Manzanillo was established as a port city back in the era of the Spanish conquests, but it was often overshadowed by other ports on Mexico's Pacific coast. Bo Derek put Manzanillo on the map as a tourist destination when she ran across the beach in her movie “10", and many beautiful resorts have sprung up along the coast. However, tourism is not Manzanillo's main economic draw - today it is Mexico's busiest port, and while cruise ships don't often call there, the shipping of goods is Manzanillo's major industry. Because the shipping industry keeps Manzanillo's unemployment rate so low, you won't see many of the street vendors and entertainers that you see in Mexico's other ports of call. While some tourists like the peace, others feel as if Manzanillo is missing the energy, shopping and attention to visitors that other ports display. 



The setting of Manzanillo can't be beat, with its beautiful twin bays and ancient volcanic sand colored in black and gold. The two bays and their respective towns - Bahia de Santiago and Bahia de Manzanillo - are separated by La Peninsula de Santiago, where you will find Manzanillo's most luxurious resorts. If you are interested in seeing the real Mexico of today, then the downtown Manzanillo business district is the place to check out. Most tourists’ restaurants, shops and services are located along the Boulevard Miguel de la Madrid, with two Zonas de Hoteleras located at the end of each bay sporting more modest accommodations than on the Santiago peninsula. While the busy industrial ports take up much of the waterfront at the east end of the Bahia de Manzanillo, there are plenty of beautiful beaches further away from the shipping docks. The beaches are open to the public, but you may have to purchase some drinks or snacks if the beach fronts a resort hotel. Manzanillo is also known as the sailfish capital of the world. The season runs from October to March, with an international sailfishing competition taking place each year in late November.

Unfortunately for cruise ship day visitors, Manzanillo covers a fairly large, spread out area, and taxis are quite expensive, so you'll have to plan where you wish to spend your day. However you plan your day in Manzanillo, sunny skies are sure to follow you at this busy port of call.