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These travel tips cover the airport, transport, money, safety and practical questions visitors ask before a trip to Mexico’s Pacific port. Prices are in Mexican pesos, roughly 17-18 pesos to the US dollar at the time of writing. For the driest time to fly in, see the best time to visit Manzanillo guide, and the full Manzanillo travel guide has the complete picture.
Manzanillo Travel Tips: Getting There and Around
Flights land at Playa de Oro International Airport (code ZLO), about 40 km (25 miles) northwest of the center. Aeromexico flies from Mexico City, Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles, and VivaAerobus serves domestic routes, with seasonal WestJet service from Canada. A private taxi from the airport to downtown runs about 350 pesos, while shared colectivo minivans cost 130-155 pesos per person depending on your hotel zone. August and September are the wettest months, so check the Manzanillo weather by month page before booking, and see the Manzanillo events and festivals calendar if you want to catch the November tournament.
Manzanillo Travel Tips: Money, Visas and Tipping
Most US, Canadian, EU and UK citizens do not need a visa for stays under 180 days; you will fill out an FMM tourist form on the plane or at the airport. The currency is the peso, and while resorts take cards, beach palapas, taxis and markets run on cash, so keep small bills. Tip 10-15 percent in restaurants, give 10-15 pesos per bag to porters, and tip fishing and dive crews 10-15 percent of the charter. ATMs are common in El Centro and at the malls.
Manzanillo Travel Tips: Safety, Health and Water
Manzanillo is generally safe for tourists, but treat the port area and El Centro with normal caution after dark and use authorized taxis at night. Do not drink the tap water; buy bottled water, and in the rainy season from June to October use insect repellent, since dengue is present on the coast. The sun is strong year-round, so wear reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often.
Manzanillo Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I drink the tap water? No. Drink bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice from street vendors.
- How far is the airport? Playa de Oro Airport (ZLO) is about 40 km northwest, a 45-minute drive.
- Is Manzanillo expensive? It is cheaper than Cancun or Los Cabos; a beachfront mid-range room runs 1,600-3,600 pesos a night.
- When is the best fishing? Sailfish and marlin run November to March, peaking around the November tournament.
- Do people speak English? Resorts and tour operators do; taxis and small restaurants mostly use Spanish.
For a fuller picture of the layout, read the best neighborhoods in Manzanillo guide, and browse the things to do in Manzanillo page to build an itinerary.
Suggested Hotels in Manzanillo
Las Hadas by Brisas
The iconic Moorish resort on the Santiago Peninsula, with a marina, golf course and pools. Best for couples who want the landmark stay. Check rates and availability
Hotel Marbella
A 100-meter walk from the beach on the Salahua hotel strip, with a pool and Spanish restaurant. Best for mid-range travelers who want beach access without an all-inclusive. Check rates and availability
Zar Manzanillo
A simple three-star hotel in the San Pedrito commercial district, one block from the Malecón. Best for budget travelers and short stays near the port. Check rates and availability
For a complete list of areas and hotels, see the dedicated where to stay in Manzanillo guide.
