✓ Find the best offers on your Stays on 🏡 booking.com
✓ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips on 🛵 GetYourGuide | on 🛵 Klook
If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in La Manzanilla.
La Manzanilla is a sparkling gem of Mexico’s Pacific coast, offering a plethora of captivating sights and experiences that are sure to leave you breathless.
With its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and inviting local community, this charming town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that is unmatched in the region.
Take a stroll through the streets of La Manzanilla and discover a world of color and life, where every moment feels like a celebration of the present.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, experience the local cuisine, or simply unwind in the warm embrace of this magical town, there’s no shortage of things to do in La Manzanilla.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in La Manzanilla:
1. La Manzanilla Beach
La Manzanilla Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: – Swim in the clear turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Don’t miss: – Admiring the breathtaking sunset over the ocean.
Insider travel tips: – Be cautious of strong rip currents when swimming in the ocean.
2. La Manzanilla Boardwalk
The La Manzanilla Boardwalk is a scenic pathway that runs along the town’s coastline.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding lush vegetation. It’s also a great place to go for a morning jog or an afternoon bike ride.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a break and relax on one of the many benches or beach chairs dotted along the boardwalk.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife, such as iguanas or pelicans.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the boardwalk is early in the morning or during sunset, when the temperatures are cooler and the views are especially breathtaking.
There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby where you can grab a refreshing drink or a bite to eat.
3. Boca de Iguanas beach
Boca de Iguanas beach is a serene and secluded beach located in La Manzanilla, Mexico.
What to see or do: Experience the ultimate relaxation at the Boca de Iguanas beach. Take a dip in the clear blue waters or sunbathe on the soft white sand beach.
You can also indulge in various beach activities like playing beach volleyball, kayaking, fishing, and more.
Don’t miss: Witness the magnificent sunsets at Boca de Iguanas beach. The spectacular views are worth the visit.
Insider travel tips: The beach is relatively secluded, so carry your own food and drinks with you.
4. Crocodile sanctuary
A sanctuary for crocodiles located in La Manzanilla, a coastal town in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts taken to protect the crocodile population.
The tour provides visitors with an up-close and personal look at the crocodiles in their natural habitat. Visitors can see baby crocodiles as well as adult crocodiles which are up to 14 feet long.
Don’t miss: The guided boat tour of the lagoon where the sanctuary is located is a must-see. This tour gives visitors an incredible opportunity to see the crocodiles up close in their natural habitat.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Keep a safe distance from the crocodiles and follow the guide’s instructions.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crocodiles are most active.
Barra de Navidad lighthouse is a historic structure located on the coast of Jalisco, Mexico.
What to see or do: Climb up to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas. Take a relaxing stroll around the lighthouse area and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views from the lighthouse are a must-see for all visitors. They offer an amazing and unforgettable sight.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes if you plan on climbing to the top of the lighthouse. Also, if you’re looking for some local snacks and refreshments, the nearby food stands offer a variety of tasty options.
6. El Tamarindo beach
El Tamarindo beach is a secluded and serene crescent-shaped beach located in the small fishing village of La Manzanilla, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: The beach offers crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, as well as excellent opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. In addition, there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding lush vegetation.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Crocodile Reserve, where you can see a wide variety of native wildlife, including crocodiles, iguanas, and turtles.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the calmness of the beach. Bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are limited options for food and drink on the beach.
Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
7. Colimilla beach
Colimilla Beach is a small and serene beach located in the village of La Manzanilla in the Mexican state of Jalisco.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including swimming, surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The beach also offers a variety of restaurants that serve delicious local seafood.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat tour of the nearby lagoon and explore the rich wildlife and mangroves.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a quieter and less crowded beach experience, Colimilla Beach is the perfect spot. Make sure to bring sunscreen and water, as there are limited shops and facilities nearby.
