Manzanillo, with a population of around 100,000, has changed from a historic seaport to a world class resort. It’s name was derived from the abundant groves of manzanilla trees that were used extensively in the early days of ship building.
Located in the state of Colima on Mexico’s ‘Golden Riviera‘, Manzanillo is between Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco on the Pacific coast. In recent years, it has become a haven for sun worshippers, sports enthusiasts and honeymooners. It is a romantic setting for a wonderful holiday south-of-the-border.
Acclaimed as the sailfish capital of the world, the 70 boat marina was also the final destination of the classic San Diego-to-Manzanillo Yacht Race (unfortunately not held anymore). Numerous celebrity golf & tennis tournaments are held here every year and one of the three golf courses has been named as being among “The 100 Greatest in the World” by Golf Digest Magazine. The movie “10” was filmed here and this sunny resort has been featured on TV’s popular “Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous“.
Discover the special charm of Manzanillo for yourself. You will find that a holiday here is far less costly than you may have imagined.
History
The area’s history is of some interest. With it’s fine natural harbors, Manzanillo was an important seaport even before the Conquest. The Tarascans first ruled here.
It was first settled by Europeans in 1522, and was used as a departure point for Spanish expeditions to Baja and northern Mexico. An abundance of hardwoods helped convince Cortés to establish Latin America’s first shipyard here in 1531.
In 1564 the expedition that led to Spanish rule in the Philippines set sail from Manzanillo, headed by Miguel López Legaspi. Other expeditions that originated from Manzanillo led to the discovery of Baja and “Alta” California (today, the state of California).
As an important sea port, Manzanillo opened the first telegraph office on the Pacific coast in 1869. By 1890, train service arrived and made coast to coast travel a convenience. The train depot also boosted the commercial importance of the port, the only train/port link on the Pacific. Today the fine, natural harbor & the rail connections have made Manzanillo the Mexican doorway to the Pacific Rim.
Manzanillo tourism boom began in the early 1970’s when Las Hadas was built on the Santiago Peninsula. This Mediterranean resort is famed for the movie “10” starring Bo Derek and Dudley Moore which was filmed on location. Many resorts have followed making Manzanillo one of Mexico’s largest Pacific coast resorts.
By Air
Flying is the easiest way to reach Manzanillo and Costa Alegre. The resort’s are served by the Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) located northwest of Manzanillo. The airport is 43 kms. (29 miles) from downtown Manzanillo. The small, but efficient terminal building houses several shops, a restaurant/bar & car rental agencies.
By Land
Travelling by bus is another option which quite a few people choose. Buses run to cities throughout the Mexican Republic such as Colima (2 hours), Puerto Vallarta (6 hours), and Guadalajara (5 hours). First class routes compare favorably to most lines in the U.S. & Canada. Buses allow the traveller a great opportunity to see the Mexican countryside as well as save money.
You’ll find the central bus station, Central Camionera, in Manzanillo on the Ave. Hidalgo east of town.
By Sea
Manzanillo can be reached by sea on a pleasure craft. There is a marina on Santiago Peninsula at the Las Hadas Resort. Please contact the Fondo Mixto for more information. Isla Navidad also has a 700-slip marina in conjunction with the Grand Bay Hotel & Resort.
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