Sayulita is about 35 km north of Puerto Vallarta's international airport (PVR), roughly 40 minutes by car in light traffic.
By car or taxi: From the airport, head north on Highway MEX 200 toward Compostela and Tepic. You'll pass through Bucerias after about 20 minutes. A few kilometers further, bear left at the Punta Mita junction and through the military checkpoint — routine and quick. The highway narrows to two lanes and winds up over a small coastal ridge; watch for slow vehicles and animals on the road. Past the village of San Ignacio, a sign marks the turnoff to Sayulita. Follow the road 3 km into town to the main plaza. An airport taxi runs around 500–600 pesos; agree on the price before you get in.
By bus: From Puerto Vallarta's bus terminal (on Bahía de Banderas), take a Compostela or Tepic-bound bus and ask to be dropped at the Sayulita junction. From there it's a short local taxi or mototaxi ride into the village. The journey takes about an hour and costs very little.