Top Things to do in Manzanillo
What to do and see in Manzanillo, Mexico: The Best Places and Tips
Magical, historic, cultural, intimate – these are but a few of the words that best describe the balmy and magical escape that is Manzanillo on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. A lush, tropical environment welcomes travelers – verdant hillsides make way for sandy beaches, a setting that just begs for outdoor adventures and lazy days by the ocean. Visit between December and April and you’re likely to glimpse one of the playful whales swimming in Manzanillo Bay. By night, the village is full of energetic nightlife and restaurants are full to the brim. It’s all the charm of old world Mexico with every 21-century creature comforts you could want. While the crashing Pacific surf is sure to capture your attention for much of your time in Manzanillo, be sure to check out the countless other outdoor pursuits. Take an ATV off-road adventure, go deep-sea or sportfishing, head out hiking on an eco tour or take to the sea by kayak. Go sailing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving and surfing, then head back to shore for some shopping. Lace up your tennies for a volcano or waterfall tour.
Restaurants in Manzanillo
1. Barra Navidad
2. Playa Miramar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 262 reviews
A long stretch of beach, directly across the highway from Club Maeva.
Reviewed By Paul-Jann V
This is our favorite beach to walk and enjoy the view. Every time we come to Manzanillo we walk this beach 1-2 times each day. We enjoy the shops and the view and the fact that it is not very crowded.
3. Playa La Audiencia
Overall Ratings
4 based on 239 reviews
The 1979 movie "10" introduced the world to Bo Derek, and this beautiful beach.
Reviewed By crimepays1229 - oregon
Big resort beach with lots of people to watch. Lots of boats. Lots of vendors. Fun to spend a day. Pretty beach
4. Manzanillo Bay
Overall Ratings
4 based on 136 reviews
One of two major bays situated directly north of the city.
Reviewed By realpep - Imperial Beach, California, United States
Danitours took us around Manzanillo then we drove through Las Hadas - a very spiffy resort - so we could see the Eurodam and the bay itself. Nice view!
5. Iguanario Archundia
Overall Ratings
4 based on 87 reviews
Reviewed By Ted M - Vancouver, Canada
Not knowing the opening time we went at 10AM. Walked down Francis I. Madero until we saw the arena then crossed the canal bridge to the entrance. About a 10 minute walk from the Hotel Colonia.
Gate was closed. A neighbour called to the employee inside and he let us in via a side gate. All the iguanas were up in the trees so no close up viewing. The employee said to return at 11:15 and it might be feeding time. Returned at 11:30 and many iguana were in the viewing area in a competitive feeding frenzy. Likely the only place to see so many iguana in one place. Glad we returned. There was a guide there who spoke English and gave a good explanation of the iguana life and feeding. Donation box on site. Its a good visit at feeding time otherwise a bit boring. We suggest trying to arrive around 11 AM to observe the feeding. There is no posted opening hours at the entrance.
6. Nevado de Colima
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
An active, snow-capped volcano well-worth a side trip.
Reviewed By Chandra10 - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
If you are really going hoping to see the volcano, you'll be disappointed. They seem to use the volcano as a selling feature for the tour, but you'll only get to see it in the distance from the window on the bus -- IF you are seated on the proper side of the bus! Also, the trip from Manzanillo to Colima is about an hour each way and the bathroom on our bus was out of order! That is completely unacceptable! Also, eat breakfast before you go! You don't get any food or beverages until around 2:30 in the afternoon! Luckily for me I know this ahead of time thanks to fellow Trip Advisor members! I couldn't understand our tour guide's explanations of the things we were looking at, but he did try his best and was friendly.
It's a little boring, but it is a nice way to do something safe away from the resort. There is time for shopping at both Colima and Comala so that is nice. The best part of this tour is the lunch! We ate at a traditional Mexican restaurant in Comala and the food was DELICIOUS! They brought us FOUR different platters at different times to sample.
In Comala there are steep streets to walk up so if you have bad knees or poor mobility than this is NOT the tour for you. If you like museums and gardening sites and can get around well than this is the day trip for you!
7. El Centro
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 317 reviews
Spanish for "the center" and refers to the center of town.
Reviewed By sledhead36 - Naples, Florida
If you were in Manzanillo, you absolutely positively need to get down here to see the swordfish statue. It’s a classic. It’s something you have to have a photograph. Very fun little area and lots of activities and things to do. Many street vendors.
8. Natura Camp
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By HarryNJohnon - McKinleyville, California, United States
A very interesting drive through the Mountains to view what is a surprise to see (excpt you knew it was there). The Waterfalls and connecting pools are beautiful but especially because they are where they are. Take your camera.Take a picnic lunch etc.
9. Malecon
Overall Ratings
4 based on 119 reviews
Boardwalk offering scenic views of the town and the ocean.
Reviewed By Karim S - Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
Is not crowded as other 'Malecones' in México. But if you had a hot day at the beach, this is a good option for a refreshing evening walk, just to hear the sea at night.
10. Santiago Peninsula
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
These dramatic hilly slopes are home to Las Hadas, known as a "fantasy land."
Reviewed By paula_naf - san antonio
Do not recommend. Did not feel safe in the city of Manzanillo, Mexico. Walked around the city and quickly return to cruise boat after seeing young men with guns and the Mexican Federallies just a couple block away from the cruise ship dock.
