Squeezed onto a slender spine of land that separates two bays, Manzanillo is fast becoming the new resort haven for the world's jet setters. This long ignored coastal town (now one of Mexico's most important ports for trade with the Orient) has turned into a holiday destination for graduates of Acapulco, the Costa del Sol, and the Greek islands.
The entrepreneur millionaire Antenor Patino, is responsible for the resort complex called Las Hadas which includes a marina, several tennis courts, golf course, swimming pools, boutiques and other shops, in addition to the luxury hotel. Cinemas, restaurants, a few small nightclubs and bistros, villas, and the usual shops make up the town. The central hotel complex consists of dazzling white buildings that reflect a Mediterranean air combined with Moorish overtones.
Manzanillo has everything going for it vast open beaches, great swimming, excellent fishing (dolphin, marlin, sailfish), and a comfortable climate.
The evolution of Manzanillo to this dreamed of resort for all is taking its toll on the sleepy, slow pace and low prices of bygone days. But if you're looking for an enjoyable atmosphere, Manzanillo won't disappoint you. The city's paved central streets are narrow, crowded, and often noisy. The waterfront, significantly, is clean and spacious a place where families stroll at sunset when remnants of afternoon thunderclouds over the distant Sierra Madre cast their reflections on the blue bay. On the high point of land to the west, the tolling of a bronze bell announces the sighting of approaching ships. North and south of town, coconut and banana plantations edge the sea.
The jungle reaches storybook proportions near Manzanillo more than anywhere else on the tropical coast of Mexico. Here it is tall, shadowy, and mysterious, scented and color splashed with myriad hued flowers.
Chief attractions are beaches of yellow sand streaked with black on sheltered Santiago Bay and at Las Hadas Cove. Many Mexicans vacation at Manzanillo and at Santiago Beach (also becoming popular with Americans).
Nearby destinations north of Manzanillo include the beach resort of Melaque and the quaint fishing village of Barra de Navidad, both about 38 miles out of Manzanillo. Hardly more than 3 miles separate these neighboring towns but the beaches are quite different. Barra de Navidad, with one of the cleanest beaches along the coast, has deep waters and vigorous waves that attract surfers and water skiers. Melaque fronts on the more protected bay with calm tranquil water. You'll find some accommodations in both towns. Buy shrimp and fish from seaside stands.
At Cuyutlan, south of Manzanillo, watch for the famous "green roller," an ocean phenomenon which occurs in April or May. At certain times during these months the ocean gathers itself into a huge, hurtling force and rushes toward the beach with a thundering roar. An awesome sight, the "green roller" reaches heights up to 30 feet. CuyutIan is suggested for daytime sojourns, not for overnight.
Colima, capital of one of Mexico's smallest states, is easily reached by following Highway 110 inland from Manzanillo. A balmy metropolis dating back to 1523, Colima lies at the foot of Mexico's second highest active volcano that erupted last in 1941. Antique car buffs will enjoy the museum 6 blocks south of the city's plaza. For a few pesos you can view 350 beautifully restored cars ranging from 1912 to 1941 models.
Squeezed onto a slender spine of land that separates two bays, Manzanillo is fast becoming the new resort haven for the world's jet setters. This long ignored coastal town (now one of Mexico's most important ports for trade with the Orient) has turned into a holiday destination for graduates of Acapulco, the Costa del Sol, and the Greek islands.
The evolution of Manzanillo to this dreamed of resort for all is taking its toll on the sleepy, slow pace and low prices of bygone days. But if you're looking for an enjoyable atmosphere, Manzanillo won't disappoint you. The city's paved central streets are narrow, crowded, and often noisy. The waterfront, significantly, is clean and spacious a place where families stroll at sunset when remnants of afternoon thunderclouds over the distant Sierra Madre cast their reflections on the blue bay. On the high point of land to the west, the tolling of a bronze bell announces the sighting of approaching ships. North and south of town, coconut and banana plantations edge the sea.
Nearby destinations north of Manzanillo include the beach resort of Melaque and the quaint fishing village of Barra de Navidad, both about 38 miles out of Manzanillo. Hardly more than 3 miles separate these neighboring towns but the beaches are quite different. Barra de Navidad, with one of the cleanest beaches along the coast, has deep waters and vigorous waves that attract surfers and water skiers. Melaque fronts on the more protected bay with calm tranquil water. You'll find some accommodations in both towns. Buy shrimp and fish from seaside stands.
