Manzanillo’s bustling economy relies primarily on its busy port and its tourist and expat enclaves that can found north of the city, all the way to Melaque. It is a tropical beach community where you can surf, scuba dive or enjoy other water sports. Or just lie on beautiful beaches and work on your tan.
If you like sport fishing, Manzanillo is one of the best places to live in Mexico. It is the self-proclaimed “sailfish capital of the world,” and has been hosting major international competitions for decades.
Because of its location, it will come as no surprise that Manzanillo offers an abundance of delicious seafood options. Some local favorites are ceviche Colima, a recipe in which pieces of fish are cooked in lime and orange juice. Camarones a la diabla is shrimp in a spicy sauce and caldo michi is a fish soup with a broth that includes both vegetables and chilis. All these dishes go well with tuba, a special regional liquor made from the coconut palm flower.
If you like dining on the beach, Pacifica del Mar in Las Brisas is a top choice in Manzanillo, especially for watching sunsets from its rooftop sky bar.
Chantilly is another good choice. It has been serving Mexican breakfasts and local favorites since 1950. Oasis Ocean Club provides a beautiful view perfect for enjoying a drink or two at the bar or a nice dinner by the ocean. Juanitos Restaurant in Santiago is also very popular with local expats.
For those who want a break from the beach, Natura Camp is a must. This 70-hectare eco-park is filled with lush green landscapes perfect for any hiker. Guests can also jump from a zip line, but make sure to book tickets in advance.
Another attraction worth seeing is the Iguanario Archundia, a reserve filled with over 500 iguanas. You can also visit the Isla Navidad resort, which has golf courses that are famous worldwide. A walk through the downtown area of Manzanillo will bring you to the famous Pez Vela, a large sailfish statue that has become the symbol of Manzanillo.
But like most of Mexico’s coastline, beaches define the area. Manzanillo has an abundance of beautiful beaches, including Playa San Pedrito, Playa Las Brisas, Playa Azul, Playa Olas Altas, Miramar Beach and Playa La Audencia.
