About
Manzanillo

HISTORY
As one of Mexico’s most natural harbors, Manzanillo was an important seaport even before the Conquest, when native Tarascans first ruled here. Settled in 1522 by Europeans, the harbor’s bays were used as the primary departure point for many of Spain’s new world expeditions. The port’s original name, Puerto de Santiago de la Buena Esperanza, which means “Santiago’s Bay of Good Hope,” was named by navigator Alvaro de Saavedra in 1527. A few years later Cortés established the harbor as Latin America’s first shipyard in 1531. Ships built and originating from here eventually led to the discovery of Baja and “Alta” California (the state of California).

In 1615 the town’s name became Puerto de Salagua and in 1752 was changed to Puerto de las Manzanillas, because of the many abundant groves of manzanillo trees that were used for shipbuilding. By 1821, the town became Puerto del Manzanillo. The first telegraph office on the Pacific coast opened here in 1869 and shortly thereafter, in 1873, the state of Colima gave it city status and shortened the name to Manzanillo. A railroad line from the state’s capital city of Colima was completed in 1889, and other amenities, such as electricity and potable water soon followed. In 1908, President Porfirio Dias inaugurated the railway linkage with Guadalajara, and designated Manzanillo as an official port of entry. In recent times, the harbor was modernized and deepened, allowing access to all major shipping line around the world. Manzanillo has become largest and busiest port on the western coast of Mexico.

LOCAL SITES & ATTRACTIONS
Boating, fishing, golf, tennis, horseback riding, archaeological sites, eco-adventures, visit farmer cooperatives and rare glimpses of turtle hatching-and-release programs, Manzanillo has something for everyone, including those who wish to do nothing but take in its beautiful views and many pristine beaches.

Reminiscent of its past, Manzanillo continues to honor the beauty of its unique Pacific Ocean locale. Surrounded by a sub-tropical rainforest and boasting a rich abundance of marine life, there is much to discover about Manzanillo and its surroundings. Touted as the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” sport fishing abounds for both beginner and seasoned anglers. Many of the secluded bays and coves provide snorkeling and diving experiences, where you will find diverse flora and fauna, coral reefs and even a sunken ship.

Take time to explore beyond the town of Manzanillo and learn about the area. Within an hour’s drive north you will discover the early colonial cities of Colima and Comala, where you find magnificently preserved colonial architecture, open plazas, markets, outdoor family restaurants, unique museums and nearby archaeological sites. There are also excursions to the Sierra Madres, where you can experience “old Mexico” villages, wildlife ecology trips, or visit coffee farmers. Manzanillo and its surroundings provide you with an opportunity to travel back in time, where the simple events of each day take on a greater significance and enjoyment.

LINK TO ANY OF THESE SITES FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Things To Do in Manzanillo
Deep Sea Fishing in Manzanillo
Manzanillo's Beaches

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