As an industrious seaport and thriving tourist destination, Manzanillo offers a glimpse of Mexican life along with its stunning, palm tree-fringed beaches.
Visit Manzanillo and choose from numerous sandy beaches and coves in the town’s twin bays. Surf at the exposed beaches or snorkel with tropical fish in calmer waters. Eat fresh fish in beachside restaurants and enjoy cool drinks watching glorious sunsets. Don’t miss the town’s historical center, where colonial architecture recalls the area’s Spanish-ruled past.
Manzanillo has a dual identity. It is Mexico’s busiest commercial seaport; the trade route between here and Spain dates back as far as 1531. It is also a beach-lover’s paradise with 350 days of sunshine annually and a wide range of stunning beaches. Large-scale investment in tourist areas has added even more to the town’s appeal, though you’ll still see real Mexican life if you venture into the town center.
Select each day’s beach from the long stretch of coast around the city. For something close, walk to Playa San Pedrito from your hotel room and spend a day on your beach lounger watching the locals at play. Playa Audiencia offers calm waters for safe swimming while Playa Miramar is great for surfers. For a little more seclusion, drive up the coast to Oro Beach, where it is rumored that you may find gold washed up with the tide.
Explore Centro Historico’s attractive colonial architecture and meandering side streets. Zócalo, the area’s central plaza, is the best place for people-watching and dining. Here you’ll find restaurants serving seafood dishes, like Colima ceviche and fish stew, and tuba, a local liqueur made from palm tree flowers.
Fly into Playa de Oro International Airport, about a half-hour drive northwest of Manzanillo. If you stay near Santiago Bay, many attractions are within walking distance. Buses will take you into the town center. If you want to go farther afield, rent a car or hire a driver.
With its consistently warm weather, Manzanillo is a great place to visit any time of year. Simply choose your dates, select your beach and get ready to experience the perfect Mexican beach holiday.