Cruises from Manzanillo

Manzanillo is located nearly midway along the western coast of Mexico, approximately 150 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. Close by and to the north of the town are the two bays that are partly responsible for its growth, Bahia De Santiago and Bahia De Manzanillo, which is the closest.

Average daytime temperatures range from the low to middle 80’s F, while evenings are only about 10° cooler. The winter months are relatively dry, but during the summer months of June to October, it is more humid, with a likelihood of showers.

Water sports are abundant in Manzanillo. There are wonderful beaches, the most popular ones being located at Bahia De Santiago, Bahia De Manzanillo and Playa Audiencia. Known as the sailfish capital of the world, Manzanillo is very popular with deep-sea fishermen along with scuba diving, which is run from centres staffed by qualified instructors. Parasailing also popular and is done from winch-direct boats, which eliminates potentially dangerous beach take offs and landings. The beaches are usually not too crowded, so you can also enjoy a relaxing day laying in the sun or playing in the waves.

Several of the beaches also offer water sport equipment rentals and this may be a good time to work on your bargaining skills. Jet skis are available, though they might be a little expensive, but you can also rent snorkelling equipment and surf boards. Make sure you check the equipment before you take it from the shop. Some places allow gear to become worn and if it breaks while you are using it they will charge you. Small boats are available to tour the bay and there are also banana boat rides.

The wonderful weather makes sailing a popular activity. There are also several golf courses to choose from, ranging from the 9 hole course at Club Santiago to 27 holes at Barra Navidad, just north of town. The last week in November has a fishing tournament with activities for everyone, including a fiesta with rope dancing, mariachis and lots more.

You can enjoy an excellent exhibition of pre-Columbian artefacts and Mexican paintings at the Museum of Archaeology, located near downtown in San Pedrito. There are some 18,000 artefacts from Mesoamerica and Colima, along with a collection of more contemporary Mexican artwork. This has proven to be entertaining for all ages and a great place to learn about Mexican heritage.

To both the north and south of Manzanillo birdwatchers enjoy the wonderful tidal lagoons that can be seen from the main highway. You can often spot herons, flamingos and pelicans in or near the water.

When it comes to eating out, most of the fancier restaurants are either on, or very close to the beaches and there are some good ones near the zocalo. Most of the better restaurants have bottled water on request. Remember that it’s a good idea to always ask for the whole bottle, wherever you drink water.

There are several shopping areas in or near Manzanillo, but make sure you get the best bargain you can, rather than paying the initial price quoted. Most of what you see will be tourist trinkets, but there is also Mexican silver jewellery to be had. Be sure you are buying your silver from reputable merchants, so you don’t get duped into purchasing nickel alloy labelled as silver.