· MX

Manzanillo

Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico

Escape to Manzanillo: Sun, Sand, and Soul on Mexico's Pacific Coast Manzanillo, nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Colima, Mexico, is a hidden gem where the rhythm of life sways to the gentle lull of the Pacific Ocean…

#Beach destination#Pacific coast#Tropical climate#Fishing port#Resort town

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Manzanillo.

Top Hotels in Manzanillo

Top Flights to Manzanillo

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Manzanillo.

Tours

Visit Manzanillo's Historic City Center

Discover the charm of Manzanillo's historic sites and landmarks.

Discover Local Art at Manzanillo Art Gallery

Dive into the vibrant local art scene by visiting galleries showcasing contemporary works.

Historical Tour of Cuyutlán's Salt Museum

Visit the nearby town of Cuyutlán to explore the history and cultural significance of salt production.

Visit the Iguanas Sanctuary

A unique sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of iguanas, ideal for family visits.

Shopping

Shopping at La Marina Plaza

Experience a variety of shops and local boutiques for an authentic shopping affair.

Outdoor

Explore the Beaches of Manzanillo

Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and the vibrant marine life. Perfect for sunbathing and water sports.

Golfing at Las Hadas Golf Resort

Enjoy a round of golf at the stunning Las Hadas Golf Course, with ocean views and lush greenery.

Snorkeling at Santiago Bay

Explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life through snorkeling excursions in Santiago Bay.

Explore Colima Volcanoes

For a thrilling adventure, discover the nearby active volcanoes and hiking trails of Colima.

Fishing Expeditions in Manzanillo

Join a fishing expedition in the rich fishing grounds of Manzanillo, suitable for all skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Manzanillo.

Currency
$MXN | Mexican Peso | Mexican Peso
Population
191031.0
Languages
Spanish, Spanish
Average weather
Manzanillo
Jan
sun
29°21°
Feb
sun
29°20°
Mar
sun
30°20°
Apr
sun
31°22°
May
hot
32°24°
Jun
rain
32°25°
Jul
rain
32°25°
Aug
rain
32°25°
Sep
rain
32°25°
Oct
rain
31°24°
Nov
sun
31°23°
Dec
sun
30°21°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Manzanillo.

What people love

Manzanillo, located in the state of Colima, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Manzanillo:

  1. Beaches: Manzanillo is famous for its stunning beaches with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and various water sports activities.

  2. Fishing: Manzanillo is known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World" and offers excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities. Fishing enthusiasts can charter boats for fishing trips and try their luck at catching marlin, sailfish, dorado, and other species.

  3. Golf: Manzanillo is home to several world-class golf courses with beautiful ocean views. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing on lush green courses surrounded by stunning scenery.

  4. Cuisine: Manzanillo offers a diverse culinary scene with a variety of restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes, traditional Mexican cuisine, and international fare. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties.

  5. Culture: Manzanillo has a rich cultural heritage with colorful festivals, traditional music, dance performances, and art galleries showcasing local artists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people.

  6. Nature: Manzanillo is surrounded by natural beauty, including lush jungles, mangrove forests, and wildlife reserves. Nature lovers can explore the diverse ecosystems, go bird watching, hike through scenic trails, and spot exotic flora and fauna.

  7. Weather: Manzanillo enjoys a warm and sunny climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for beach vacations and outdoor activities. The pleasant weather allows visitors to relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, and explore the natural attractions at any time of the year.

Overall, traveling to Manzanillo offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, sea, culture, and outdoor adventures, making it a fantastic destination for vacationers seeking a tropical paradise with plenty of activities to enjoy.

Enjoy your trip to Manzanillo!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Manzanillo, Mexico may include:

  1. Weather: Manzanillo can experience very hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months. This may not be ideal for everyone, particularly those who prefer milder climates.

  2. Safety Concerns: While Manzanillo is generally considered safe for tourists, like any destination, it is important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime.

  3. Limited English Spoken: While many locals working in the tourism industry speak some English, overall, English may not be as widely spoken in Manzanillo compared to other tourist destinations. This could potentially pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak Spanish.

  4. Limited Activities: Manzanillo is known for its beaches and fishing opportunities, but compared to other Mexican destinations, it may offer less in terms of cultural attractions and activities. Travelers seeking a variety of experiences may find the options in Manzanillo somewhat limited.

  5. Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Manzanillo can become quite crowded with visitors, which may impact your ability to fully enjoy the beaches and attractions without feeling overwhelmed.

It's always a good idea to research further and consider your own preferences and priorities when deciding whether to travel to Manzanillo.

Manzanillo, located in the state of Colima, Mexico, is a city with a rich history and a significant port on the Pacific coast.

Early History

  • Pre-Columbian Era: The region around Manzanillo was originally inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Nahuas. These groups were part of larger Mesoamerican civilizations.

  • Spanish Conquest: In the early 16th century, the Spanish, led by conquistadors such as Hernán Cortés, began exploring and conquering the western coast of Mexico. The area around Manzanillo was subsequently incorporated into the Spanish Empire.

Colonial Period

  • 1563: Manzanillo was officially founded as a port. It served as a point for maritime expeditions and as an anchorage for ships traveling between the Philippines and New Spain (modern-day Mexico).

  • Spanish Galleons: During the colonial period, Manzanillo was part of the route used by the Manila Galleons, which were Spanish trading ships that sailed across the Pacific Ocean linking the Philippines with Mexico.

19th Century

  • Independence: Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821. Manzanillo continued to develop as a key port city during the early years of the Mexican Republic.

  • 1854: Manzanillo was declared a city, recognizing its growing importance as a port.

20th Century

  • Mexican Revolution: During the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920), Manzanillo was a strategic location but did not see major battles. The port remained important for military and trade purposes.

  • Modern Development: Throughout the 20th century, Manzanillo grew as a commercial and tourist hub. The development of infrastructure, such as the port facilities, roads, and rail connections, contributed to its growth.

Significant Events

  • 1971: A major earthquake struck the region, affecting Manzanillo. The city has since been rebuilt with improved infrastructure.

  • Port Expansion: In recent decades, Manzanillo's port has expanded significantly, becoming one of Mexico's busiest ports. It handles a large volume of containerized cargo, contributing greatly to the local and national economy.

Landmarks

  • San Pedrito Beach: Known for its natural beauty and significance as a tourist destination.

  • Santiago Peninsula: Offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for tourists.

  • Zocalo: The main square of Manzanillo, which includes the city hall and other important buildings.

  • Malecon: A scenic waterfront area perfect for walking, dining, and enjoying ocean views.

Historical Figures

While specific historical figures associated with Manzanillo may not be well-documented, the city has been influenced by various political leaders and entrepreneurs who have contributed to its development over the years.

Modern Manzanillo

Today, Manzanillo is a thriving port city known for its shipping industry, tourism, and beautiful beaches. It attracts visitors from both Mexico and abroad, drawn by its climate, scenery, and maritime activities.

This history reflects Manzanillo's development from an indigenous settlement and colonial port to a modern, industrial city with a vibrant culture and economy.