Sayulita, Mexico, about 35 miles north of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast, is an odd mix of fishing village, surfer paradise, and tourist haven. Its central industry is catering to the various gringos who come from the States, Canada, and Europe to revel in its perfect climate, spectacular beaches, and palpable feeling of liberation -- the latter inspired by minimal clothing and being away from one's life during the cold, shut-in months of Northern winter.

by Sally Schneider