Located on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, Manzanillo is an absolutely beautiful place to spend a vacation. The sandy white beaches dotted with all-inclusive resorts are just a little taste of what Manzanillo has to offer its visitors. The city also has a long history that lines up with the history of Mexico as Spanish Conquistador Hernan Cortez dropped anchor here in the 16th century. It is known for its beautiful waters among those that come and visit. Fishing is popular here as well as activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. If you plan of having an immersive experience in this awesome place soon, you can consider staying in an Airbnb vacation rental. And to keep the excitement going, know more about the city by checking out these top things to do in Manzanillo, Mexico.
1. Hike to the Mirador del Cerro de La Cruz Lookout Point
Unveiling sweeping vistas, Mirador del Cerro de la Cruz invites adventurers near Manzanillo, Colima, to embark on an exciting 1.6-kilometer (0.99-mile) loop trail. This path that takes an average of 45 minutes to traverse charms walkers and hikers of all ages. It is generally easy to locate and has a well-laid route.
Though the hike involves a little challenge, the journey rewards with an awe-inspiring spectacle at the lookout point. Behold the cityscape and the majesty of the Bay of Banderas in a breathtaking 360-degree panorama.
Mirador del Cerro de La Cruz Lookout Point
Address: La Provincia, 28276 Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. Stroll along Malecón de Manzanillo
Stretching along the coastline for approximately 1.61 kilometers (1 mile), Malecón de Manzanillo vividly captures the town’s picturesque quality. Feel the gentle caress of the Pacific Ocean breeze as you stroll along this waterfront promenade. With benches scattered throughout its entire stretch, you’re also invited to bask in coastal relaxation.
Whether indulging in family picnics or embarking on romantic strolls, this location sets the stage for cherished moments. As the sun dips below the horizon, the waterfront becomes a canvas for the golden hour, so make sure to catch the sunset here as well.
Malecón de Manzanillo
Address: Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Go scuba diving with Aquatic Sports and Adventures
This is the adult version of the Rockmover Wrasse. Photo from REEFS.COM
Posted by Aquatic Sports and Adventures - Manzanillo on Wednesday, 20 February 2019
Manzanillo has some of the bluest waters and best scuba diving spots in Mexico. People from all over the world come here to cruise around the coral reefs and see some exotic sea life here. The Aquatic Sports and Adventures can help set you up by training you, taking you out and showing you the ropes of scuba diving.
Aquatic Sports and Adventures
Address: Naranjos 30, Santiago Centro, 28860 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Aquatic Sports and Adventures
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 75 USD
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Play with the waves at the Miramar Beach
Pack some suntan lotion and head to Miramar Beach, one of the best beaches in Manzanillo. This long stretch of sandy coast is a crowd favorite and for good reason. The water is beautiful, the sun is plentiful and the sand is soft and white. Dive into the water or work on your tan.
Miramar Beach
Address: Las Brisas, 28210 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Try your hand at sailfishing
Fishing is what Manzanillo, Mexico, is known for. Home to bustling commercial ports, the town harbors several types of fresh catches, and sailfish are among the popular ones. The sailfish is predominantly a blue-grey color and sort of resembles a marling or a swordfish. The coast of Manzanillo has some of the best swordfishing in the world and they can get pretty big. Manzanillo is known as the “Sailfish Capital” so try your hand at catching one of these legends of the sea.
Manzanillo Luckiest Fishing
Address: Foro y cancha de usos multiples Malecon del Espiritu Santo, Niños Héroes s/n, Muelle de usos multiples, 28200 Manzanillo,
Website: Manzanillo Luckiest Fishing
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 150 USD
6. Marvel at the landscape around Manzanillo Bay
Manzanillo Bay is the perfect way to spend an afternoon hanging out and enjoy the local landscape. There’s a lot of hotels around which means that there are lots of places around the bay area to check out, from restaurants and shops to simply enjoying the view of the bay. A great option for those who want to get out and not spend lots of money.
Manzanillo Bay
Address: Santiago de la Buena Esperanza, Manzanillo, Mexico
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Knock back Mexican Micheladas at Bar Los Norteños
Posted by Área 51 Snack & Bar Manzanillo Col. on Thursday, 9 May 2019
It might be hot in Mexico but Micheladas will help fix your case. Bar Los Norteños serves some of the best of this Mexican cocktail around. Made up of beer, spices, sauces, lime juice, tomato juice, and chili peppers it’s also the ultimate cure for a hangover. If you want to experience the great nightlife of Manzanillo, Mexico, this bar would be a superb introduction.
Bar Los Norteños
Address: Av Elías Zamora Verduzco 2124, Nuevo Salahua, Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Bar Los Norteños
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 2am (closed on Mon)
Price: 4 USD
8. Witness a spectacular sunset at Santiago Peninsula
The Santiago Peninsula is home to a lot of upscale hotels but you can still explore the area and catch some of the best sunsets in Mexico. The Santiago Peninsula is located just west of downtown Manzanillo, Mexico, but it is also out of sight so you’ll feel like you’re a little more secluded. Pack a light snack and bring a camera and enjoy the beauty of the setting sun.
Santiago Peninsula
Address: Peninsula de Santiago, 28867 Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico
Website: Santiago Peninsula
Opening hours: 6pm - 8:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Savor a delicious Mexican breakfast at Chantilly
Wake up in the morning and treat yourself to one of Manzanillo’s best restaurants. Chantilly is a delicious place to grab a traditional Mexican breakfast and enjoy some amazing views of the waters while you eat. Watch the water or watch the people as they go around downtown in the nearby plaza.