8. Bird watching tours
Bird watching tours in La Manzanilla, a beach town in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the natural surroundings and discover the variety of bird species in the lagoons, mangroves, and tropical forests. You can observe migratory birds like the Roseate Spoonbill, White Ibis, and Blue-winged Teal among others.
Don’t miss: The chance to spot the endemic San Blas Jay, a colorful bird with blue and black plumage, which can only be found in the Pacific Coast of Mexico and Southern Sinaloa.
Insider travel tips: Hire a local guide for a better understanding of the bird’s habitats and behavior.
9. Kayaking tours
What to see or do: Paddle through calm waters while admiring the stunning scenery, getting up close to the marine wildlife, exploring hidden coves, and relaxing on secluded beaches.
Don’t miss: The chance to spot sea turtles, dolphins, and various types of exotic birds.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and wear comfortable clothing that can get wet. Book your tour in advance, and make sure to arrive early to get familiar with the equipment and safety instructions.
10. Fishing tours
Fishing tours in La Manzanilla, a coastal town in Mexico.
What to see or do: Enjoy a day out on the Pacific Ocean on a fishing tour, where you might be able to catch a range of fish, including Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, and Roosterfish.
Many tours also include stops at nearby beaches and islands, where you can explore and relax.
Don’t miss: Keep an eye out for humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, which are often seen on these tours.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as it can get very hot out on the water.
11. Surfing lessons
Surfing lessons in the small beach town of La Manzanilla, located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.
What to see or do: Take a surfing lesson with experienced instructors who will teach you the basics of riding the waves. Practice your skills on the gentle waves of La Manzanilla’s beach, which is perfect for beginners.
Don’t miss: Watching the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean from the beach after a long day of surfing.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen, a towel, and a rash guard to protect yourself from the sun and waves. La Manzanilla is a small town, so it’s best to book accommodations in advance.
Be respectful of the local community and the environment by disposing of trash properly and following local rules and regulations.
12. La Manzanilla turtle conservation project
The La Manzanilla turtle conservation project is a wildlife conservation program that seeks to protect the sea turtles that nest on the beaches of La Manzanilla, a small village on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: The project offers visitors the opportunity to participate in nightly beach patrols to monitor and protect turtle nests during the nesting and hatching seasons from June to January.
Visitors may also have the opportunity to release newborn turtles into the sea.
Don’t miss: Witnessing the incredible sight of turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs or watching baby turtles make their way to the ocean.
Insider travel tips: Remember to bring a red filtered flashlight to avoid disturbing the nesting turtles.
The project also offers educational talks and awareness campaigns about sea turtle conservation, which is an excellent way to learn more about these amazing animals.
13. Sunset cruises
Sunset cruises in La Manzanilla are a popular activity among tourists and locals alike.
What to see or do: As the sun begins to set over the Pacific Ocean, enjoy spectacular views of the coastline while sipping on your favorite cocktail.
For an even more romantic experience, some cruises offer dinner options onboard as well.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss seeing the sun slowly sink below the horizon, engulfing the sky in a beautiful display of oranges, pinks, and purples.
Insider travel tips: Book your cruise in advance, especially during the high season (November to April) to secure a spot on board. Dress in comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket or sweater as it can get cool on the water.
Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!
14. Artisan markets and galleries
Artisan markets and galleries in the charming beach town of La Manzanilla, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
What to see or do: Browse through unique items made by local artists and craftsmen, including furniture, jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. Visit the various galleries showcasing the work of regional artists, featuring a range of styles and mediums.
Take part in a workshop or class led by a skilled artisan and learn about traditional techniques and materials used in the creation of their goods.
Don’t miss: The weekly Friday morning market in the town square, where locals and tourists alike gather to shop for fresh produce, homemade sauces, and artisanal cheeses.
Insider travel tips: -Bring cash as not all vendors may accept credit/debit cards.
✓ You on Insta? 👍@triplyzer✓ Find the best offers on your Stays on 🏡 booking.com
✓ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips on 🛵 GetYourGuide | on 🛵 Klook
