Gay Manzanillo City Guide

Manzanillo is a port city on Mexico's Pacific coast in Colima state, known for its deep-sea fishing and beautiful beaches. Often called the "Sailfish Capital of the World," Manzanillo is about 3 hours south of Puerto Vallarta: Mexico's most popular gay beach destination.

Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, is roughly 4 hours inland to the northeast. The charming colonial town of Colima (the state capital) is about 1.5 hours inland and worth a day trip for its museums and traditional architecture.

Other nearby coastal towns include Melaque and Barra de Navidad to the north, which has a more bohemian, backpacker-friendly vibe. To the south, you'll find smaller fishing villages and more remote beaches.

Gay Rights and LGBTQ+ Travel

Mexico has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights, with same-sex marriage legal nationwide since 2022. Colima state, where Manzanillo is located, is generally welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. While Manzanillo itself is a smaller, more traditional coastal city without a visible gay scene like Puerto Vallarta or Cancún, Mexico's overall tourism industry is LGBTQ+-friendly.

The resort areas tend to be more international and accepting. As with many beach destinations in Mexico, same-sex couples can expect respectful treatment at hotels and restaurants, particularly in tourist zones. For a more vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, nearby Puerto Vallarta (about 3 hours north) is Mexico's premier gay-friendly destination.

Tourism Levels

Manzanillo receives significantly fewer tourists than Mexico's major beach destinations like Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, or Playa del Carmen. It's primarily known among serious sport fishing enthusiasts and attracts a steady flow of visitors for that specific activity. The city sees a mix of domestic Mexican tourists (especially from Guadalajara and Mexico City), American and Canadian visitors drawn by the fishing reputation, and some European travelers.

Getting There

Fly into Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) or drive from Guadalajara (about 4 hours). The city is well-connected by highway and offers rental car services at the airport.

Best Areas to Stay

Las Brisas - Upscale resort area with luxury hotels and pristine beaches Santiago Peninsula - More secluded with boutique accommodations Downtown Manzanillo - Authentic local experience near the port and markets.

Top Attractions

The golden sand beaches of Playa La Audiencia and Playa Miramar are perfect for swimming and water sports. Take a sportfishing charter - Manzanillo's waters teem with marlin, sailfish, and dorado. Visit the historic downtown area with its colonial architecture and bustling markets. The nearby Colima Volcano is popular for hiking.

Dining

Enjoy fresh seafood at local marisquerías, try the famous pescado a la talla (grilled fish), and don't miss the local specialty of tuba, a refreshing palm wine drink served from street carts.

Best Time to Visit

November through April offers the most pleasant weather with minimal rainfall and temperatures in the 70s-80s°F.

Safety in Manzanillo

Manzanillo is generally considered one of the safer destinations along Mexico's Pacific coast. The city has maintained relative stability compared to some other parts of Mexico, and violent crime against tourists is uncommon.

Current Safety Situation

The port city benefits from a visible police and military presence due to its important commercial port operations. Tourist areas like Las Brisas and the hotel zones are well-patrolled and maintained. Most visitors experience no safety issues during their stay.