The Top 10 Things To See And Do In Manzanillo, Mexico

Fishing is by far the most popular activity in Manzanillo and that is for good reason. The waters around the area are teaming with marine life and there is plentiful sailfish for ambitious fishermen from around the world. Every year in November the International Sailfish Tournament takes place in Manzanillo and it is extremely popular, so much so that even a 25 meter turquoise sailfish statue was erected in front of the town main plaza.

This picturesque little town is the best place to relax and de-stress near Manzanillo. In Barra de Navidad you can enjoy different activities and water sports; people mainly love it as a place where you can unwind by the ocean, have some great seafood and do some bargain shopping. The best thing is that all those things are conveniently close to each other so you don’t have to worry about driving around. Barra de Navidad officially belongs to Jalisco, but its proximity to Manzanillo make it an ideal day trip destination.

The beach of Miramar is a long strip of land on the seafront in Manzanillo, perfect for all kinds of wave lovers. Surfers can catch a perfect wave, while those who prefer something less adrenaline-inducing can take a walk on the beach or just relax sipping the juice of a fresh coconut. The spectacular waves in the area are both calming and stimulating and transmit the Pacific ocean’s incredible energy.

In a place like Manzanillo there is an abundance of fresh seafood dishes that will make your tastebuds tingle. You simply have to try Cocteles de Camaron (shrimp cocktail), pescado a la Plancha (delicious grilled fish fillet) and the divine Tostadas de Ceviche (fish, onion, tomato, chilli, cilantro and lemon all together on a crunchy Tostada). Restaurants like Mariscos Carlos and Carnes y Marisco Galvan are good places to try these local delicacies.

Being the most important port in Mexico, the port of Manzanillo handles the Pacific cargo for Mexico City and is always busy with ships and fishing boats. Right in the heart of the town, in the seafront you can see the giant sailfish statue, the trademark of Manzanillo. In the port area you can also find various market stalls selling beautiful local seashell art, the perfect souvenir from your summer holidays. Further in town you can explore a plethora of local boutique stores and cafés.

Manzanillo’s spectacular aquatic life makes scuba diving one of the most exciting and fun activities. Aquatic Sports and Adventures offers top notch scuba diving training, including official diving certifications and other water activities such as snorkel diving, surfing and stand up paddle boards. All the diving equipment is provided and professionals will dive in the water with you. Manzanillo’s spectacular colours of fish and coral will blow your mind.

For those who want to experience more local culture, visiting a Botanerero is a must. Botaneros are types of open bars serving local snacks together with a bucket of ice cold beers. They are great places for socialising, getting to know the locals and listen to some typical Mexican music. Don’t be shy to ask a local where is a Botanero near your area.

Even though Manzanillo is famous as a sea destination, it also offers exciting outdoor activities for the lovers of hiking. Located only 10 minutes away from the centre of Manzanillo, Natural Camp is a 70 hectare eco-park in the north east mountains with a huge green area to explore. Its purpose is to promote ecological values and at the same time create a niche for alternative tourism. Apart from hiking they also offer jumping with a zip line, for the the lovers of extreme sports. Make sure to buy your tickets beforehand directly at Natura Camp’s website or an agency.

If your definition of a perfect holiday is ice cold beers and margaritas on the beach, Oasis Ocean Club is the perfect place to enjoy it. This ocean front restaurant offers the most idyllic and romantic sea views one could hope for, and the best ambience for a lunch or dinner by the sea. Its trendy vibe will not disappoint those who are looking for a beach bar scene. Get yourself a sun lounger and enjoy a full day at the beach.