Manzanillo, Mexico

What to do in Manzanillo, Mexico

Manzanillo City Tour

Get to know the city with a guided tour around town. In addition to a great overview of the main sights, you'll also learn lots of interesting tidbits about local history and lore. Highlights include visits to the sparsely-peopled Bahia de Santiago, the new seaside boardwalk, and a museum of pre- and post-Hispanic culture.

Colonial Tour to Colima

Just a 1-hour drive from Manzanillo, this capital city's recorded history reaches back to 1523, when Spanish conquistadors staked their claim on the area. It is actually much older, however, as evidenced by a recent discovery that unearthed a 25,000 acre stone complex consisting of pyramids and a rich history. This civilization, known as La Campana, most likely dates back to 100AD to 500AD and its culture may have direct descendancy in the Nahuatl-speaking people of the surrounding hillside villages. In town, mariachi music fills the air and the bells toll in the cathedral. Its natural attractions include the largest lagoon in the world.

Day Trip to Barra de Navidad

Take an excursion and to the legendary village of Cihuatlan, the City of Women, amid the lush vegetation of the Sierra Madre Mountains. This traditional fishing port has a Bohemian ambiance and is bordered by a lagoon that attracts exotic waterfowl. Some of the region's best seafood is served here, and every visit should include a ride on the traditional fishing boats called pangas, with a stop at a lagoon-side restaurant for lunch. It's a great spot for adventurous "gringos" and has an excellent surfing beach.

Sunset Bay Cruise

There are few things more romantic than a sunset cruise, and Manzanillo adds some fun with mariachi music and cocktails.

Scuba Diving

If you've ever wanted to pet an octopus or feed an eel, Manzanillo is the place to do it. Because its marine wonders are relatively undiscovered, the undisturbed sea-life is dense and makes a spectacular sight in a pristine environment.

Snorkeling

Enjoy a perfect environment for snorkeling, with a shallow coral reef that is at least 4,000 years old. Highlights include the great variety of species and the fantastic coral-encrusted Elephant Rock. Get a special treat that's usually limited to scuba divers when you explore a sunken ship in just 30 feet of water!.

Deep Sea Fishing

Manzanillo is a fantastic deep-sea fishing destination, and anglers can look forward to reeling in sailfish, tuna, and more. There are plenty of boats with expert captains for hire accommodating all skill levels.

Rainforest Tours

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Horseback Riding

Travel like the Colonials as you visit a small mountain village on the edge of the Sierra Mountain jungle and experience the centuries-old lifestyle before plunging into the jungle. Guides are highly knowledgeable in the local flora and fauna and will share interesting information as well as answer your questions.

Mountain Biking

Take your time to pedal leisurely through the rainforest, stopping as often as you'd like to explore this-and-that, or race down the sloping trails. Tours are available for different skill levels, and equipment is available for rent.

Hiking

For those who want to really take the time to explore the jungle ecosystem, a walk is the best way to go. Mimosa trees actually shrink away as you brush past and the sweet scent of bromeliads and orchids entice the senses. The variety of plants and birds is quite extraordinary, including woodpeckers and parrots. Bring binoculars!.

Careyes and Playa Blanca

An hour and 15 minutes north of Manzanillo is a jungle-lined series of rocky coves and sandy beaches that are the ultimate secluded getaway. Activities, however, are mostly geared to guests of the fine resorts that crown the Careyes Coast.

Tenacatita Beach

This gem of a beach is accessed by a 5-mile dirt road passing a small village set among banana and coconut trees. The nearby lagoon is filled with exotic birds and, as you approach the coast, the lovely Bahia de Tenacatita unfolds with its sandy and serene beaches. A small river flows into the sea and swimming and snorkeling are good. There are also a few good seaside restaurants and hotels.

Golf

La Mantarraya is an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by the Dyes and rated one of the world's top 100 courses by Golf Digest. The Tamarindo Country Club has a spectacular 18-hole course designed by David Fleming. The Club Santiago Resort has a well-maintained 9-hole course and, at the Grand Bay Hotel and Resort, there are 27-holes and a 700-slip marina.

Day Trip to Puerto Vallarta

The coastal road to Puerto Vallarta is a scenic one of varied landscapes. The town itself is lots of fun, with attractions like the movie set where Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton made a movie. Spend some time bargaining with local craftsmen and you could get a great deal on their traditional handiwork.

Day Trip to Guadalajara

This enchanting city is known as "the most Mexican" of all and is just a short plane ride away. Local guides are very friendly and share lots of fun and interesting information about the sights and local history. After visiting the best churches, museums, and monuments, you'll still have plenty of time to shop for souvenirs and enjoy lunch.