Manzanillo can be broken into two zones. The downtown area (not normally visited by tourists) is first and foremost a commercial port. In contrast, a few short miles up the coastline you enter the luxurious and pleasantly understated resort zone. Two large bays of golden sand and sometimes rough surf are connected via a coastal highway that leads past an occasional mini-mall, souvenir shop, restaurant and a couple of night spots. Bahía de Manzanillo (to the south) has most of the development while Bahía de Santiago (further to the north) is largely undeveloped. 
   For many visitors Manzanillo's slow paced expansion is a blessing. Miles of untouched beach are easily accessed from the area's resorts, and outside of the bustle of downtown, the pace is slow and casual. Shopping, dining, nightlife and sightseeing is subdued by comparison to other Mexican Riviera resorts. 
   While Manzanillo has yet to fully blossom as a major resort center, the city is a gateway to the unspoiled and little known Costa Alegre region of Mexico's Pacific Coast. This coastal area to the north of Manzanillo (towards Puerto Vallarta) is sprinkled with some of Mexico's loveliest beaches and bays and is also home to several posh resorts.
   Manzanillo has three lush golf courses: La Mantarraya, a championship 18 hole course designed by Pete & Roy Dye is located on the Las Hadas Resort. Club Santiago offers 9 challenging holes on fairways lined with lush coconut palms. Nearby Isla Navidad has 27 holes and the beauty of a calm, mirror-like bay.