1960s with the construction of Mexican Highway 200. Today, Sayulita is a prosperous growing village of approximately 4,000 residents. Hailed as a popular off-the-beaten-path travel destination, Sayulita offers a variety of activities such as horseback riding, hiking, jungle canopy tours, snorkeling and fishing. Still a mecca for beginner surfers of all ages, the quaint town attracts upscale tourists with its numerous art galleries and restaurants as well. Sayulita has a curious eclectic quality, frequented by native Cora and Huichol peoples, traveling craftsmen as well as international tourists. Sayulita is the crown jewel in the newly designated "Riviera Nayarit", the coastal corridor from Litibu to San Blas. Its natural beauty and easy access to Puerto Vallarta have made Sayulita real estate some of the most sought after in all of Mexico. With a growing ecological awareness and stricter zoning enforcement, development is being regulated to help safeguard the environment and quality of life of the community