Chantilly
Address: Calle Francisco I. Madero 60, Manzanillo Centro, 28200 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Chantilly
Opening hours Mon - Fri: 8am - 10pm; Sun: 8am - 10pm (closed on Sat)
Price: 20 - 40 USD
10. Go reptile spotting at open-air Iguanario Archundia
Posted by Iguanario Archundia on Sunday, 17 April 2016
If you’re looking for an activity around Manzanillo that’s kid-friendly and a lot of fun, then check out the Iguanary Archundia. The special zoo is located in the downtown area of Manzanillo and focuses on Iguanas. The zoo started off as the hobby of one man and after 38 years it grew to the Iguana sanctuary it is today.
Iguanario Archundia
Address: Iguanario Archundia, Valle Dorado, 28200 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Iguanario Archundia
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
11. Interact with the locals at a botanero
Of course, if you’re traveling abroad, you’ll probably want to spend some time meeting and interacting with the locals. Head to a local botanero order something tasty and chit chat a little while you meet a few new friends. A botanero is a small restaurant like a place that typically serves small meals and plates, similar to a snack bar. Manzanillo has a quite a few around town so ask around and find out which ones the locals tend to go to the most.
Botanero El Mirador
Address: Bahía de Las Garzas 36, Loma Alta, 28876 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 2pm - 11pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 5 - 20 USD
12. Try your luck at the Casino Riviera
If you’re tired of spending so much time in the sun and need a little break in an air-conditioned environment, then check out the Casino Riviera. You’ll have all the games in your standard casino like blackjack, poker, slots, and roulette but if you’re not the gambling type you can always head to the onsite restaurant, order some authentic Mexican food and enjoy the place. The is also live music and shows here like professional salsa dancers and televised sporting events.
Casino Riviera
Address: Blvd. Miguel de la Madrid 1058, Salagua, 28869 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Casino Riviera
Opening hours: 9am - 3am (daily)
Price: 5 USD
13. Gorge on seafood delicacies at Oasis Ocean Club
Oasis Ocean Club serves some of the best seafood around Manzanillo. The area of Manzanillo already has some of the best seafood and when it is prepared by some of the best chefs in one of the best restaurants, then you can essentially guarantee that the food will be delicious and the experience will be amazing. Dine by the waterfront or come by for a happy hour cocktail.
Oasis Ocean Club
Address: Tiburón S/N, Club Santiago, 28860 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Oasis Ocean Club
Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (daily)
Price: 10 - 40 USD
14. Shop unique souvenirs at Miramar Flea Market
Nothing says you’ve been somewhere cool like picking up a few souvenirs. Luckily the Miramar Flea Market has you covered with all great things you can pick up to bring back home for yourself or some friends who couldn’t make the trip with you. Handcrafted trinkets and decorations, as well as handmade jewelry and clothes, can be found here. Support the local economy and pick yourself up to something cool and unique.
Miramar Saturday Flea Market
Address: Boulevard Costero, Blvd. Miguel de la Madrid, Olas Altas, 28860 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Opening hours: Sat: 8am - 6pm (closed Sun - Fri)
Price: 5 USD onwards
15. Go horseback riding on the Walmart Beach
It might be a little odd to find a Walmart located on a beach but in Manzanillo, the local Walmart is in fact located right next to a beach and so, it has been affectionately dubbed “Walmart Beach”. The beach is located near the downtown area and offers lots of great beach activities like horseback riding.
Walmart Beach
Address: Blvd. Costero Miguel De La Madrid Hurtado 17, Salagua, 28219 Manzanillo, Col., Mexico
Website: Walmart Beach
Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)
16. Ride a water taxi in Barra Navidad (from USD 75.0)
Enjoy a day out exploring the countryside and the city of Manzanillo. You’ll be brought through the tropical landscapes and villages that dot the area and spend some time being shown the local ways of life. Buy some souvenirs and stop of the Christ of the Fallen Arms Church where the locals allege the appearance of miracles. Finally, stop in a quaint fishing village and enjoy a meal or roam the cobblestone street.
Barra de Navidad Tropical Sightseeing Tour from Manzanillo
Duration: 6 hours
17. Ride a buggy to explore the mountains and forests (from USD 77.0)
Head off from the beach to rugged mountains in Manzanillo. This three-hour ATV tour will bring guests through the mountainside with an experienced local guide. Look out onto gorgeous scenic views of the countryside and go through wooded trails through the forest. Check out the lush green trees, wild fruit, and blooming flowers.
Manzanillo ATV Jungle Adventure Tour
Duration: 3 hours
18. Embark on a journey to watch the sea turtles and natural flora (from USD 50.0)
Hop on a tour and take in some of the natural beauty that surrounds Manzanillo. The tour is about five-hour long and you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of local wildlife including sea turtles. Learn about the lush tropical fruit and flowers that grow in the are as well as the migration patterns of the turtles and local wildlife.
Turtles Eco tour 5 hour tour with danitours
Sun and fun in Manzanillo
Manzanillo is a beautiful city that is popular for a reason. Amazing beach, delicious fresh seafood and warm sunny weather is plenty of reason to visit on its own but with all this great stuff to do, when you do visit you’ll never be wondering what to do.
Frequently asked questions about the top things to do in Manzanillo, Mexico
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to